As much of a homebody as I claim to be, traveling is a favorite pastime of mine. I adore the new sights and smells, different food experiences and landscapes, and hearing the curious accents and languages of other cultures. As the Roman philosopher Seneca said, "Travel and change of place impart new vigor to the mind." Venturing off never fails to lift my spirits and lend new food for thought.
I have traveled more than some and less than others, still. Some of the best trips I've taken were to California, Hawaii, New York and D.C., Asheville, and — the trip of a lifetime — Italy. Memories formed alongside friends, strangers who became friends, and solo adventures flood my mind when thinking of these places. Boston recently joined the list of my top travel spots — I just returned from a five day trip to Boston, and it was love at first stroll. The beauty of New England at this time of year is not to be missed. Here's a glimpse:
I have traveled more than some and less than others, still. Some of the best trips I've taken were to California, Hawaii, New York and D.C., Asheville, and — the trip of a lifetime — Italy. Memories formed alongside friends, strangers who became friends, and solo adventures flood my mind when thinking of these places. Boston recently joined the list of my top travel spots — I just returned from a five day trip to Boston, and it was love at first stroll. The beauty of New England at this time of year is not to be missed. Here's a glimpse:
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TRAVELING WELL
When was the last time you went on a trip? Were all your health practices put on pause? Going out of town automatically shifts us out of our typical regimens, which can throw off — or encourage us to put off — healthy eating and exercise habits.
While traveling this month (I also went on a trip to Florida one week before flying to Boston), I made it a point to practice real-life strategies for staying fit and eating well, all while living out of a suitcase. You know I'm all about a balanced approach, so this meant zero 5:00 am workouts and still indulging in cannolis in Boston's Little Italy. In truth, my advice for leading a healthy lifestyle on the road looks a lot like it does at home:
While traveling this month (I also went on a trip to Florida one week before flying to Boston), I made it a point to practice real-life strategies for staying fit and eating well, all while living out of a suitcase. You know I'm all about a balanced approach, so this meant zero 5:00 am workouts and still indulging in cannolis in Boston's Little Italy. In truth, my advice for leading a healthy lifestyle on the road looks a lot like it does at home:
Tips for Healthy, Low-Stress Travels
- TAKE HEALTHY OPTIONS: Pack a ziplock bag full of snacks and breakfast options to throw in your carry on. Here are my top portable picks:
- SEEK OUT LOCAL FARMERS' MARKETS: After you arrive, do as the locals do and shop for staples at the area farmer's market. I went exploring around Boston and happened upon the Copley Square Farmer's Market, right in front of the Boston Public Library (there only on Tuesdays and Fridays). Books and farm fresh produce, all in one place? Heaven.
- HIT THE ROAD: Lace up your tennies and walk as much of the city as possible. You'll see and experience way more than if you had taken the T. I loved that Boston was easy to navigate by foot! (If you're headed to Beantown, I highly recommend this Freedom Trail Walking Tour.) Not in a walkable city? Seek out parks and greenways, find a pretty neighborhood to walk, or head to the beach if you're oceanside.
- GET FAST FOOD: Grabbing a fast meal on-the-go doesn't mean you have to resort to the drive-thru-window. For a quick, healthy fix stop at a grocery store in the town you're passing through. Grab a hummus snack pack with baby carrots, pretzel thins, some nuts and a piece of fruit. Or pick up a container of spring mix greens, cherry tomatoes, a greek-yogurt-based ranch or balsamic vinaigrette, sliced mushrooms, and oven roasted chicken breast from the deli.
- PICK ONE INDULGENT MEAL A DAY: Allow yourself to order what you really want for one meal per day, then choose more reasonably at the other meals.
- SELECT A HOTEL WITH AN IN-ROOM FRIDGE: The practice of halving your meal and packing the leftovers to-go is a great healthy habit when you're out of town, too. Just double check that you've booked a room that includes a mini fridge. You'll also save money by enjoying the other half the next day (preferably on a park bench overlooking great scenery)!
|  Getting #bostonstrong |
In the mountains? Head to the closest trail for a hike. Go for a spin around the city — most urban areas now have rentable bikes you can access all over the city and return to whichever station is closest.
OVER TO YOU
Where are you headed to next? I'd love to hear about your next trip and what you have planned in the comment section below!
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