Stay Well During Your Vacation

Thinking of a winter vacation? Dreams of sunny shores, romantic meanderings along the ocean, and exciting nights at neon dance clubs no doubt fill your head. But as you prepare to leave for that well earned escape, keep these three things in mind so that your vacation at the beach does not turn into an exorbitant week stuck in a hotel room:

* Use Sunscreen I know, I know, this is your one chance during the dreary or cold season to get a real tan…but pass up the sun worshiping in the interest of your health and your skin. Bring UVA/UVB sunscreen with an SPF of 30 and reapply at least every 2 to 3 hours that you spend playing along the shore; and remember to apply the sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure and then put on another generous amount frequently if swimming or sweating. The closer to the equator you’re traveling, the stronger you will find the UVA/UVB rays, and thus the potentially more real damage you will do to your skin. Too much sun exposure will lead to sunburn, blistering, peeling, rashes, fever and nausea, not to mention skin cancer. And don’t forget to protect your eyes with sunglasses. Put on a hat and light, long sleeve clothing for extra cover up whenever you are not trying to catch some rays--in moderation.

* Consume With Care Whether you are vacationing nationally or internationally, you should be careful about what you are eating. Though local street food may be cheap, interestingly native, and very tempting, it may have more to it than you assumed. Food offered at al fresco food stands is exposed to bacteria that could leave you doubled over for the rest of your travels. If you are vacationing abroad, it is strongly recommended that you avoid salad and unpeeled or uncooked fruits and vegetables, as the water that these raw items are washed with may have bacteria you're not prepared for. Here are a few tips that are often neglected: make sure hot food comes hot; peel all raw fruits and vegetables; and drink only bottled waterMake certain that it's not a previously used bottle that has simply been refilled with local water.

* Don't Get Dehydrated Playing on the beach will dehydrate you more quickly than you think, especially if you are not adapted to the weather at your location. Consuming the minimum 64 ounces of water every day won't be enough to keep you hydrated. And no, that Pina Colada that you plan to make last all day will not do the trick either. You should be drinking more than ten (8 ounce) glasses of water a day to restore your body while you're in the sun, and even more (twelve to fifteen) if you are exercising or drinking alcohol. A little dehydration may not seem like it would matter very much, but it can really zap your pep. And dehydration left unchecked can lead to painful headaches, cramps, stomach problems, and a very tired feeling while extreme dehydration can be deadly. Don’t let dehydration take you completely out of the action that inspired your vacation in the first place: make sure you are taking in enough water.

As you head off on your vacation, keep these important tips in mind. Remember to be safe, responsible, and to use your best judgment as you travel. You can leave your work and worries at home, but remember to pack your common sense.

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