Summer vacation. Whether you're logging air miles, cruising exotic locales, or taking a road trip, you likely know the regimen. Drink plenty of water. Pack a healthy sandwich, fruit, salad, almonds. "On behalf of your crew, we thank you for flying with us today. We hope you have a great day in the ? area, or wherever your final destination may be."
But, what about when you arrive? Do you eschew local delicacies in favor of carrying Ziploc bags of nuts and seeds? Order a dry chicken breast and some steamed broccoli instead of trying the deep dish pizza off Michigan Avenue or soupe à l'oignon in a Parisian bistro?
Sampling the local cuisine or specialties is an essential part of travel. But, an extra five or ten pounds do not have to be among your souvenirs if you indulge mindfully. Just like at home, choose your indulgences with thought. Do you really want that Frappucino at Starbucks or the "freshly baked chocolate chip cookie" in the hotel lobby?
Balance is key. Borrowing from Michael Pollan, "Eat food. Mostly plants. Not too much." Try some local fruits or vegetables. I will always remember this perfect strawberry I once ate from a farmers market in Amsterdam. Stop at one glass of wine. Don't dig into the bread basket unless we're talking
Poilâne on the Left Bank or Marais or sourdough at San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf. Split a dessert if you're still hungry. Choose a couple of appetizers or soup and a salad instead of a full entree.
Get plenty of exercise by walking through local neighborhoods, choosing a physical activity like kayaking or bike riding, or hit the hotel or cruise ship gym for a class or workout.
When we toss aside balanced eating for a week or two of binges, it's easy to get off track. We feel guilt for overindulging until our eating spirals out of control. You'll feel more energetic if you choose healthy, well-prepared foods between the Balboa Bars, macarons, fried chicken and a biscuit at Nashville's Loveless Cafe, Texas barbecue, a slice at Patsy's Pizzeria in the Big Apple.
As a foodie, I browse through Gayot or local food blogs to find the best restaurants or delicacies in each city I visit. Fully experience each meal or food you try. Take your time. Journal about your favorite foods.
Bon Appetit! And stay away from the Deep Fried Food on a Stick at the County Fair!
