Most of us view travel as an opportunity to do away with the regularity of our usual routines. Unfortunately, our diets are one of the first things to go. And while travelling often means we return well-rounded with experience, we can also risk coming home rounder in other ways too.
Here’s how to eat healthily while still enjoying a trip away.
Location, location
One thing to keep in mind when booking accommodation is proximity to food options. Try to choose a hotel that is walking distance to supermarkets and fresh food markets, not just restaurants. If your accommodation has a kitchenette (or even just a microwave, a kettle and a mini fridge) be sure to stock up on foods that you will be able to prepare yourself. If your accommodation doesn’t have a fridge, a cooler bag or styrofoam box with ice will work just as well for a short period of time.
Be prepared
Before you set out for a full day of sightseeing, it’s a good idea to plan and prepare some meals in advance. Pack some sandwiches, snacks and water in a backpack and you will avoid having to fork out for an expensive, and possibly unhealthy, lunch. Plus, you’ll escape lining up with other tourists at restaurants and food carts.
In many countries where it’s unadvisable to consume the local drinking water, bottled water is the only way to go. But instead of wasting money, see if you can use your own glass or stainless bottle and refill it wherever filtered water is available. The fitness centre at your hotel will usually have a water cooler that you can use. Staying hydrated can help to keep sugar cravings at bay.
Eat regularly
Try not to throw your routine out the window completely while on holiday. Having access to regular meals and snacks is important to maintain energy levels and allow you to stay in good form during the day. It’s important not to skip meals as this can make you ravenous later in the day and potentially allow you to succumb to anything ‘naughty’ that crosses your path.
Plan ahead
Of course, no holiday would be complete without a comprehensive sampling of the local flavours. You don’t go to Italy without eating a pizza or five! Eating well doesn’t mean that you have to deny yourself delicious foods – just make sure to limit some of the less healthy choices. As well as packing your lunches, use the internet to plan ahead and find healthy and delicious restaurants. A good tip is check out the restaurant’s menu online before deciding to eat there. You could also ask hotel staff and any other locals where they like to eat most.
When at a restaurant
Try these tips to help curb your consumption of calories when eating out:
- ask for dressings and sauces on the side so you can control how much you eat
- choose entrée-sized portions where possible
- avoid rich or heavy dishes, especially in the evening
- eat until you’re satisfied but don’t overeat.
By following these eating tips you’ll stay healthy and slim when away, while enjoying an array of new flavours as well!
Related articles:
How to stay slim on holiday
Five reasons to travel Eurostar
Travelling with medicines
