A Tropical Christmas Vacation

Some Tips from TravelSafe Immunization Clinic

A traditional white Christmas can be a truly joyful and magical experience: snowmen, the smell of pine trees, hot cocoa by the fireplace and the ever-popular Christmas pullovers. However, as most Vancouverites know, our Christmases are more of a greyish hue mixed with rain and sleet. So, we totally understand why the lure of a tropical Christmas would be appealing! There’s something magical about escaping the cold and wet weather–and let’s be honest, it’s fun posting those IG pics of palm trees and sunny beaches for your friends back home! However, before you take your family on that fabulous sunny Christmas holiday, make sure that you’re prepared. Here are a few tips to help ensure that the Grinch doesn’t steal your tropical yuletide fun!

Sunscreen For Sun-Safety

Let’s start with the seemingly obvious. Sunscreen. While this may seem like a no-brainer, there are a few things to consider before heading south:

• Make sure your sunscreen hasn’t expired. Generally, sunscreen is good for up to three years, so be sure that you’re not packing very old sunscreen, as it may not be effective anymore. If you’re not sure how old that sunscreen at the back of your bathroom cabinet is, it’s best to just throw it out and buy a new one.
• It’s best to buy a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50. Remember that in tropical areas, the sun is strong and if you’re not properly protected, you can develop a bad sunburn!
• Reapply sunscreen to your face and any other exposed body parts throughout the day. One application in the morning will not last all day, especially if you’re active during the course of the day.
• If you are traveling with kids, remember to buy children’s sunscreen, as it is specially formulated for them and has a high SPF. It’s best to buy the waterproof type, but even so, you should reapply their sunscreen before and after each time they’ve been in the water.

Holiday Hydration

When traveling in a hot country, it’s very important to drink plenty of fluids. It’s easy to become dehydrated when you’re out and about! While we’d recommend packing a reusable water bottle, you can also buy a bottle of water there and reuse it for the remainder of your trip. Keep it close whenever you venture out for the day, especially if you are going to be exploring more remote locations, or vacationing in places where you cannot drink tap water.

Hat Trick

Don’t forget to pack a sunhat. It’s best to pack a hat with a large brim to best protect your head from the harsh sun rays. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or playing a round of golf, it’s best to make sure you’ve got some good headgear. While baseball caps are alright for providing shade to your face and reducing glare, it’s best to get a proper sunhat that can protect the back of your neck as well.

Your Best Foot Forward

When it comes to footwear, you’ll want to stick to sandals, flip-flops, and lightweight sneakers. Keep the boots and heavy shoes at home. If you’re planning on heading out to a fancy dinner or event, we’d recommend purchasing a pair of dress sandals–they look very elegant! And for Pete’s sake, please don’t wear tube socks with sandals, Dad!

Resort Activities

If you’re staying at an all-inclusive resort, it’s a good idea to find out what Christmas/holiday activities they’ll be planning, so you can pack accordingly. For instance, they may have an “ugly Christmas sweater” contest that you simply have to compete in!

Santa and Security

If you’re going to be exchanging Christmas gifts while on holiday, it’s best to keep things simple. Never wrap your presents before you get on the plane, as airport security may search your bags and unwrap them. Wrapped things in your bag can evoke suspicion. We recommend picking up gifts from the duty-free shops before your flight!

Contact Us

Before you head out on your tropical Christmas Vacation, it’s best to book a pre-travel consult to find out what vaccinations you or your family may require. We’d love to hear all about your winter plans. Feel free to email or call us to book!