If you are someone who loves to travel, you’ll know that it’s all in the preparation. Many of us spend days or even weeks planning even the most finite details of our trips – everything from landmarks we’re going to visit to places we plan to eat at. This can really benefit our trip, as if we go away with a plan of sorts, we are more likely to get the absolute most out of our holiday.
But there is one aspect of traveling that is arguably the most important but one that most of us tend to bypass in the planning stages. This is our personal health and the prospect of injury or illness overseas. Of course, plenty of us still get health insurance that covers us abroad. But more often than not, we are on a limited plan – and some of us don’t even bother at all. If you are leaving your home country to travel overseas, here are some ways in which you can ensure that your health is still a top priority.
Learn Important Phrases: If the country you are going to speaks a language that is different than your own, you’ve probably already learned the basics: hello, please and thank you, among other things. However, it can also be really worth your while to learn other phrases that have to do with healthcare. Being able to ask where the nearest emergency room is is something that’s invaluable should you get into any kind of trouble.
Or, if you have a pre-existing condition that could potentially flare up, it is best to know how to explain this to locals. If you don’t feel confident enough to speak the language out loud, why not get a medical identification card made up? This card should be written in the local language, so speak to a professional translator. It should detail your blood type, plus any illnesses you have and any medication you are taking.
Have a Doctor on Speed Dial: If you become concerned that you are getting unwell on vacation but don’t think it is serious enough to go to the local hospital yet, it can be worth contacting a doctor native to you. You can now download an Online Doctor App where you will be able to chat with a medical professional from wherever you are in the world. Often, it will only be a minor issue that you needn’t worry about. But it can always be helpful to get a second opinion, even if it’s just to put your mind at rest.
Be Careful When Drinking the Local Water: There are some countries where it is advised that tourists do not drink the local tap water. More often than not, it doesn’t mean that the water is dirty. It just means that it is so different from what the tourists may drink at home that it could cause their bodies to react adversely. The local people’s bodies, on the other hand, have got used to it and are therefore able to cope. If you are in any doubt over whether the water at your destination is safe to drink, always buy bottled water instead.
What are some of your tips for traveling abroad? What do you recommend for people who have health concerns? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah
