the summer vacation tips

After putting in long work hours all winter and squeezing in those extra bench presses, its finally time to take a break! Whether youre relaxing on the beach or exploring a new city, a time out from the normal routine can be wonderful thing. But it can also make it tough to stay fitall those meals out and indulging in a few (OK, a lot of) cocktails doesnt exactly help either. All that fun means you might return home feeling less than refreshed. The good news is feeling healthy during and postvacay is totally possible. Making just a few smart choices will keep you active and energized and help you get the most out of that vacayand looking forward to the next one.

Chow down on a big meal before hitting the airport to avoid having to eat at the fast food courts. If you forget andneed to eat there, try fruit or a salad.

Adjustingto a new time zone might make you hungry at odd hours. Resist the urge to snack at 4 a.m. and wait for normal meal times instead (or choose a healthy snack, like a handful of nuts, to tide you over).

If youre driving to your getaway, plan where and when youll be stopping for meals before hitting the road. Itll give you more flexibility when choosing a healthier restaurantor figuring out the best options. And of course, pack your own healthy snacks!

Visiting France? Itd be a sin not to try out some crepes. And thats just fine. On days youll beindulging more than usual, try to keep other meals and snacks on the healthy side.

With so many delicious choices, how to choose anything other than, well, everything? Start byusing a smaller plate; itll encourage smaller portions. Also aim to fill up on as many fruits and veggies as possible. Just have to try that cheesy pasta? Spread the love and share it with a friend.

No, notthatkind of regular. Keeping a fairly consistent diet helpsmaintain weight betterthan being erratic. Even when youre on vacation, aim to eat roughly the same amount and kinds of food as you usually do. Your body will thank you.

Theyre agreat placeto soak up local culture and eat deliciousand cheapfresh food. Local food isbetterfor the environment; you get to pick what youre eating; and youll even squeeze in some movement as you walk around the market. Talk about a winwinwin.

When you plan to be out all day, bring along your own healthy snacks to stave off hunger. Itllkeep money in your pocketand away from unhealthier options (were looking at you, golden arches).Trail mix, granola bars, or even PB&J sandwiches are all healthy, portable options.

If youre staying somewhere with kitchen access, take the time to whip up your own delicious meals as much as often doing your stay. Youre more likely to eat something nutritiousat homeand youll know exactly whats in it.