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Without access to their favourite workout DVD or local organic supermarket, it’s possible for many health-conscious people to feel forced to abandon their exercise routine and healthy diet when they travel. But as Joanna Hall reveals, you don’t have to leave all your healthy habits at home…
Believe it or not, it is possible to eat well and stay active while on holiday; all it takes is a little forward planning:
1. Get a check-up
If you have an existing medical condition, or you just haven’t seen a doctor in a while, it’s worth having a check-up a few weeks before you head off to make sure you’re in good shape. This is especially important if you are travelling to an exotic or third-world country.
Also, check well ahead of your departure date if you need any vaccinations or anti-malaria pills. It’s worth visiting a specialist travel medicine clinic, or checking out a website such as the Travel Doctor (www.traveldoctor.com.au) for this advice, but remember that some vaccinations and malaria medications may need to be administered at least several months before travelling.
2. Take any medications with you
Counterfeit medicines are a real problem overseas, and getting prescription refills in some countries can be risky. In fact, the World Health Organisation estimates that around 10 percent of all medicines available globally are fakes, covering everything from over-the-counter remedies for diarrhoea, to sleeping pills and Viagra.
Make sure your prescription medicines are up-to-date and refilled before you leave home, and take enough to cover you for the entire time you are away, plus some more for insurance in case of any delays. It may also be worth taking a basic medical kit containing pain relievers, antacids, and any other over-the-counter remedies you use frequently, especially if you are travelling to a third-world country or somewhere remote.
3. Plan your diet
When it comes to eating healthily away from home, if you are travelling to an unfamiliar country, check out the type of food you are likely to encounter so it won’t come as a shock. If you are travelling to countries where food hygiene may be a problem, always avoid drinking tap water and eating fresh fruit and salads, and only eat food that has been cooked.
Another tip is to keep a few healthy snacks from home on hand, such as low fat crackers, so you avoid getting too hungry and resorting to unhealthy snacks.
If you have any significant allergies or food intolerances, or any kind of medical condition which requires a special diet, it’s worth having a chat with an Accredited Practising Dietitian (www.daa.asn.au) before you head off, so you can examine your options. Discuss with them where you will be visiting, where you will be staying, the cooking facilities and types of food that are likely to be available. They can help you highlight foods to avoid, or which ones might give you trouble.
4. Keep active
Being on holiday is no excuse for becoming a couch potato. Most modern hotels, resorts and even cruise ships have swimming pools and fitness centres, and there’s no better way to explore a new destination than on foot.
Before you go, do some research about the place you are travelling to, see what’s available, and use your new environment to your advantage. If you are going to do a lot of walking, however, consider investing in a good pair of shoes and quality socks if you don’t already have some, and break both in properly before you hit the streets.
Another tip is to pack some resistance bands, or a workout DVD for yoga or Pilates, in your suitcase as you can use both in a hotel room. Rather than see obstacles to your fitness while you are away, look for opportunities to do something different.
5. Expect the unexpected
Although no-one wants to become ill or injured while on holiday, the reality is that both can happen. Aim to travel comfortably, don’t be too adventurous if you have physical limitations, do your research so you go prepared, and make sure you are as fit and healthy as you can be before you set off.
It’s also important to make sure that both you and your possessions are adequately insured. This will not only give you peace of mind, but if something unfortunate should happen at least you will get the help you need without having to worry about who pays the bill.
Joanna Hall is the editor of the Ultimate Travel Magazine – Australia’s first online magazine dedicated to the best in luxury travel.
