How to eat healthy on tour
Traveling is part of a healthy lifestyle, which means that a healthy lifestyle should also be top of mind when traveling! While I’m all about enjoying fine wine, the key to enjoying your trip (and your waistline when you get home) is balance.
Traveler and fitness fanatic Natalie went on our Jewels of Alpine Europe tour—and stayed healthy during her time away thanks to her arsenal of wellness tips and tricks. Here, she shares how you can do the same.
Traveling is part of a healthy lifestyle, which means that a healthy lifestyle should also be top of mind when traveling! While I’m all about enjoying fine wine, the key to enjoying your trip (and your waistline when you get home) is balance. Enjoy the local cuisine while filling up on healthy foods when you can, and make smart dining choices throughout your trip whenever possible. Here are a few healthy tips you can take on your tour.
1
Stay hydrated
Starting on the plane, try to drink a glass of water for every hour you’re in flight. Limit caffeine and alcohol as these will dehydrate you more quickly. You can take an empty, refillable water bottle with you through security that you can fill up once you’re at your gate. Keep this with you on tour so you can always drink up.
2
Stick to local, seasonal foods
Skip the things you can get at home. Don’t order pizza in France, a hamburger in Italy or fries in Greece. Instead, enjoy the foods the area is known for. If you’re traveling by the sea, order fresh fish. If you’re in a warm climate, fill up on tropical fruit. Don’t be afraid to try new fruits or vegetables! If you find something that’s rare in the States, now is your time to try it.
3
Stock up on healthy options
Grab an extra piece of fruit at breakfast for a mid-morning snack to keep you energized during guided sightseeings and to help prevent over-indulging at lunch. Check out the beautiful fruit stands and farmers’ markets for the freshest produce available, as well as local grocery stores where you can purchase healthy snacks. Unsalted nuts, baked chips and nut or oat bars are easy choices that you can bring along in your bag or keep in the hotel room.
4
Think lean and green
When in doubt, stick to minimally processed, fresh foods as much as possible. If you have the option of fresh produce, take advantage! Avoid fried foods when you can and ask for heavy sauces on the side so you can choose how much to add.
5
Pick and choose your indulgences
If you know you’ll be eating a large dinner, try to eat a bit healthier during the day. Always start with a balanced breakfast: oatmeal, hard-boiled eggs and fruit are always good options. Try to limit overly sweet breakfast pastries, bagels or processed meats as they offer little nutrition and staying power, and often will leave you hungry in an hour or two! With that said…
6
Enjoy in moderation
Hey, you’re on vacation! Don’t stress over every meal or beat yourself up if you went a little heavy on the wine (and had that second helping of strudel). There’s always a new day, and fitting in some physical activity or an exercise session will keep you feeling your best throughout your entire tour.
How do you eat healthy while you’re on tour? Share your own tips on Facebook!
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