What about Medical Coverage while on Vacation ?
It is advisable to have medical and dental check-ups before your trip. This way you are aware of problems and to find out about medicines you might need to take along. You may also want to check what your health insurance will pay for if you see a doctor while you're in another country. Carry enough of your regular medicines in their original containers, along with extra prescriptions for them. Also bring your eyewear prescriptions. Wearing a medical information bracelet if needed may save a life, and take along a first-aid kit.

If you need any immunizations or vaccinations, see your doctor at least 6 weeks before you leave. Some vaccines don't reach the highest protection until about 6 weeks after you get the shots.

What about Eating out Locally?
Eat carefully if you're going to a country with an increased risk of traveler's diarrhea. Avoid eating foods from street vendors, unpasteurized dairy products and raw or uncooked seafood. Peel fruits yourself. Drink water from commercially-sealed bottles or drink carbonated beverages and use bottled water when you brush your teeth. Avoid ice in your drinks.

Is Safety an Issue while on Vacation?
Try to avoid taking overcrowded transportation where contact with others is unavoidable. Countries outside North America tend to be more causual when it comes to safety. Wear a helmet if you'll be riding a motorcycle and use your seat belt when riding in vehicles. Try to avoid driving at night or in unfamiliar areas without local help and directions. If you're going to a country with an increased risk of mosquito-borne disease, you may want to protect yourself against insects.

What about Walking Health?
We have found that when traveling, we spend a lot of time walking. Foot problems can be a painful part of any vacation. Long hours of walking in airports, hiking paths or on uneven surfaces can lead to blisters. Band-aids often slip off toes and heels, so try packing thin moleskin instead. Buy the soft self-adhesive sheets at a grocery or drugstore, cut them into small squares and keep them in your purse or briefcase. If your shoe starts to rub, cover the area right away before it turns into a nasty blister.

What if I need Medicine while on Vacation ?
The unexpected always may happen. Check out the local pharmacy for medicine. We have found the local pharmacy to be helpful and it has been fun to compare simple meds like that for a common cold with what we may see at home.

Are there Resources on line for Advice on Traveling Healthy?
There are many resources on line and we recommend the Center of Disease Control and Prevention.

Stay Healthy and Travel Healthy!