Tips For Making Any Vacation As Healthy As It Is Fun
DETROIT (WWJ) - Adios vacation weight gain, hello paradise. The experts at Travel-Ticker.com announced their top five tips for a healthy, feel-good vacation.
Many travelers worry about balancing their healthy lifestyle while enjoying the pleasures of traveling, but as the team of experts at Travel-Ticker points out, it is possible to have a guilt-free vacation. Healthy habits can be kept whether you're exploring the hustle and bustle of a big city or the golden sands of your favorite beach.
To get the most out of your travels while still maintaining your healthy lifestyle, follow these five tips and tricks to keep your body and mind in shape – no matter where you vacation.
1. Eat like a local and remove temptations. Part of the joy of experiencing any new destination is by tasting it, so feel free to partake in the local cuisine, but do so in a smart way.
Shop the local farmers markets for healthy snacks and broaden your palate through the native treats that are offered from the region. You can then restock your hotel room mini-bar, replacing unhealthy temptations like candies and sodas with your own healthier options you nabbed at the local market.
This not only saves you money on snacking, but these mini meals will eliminate hundreds of unnecessary calories and help boost your metabolism. Just beware of mini-bars with pressure sensors or you could get charged extra fees.
2. Jump in feet first. Use the best public transportation you have available – your feet.
Not only will you save money by avoiding the subway and taxi lines, you'll also be able to explore the destination you're visiting in a more authentic way – like the locals do.
Many hotels and cities around the world also offer free, locally guided walking tours or courtesy bicycles for guests and tourists that combine sightseeing and a workout in the same activity. Be sure to ask around or check with your hotel to find out what's available when you arrive.
3. Gym, on-the-go. Wherever you go, it's easy to take the gym with you, sans all the equipment. A couple small additions to your suitcase will keep your exercise routine on track.
For example, pack ultra-light gear such as a workout band or wrist and ankle weights, which can easily be used to create a workout regime any day during your vacation. Before you even leave for your trip, mentally prepare yourself to squeeze in a 30 minute workout daily, whether it's first thing in the morning or before you go to bed at night.
4. Tune out to tune up. Your smartphone, MP3 player or tablet device isn't just for getting calls, playing music or reading – they can also be used as personal trainers.
Download apps with stretching or walking exercises, or even 15-minute workouts that help add a bit more structure to your on-the-go exercising. From apps like iMapMyRUN, to FitnessClass for iPad, to Authentic Yoga with Deepak Chopra – inspiring beats and tech-savvy workouts will help you keep pep in your step, and further enjoy your surroundings with freshly released endorphins.
5. Get adventurous. Some people think adventure vacations are just for adrenaline junkies, but thrill seeking doesn't have to mean a big physical commitment or giving up luxury.
Many destinations have great accommodations while offering some of the best outdoors activities. Put on your running shoes and explore the area with a nice jog or brisk walk, or take in nature's beauty while mountain biking, hiking, or zip lining – whether it is in the Sierra Nevada mountains or South American rainforests.