Resorts offer to lock up BlackBerrys, cellphones
Last Updated: Thursday, July 17, 2008 | 11:14 AM MT
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Some resort hotels in the Rockies are selling rest and relaxation to BlackBerry addicts and cellphone fanatics by offering to lock up their electronic devices during their stays.
The Fairmont hotels in Banff, Jasper and Lake Louise, as well as Whistler, B.C., are promoting "electronic rehab" packages where guests sign a waiver authorizing the hotel to keep their devices in a safe.
In exchange, vacationers get herbal teas, meditation books, guided hikes, spa visits, canoeing or golfing, depending on the location.
"The idea is to get out and enjoy nature and meditate and relax and enjoy all that's around without the buzzing and the cellphone ringing," said Lori Grant, spokeswoman for the Fairmont Hotels and Resorts.
Peter Kirkbright and his family, vacationing in Banff from Scotland, admit they haven't really unplugged.
"We have a laptop, five mobile phones and various cameras and electronics," said Kirkbright.
Another tourist, Joanne Hoskins from Ohio, sat on a park bench enjoying a view of the snow-capped mountains.
"I think they'd have a better time if they weren't filling their brain with noise and communication all the time," she said.
The Fairmont packages start at $179 a night in Whistler up to $499 a night in Banff.
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