You’ve worked hard all year, saved hard (most of the year), and now you’re ready to let your hair down on holiday.
If you’re planning to have a drink or two while you’re away have a look at these tips from Drinkaware, the independent, UK-based charity that promotes responsible drinking, to ensure your holiday leaves you with a buzz, not blotto.
1. Pace yourself
No one wants to be bedridden on holiday, so don’t ruin your first full day by drinking too much alcohol on the first night! It’s also a good idea to avoid drinking alcohol in the morning and early afternoon if you want to enjoy a full day and night of fun in the sun.
2. Drink plenty of water
Simple but incredibly important when it’s hot. The combination of drinking alcohol and sweating more than usual can leave you severely dehydrated. Sip water throughout the day and before heading to bed. And don’t forget to keep a bottle of water close by in case you wake up thirsty during the night.
3. Don’t forget to eat
Drinking alcohol and skipping meals is not a good idea. Food helps soak up alcohol and replaces the salt and minerals you lose when you sweat. Besides, this isn’t the time to pass up the opportunity to taste some mouth-watering local cuisine.
4. Be careful who you accept drinks from
When you’re socialising with new people and diving into the culture, accepting a drink from someone you don’t know can be tempting. But you should only accept drinks from people you know and trust. To avoid the risk of having your drink spiked don’t leave it unattended.
5. Listen to your body
If you end up overdoing it, listen to your body. “Hair of the dog”, drinking on a hangover, doesn’t work and you’ll just be delaying the inevitable pain. Try some freshly squeezed juice or have some fruit-packed smoothies to top up the nutrients your body is lacking.
For more information on drinking alcohol responsibly, or to use the charity’s unit calculator to track how much you’re drinking on holiday, visit the Drinkaware website.
(Featured image: ingridtaylar)
