Only Disconnect: taking a gadget-free vacation

Two years ago, when my husband and I went on our honeymoon, we decided to leave our iPhones at home. The decision seemed radical to me at first: how was I going to hear about potential writing assignments (let alone post photos of Kauai and Maui to Facebook?!) if I didn't have my ever-present device? But Don persuaded, me and I'm so glad he did. We had two blissful weeks together—communing with nature on long hikes in otherwordly topographies, snorkeling with giant sea turtles, getting into long conversations, and reading actual books. We also smirked at couples on their iPhones at restaurants and bars, which was often.

Isthis what your family vacation looks like?!!

So when my editor at Endless Vacation asked me to write a column about how to disconnect while on vacation, I leapt at the chance. I was surprised to learn that there's considerable research supporting the need to take prolonged and regular breaks from e-mail, social media, video games, etc., especially when it comes to children. Read my article for tips on how to ease into a gadget-free vacation—from keeping a travel diary to creating "Walden zones" in your house. Download EV Spring 2015_Digital Detox