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Informative Articles

8 things not to forget when traveling to the tropics
Copyright 2005 Dave Markel Sometimes it is hard to pack for a place or climate that is new. When packing to go to the tropics there are some items that you don't want to forget. 1. Appropriate Identification: With tighter security these days it...

Accommodation Travel Tips
BEFORE YOU GO Do a hotel research on the net looking not only for the cheapest rates but also considering the amenities and services provided, location, possible references from other people. Travel guidebooks can also be very helpful for...

How To Create A Travel Budget
Do you love to take vacations but don't have a lot of money? Then learning how to budget your traveling can get you more vacations every year! Today with the economy the way it is, budget travel is becoming more and more of a necessity and...

Playing Your Cards Right -- Tips for Traveling with Credit Cards
Using credit cards while traveling is a good idea for a number of reasons: You have a record of your expenditures for record-keeping and tax purposes (especially important if you travel for business) You may get a better exchange...

Travel Blog Your Next Vacation
Some years ago, I took an extended trip to Europe. During that vacation, I kept a travel journal in which I made notes of the places I visited, the people I met and the events that occurred. I still get out that travel journal and read through some...

 
Staying healthy while traveling

Your good health is paramount while traveling and taking simple precautions can drastically reduce your chances of falling ill.

Health Insurance
An insurance package that covers your health, possessions and cancellations is imperative.

Immunizations
Immunizations are critical – especially if you are planning to visit 3rd world countries. Many immunizations require a specific time period to take effect or require certain follow-up shots – so plan well ahead. You should record any immunization shots received on an official health certificate as this is often a requirement of visa applications.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention can advise you on the current recommendations for your intended destination.

General
Food and water are one of the leading causes of illness for travelers. These simple tips can drastically reduce your chances of illness:

- If the water is suspect, don’t take the risk. This includes ice, food washed and prepared in the water and swimming pools. Buy bottled water or boil/sterilize existing water.

- Only consume fruit and vegetables that can be pealed or are protected by an outer skin (bananas, oranges, pineapple etc)

- Wash you hands thoroughly before all meals.

- When purchasing meat and seafood, look for proper


refrigeration.

- Cooked food is generally safer for consumption. Raw and undercooked food can carry an array of pathogens.

- Be wary of un-pasteurized milk and milk products

- The National Center for Infectious Diseases publishes informative traveler’s health information. Food and drink risks can be accessed through: http://www.cdc.gov/travel/food-drink-risks.htm

Insect Bites
Be sure to cover up with insect repellant – especially when traveling the tropics. Spray on repellant with DEET will offer you the greatest protection. Use mosquito nets while sleeping. Also, be sure to research whether insect carried diseases are a problem where you intend to travel.

Sunburn
Many of us travel to find a spot in the sun but overexposure can cause severe sunburn. Stay in the shade during extreme burn times and use plenty of sun block. When choosing sun block, check the SPF Factor and the brand. SPF 30+ is recommended when traveling down-under.

Article by Travel J - Traveler's Resources & Information - http://www.travelj.com

About the Author

Sarah Moore has been in the travel and tourism industry for over 20 years and is currently working with one of the worlds largest coach networks. Sarah is also the webmaster of TravelJ - A Traveler's Resources & Information Network - http://www.travelj.com