The state of your health is a guaranteed way to make or break your experience on a tour. Here are some simple tips to keep in tiptop shape and keep your tour on track.
1. Fly away from colds
For a first class ticket to Sickville forget the plane’s recycled air and think plastic. Because did you know that germs can stay alive for up to 72 hours on plastic surfaces? Consider using disinfectant wipes on tray tables or spraying the air around you. But better yet is to get on board with washing your hands regularly and avoiding touching your face. Hey, even if you can’t control the number of germs in the air you can still try to control the number of germs that reach you.
2. Move motion sickness out
Try these tips to keep your trip in motion (rather than your belly) because even the most fearsome traveller can get motion sickness en route.
Find a seat with the smoothest ride. That means heading to the middle of the bus, coach or plane.
Look at objects in the distance because it helps your brain match the movement your body feels. Sailors ahoy, keep all hands (and feet) on deck rather than going below for a better focus on the horizon.
Consider taking an over-the-counter antihistamine an hour before you travel. This works by targeting the part of your brain that causes nausea. (Be sure to check the side effects first.)
3. Happy tummy, happy travel!
Tap water is one of the main causes of an upset stomach while travelling. Pay special attention when visiting places in Asia, Central and South America and the Middle East where you’re better off buying bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. (And don’t forget to make that soda “no ice, please.”) Finally, shy away from raw foods like fruit, salads and shellfish. They tend to be breeding ground for bugs, especially in hot climates.