Dealing with the Sun on a Cruise
Hot weather and that alluring sun – one of the challenges on a cruise is dealing with the difference in climate from your home environment.
Tips and Advice About the Topics and Dealing with Heat and the Sun
Baking for hours on end under a hot tropical sun is not a good idea for anyone. But if you enjoy the sun and insist on going out in it, the best advice is to know your limitations. The rules don't change because you're on vacation.
The time of year, cloud cover, and location are all factors that will effect the UV index, (This is the amount of radiation you will absorb depending on the amount of time you're exposed.) but where ever you are you should be protected. Start with a sunscreen with SPF rating of 25 or greater, avoid the midday hours when it's hottest, wear a hat, and drink plenty of water.
The current thought, however, is that while some screens slow reddening they do not stop the absorption of UV radiation. The accumulation of this over the years may possibly induce the onset of skin disorders, such as melanoma.
So, again, the rule of thumb is to know your limitations and follow your good sense.
Do that and you'll be able to enjoy the sun and still have a good trip.
Specifics about the Tropics
Medical expert and travel enthusiast Joe Springfield explains some simple facts about the Norwalk / Norovirus.
What are the problems with a cruise to the tropics? Well, let's find out.
The first thing you need to remember is that food and water-borne diseases are the number one cause of illness in travellers, especiallly those traveling to the tropics – so the best way to enjoy a healthy vacation in the tropics is to make sure your food and drinking water are safe.
While you might be relatively safe travelling aboard a luxury cruise liner, if you're heading ashore to wine and dine, or if you're buying your own groceries for your own private yacht, there are some precautions you might want to consider.
Wash your hands often with soap and water - there are some pretty nasty germs out there - drink only bottled or boiled water, and if in doubt, remember: boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it!
If you're heading into rural areas, The Center For Disease Control in Atlanta, Georgia, recommends precautions against Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B if you're staying for extended periods, Rabies if you're going into the jungle, Typhoid if you're staying longer than 6 weeks, and Yellow Fever if you're travelling even further afield. If you are visiting an area where there is risk of malaria, take your medication before, during and after travel as directed. It's also a good idea to have a booster of tetanus and measles.
But most of important of all - see your own physician ahead of time. He will have a better grasp of your medical history, and will be able to tell you exactly what you need.
PLEASE NOTE:
Please note that the information on these pages is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
