Yotel's New Worldwide Launch Is the First of Its Kind
It's time to put your phone down and enjoy the moment-and Yotel launched a program to help travelers do just that. The first-of-its-kind initiative, Anti-Appy Hour, officially went live on World Wellness Day, but it's continuing far beyond the summer holiday (recognized on June 13).
The brand announced its new agenda, which is meant to help with digital fatigue in an ever-changing world that's largely dependent on technology, via press release. The hotel chain's ask is simple: take an intentional hour (or more...) away from your devices to be present, mindful, and engaged in the real world around you.
And the push to make that small shift is needed now more than ever. According to a survey on screen addiction, on average, Americans spent five hours and 16 minutes per day on their phones last year, a 14% increase from 2024. Meanwhile, Hilton's Trends Report found that the demand for unplugged travel is rising: one-third of adults are seeking more opportunities to decompress when away from home.
"We're all a bit overloaded right now-phones constantly buzzing, tabs multiplying, attention pulled in every direction before you've even had your morning coffee," Olivia Donnan, Senior Vice President, Brand, Culture and Growth at Yotel, noted of the need for such a program. "Anti-Appy Hour is our way of giving guests-whether they're staying with us or just need a reset mid-city-a genuine reason to put it all down for a bit. Not a digital detox, not a wellness lecture, just a proper pocket of time that's actually yours to reset, recharge or reconnect."
To participate, visitors are invited to tap a Bloom card-a stainless steel, app-blocking keycard recently seen on Shark Tank-on their phone to temporarily block selected apps for the allotted time. In place of the hour spent scrolling, guests can choose to "sip on a Bloom cocktail, strike up conversations with fellow travelers, or embrace a moment of quiet reflection with complimentary postcards available throughout the space." Bloom cards will be available on-site.
Yotel's Anti-Appy Hour has already gone into effect globally, from its hotspots across Europe, to Tokyo, Japan, and the U.S. (Washington, D.C. and Boston).
Things to Do at Yotel
Yotel offers different amenities at each of its properties, but the Washington, D.C. location is a standout in the nation's capital. From self-service and mobile check-in/out to modern, unique ambient LED mood lighting throughout each room, motorized, adjustable (not to mention comfortable) SmartBeds, and chic bathroom spaces, you're bound to settle in nicely.
The rooftop pool with relaxing cabanas and a bar serving a selection of drinks, frozen beverages, and bites adds a nice touch, especially for hot summer days. Plus, downstairs on the ground floor, the award-winning Art & Soul restaurant is open for breakfast/brunch (the fresh banana bread is a must-try!), lunch, and dinner, with flavorful, seasonal dishes.
Additionally, the central Capitol Hill location offers easy access to a variety of nearby attractions-the U.S. Capitol building, Botanic Gardens, Eastern Market, and the Library of Congress (the largest library in the world), to name a few-whether just visiting the city or enjoying a weekend staycation.
Related: 9 Super Cool Things to Do in Washington, D.C. That Won't Break the Bank
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This story was originally published July 7, 2026 at 9:57 AM.