Digital detox: Six unplugged vacations around the world

Step away from the iPad. Take a break from tweeting. And don't even think about checking your work e-mail. For your next vacation, consider going cold turkey by ditching all your techie tendencies and completely unplugging. The goal at these getaways is to cure your case of digital dependence and get a good dose of R&R.

The Singular Patagonia
Patagonia, Chile
Your M.O. when you check into this five-star retreat, which happens to be surrounded by the snowcapped Andes and Torres del Paine National Park, is to become one with nature. And you really can't do that until you stop with the instagramming. That said, this luxe hotel, which was named a national historic landmark, makes it easy for you. The "One With Nature" package has guests surrendering their personal devices upon check-in, and they may also choose rooms with no television (the view of the majestic Fjord of Last Hope will have to do). Without your usual time-consuming technology, you have more time to explore the area by horseback (with a real-life gaucho), take cooking classes and hike past blue-tinted icebergs. Come dinnertime, if you are itching for a quick fix, you are allowed to access your devices 30 minutes before or after dinner. thesingular.com

Mount Snow
West Dover, Vt.
The "Unplug and Reconnect" package at Mount Snow is ideal for families. For starters, during camp activities and meals, mobile devices are not allowed, so families can spend more time enjoying each other's company. If caught with a mobile device during the day, the camper has to stand up and sing during dinner that night. Better yet, the package is all inclusive, providing lodging, meals prepared by resort chefs and an slew of activities like boating, golf, yoga, beach volleyball and guided hikes. And every camper is fitted with a mountain bike because there are guided rides just about every day out on the mountain. mountsnow.com/family-camp

Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa
Hilton Head, S.C.
Upon check in, guests are encouraged to give up their car keys as part of the "Unplug Hilton Head" package. You'll also get a Keyless Survival Kit that includes sunrise and sunset alerts, island walking and biking maps, flashlights and complimentary use of New Balance workout gear. Plus, hotel staff will disable your TV, collect your cellphone and give you a spa credit. westinhiltonheadisland.com

The InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort and Spa
Natadola Bay, Fiji
If you are staying at the resort's exclusive Club InterContinental, business travelers are advised to take the "Ultimate Business Break" by ditching the phone, computer and such and giving up Wi-Fi access. In return, you get your own Itokani Butler to act as an executive assistant during your stay. Beware though: Guests who are caught catching up on work e-mails or making business calls after choosing to disconnect are susceptible to "pampering penalties" issued at the discretion of the butler. But don't worry, the penalties include things like spending an hour in the pool or enjoying cocktails and canapés at sunset. Your butler will also relay any important messages that come via the hotel reception desk, so you aren't totally out of the loop. fiji.intercontinental.com

Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
In December, the Ritz-Carlton located on the famous Seven Mile Beach will host the "Yoga Unplugged: Digital Detox Retreat" weekend. Guests are asked to abandon their digital devices and reconnect by taking meditation and yoga classes. Included in the package are accommodations at The Ritz-Carlton and access to La Prairie Silver Rain Spa, its 20,000-square-foot flagship spa. Note: The first time they hosted this event, it sold out very quickly. ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/GrandCayman/Default.htm

Singita Explore Tented Camp
Singita Game Reserve, Tanzania
Want a good distraction from the digital world? Try visiting the Serengeti and staring at majestic elephants, regal lions and hungry hippos. Jacada Travel offers a digital detox safari on 350,000 private acres where you won't be surrounded by cellphone towers or TV. After all, you will have the National Geographic channel in real time, all day, every day. Guests stay in luxe canvas tents, dine under the stars and generally disconnect in no time. The biggest decision to make is how you prefer to meet your animal neighbors. Via 4x4, horseback or foot?jacadatravel.com/articles/detox-safaris/10666