Traveling sans cell phone

While I sat at my desk at work today, surrounded by blustery snow outside the windows, I couldn't help but daydream about sunshine and a heat wave. Flip flips, ocean breezes, beer in hand, not a worry in the world -- that's where I'd rather be. For sure.

What if I had a private jet or helicopter with a pilot on command? What if I could have a packed suitcase -- only stuffed with beach attire and sundresses, of course -- ready to up and fly at a whim? Wouldn't that be the life?

"Yes, Vincent (that'd be the pilot's name), the South of France this time, please. Swing the limo to my apartment in about 35 minutes. I'll be ready! Oh yeah, and have some champagne and berries waiting for me too, Thanks!" Click.

Blarg. Yeah, right. But seriously though, to get away from this cold is definitely on the top of my wish list. To be stress free, just lounging on the beach would be heavenly.

That brings me to my question. While traveling for pleasure, should you stay connected to your real life, via cell phone, Blackberry, internet, whatever? My daydreams say "no", but my addictions to my cyberlife disagree. If you're anything like me, you check your email at least 5 times a day on a computer, not to mention the notifications I get by Blackberry throughout the day. It's addicting, but it is a tiring addiction. My brain needs a rest!

While we were in Mexico, we had no access to internet (without a hefty fee) or cell phone usage (without a ginormous fee), and I must admit, I was completely fine with that. It was so liberating to live my life, unattached to my cell. I locked it up in the safe every day before we left the room. And, actually, I don't think I ever even had it on! It was great.

While vacationing in Pawleys Island, S.C. last summer, I also realized that just because you have access to internet and your cell while traveling within the States, it doesn't mean you should be a prisoner of your own devices. You own them. They do not own you.

I mean, if you're traveling to a place where you need to contact other people who are with you there, that's a little different. But if you're vacationing with just 1 person and you'll always be together, try switching it off. When was the last time you turned OFF your phone for more than an hour or 2? Try a week and see what happens.

I bet you end up feeling relaxed. Not just relaxed, but actually well-rested, with a clear head and lots of new thoughts that you came up with on your own.

Traveling sans cell phone ... I like it. Give it a try on your next trip!