The Oaks At Ojai
Are you a travel nut? It's okay, I'm one too. Maybe like you, I never get enough time strolling through America's quaint hometowns, window-shopping and theater going in big city and national parks? Don't get me started. I've adored each and every one of them. Whenever I get the chance, I'll book a trip on a cruise ship too.

With so many great travel deals in the works, it's time to start planning that long overdue or longed for holiday, vacation or quick getaway. Here are some trips to help you feel great wherever you wander.

Double check flight and travel plans; find out if you must confirm any reservations. Because of the added security measures, build in enough time so that you're not breathless when you get to the airport. If you rush, you're tempting fate where an accident could occur that might ruin your entire holiday.

Pack just what you need, especially where prescription medicines and must-have products are concerned. Always carry your medications in their original containers and take them onboard with you. Remember unless you're headed to a truly remote location, should you forget something you can pick it up along the way.

Be kind to your body, get the sleep you need and drink plenty of water. If you're concerned about water safety, choose only purified waters. This is true if you're going aboard or within the US. When traveling out of the country, even five-star hotels and resorts cannot guarantee that the water is pure. Where water purity is a concern use that purified water when brushing your teeth, too.

Choose foods that your body likes and use plenty of common sense. It's great fun to sample exotic foods, but if you have allergies or have health concerns, be careful. Wash fruits and vegetables and peel those that you can; cook or bake the produce that you cannot wash well. Never eat raw shellfish. Make sure you wash your hands before eating to avoid diarrhea, hepatitis A or infectious parasites; these "pests" can catch you unawares regardless of where you travel.

Get acclimated. If you're hiking or sightseeing at high altitudes, you'll want to increase your activity level slowly. A friend, who lives at the seashore, recently vacationed in New Mexico. While he's fit, my friend was sidelined with altitude sickness, a headachy feeling that went away in a day. Help yourself at higher altitudes by drinking plenty of liquids, don't over exert yourself, and avoid alcohol and sleeping pills. Your physician can recommend medication if you're concerned about altitude sickness.

Watch the sun and heat. Always use a sunscreen, even underneath clothing. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going into the sun and do so in the shade. Some medications may make you ultra sensitive to the sun so talk with your health care provider. And watch your exposure to heat. Steer clear of beverages containing alcohol and caffeine if you're going to be out in the heat. They'll actually flush out the much-needed fluids that you want to keep in your body. Get hooked on hats that can protect your face and neck. Be sure to wear loose clothing made of natural fabrics and be smart, try not to be outdoors and at a high level of activity during the hottest part of the day.

Watch where you step. Going barefoot feels so natural, but choose your bare-places carefully. Small untreated cuts or insect bites can ruin a wonderful trip. Slip on sneakers or sandals for beach walking. Don't swim or wade in slow or stagnant waters, where parasites are known to occur. Depending on your destination, your physician may recommend packing some anti-bacterial cream.

Motion sickness can hit on luscious cruise ships, trains and buses. When it does, it can put a crimp in your plans. Get a window seat if possible and on a plane, request a seat over the wings or wheels, which is the most, stable position. On a ship, mid-ship and close to the waterline is the best for those who suffer from motion sickness. Talk with your doctor if you're at all concerned; there are a number of excellent prescription and over-the-counter medications that relieve symptoms, many that are fine for children, too.

Travel is astonishing and I am happy to admit I hope never to become a jaded traveler. Yet, like you, I want to stay fit for life and find these healthy travel tips do the trick. Bon Voyage!