Hungry baboon in South Africa exposes the reality of modern travel
A baboon stole a couple's snacks while they were relaxing at a pool, but they didn't notice because they were busy scrolling.
Baboons are hard to miss. They are big, have dog-like muzzles, and long, muscular forelimbs.
Despite their intimidating physical features, a couple on safari in South Africa were oblivious to a baboon standing behind them.
A video shared on the 'Today Show' shows a man and woman relaxing on sun loungers near a pool when a baboon crept up on them.
It then began eating their snacks on a small table.
A baboon casually helping itself to your food is hardly surprising. However, the couple seemed completely unaware that a monkey with the bite force of a Rottweiler (and sharper canines) was standing between them.
They were both too engrossed in whatever was on their phones. This may have been a blessing in disguise, because South Africans know all too well that you do not mess with baboons.
A worker at the lodge rushes over to shoo the primate away, which runs off without a second thought. This is clearly not their first rodeo.
While many people found the video hilarious, others were alarmed that the couple seemed to have no situational awareness.
"Be aware of your surroundings, GET OFF YOUR PHONE, and enjoy what is in front of you!!! Ohhhhh and didn't you see any kind of reflection?" one Instagram user asked.
Another user wrote: "The epitome of a life missed because of the mobile."
However, some came to the couple's defence.
"The wife probably thought it was her husband, the husband probably thought it was his wife."
Others speculated that they were well aware that the baboon was nearby, choosing to play it cool and ignore the animal for their own safety.
"I would pretend I am still on the phone if I realised it's a baboon, cause I am scared and don't wanna scare it to violence."
Digital detox travel
Regardless of whether the couple knew the baboon was there or not, the consensus was clear: why were they on their phones on vacation in the first place?
Holidays are a good way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy some downtime with loved ones.
But some feel that scrolling on your phone defeats the purpose of a vacation. If you want to be more present on your trips, here are a few digital detox tips for travellers.
Vacation mode: Put your phone on 'do not disturb' to avoid being tempted to check social media notifications.
Phone rules: Let everyone in the family know that as soon as you leave your hotel bedroom, no scrolling is allowed while sightseeing, eating together, or (cough) relaxing at the pool.
Make memories: Take as many pictures as you like, but try to enjoy the moment without being obsessed with capturing the perfect moment. You can snap a picture of a beautiful sunset, but put your phone away as soon as you are done. Filling up your vacation with lots of fun activities will also help decrease scrolling.
If you are spending more time staring at your phone than you are talking to your family on vacation, then it might be time for a digital detox.
READ: Unplug! Five simple tips for a successful digital detox
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