Holidays are a time to let your hair down and unwind. They're a time to celebrate, let go and indulge – but don't forget to maintain your healthy lifestyle while you're on the go. Here are some tips on how to stay healthy while you're travelling:
Food glorious food
Even though you will probably be eating out often and the food is bound to be delicious, moderation is key. If you do have a large portion at dinner, simply have a small breakfast the next day and choose a lighter option for lunch, such as an entree, or a main shared with someone else.
Make a meal for yourself a few times during your travels if you're feeling lacklustre and heavy. Find the local supermarket, stock up on fresh ingredients and whip something up, even if it's just a fresh fruit salad and whole-grain cereal for breakfast.
While it's entirely necessary to savour a piece of cake or delectable pastry when you're in a Parisian cafe, don't have a rich desert after every main course. Choosing to have a herbal tea instead will keep you healthier and will make the moments you do indulge all the more enjoyable. If you can't bypass that sweet treat, offer to go halves with a friend or loved one – this way you'll still be able to enjoy the dessert but won't be over-indulging.
In addition to this, when you're on holiday, you're more likely to eat at unusual times. Take snacks such as fresh fruit or muesli bars when you're heading out for the day, so you're less likely to over-eat when you sit down for dinner.
Bountiful beverages
It's natural to have a couple of alcoholic beverages when you're on holiday, but again, enjoy in moderation.
When you're out and about, take a drink bottle of water with you. Drinking enough water will keep your body hydrated and flushed of toxins. Travelling and being in the sun more than normal can dehydrate you and mean you should be drinking more water than usual. When you're at a restaurant, request a bottle with lemon for the table if this isn't already provided.
Keep moving
Plan to exercise while you're away. Even a quick 15 minute walk a couple of times a day will make a difference.
Incorporating exercise when you're sightseeing is the perfect way to keep moving when on holiday. See the great parts of the country on a long walk or on a hired bicycle – a tandem bike or paddle boat is a fun and different way to get moving.
Adventure activities will get your heart pumping too. Try rock-climbing, rafting or diving, or take a surfing lesson that will set you up with a new skill and get you in the ocean.
Make the most of the facilities available to you. When you're at your hotel, go swimming in the pool, or use the gym for half an hour. Every little bit counts.
Be realistic
Keep your expectations sensible. You're going to want to treat yourself to that Sunday Roast when you're in a London pub, or have another cocktail in a Japanese karaoke bar.
Be kind to yourself and indulge while you're on holiday. Breathe. Find a balance, do what you can when you can and enjoy yourself.
