For those of you staying in Doha this summer, or venturing off to other sunny climes, take a look at our handy tips for beating the heat and staying healthy!
Look after your skin!
It is a good idea to expose skin to the sun as it allows for Vitamin D to be absorbed. However, a lot of time spent in the sunshine can be damaging for your skin. First of all make sure you don’t get burnt with a good quality, high protection factor sunscreen – you can quite easily find these here in the supermarkets and pharmacies. It is not necessary to use a very high protection factor, although people with fairer complexions should use a higher SPF as they have less melatonin in their skin. For the best coverage, use lotions rather than sprays, as they do not streak as much, and wear a hat to prevent a burnt scalp. Don’t forget to reapply often due to sweating and swimming – keep an eye on the kids as well!
Drink more!
The best way to stay hydrated is to guzzle down a few litres of water each day, especially if outside for more than a few hours. Experts say that for every hour spent in the sun, you should drink at least two glasses of water (which is about half a litre), and not to wait until you feel thirsty to drink. Try and avoid too many alcoholic beverages as these will dehydrate you even more – if you do want a poolside cocktail then ensure you drink a glass of water at the same time.
Eat properly!
Ensure you and your friends and family eat a nutritional breakfast before venturing out, otherwise you could find yourself wilting as the day gets hotter. This could mean overheating, dehydration and worse case scenario, fainting. A good healthy breakfast should be high in protein, so try and include something like eggs, and munch on healthy snacks such as vegetable crudités, hummous and fruit, if possible. Otherwise choose a light dish from the menu so that you don’t suffer from the dreaded afternoon slump in the sun!
In the evening, go for healthier options – forget fatty burgers and sausages, why not try fresh fish, grilled chicken breasts or tofu steaks. Add delicious side dishes like Greek salad, baked potatoes and vegetable skewers, and enjoy!
Pack light!
Whether it’s a trip to the beach or pool, an overnight stay, or getting away for a few days, pack light and avoid giving yourself an injury! We all pack far too much when we travel, so pick out what you want to wear, halve it and halve it again! Take travel sized bottles of shampoos and shower gels, mix and match outfits and you’re good to go. The bonus of packing light comes from not having to lug heavy suitcases; you may also be able to travel with just a rucksack or carry-on case and save time at your destination.
Sign up your kids for summer camps, get the listing here.
Get moving!
Just because it is hot outside doesn’t mean you can’t exercise. Many of the hotels have promotions running throughout the summer, so sign up for a month’s gym membership or take a yoga class.
Avoid stress!
Think of the summer as an opportunity to catch up with things you’ve meant to do or for trying something new. Switch off the work phone and spend a week away from the television.
Not had time to read that novel you bought six months ago? Grab a day pass to one of Doha’s hotels and enjoy a few hours relaxing with a good book by the pool.
Exciting fun activities planned for kids at Doha Festival City, details here.
