Dear Traveler from the North: How to Stay Safe and Healthy During Your Summer Holidays
Midsummer is here, and for many of us in Northern Europe, our summer holidays are about to begin. This means lots of people will be traveling to Southern countries to enjoy different foods, meet new people, experience nature, and embrace different lifestyles—essentially, to break free from routine and relax, clear our minds, and recharge.
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However, in recent weeks, we're hearing about tragic cases where tourists, especially in Greece, have already succumbed to dehydration and heatstroke this year. Most prominently the sad disappearing and sad fate of the well known journalist Michael Mosley. And the worst heatwaves are yet to come.
Don’t Fall Victim to Modern Trends
In 1923, fashion icon Coco Chanel accidentally fell asleep midday on a yacht deck. When she woke up, she was slightly sunburned, which eventually developed into a coveted tan among Europeans and North Americans. Tanned skin became fashionable—a new era had begun.
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Before this, having fair skin was considered posh culturally. This stemmed from centuries of outdoor labor being associated with lower classes. Only city dwellers and aristocrats could afford to stay indoors and shield themselves from the sun with big hats. In some parts of the world, like China, fair skin remains ideal, with numerous skin-bleaching products being sold.
Coco Chanel's accidental tanning coincided with a shift in societal norms. Working-class people had migrated to factories and mines, limiting their sun exposure and resulting in paler skin. Meanwhile, the wealthy, who could afford higher education promoting outdoor sports like polo and tennis, developed a tan. Thus, not only did tanning become fashionable, but so did outdoor activities, solidifying Coco as a trendsetter for the past century in Northern Europe.
You Lack the Natural Sun Protection
Outdoor activities over the last century haven't genetically restored melanin levels among Northern Europeans. Human populations have developed varying levels of melanin over millennia as an adaptation to different climates and sun exposure. In regions with less sunlight, such as Northern Europe, populations historically evolved lighter skin tones to facilitate the production of vitamin D in environments with reduced UV radiation.
However, this adaptation also reduced natural sun protection. It’s crucial to remember that people in cultures favoring darker skin tones also avoid intense sun exposure and physical activities during peak daylight hours.
Stay Informed about Local Health and Safety Guidelines
Before and during your trip, stay updated on any health advisories, heat warnings, or local safety regulations specific to the area you're visiting. Know emergency numbers, understand local medical facilities, and be aware of any cultural practices that affect health and safety during hot weather.
When in Rome, Follow the Romans
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If you're a tourist from the North visiting the South, observe local customs. After all, part of the allure of your trip likely involves enjoying late-night dinners, parties, dancing, and a laid-back daytime attitude. These aspects have cultural roots, and it’s unhealthy to overexpose yourself or engage in excessive activity during midday. Take a deeper look at the local lifestyle to understand its rationale.
Seven Practical Tips:
Focus outdoor activities during early mornings, late afternoons, evenings, and early nights. The much softer sun during those hours can provide you with a much healthier attractive tan, if you feel you want one.
Seek shade and rest during the hottest midday hours.
Avoid rushing around during midday and early afternoon.
Ensure your accommodations have effective cooling systems or air conditioning; use them during peak heat.
Carry an ample supply of water and consider electrolyte supplements.
Avoid getting lost during hikes or stranded in airports, deserted bus stops, or transfers.
Wear a hat or cap for added protection.