Bloggers go back to basics and discover UAE

This content was originally posted in 7DAYS UAE website at: Bloggers go back to basics and discover UAE It’s easy to feel lost without a mobile phone. Imagine how a travel blogger would feel without this piece of kit, complete with all the technology needed to power and also record a journey. Four established bloggers from around the world recently put that scenario to the test right here in Dubai. Gareth Pon, Heather Mason, Putri Anindya and Sami Tokhais have an impressive social media reach, with more than 800,000 Instagram followers combined. They were tasked with identifying the ‘hidden gems’ of Dubai and the UAE on a flying visit powered by mobile technology leader Qualcomm. But rather than rely on smart tech for advice, communication or posting updates, they were given a ‘Snapdragon toolkit’, full of old school items such as compass and city map, a polaroid camera, a travel dictionary and diary. In short, all the materials that were common currency before the advent of the smartphone. Sami, from Saudi Arabia, felt like a fish out of water without his usual smartphone for a number of reasons. He said: “It made me appreciate being disconnected at times but it was somewhat of a disadvantage for my creative juices. Usually when I enjoy a moment I like to preserve it and share it with others. This was unattainable without a smartphone. There were so many great places I visited on this trip but since I didn’t have a smartphone I couldn’t share them.” He admitted: “I was anxious at times. Most of us have this muscle reflex of reaching for our pockets to check our phones. It kicked in from time to time but then I got used to ignoring it.” RELATED: The verdict from the bloggers While travel bloggers are used to posting instant updates for their followers, the group’s frustrations weren’t just about keeping the world updated. We all might crave some tech free time in an ideal world, some breathing space where you’re not bombarded with email, messages and calls. But in truth, your phone is handy piece of kit. Sami said: “It is really tough to manage, especially if you end up in a place where language can become a barrier. Not to mention instant access to maps, directions, recommendations for places to stay and eat. I think the frustrating part is when you are lost and don’t know which direction you are going.“ Even the bloggers got used to the disconnect though. Heather, an American currently enjoying life in Johannesburg, said: “I really enjoyed not having my smartphone around Dubai. It was tough not having access to GPS and I sometimes got bored when I was in the car for a long time without a phone to look at. “But otherwise, I felt like I got to know my travel companions much better than I would have if we were all staring at our phones all day. “It’s a great way to get to know a new place and a great way to challenge myself to connect with people I meet along the way.” chris.fraser@7days.ae Read the original story at: Bloggers go back to basics and discover UAE