June 8th 2024.
People have differing opinions when it comes to how they choose to relax on vacation. While the classic "fly and flop" holiday is still very popular, there are some who find other methods of poolside leisure to be taboo. A recent video posted on the @britlife_ Instagram account sparked controversy as it showcased a couple using mini umbrellas to shade their phones while sunbathing. Some online users criticized the couple, labeling their accessory as "sad".
The clip, which featured the pair lounging on sunbeds with suction cup shade attachments protecting their devices from the sun, was described as a "game changer" in the caption. However, the post received a flood of comments from those who disagreed. One user, @malonkelly, suggested that the couple should try looking at each other instead of their screens while on holiday. Another, @lisanott7, commented "That's just sad. Enjoy where you are and who you're with!" Others like @alison_h07 and @djadamdaniel also disapproved, suggesting the couple should read a book or spend less time on their phones during their vacation.
However, there were also some who came to the couple's defense. @frankly.em argued that using a phone on holiday is no different from reading a book or magazine. They also pointed out that the couple could be listening to music or using a Kindle app on their devices. But it's not just this couple who are spending their vacation time on their phones.
According to a survey conducted by Hotels.com, 55% of Brits would rather have their phone with them while traveling than a loved one, friend, or family member. In fact, one in ten people use their phones for more than seven hours a day while on vacation. While scrolling through social media takes up most of this screen time, others use their phones to keep up with the news, research their destination, and stay connected with friends and family back home. It's clear that most of us alternate between reading a book and browsing the internet while soaking up some sun, making these handy mini umbrellas a useful tool to avoid glare and overheating batteries.
However, using technology on a couple's holiday can become a problem when it starts to affect the relationship. This can happen if one partner spends too much time on their phone, either ignoring their partner's bids for connection or missing subtle cues for quality time together. Match dating expert Hayley Quinn explains that these "relationship bids" can be physical gestures like asking for a hug, or verbal communication like sharing about your day or wanting to do an activity together. Responding positively to these bids strengthens the relationship, but repeatedly ignoring them can lead to feelings of being ignored and a decline in self-esteem for the partner. This is not an ideal scenario for a romantic getaway.
It seems that many couples are now opting for shared experiences on their vacations. Research from Hitched found that 36% of newlyweds last year chose to spend their honeymoon sightseeing, while others went on adventures such as safaris or hiking trips. One bride, Gabriella Smith, explained to the wedding publication that to her and her husband, simply lying on a beach feels like a wasted opportunity. It's clear that different people have different preferences for their vacations, and ultimately it's up to the individual to decide how they want to spend their time and money.
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