Can’t stand to be unplugged? Keep connected to the office while cooling your heels on vacation with these executive tech tools.

By Jamison Cush
Editor, Executive Summer Tech 2011

Most vacationing execs will proudly claim it's impossible to unplug from
the office while away, and add they really don’t mind checking in while checked out.

In fact, a large majority of executives, about 71%, think it's perfectly appropriate to be contacted with work related messages while on holiday, according to a survey from cloud services provider Intermedia. While this may stir up criticisms from those who believe too much 'work life' is seeping into everyday and hard-earned downtime, there are a number of tech tools available that make it easier to tap into the office flow without creating too much vacation. After all, mobile 3G networks are near ubiquitous, 4G technology is available in many major metro areas, and free Wi-Fi is often just a coffee shop away.

It's also easy to appreciate how such technology can also benefit a vacation by bridging the work world with Disney World, or some other vacation destination. Why cut a trip short for an emergency executive meeting when a quick web video conference will do? Staying on top of important emails scan also ease the stress of dealing with a bloated inbox when you return.

The experts at TechnologyGuide love vacationing just like everyone else, but their passion for technology and the relentless pace of the industry means they never stray too far from Wi-Fi hotspots, multi-bar coverage, and power outlets to grab a quick charge. Here are some of the devices and services our editors recommend, and sometimes use, to remain literally and figuratively plugged in.

According to a survey from a leading cloud services provider, most US workers stay connected to the office when on vacation. In addition to checking email, 75% agree contact is appropriate while on vacation. With Wi-Fi hotspots and constant connections, it seems easier to stay wired-in than to truly unplug.