Travelling is usually the culmination of months of financial sacrifice, weeks of planning, days of packing and countless hours tying up dozens of loose ends. For many a traveller, that pre-travel period could be very overwhelming and even stressful. So it’s no wonder why upon arrival to that special destination, most of us feel the need to just let it all hang out. Why shouldn’t we? I mean travelling is a legitimate enough reason as any to suspend everyday rules, routines and rigidity; after all that’s what vacations are made for.

And it wouldn’t at all be so farfetched to suggest that travelling could perhaps make us temporarily schizophrenic. How else can I explain why my vacation dessert plate looks like Mount Kilimanjaro at every meal when usually, my more rationed self would cut a sliver so thin I can literally see through to the other side. Let’s not even mention those flavourful libations that disguise their potency and calories under colourful little umbrellas. Temptation of forbidden fruit is everywhere, the problem is it’s never really fruit, but instead sugar and spice and everything nice- which comes beautifully and deliciously displayed. I have found that resistance is futile; because who really takes along that much willpower on a vacation.

The truth is, I am definitely a different person when I am on vacation. I am more laid back, more relaxed, absolutely more open to trying new things. The one challenge I face in my “carpe diem” vacation attitude, is balance. Without bursting anyone’s vacation bubble, how do we let leisure, enjoyment and pleasure remain the focal point, without becoming totally unhinged, especially at the waistline? While I seldom, if ever regret succumbing to vacation temptations, there are a few things that we can all do to minimise the effects of our overindulgences, especially when it relates to staying fit on vacation.

This is an easy win, because when and if opportunity presents itself for a workout, be it a brisk walk or spiritly run you have no excuse. For instance, on my last vacation for the first time I took along my TRX straps. I enjoyed working out in a change of the scenery, which kept me really motivated and sometimes that’s all you need.

Now if the thought of hitting the gym is definitely off your vacation agenda. What about joining in on the fun, many cruises, hotels and resorts offer fun activities throughout the day, like zumba, aqua aerobics, Latin dancing, volley ball, etc. don’t just sit by the bar, get up and move it.

Walking is the best way to explore a new place and absorb the sites and it’s a wonderful way to sneak in a mild cardio workout. Even if it means taking the stairs or the scenic way back to your room, steps add up. I love an after dinner walk. Usually, instead of heading straight to my room, I stroll about enjoying the fresh night air. It is the best nightcap and helps digestion.

Most of the time when I travel, I’m on the move. This makes fuelling up for the adventures ahead a very good idea. Also on vacation lunch is usually an afterthought, a grab and run, depending on the day’s schedule. All the more reason not to skip out on breakfast.

What’s more, we all know we don’t make the best nutritional decisions when we are hungry and tired. Walking with a few health snacks whether you are lounging or on a hiking trail, helps you make better choices.

As good as it all looks, everything adds up. So save the sweet caloric binges and splurges for the really good stuff. Come on, pass on the ice cream sandwich and wait on the artisan gelato.

Not at the cocktail lounge! It’s so convenient to order up a pretty cocktail, but as far as hydration goes water is always the better choice. As we have been told, often times we confuse thirst for hunger. So staying hydrated helps regulate your appetite.

While I have never been a calorie counter, I have been known to keep track of my steps. I like the idea of downloading a fit application. So I can monitor how active I’ve been. Most of the time I end up surprising myself as to how much ground I effortlessly cover in one day.

Here is an extra tip and something I started doing recently. When I travel I take along probiotics. Changing food, eating schedules and travel stress can get uncomfortable-at its best. In fact, some suggest that this is the most important travel supplement as it also helps to boost your immune system.

There is life after vacation and as our dual personality reverts to our more controlled and measured selves, I hope these 8 tips help to gentle rein in our unbridled vacation indulgences- just a bit.

Thanks for reading! 🙂

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