US hotel brand brings back family time

We have our smartphones to thank for a lot of things: staying in touch with those far away, maps, and the crystal-clear photos they can take.

But there’s no denying technology often takes us away from the here and now, which is why one US hotel brand offers bonuses to families who check in their phones and tablets.

Special discounts and activities are on offer for families who are willing to give up screen time for some good, old-fashioned face time at Wyndham Grand Hotels.

This ‘Reconnected’ program is encouraging families to disconnect from their phones or tablets by providing participating guests with time-locked boxes to store devices – so you don’t get distracted while having family time.

You may wonder what you could possibly do without your phone in your hand, but the hotel takes care of that too.

Choose between building a blanket fort, creating shadow puppet shows, or taking part in a night-time literary adventure – all facilitated by the hotel.

Noelle Nicolai, of Wyndham Grand told Lonely Planet:

“Vacations are all about memories, but it’s hard to be in the moment when our phones are within reach – and we’re all guilty of just checking for that one text or email.

“Reconnected is an escape from the pull of technology and everyday distractions, a chance to press pause on the moment and simply celebrate being together.”

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Not only will fun activities and genuine connection with your nearest and dearest be on offer, but the hotel also provides an instant camera to capture all the special moments, and the kids get an adventure back pack filled with goodies to take home.

So, whip out the board games, put away the phones, and enjoy your next holiday with some quality family time.