Out there and safe

Travelling changes everything — from moods to shopping lists and outfits to eatables. It changes daily schedules and sleeping patterns too, thanks to sudden climatic changes, work pressures and that feeling of being alone.

Whether you are planning a trip for business or pleasure, here are some tips that will come in handy.

Before flying

When planning your trip, acquaint yourself with the wet and dry seasons or other possible weather conditions of the destination you are travelling to.

Buy your ticket using a credit card. It will give you the assurance of an official record and the additional insurance that may come with the card. Ensure you are not charged again if you change dates or flights.

Check with your insurance company to verify if you will be covered internationally, should some unpleasant event occur.
Leave at home your health card, driving licence and ID card. These documents are of little use in a foreign country.

While travelling

Carry over-the-counter medication with you, just in case you develop some allergy or have a bout of constipation, diarrhoea, abdominal pains or nausea. Get appropriate vaccinations from designated health centres.

Chew gum or bite-sized candy to relieve pressure in the ears while flying. Yawning and swallowing will also help.

Before boarding the aeroplane, apply a moisturising lotion on the face and hands to prevent your skin from drying during the flight.

Try to blend in with the crowds and look as if you are familiar with the place. Looking around confused could make you stick out and may attract undesirable attention.

Never accept drinks from strangers — they could be laced with drugs.

Avoid taking out large amounts of cash in public.

Do not carry your passport around — leave it in the hotel locker. If the local laws require you to carry your passport around with you, a photocopy should be sufficient.

After landing

Remember to confirm the status of your return flight. This will allow the airline to contact you if the flight is delayed or there is a change of plan.

To reduce the effects of jet lag, avoid eating uncooked and undercooked meat. Try to maintain a regular diet.

Rotating your neck and shoulders and practising other stretching exercises while on the aeroplane will keep cramps at bay and help you feel fresh on landing at the airport.

Sleep well. Inadequate sleep can leave you moody and exhausted.

Writing down your feelings in a diary, highlighting the wonderful moments of your journey, or engaging in something enjoyable, may help relieve stress and strengthen your immune system.

Laughter is one of the most effective antidotes to stress because it results in increased blood-flow to the brain. It releases endorphins (painkilling hormones that fill us with a sense of well-being), lowering the levels of stress hormones.
— Layla Haroon is a UAE-based freelance writer