Staying healthy on the road
Posted on Tuesday 28 February 2012
in General
By Sophia Choice
While on vacation, many tourists succumb to the myriad of gluttonous temptations offered by a country known for its culinary treats. France has the best baguettes in the world, while the endless links of bratwurst in Scandinavia are hard to avoid. Physically fit travellers may resort to a quick jog in a hotel gym or around a city to burn a few calories, but there are other ways that a global explorer can indulge without feeling the weight once home.
Dietitians agree that the key to living a healthy life is not based on a single factor such as exercise or eating habits. Rather, the combination of activity, a well-balanced diet and ample relaxation increase the mind and body's energy. Adjusting the way that humans live their daily lives, especially while travelling, results in both physical and mental improvement. According to the Harvard Health Publication, wellness does not only treat illness, it may prevent it from occurring altogether. More travellers are taking into consideration wellness travel options, from finding vegetarian restaurants near their hotels or spa centers that promote self-awareness and internal health.
The trick to avoiding food temptations both in-transit and at a culinary destination starts with careful planning. Healthy eating options in airports and on the plane are rare, and when the option is available, most travellers have to pay an arm and a leg for a fruit salad. Extended hours on layovers and in the air result in dehydration and empty stomachs, and although the in-flight snack options may looks like caviar to hungry eyes, passengers should avoid these high-calorie snacks. Health-conscious travellers can take simple steps such as packing a bag of carrots or carting fibrous granola bars to stay satiated with minimal guilt.
Numerous destinations offer spa treatments and wellness centers for visitors to relax while on a sometimes-stressful vacation or business trip. The Grand Wailea Resort Hotel and Spa in Maui offers almost a dozen free-form pools featuring rapids, slides and waterfalls at six different levels from 40 feet high to the sea. Cruise ships are also responding to the increasing demand for healthy travel options and many vessels have rock-climbing walls and exercise facilities.
Although travellers should not feel guilty for sampling a traditional French macaroon or trying a handmade pork dumpling in Beijing, unhealthy habits can easily be avoided while on the road. Instead of passing off excuses such as "I'm on vacation," individuals on journeys throughout the world should start and end their memorable trips with a clean, healthy slate.
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