Dry Tripping: A Sober Vacation That Helped, Though Not Perfect

A writer who identifies as an alcoholic joined a "dry trip" at Four Seasons Jackson Hole organized by Hilary Sheinbaum and found the experience reduced stress, improved sleep and presence, and included nonalcoholic drinks and activities; the writer left restored and plans to repeat similar trips.

Cullen, the writer, identifies as an alcoholic and describes taking a "dry trip" to Four Seasons Jackson Hole. The trip was organized with input from Hilary Sheinbaum, who curates non-alcoholic events and menus. The stay emphasized minimizing alcohol, sampling zero-proof beverages, and spending time outdoors and in group activities. The account follows a period of grief and participation in mental health programming that prompted a reassessment of drinking. Key points: - The writer says they have a long history of binge drinking and attended virtual Alcoholics Anonymous meetings while working on recovery. - The trip included nature activities, spa time, and tasting nonalcoholic cocktails at the hotel, with an organized itinerary to fill the days. - During the stay the writer largely avoided getting drunk, tried mocktails and zero-proof wines, and reported less stress, more energy, clearer mornings, and more present conversations. - The article notes that some hotels and restaurants are offering more nonalcoholic options and that the piece includes a content warning and links to support resources. Summary: The writer reports the dry trip was restorative physically, mentally, and emotionally and reframed what a vacation could feel like. They left feeling more present and hopeful and say they plan to take similar trips regularly as part of ongoing work on their relationship with alcohol.