Burnt out on startups by the age of 25, Jon Staff channeled his entrepreneurial savvy into more meaningful work with Getaway, the company he co-founded in 2015 that rents out remote cabins in nature. Located a few hours away from cities like New York, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Washington, DC, they are built expressly to encourage guests to unplug from technology and escape routine. Staff’s talk reiterated to attendees the importance of powering down.
Disconnect Completely and Often
Today, feeling overwhelmed is the norm. “How are we going to hang onto our humanity in this age of constant connection?” Staff asks. “By taking away some of the distractions and the stresses of life and integrating a mindful break.” Staff says Getaway is one solution of many. Frequent respites are vital to nurturing the concept of turning off and giving in to something that “recharges and reignites your spark and sense of what it truly means to be human.”
Design Triggers Emotion
Getaway cabins feature large windows, firepits, and artwork, but it’s their lack of wifi that has proven to be the most luxurious amenity. Staff often hears from guests that they figured out their next career move or came to terms with a diagnosis because the cabin allowed them “to connect more deeply with themselves and with their loved ones. Getaway didn’t create any of those experiences, but we did our small part. Our guests remember us for that, and they make a habit out of coming back.”
Powering Down
Mandatory vacation, government-supported protection of workers’ time, as well as ensuring access to outdoor space and committing to simple, feel-good morning routines are all ways of prioritizing a more sustainable lifestyle. Hospitality environments, too, can develop programming that encourages conversation, mindfulness, and outdoor activities. Indeed, the star of all Getaway cabins is a wooden cigar box that invites guests to lock up their phones for the duration of the stay. “It turns out people aren’t desperate to answer emails all day and night or be on Instagram 24 hours a day,” he says. “It’s not the box, but it’s the permission it gives somebody to make that decision themselves.”
Getaway cabins connect guests with the outdoors
Simple wood-clad interiors put the spotlight on nature
Getaway cabins offer guests the option to unplug and lock their devices in a drawer for the duration of their stay
Floor-to-ceiling windows are a signature of Getaway cabins
