How to Stay Healthy on Caribbean Holiday
By Anna Lynn Sibal
Just one of the few things that can spoil your holiday at the Caribbean islands is getting sick in the middle of it. Remember that the Caribbean islands are in the tropical region, and the weather in the tropics alone can be stressful to a person who lives in the temperate regions.
So, in order to enjoy fully your vacation at the Caribbean islands without having to deal with possible illnesses and irritations that are commonly acquired on a stay at the islands, you should take simple but necessary precautions.
Drink plenty of water and non-alcoholic liquids. Needless to say, it is very hot and humid in the Caribbean islands, and such conditions can be taxing to the body, especially when you come from the temperate regions and if you engage in outdoor activities. The heat and humidity can deplete the water from the body, and it needs to be constantly replaced to avoid dehydration.
However, take care to drink only bottled water, and only bottled water the seal of which is unbroken upon purchase. Do not drink tap water or water from springs and rivers if you are hiking in the forested areas of the islands. No matter how clean and clear the water looks, you would never know what microorganisms live there. You can get sick from diarrhea, amoebiasis, dysentery or any other intestinal illness from drinking water from questionable sources.
Because the Caribbean islands are located in the tropical latitudes, the sun can be really harsh and intense there. As thus, protect your skin from UV exposure by applying sunscreen generously upon it. Make sure that the sunscreen you use has SPF 30 protection. Some aloe vera lotion is also helpful in soothing your skin in case you get a case of sunburn.
Cover your skin entirely; do not neglect such areas as the neck, throat and jaw. Also, do not forget to apply the necessary protection for your lips and your eyes. Put lip balm on your lips to prevent chapping, and always wear polarized sunglasses whenever you go out of doors. Complete your armor against the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.
The heat can cause your skin to break out in rashes. To prevent this, put a generous application of talcum powder on your skin after showering. In addition, wear clothes made of lightweight fabric.
Always keep your feet shod and avoid walking barefoot if you can help it. You can get hookworm from walking with bare feet.
Insect repellants are good not just for preventing insect bites; it can also save you from getting malaria, a mosquito-borne disease common in some islands in the Caribbean.
It is not uncommon to meet someone nice while on vacation in the islands and have a brief holiday fling. In case you decide to engage in sexual intercourse with someone you met on the islands, make sure you are adequately protected. There are places in the islands where condoms are not readily available, so if you intend to find love during your vacation, bring your own condoms.
Caribbean Travel
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