Lorraine Williamson
In a world dominated by smartphones and social media, many are seeking genuine human connection. The Offline Club, a Dutch initiative, is tapping into this demand by expanding into Spain. Its events require participants to hand in their phones, allowing them to engage fully in face-to-face interactions.
What began as an experiment in the Netherlands has grown into a movement, now reaching cities like Barcelona and Madrid.
Why The Offline Club started
Three Dutch founders noticed how difficult it had become for people to reduce screen time. Digital distractions were interfering with real-life interactions, prompting them to create an accessible way to disconnect. Initially, they ran digital detox retreats in rural areas. However, they soon realised the need for similar experiences in cities, leading to the development of shorter, structured offline gatherings.
The impact of smartphone overuse
Recent studies show that people spend an average of over three hours per day on their mobile phones, with many exceeding five hours. Excessive screen time is linked to increased stress, sleep disruption, and reduced concentration. A common habit is checking the phone immediately upon waking, scrolling through social media in bed, and watching videos late into the night. This disrupts sleep quality and makes it harder to start the day without digital distractions.
Smartphones also affect social interactions. Many people watch their screens while eating meals instead of engaging with family members. This can lead to weaker relationships and less meaningful conversations. Studies suggest that phone use at the dinner table reduces emotional bonding and communication between family members.
From Amsterdam to Barcelona
Launched four years ago in Amsterdam, The Offline Club initially offered countryside retreats, where participants spent a weekend free from digital distractions. In 2024, the concept shifted towards urban life. Shorter sessions were introduced, allowing people to go offline for a few hours and engage in activities such as reading, playing games, and socialising.
Offline gatherings vary widely. Some involve relaxed meetups in cafes, while others take place in parks or as part of weekend getaways. The common goal is to provide a space where people can be fully present, free from the distractions of screens.
Spain’s growing interest in digital detox
Following its success in Amsterdam, The Offline Club now operates in seven European cities, including London and Barcelona, with Madrid set to join soon. The increasing popularity of these gatherings highlights a broader shift. More people, from teenagers to older adults, are looking for ways to escape constant digital engagement.
Daniela, a 28-year-old interior designer who recently relocated to London, sees these spaces as valuable for meeting like-minded people. “Apps don’t offer real connections,” she says.
Beyond The Offline Club, other initiatives in Spain are also encouraging face-to-face interactions. Groups like ‘The Usual’ in Barcelona organise informal meetups for people looking to expand their social circles, while ‘Kleff’ hosts board game sessions that bring strangers together offline.
The appeal of offline time
Constant connectivity has its downsides—stress, difficulty concentrating, and a sense of always being ‘on’. The Offline Club provides an alternative, helping people rediscover relaxation through screen-free environments. Attendees often report feeling calmer and more engaged after spending time disconnected from their devices.
This movement is part of a wider trend. In Spain, interest in ‘dumbphones’—basic mobile phones without internet access—is increasing. Many young people are opting for simpler devices as a way to manage their digital habits more consciously.
A growing movement
The Offline Club’s model is spreading beyond the Netherlands and Spain. People interested in launching their own local chapters can apply to become city leaders. This allows them to create a community-focused space where participants can enjoy moments free from digital interference.
What’s next for offline gatherings in Spain?
With Spain embracing offline socialising, cities like Malaga and Valencia could soon follow suit. The movement shows no signs of slowing down as more people seek balance between their digital and real-world lives. For those interested, The Offline Club offers a structured way to reclaim meaningful human interaction in an age of constant connectivity.