Sunscreen
It takes a little time and effort to avoid the agony of vacation sunburn, especially if you are traveling to sunny climes or look forward to hours enjoying the outdoors. The real trick is sun protection factor, or SPF. Look for an SPF of 50 or higher if you are visiting a tropical or otherwise sun-drenched destination and re-apply often, even if think you already have a tan “base.” The sun’s rays are much more powerful in equatorial regions and you’ll be taken by surprise at how quickly they turn unsuspecting epidermis painfully red. If you go in the water even for a quick dip, it is especially important to re-apply your SPF. Whether it’s hot or cold, cloudy or bright, protect your exposed skin while outside, without exception and enjoy a burn free holiday.
Eat Fresh
Local, fresh food is always accessible while traveling, even if it takes a little more hunting to find than convenient fast food. Mom and Pop restaurants, open air markets and supermarkets will give you the opportunity to meet local people, learn a bit about the native cuisine and treat your palate to exotic flavors. If possible, try cooking up your own fresh meals while abroad, using regional ingredients. If you are polite and open, no one will mind if you mispronounce a dish on the menu or have to order by wild gesticulation. Your digestion will thank you for partaking in quality meals instead of (generally) sodium and fat laden fast food options. You will find yourself more energetic and ready to enjoy more of your vacation!
Stretching
The stress of long flights, unsupportive hotel mattresses and cramped road trips can take a toll on your body leaving you overtired and stiff in unfamiliar ways. The simplest stretches every morning can help you loosen up and energize:
–Seated on a long flight, car ride or train, trace the alphabet in the air with your toes. The bending and flexing will ease constricted muscles.
–Seated or standing, link your hands and stretch both arms straight up. Along with a few deep breaths and gentle side bends, you’ll feel refreshed.
–Standing with your legs shoulder width apart, bend over forward with your knees slightly bent. Let your arms, head and neck hang loose and take a few deep breaths.
If you are not usually athletic, you will especially be delighted by how effective at combating sore muscles these few minutes of restorative breathing and stretching can be. (If you are unsure about any of these stretches, please consult your physician before trying them!)
Sleep
While you are on the road enjoying your vacation, sleep may be a low priority. Going a little wild can be fun in a new place with a festive atmosphere, but remember that even abroad you can’t hide from a hangover! Do you really want to fitfully doze the day away when there are sights to see and excursions to enjoy? A good night’s rest and a general avoidance of too much alcohol and your body will thank you. Don’t miss once in a life time travel experiences miserable in the hotel, dehydrated and unrested.
Water
Hydration is the vital travel ingredient that is so easy to overlook. All of the aforementioned tips are pointless in the absence of a well-watered traveler. It’s normal to be so caught up in itineraries, hours of strolling and spontaneous tangents that you forget to drink water. While out and about you actually need more water than usual to keep up with your activity level. Always keep a bottle of water with you, or risk muscle cramps, headaches, fainting (especially in sun!) and general malaise. If you are traveling to destinations where the water quality is questionable, take the time to research and be certain you are drinking sealed bottles of filtered water.
Noella Schink writes from Portland, Maine and recommends Excellent Hotels for your next luxury hotel stay in the USA or abroad. Image by likeaduck
