Before I start recounting our trip, I would like to write a brief post about traveling during cold and flu season.
A few weeks ago, I ran into my neighbor who had just returned from visiting Australia and was very sick. Right after the new year, two of my gym teachers also became sick after their flights. This reminded me that traveling this time of the year could pose additional challenges.
I did some research and came up with this list. Since I have successfully dodged “the sneezing and coughing”(fingers crossed), I think it may have worked 🙂
- Get a good night sleep before the trip.
- Take supplements like Airborne or Emergen-C on the day of the flight.
- Bring disinfecting wipes and use them religiously. You may end up looking like a clean freak, but your body will thank you.
- Bring a good hand sanitizer, look for one with at least 60% alcohol and use it religiously.
- When possible, get to a sink and wash your hands.
- Keep as much distance as possible from the sick person. If your seatmate is sick, don’t be afraid to ask the flight attendant to move you if there is other open seat available.
- If you can’t change your seat, try turning the air vent above your seat to medium flow and pointing the air current just slightly in front of your face so that germs from those coughing or sneezing nearby are deflected away from you.
- Drink plenty of water. I like to bring my own tumbler and ask the flight attendant to fill it with hot water. You can add the tea of your choice or even a few slices of lemon 🙂
- Bring your own blanket and pillow. Airplane pillows are made with cheap materials. And a cashmere wrap or pashmina does more than a fashion accessory.
- Cough drops come in handy. They are also a good way to make friends. Once I was on the train from Lyon to Paris. The woman next to me couldn’t stop coughing, she was so embarrassed. I gave one to her that made her feel better.
- Don’t use the bathroom tap water to brush your teeth. Use bottled water.
- Close the toilet seat before flushing.
I like to bring a couple of essential oils with me. Lavender oil not only helps with relaxation, but also carries antiviral and antimicrobial properties. I like to sniff it when I hear people nearby sneezing incessantly. dōTERRA also has a blend called On Guard that has a pleasant aroma and helps with immune system.
Whatever you do, the key is be strong, stay away from sickness and beware of what you touch. Happy travels!
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