I wasn't a germaphobe until after working in a hospital for many years. I learned the proper way to wash my hands and all about the transmission of germs. Staying healthy largely means not allowing germs to come into contact with the face (eyes, mouth and nose). Here are a few ways to stay healthy while traveling...

• Eyes can become dry and itchy as a result of a pressurized airplane cabin. Touching and scratching your eyes can lead to transmission of germs. Eye drops can be used to keep eyes moist and comfortable. If you wear contacts, you may consider wearing glasses on the plane to avoid irritation.

• Hydrate - Dry airplane cabins make it difficult for the membranes in the nose to combat germs. Purchase a bottle after clearing security or bring an empty bottle to fill at a water fountain. Once on the plane, you can ask the flight attendants for a refill.

• Avoid public bathrooms - tough to stay hydrated AND avoid bathrooms! Try using the bathroom in the airport, opposed to using the cramped airplane bathroom. You are actually exposed to more microorganisms in a confined space. If you must use the airplane restroom, be sure to open the lid with a paper towel, close the lid before flushing, and wash hands with soap and water.

• Don't touch! - I see people wipe down the tray table with a disinfectant only to reach up and touch the air vent or touch the latch of the overhead bin - 2 of the germiest places on an airplane! Also beware of window shades, seat belt buckle and seat pocket! Wiping down the commonly touched areas is a good idea if you want to be diligent.

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• Hand washing is the best prevention from getting sick. - Most people eat on a plane, at the very least a snack. Be sure your hands are clean by either hand washing with soap and water or using hand sanitizer, just before eating.

​MAIDEN NAME
and here's why...
 
Time. Documents take a long time to arrive, from the marriage certificate to the passport, it can be weeks before it is all sorted out. Most couples don't have enough time between the wedding and the honeymoon to make a name change.

Free name changes. If you don't currently have a passport in any name, you may be tempted to get it in your married name. DON'T FALL FOR THAT TRAP! As mentioned above, you simply don't have the time to get the proper documentation. And there is good news, the State Department will allow you to change your name within 12 months of issuance. So although it requires a bit more form filling... you will be able to complete a name change when you return from your honeymoon without stressing about getting everything in time! 
(NOTE: Don't let it slip past 12 months, it will be more costly and time consuming)

Additionally, if you are renewing your passport within a year of the name change; there is no cost to change your name.

Original Blog post 6/16/2016, updated 7/23/18

I am by no means a person who 'works out'. The extent of my exercise is a home class of yoga and walking as much as possible. I recently took a break from my yoga routine while hosting out of town guests. As I try to get back into the habit of moving, I find myself wishing I hadn't stopped! 
Just because you are ON vacation, doesn't mean you need to TAKE a vacation from your healthy lifestyle. Here are 6 simple ways to keep up with your workout while traveling:

1. While in Hawaii, the only way to see a secluded waterfall was to HIKE. I told myself it was just walking in the woods! It was so worth the effort! I highly suggest preparing better than I did - we had 1 bottle of water to share among 4 people and no bug spray - big mistake which brings me to the next suggestion of staying fit.

2. Hydrate! Traveling by plane can leave you dehydrated so make a conscious effort to drink water. Buy a bottle once you are through security or pack an empty bottle to fill at a water fountain.

3. If you are headed to a relaxing, sunny vacation get up and walk that beautiful stretch of beach or participate in a non-motorized water sport! And don't just stand in the pool with your drink, swim a little!

4. A treadmill, elliptical or pool can be found at almost any hotel - but if equipment is not available - make do. Find opportunity in the daily activities; instead of an uber or cab, factor in some extra time to walk and instead of taking the elevator, take the stairs.

​5. If you are looking for a more rigorous workout that simply walking try traditional exercises such as sit ups, push ups, squats and lunges can be done on the floor of a hotel room with a bath towel as a mat.

6. From Amsterdam to New York, bicycles are a super accessible mode of transportation - give it a try!

How do you stay fit while traveling? Leave a comment and let us know!