Here 8 tips to help you prepare for the unexpected while travelling:

1. At the very least, read all about the country you will be visiting on Canada’s Foreign Affairs site.
2. Make sure your passport is up to date.  There are some countries that require that it is valid for three or six months beyond the travel dates, so don’t wait until the last minute.
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Even a short trip can do wonders for your well-being! Here are some of the health benefits of traveling:

1. REDUCE STRESS – Travel gives you an opportunity to relax and de-stress, and stress reduction is always healthy!

2. AVOID MONOTONY – As the saying goes, “A Change is as Good as a Rest”. Changing your daily routine prevents your mind and your body from stagnating.

3. GET OUTDOORS – When you are traveling, you are more likely to be outside, getting fresh air and enjoying the outdoors.

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It is always a great idea to visit with a Travel Health Nurse before your big trip, but another great resource is Travel Health Online.   It is a comprenensive and very useful resource for destination information,  vaccines, diseases, travel health advice, and even travel medical clinics.  If you are planning any sort of international trip you should definitely register on this site!

Remember that anything can happen while you are away from home, so be PREPARED.  This is most important where your health is concerned, and could save your vacation… or even your life!

Here is what you need to know to TRAVEL HEALTHY :

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Booking an all-inclusive vacation does not have to also mean that you are taking a vacation from healthy eating habits.  Here are some tips for tackling the buffets and coming home feeling relaxed AND healthy:

• Research Local Specialties - In a foreign country, we sometimes encounter dishes that look delicious but are otherwise a mystery.  Knowing how they are made will make it easier for you to manage your meals when you are there.
• Healthier Happy Hour - Stay away from cocktails that are creamy or have a high sugar content.   Drinks made with pure fruit juices are a good alternative, and staying hydrated with water throughout the day is a must.  Some good choices include Sangria, a Marguerita, or a Mohito.

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Ever get off a flight and start to feel ill almost immediately?

Many fliers compain of headache, fatigue, fever or breathing problems. Some of these symptoms may be due to the low barometric pressure, oxygen content and humidity in the air cabin. When combined with jet lag, sleep deprivation, travel stress, (security concerns, long lines, missed flights, delayed and cancelled flights), as well as cramped seating, motion sickness and discomfort from vibration and engine noise, we have ample reason to feel “ill.” And let’s not forget that engine fumes can, on occasion, seep into the cabin.

Of course there’s also the germs… in all their filthy, immune system-attacking microbial nastiness. I may not be able to see them, but they exist alright – in all those hands touching the tray tables, grabbing my seat as they go past, spewing from mouths and nostrils in uncovered coughs and sneezes.

Ready to give up flying? Here’s why you don’t need to:

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