I don’t know about you, but I get very paranoid when traveling to another country or across the country. Its not that I’m afraid to be somewhere new, its just that I’m afraid of getting stomach pains, a migraine, sun poisoning, a UTI, etc. All it takes is a few mishaps to turn your dream vacation into a vacation from hell! Here are a few tips to keep you in control:

1.       Bring a small ‘First Aid’ Kit

-          Why put ‘First Aid’ in quotes? Because it’s more than just bandaids and Neosporin (although they should be in there too), its Pepto, Tylenol, Dramamine, Simply Sleep; basically anything you MIGHT need in small packets of 2-4 doses. This might not seem necessary if you are going to a big city but trust me if you’re in the Swiss Alps where everything besides the restaurants close at 6 and your experiencing stomach pains you’re going to be so happy you packed your Pepto. Also, if you experience motion sickness it’s always good to have Dramamine during an unexpected rocky flight home.

2.       Think Before You Act…ivity!

-          Tropical resorts can offer some wonderful activities to their guests but think before you book them for you and your new spouse. Horseback riding on a beach might seem like a fantasy come to life until you get off the horse and your inexperience has made your groin muscles throb…and not in a good way. This can put, how should I put this, a damper on your other honeymoon activities. If you aren’t use to a certain activity, you might be putting your vacation bliss in danger.

3.       Don’t Drink The Water

-          This seems like a no-brainer and of course only applies to certain areas of the world but its worth mentioning because it can cause SUCH a problem that not even your Pepto will help you. How do you know whether or not you should or should not drink the water at the place you’re going? Check online, I’m sure someones blogged about the place you’ve been too at one point or another.  If it tells you to beware you should make a note of a few other items to steer clear of like water washed salad or fruits, fruit juices with water added, items with ice cubes, etc. Thats right ladies…no SALAD!

4.       Avoid Dreaded  “Honeymoonitis”

-          NOTHING…and I mean NOTHING can ruin a honeymoon like a UTI can. Never had one? Well, be warned ladies, even if you’ve never had one before the extra lovin’ you’re sure to get on your honeymoon plus the dehydration which often accompanies travel can cause even the most healthy urinary tracts to go haywire. It’s horrible. I strongly suggest asking your doc for a course of prescription pills to have with you just in case. UTI’s get worse and worse (in a matter of hours) and if you’re not able to get in to see a Dr. wherever you are—you are S.O.L.  Keep some cranberry juice close at hand and be sure and drink lots of water as a precaution. 

Following these few rules will help you avoid some possible honeymoon disasters but the most important rule to remember is TO HAVE FUN! Your honeymoon is going to be one of the most memorable moments of your life – soak up the happiness.