Why resort banned smartphone use by the pool

Some hotels and resorts depend on social media posts to get future guests inspired to visit.

But the Ayana Resort and Spa in Bali, Indonesia, is taking a different approach.

Their new “In the Moment” program is encouraging visitors to unplug when they’re by the pool — by banning smartphone use and other electronic devices.

From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day of the week, guests will not be able to bring smartphones to the pool area.

People who don’t want to leave their phones unattended in their rooms can put them in a locker while they swim.

And the ban doesn’t only extend to smartphones.

All electronic devices, including iPads, digital cameras, Kindles and tablets fall under the digital detox ruling.

“The ethos of River Pool is to create a place of tranquility, where our guests can truly relax and be in the moment,” a rep from Ayana tells CNN Travel about the initiative.

Guests are encouraged to truly unplug while poolside.

Some are using the opportunity to read books or magazines or to simply sunbathe, and the resort is providing some fun non-digital amusements like Jenga, decks of cards and magnetic chess to keep people busy.