The Oaks at Ojai (California)
Have you been bitten by the vacation bug? Just browse the Internet and look at the sites that lure you away from the working world and it won't be long until you'll be packing a suitcase and checking with the boss about how much vacation time you still have.
However, vacations can mean added weight gain. So since this IS vacation season, here are some ideas to capture your imagination and to keep you trim during any holiday happening.
With the tips you'll find in this column, you will be able to have the time of your life, without adding on five or ten extra pounds of unwanted body fat. Here's how:
This year, once again, I hope to be spending time with my grandchildren at a dude ranch, although that still must be put to a family vote. When we did this last year, we rode horses, hiked, cycled, talked and splashed in freezing cold streams. There was lots of fresh air and because, like you perhaps, our family is spread around the continent, it gave all of the generations time together. A dude ranch or other active vacation such as hiking gives all family members opportunities to be close and yet find time alone to think, read and relax. I recommend this.
Think about a spa holiday. It's fun for moms and daughters, sisters or just a "girls only" time. Even if you live five minutes from a health spa, plan a get away. You will not regret it. I know with my daughters and as a business woman, it's far to easy to neglect important relationships and a spa vacation, along with some scrumptious pampering, can help establish or refocus our lives. Sure this takes some planning, but add in a massage, some facials or other skin care treatments and the memories will become magical.
Choose to cruise. Okay, you may have heard that vacationing on a cruise ship is non-stop eating. Yes, I've heard that "everyone gains ten pounds," and "only wear clothes that can stretch around the waist." Not so nowadays. Many cruise lines are finally realizing that a majority of us are addicted to the fit life. I recently cruised the Mexican Rivera and the fitness director onboard my ship lead an "on land" hike at each port. While others took taxis into town, our group experienced the real countryside with a walk. On this ship, like so many others, there were incredible fitness classes, taught by professional instructors, and a fitness center that rivaled anything I'd used on land. It's smart to ask about fitness and exercise options when you book your cruise. Just imagine for a moment returning to your workaday world, after a cruise and being stronger, fitter, perhaps trimmer, and relaxed. That'll make others rethink the "get fat on a cruise ship" adage.
Plan for the family that is. Yes, take a family, multi-generational vacation. It's one thing to tell kids and grandchildren, "Get some exercise." It's more potent to be the one leading the hike or mountain biking along the trails. We influence our children now as they watch as we stay strong and active, but more so, we are promoting a mindset for a healthier, longer life by learning good health habits now.
Go in a group. Group hiking, cycling, canoeing and walking tours are for everyone. Check out the Internet for active vacation packages that are right for every fitness and adventure-minded person. When talking with the staff as you book the adventure, be honest about your fitness level. There are hiking adventures for those who want to lounge part of the day and those who want to hike across an island or country. Ask about recommendations for boots. Can you wear sneakers or must you have something that will steady ankles? And what about hiking with small children? What about accommodations? Do the rooms have private baths? Is this important to you? Can you save a bit if you share with someone of the same gender whom you may not yet know? Are you okay with this? These are just some questions to pose to the tour company.
Think about fun and sports. How about a training camp for fencing, or dance, or swimming? How about a tour that combines kayaking and cycling, or walking and rock climbing? Ask active friends about their recommendations.
Make vacation plans with fitness and health in mind. With a little time spent on the Internet and some well thought out questions for the tour guide or travel agent, you can have a wonderful vacation as you stay fit for life.
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