6 Essential Steps to Avoid or Manage Illness During Your Travels.

Traveling is a wonderful way to explore new places, immerse yourself in different cultures, and create unforgettable memories. However, falling sick while traveling can quickly turn your dream trip into a nightmare. Whether it’s a minor illness or a more severe condition, knowing what steps to take when illness strikes can make all the difference. In today’s post on the Holiday Home Lets.com blog, we will discuss essential steps to take if you fall sick while traveling.

Start with Sun Protection
When you’re traveling, spending time outdoors is often a major part of the experience. However, prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to sunburns, heat exhaustion, and other related health issues. To prevent these problems, it is crucial to wear protective clothing like hats, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen with a high SPF to exposed areas of your skin. By taking these precautions, you can minimize the risk of sun damage and enjoy your time under the sun safely.​

Hand Hygiene on the Go
Maintaining good hand hygiene is crucial, especially when you’re traveling and exposed to various environments. Carry a travel-sized hand sanitizer with you at all times to clean your hands when soap and water are not readily available. Regularly sanitizing your hands can help prevent the spread of germs and reduce the risk of contracting illnesses such as colds, flu, or gastrointestinal infections.

Pack OTC Medicines
When preparing for your trip, it’s wise to stock up on over-the-counter medications that you commonly use for minor ailments. These may include pain relievers, fever reducers, antihistamines, and medications for upset stomach or diarrhea. Having these essentials on hand can provide peace of mind and save you the hassle of searching for specific medications in an unfamiliar location.

Track Your Symptoms
If you do fall ill, being aware of changes in your condition is vital for monitoring your condition. Pay attention to any unusual symptoms or discomfort and monitor them closely. If your symptoms worsen or persist, seek medical assistance promptly. Understanding your body’s signals and taking action when necessary can help prevent a minor issue from turning into a more serious health concern.

Eat Healthy, Drink Plenty of Water
Proper nutrition and hydration are essential for boosting your immune system and maintaining overall well-being. When you fall sick while traveling, it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Additionally, opt for nutritious foods that provide essential vitamins and minerals to support your immune system. Incorporate fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet to give your body the nutrients it needs to recover quickly.

Carry Digital Copies of Medical Info
If you have a medical condition or medical history that’s worth mentioning, it’s crucial to have easy access to this information. Digitizing and storing files as PDFs in the cloud is a convenient way to access and manage important medical documents while traveling. One useful feature is the ability to split large PDF files, making them easier to store and share. When you have a bulky PDF that contains multiple pages or sections, you can split a PDF with this helpful tool into smaller, more manageable files. This not only saves storage space but also allows for quicker retrieval of specific information when needed.

As you embark on your next adventure, armed with these six tips to avoid and manage illness, rest assured you have the tools to protect your well-being while exploring the world. Prioritize preventive measures, maintain good hygiene practices, stay hydrated, and ensure easy access ​to medical information by using PDFs. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey. By taking these proactive steps, you can focus on creating unforgettable memories and embracing the wonders of travel without the worry of falling sick.

To find the perfect home away from home when traveling abroad, check out the available properties on HolidayHomeLets.com . We have accommodations to fit your budget and space needs.

Crete, the largest Greek island, is renowned for its rich history, stunning landscapes, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture. Here are some of the top attractions of Crete:

Knossos Palace is located near the capital city of Heraklion, Knossos Palace is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. It was the center of the Minoan civilization and offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient world with its well-preserved ruins, colourful frescoes, and intricate architecture.

Samaria Gorge is one of the longest and most breathtaking gorges in Europe, stretching 16 kilometers through the White Mountains of Crete. Hiking the Samaria Gorge may take several hours but allows you to immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty, with towering cliffs, lush vegetation, and the opportunity to spot unique wildlife. At the end of the Gorge is the village of Agia Roumeli where you can find refreshments and enjoy a swim.

Balos Lagoon is located in the northwest of Crete, Balos is a stunning lagoon with turquoise waters, pink-hued sandy beaches, and rugged rocky landscapes. It is a popular destination for boat trips and offers a picturesque setting for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the panoramic views.

Elafonisi Beach is known for its pinkish sand and crystal-clear waters, Elafonisi Beach is often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. Located in the southwestern part of Crete, it offers a paradise-like setting for relaxation, swimming, and snorkelling.

Heraklion is a port city and the capital of Crete. Its Venetian port features the 16th-century Koules fortress. Heraklion is known for the Palace of Knossos archaeological site that dates back thousands of years to the Minoan civilization. It is also home to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum which showcases artifacts from ancient Crete, including those from the Minoan civilization, providing a comprehensive overview of the island’s rich history and culture.

Chania Old Town is located on the western part of the island of Crete, it boasts a charming and well-preserved old town. Its narrow, winding streets are lined with Venetian and Ottoman architecture, colourful buildings, boutique shops, and tavernas. Exploring the Old Town allows you to soak up the atmosphere, visit historical sites, and enjoy delicious Cretan cuisine.

Spinalonga Island is situated in the Gulf of Elounda, Spinalonga Island is known for its Venetian fortress and its history as a former leper colony. Boat trips to the island offer the opportunity to explore the abandoned buildings, learn about its intriguing past, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding sea.

Rethymno Old Town: Wander through the narrow streets of Rethymno’s old town and admire its Venetian Renaissance and Ottoman architecture, with its honeycomb of cobblestone alleyways lined with museums, cafes, tavernas, restaurants and promenade offering stunning views of the Aegean Sea.

Agios Nikolaos is a beautiful coastal resort surrounded by water on three sides, here you will find a harbour dotted with yachts and small boats and many areas where you can enjoy the serene atmosphere of this picturesque town its bars, taverns, cafes, trendy shops and the beautiful Lake Voulismeni.

Preveli Beach: Relax on the sandy shores of Preveli Beach and admire the palm forest and river that flow into the sea.

Arkadi Monastery: Visit this significant monastery known for its historical importance and impressive architecture.

Phaistos Archaeological Site: Explore the ruins of the ancient Minoan city of Phaistos and marvel at the views from its hilltop location.

Minoan city of Phaistos and marvel at the views from its hilltop location.

Agia Triada Monastery: Discover this peaceful monastery with beautiful frescoes and a tranquil atmosphere.

Dikteon Cave: Venture into the legendary birthplace of Zeus, a stunning cave with impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations.

Loutro Village: Visit this picturesque fishing village accessible only by boat, known for its relaxed atmosphere and crystal-clear waters.

Vai Beach: Enjoy the unique beauty of Vai Beach, famous for its palm forest and stunning natural surroundings.

Gortyna Archaeological Site: Explore the ancient ruins of Gortyna, an important Roman and Byzantine city.

Agios Pavlos Beach: Relax on the secluded shores of Agios Pavlos Beach and admire the impressive rock formations.

Imbros Gorge: Hike through the scenic Imbros Gorge, offering beautiful views and a less crowded alternative to Samaria Gorge.

Psychro Cave: Visit the mythical cave of Psychro, also known as Dikteon Cave, and explore its fascinating chambers.

These attractions showcase the rich history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage of Crete, making it a captivating destination for travellers. The island is also dotted with traditional villages, ancient ruins, monasteries, and scenic landscapes, making it a diverse and captivating destination for travellers.

Travelling With Kids This Summer?

Even though gas prices have most of us ready to stay home, summer is near, and that means it’s time to get out of the house. When you’re planning to head to the highway with little ones, you’ll need to take the time to prepare before you go. Today, Holiday Home Lets shares a few valuable tips on how to road trip like a pro when your passengers are preschool-aged or younger.

On The Go With Babies

Let’s start with the youngest possible members of your family: infants. If you’re a new parent, the idea of strapping your little one in for a long journey away from home is intimidating. But, it doesn’t have to be. According to the Traveling Mom blog, your best bet is to get acquainted with how to change diapers on the road, what to pack, how to pack your diaper bag, and when your little one is least likely to have a temper tantrum en route.

Yes, there will be stress on the trip, but you can use these tips to alleviate as much anxiety as possible. This includes minimizing the stress that comes with returning home by organizing and cleaning home before you leave so that all you have to do is unpack. Knowing that you’ll be coming back to a decluttered and organized home will allow you to enjoy your time away with the kiddos that much more!

Where To Take Toddlers And Older (Road Trip!)

Once you’ve got a couple of years under your seatbelt, it’s time to strap in with your walkers and talkers. At this point, you already know what you need to do, but where should you go? Two cities that top our list for kids are Los Angeles and Nashville.

Los Angeles

The Hollywood Sign, Venice Beach, and Santa Monica Pier are the obvious choices when visiting Los Angeles. However, for the sports fans in your crew, no visit to the City of Angels would be complete without having an opportunity to catch a game at Dodger Stadium. Before you go, check pricing and seating arrangements from a ticket seller that offers 360-degree, and interactive charts. This will help you avoid getting a bad seat and having a cranky kid that can’t see. Pick your day wisely, and you might even snag a discounted admission.

Nashville

Is that music we hear? If you’ve trekked to Nashville, the answer is yes. Music City might be a haul from California, but it’s not only the Bachelorette Capital, it’s also super kid-friendly. Grab a burger and milkshake from The Pharmacy and then head into downtown to Cumberland Park, which features wet and dry play areas. Don’t leave this fast-growing city without taking a tour of Gibson Guitars, Lane Motor Museum, and The Hermitage.

Safe Trip Tips

No matter what age your travelers, your top priorities are safety and convenience. Along this vein of thought, great tips include:

• RightSure advises making sure your vehicle is road-ready. You can follow your own checklist, or better yet make a trip to your mechanic shop for a tire rotation, oil change, and preventative maintenance visit. This will help you identify any problems that might stop you in your tracks. If your car has more problems than you care (or can afford to) fix or isn’t road-ready, consider renting a car or buying a fully-serviced used vehicle.

• Travel smarter. For your comfort, make sure that you pack plenty of snacks and bottled water. If you have a baby, you’ll want to have a cooler with bottles already made. Make sure that you have a mirror in place so that you can see your little one without turning around, and, if your vehicle is equipped with a built-in GPS, download the newest maps so it’s up to date, and you aren’t frustrated by a wrong turn halfway to your destination.

Summer travel is one of the greatest gifts you can give your children. Whether you choose to stay in California or head days away from home, road trips are also an excellent time to bond. The few quick tips listed above can help you get to and from your destination safely, conveniently, and have the most possible fun along the way.

Image via Pixabay

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Portugal holiday info and destination guide  
Portugal is situated in south-western Europe, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and south and sharing the Iberian peninsula with Spain to the north and east. The Azores and Madeira in the Atlantic Ocean are also a part of Portugal. The climate is Mediterranean and it is one of the warmest European countries. In mainland Portugal, yearly temperature averages are about 15°C (55°F) in the north and 18°C (64°F) in the south.
Portugal has lately seen a  an increase in popularity as a tourist destination and also a significant increase in prosperity.

Portugal has everything to offer the visitor, a rich, unique culture, lively cities and beautiful countryside with outstanding landscape diversity. It is possible to travel from green mountains in the North, covered with vines and all varieties of trees to rocky mountains, with spectacular slopes and falls in the Central Portugal, to a near-desert landscape in the Alentejo region and finally to the glamorous beach holidays destination of the Algarve – and all this in a single day. For those who like to combine their holiday with leisure and sport, Portugal is a golfing haven with an excellent golfing infrastructure. Fourteen of Portugal’s golf courses are rated in the top 100 best in Europe.

Lisbon 
Lisbon is the capital of Portugal, its contemporary culture is alive and thriving, making it one of the most ‘happening’ places in Europe today.
Stretching along the northern bank of the river Tejo and perched on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, Lisbon is a city that uses water as a defining element where as the land rises away from the water, steep streets and stairways form the old tangled neighbourhoods or give way to squares and green parks. It is an enchanting city with its white bleached limestone buildings, intimate alleyways and an easy going charm mixed with a nostalgia reflected in the traditional music of the fado performed in cafes and small night clubs in the old quarter of the city, the Alfama district.
Still bearing signs of  a long ago Moorish presence in the city, the buildings are very close to each other with irregular streets, winding alleys and the azulejo-covered crumbling walls of ancient buildings. It is a great place in which to wander around.
For people watching the Rossio, the main square in Lisbon, and the equivalent of London’s Trafalgar Square is the meeting place for locals and a great way to experience the lively city life of Lisbon.

Other ‘must-sees’ in any visit to Lisbon are the Belem Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery, the Monument to the Discoveries and the  Cristo Rei, which is similar to the Christ statue in Rio de Janeiro, standing over 100 meters tall on the opposite bank of the Tejo from downtown Lisbon.

Estoril
Further afield but within an easy day trip from Lisbon is Estoril.  Here you will  find a coastline with fabulous beaches interspersed with impressive cliffs overlooking the Atlantic. It used to be the playground of European royalty and this glamorous past is reflected in its many gardens, villas and palaces. Estoril is renowned nowadays for its fresh fish and seafood restaurants, the Estoril Spa, renowned for its regenerative therapies, the Casino Estoril, the largest in Europe, and its golf courses where it is considered one of the top destinations.

Porto
Porto is the second largest city, the capital of the historic region of northern Portugal. Porto is above all renowned for the production of port wine but it is also a busy industrial and commercial centre. It has a semi-Mediterranean climate, but it can be cooler than other cities with this climate because it is strongly affected by the Atlantic Ocean. The city is built along hills that overlook the Douro river estuary. It has a historical centre whose buildings are granite and monumental unlike other major Portuguese cities which tend towards the baroque. It has UNESCO World Heritage status.

Coimbra
Coimbra is a small university city full of interesting places. The medieval centre of Coimbra is wonderful for just wandering around in and getting lost there is a pleasure.  It is unusual in still having a number of independent bookshops, boutiques, toy shops, galleries, antique shops, restaurants and interesting museums.

Evora
Evora is the largest city in the central Alentejo region. It has a magnificent cathedral and cloisters and its historic centre also has UNESCO World Heritage listing.

Algarve
The Algarve is the southernmost region of Portugal, on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. It has stunning coastlines, wonderful beaches and excellent golf courses. The water along its coastline tends to be warmer and calmer than the water along the west coast. In winter, it is a beautiful, peaceful corner of southern Europe with plenty of sun bleaching its white-washed towns with their Iberian and Moorish-influenced architecture.

Faro is the regional capital and main airport for the Algarve but it is popular destination in it’s own right. There is an impressive beach party and night life scene but many visitors might prefer to use Faro as a base to explore other more remote areas of the Algarve in the off-season.

Albufeira, once a small fishing village has now developed into being a very popular tourist area with lovely beaches, a very good climate, and many restaurants, bars and pubs. Algarve holiday homes and villas can be found near some of the most popular beaches and may offer access to some of the finest golf courses in the region. There is a diverse range of luxury holiday home lets and fabulous villas for rent in the Algarve to choose from.

Madeira
Madeira is 310 miles from the African coast and 620 miles from the European continent. It is known worldwide as the island of eternal spring, or the Garden Island. It has a mild if rather wet climate throughout the year.

Funchal, the island’s capital is home to resorts, gorgeous panoramas and lots of local colour. ‘Must-sees’ with any visit to Madeira are the levadas, an impressive system of aqueducts started in the 15th century to bring water from the mountains to farmlands, Cabo Girão, one of the world’s highest ocean cliffs, the magnificent gardens of the Jardim do Monte Palace and the Jardim Orquídea orchid gardens, for which Madeira is justly renowned.

A holiday home or villa in Madeira would be the perfect base for a holiday on the Portuguese island of Madeira.

For info on accommodation in Portugal visit: Portugal Holiday Homes and Villas to let