Can we all agree that jetlag is a thing? I know that it sure is for me! Oddly, I am fine on the way to a destination, no matter where in the world it may be. That is probably because I am excited about the trip. When I get home, especially from Europe, jet lag really hits hard. Apparently, I am completely the opposite of what the experts say! How do you experience jet lag?
They say jet lag occurs more if you travel from the United States to Europe. Funny enough, they say coming back the other way is much more manageable. I disagree, but many find it's not that bad other than waking up a couple of hours earlier than usual when they return home.
So, if you love traveling to Europe but don’t like jetlag as much, here are some tried-and-true tips to help you get through the first 24 hours in Europe.
Try to adjust your sleep schedule to the time zone of the country you visit, even if it's only for a few hours. That helps tremendously.
If it is an overnight flight, sleep when you can. When offered, opt for water instead of wine. Use an eye mask, earplugs, and a travel pillow if needed.
On arrival in the morning, skip the caffeine for at least the first few hours. If you have coffee immediately, you will have a low point at some point, and you may want more caffeine, which may affect your sleep on your first night.
If you can check in to your hotel, do that. A nice lukewarm shower is a great energy booster. Leave your hotel room as soon as possible. That bed may look mighty inviting, but the last thing you want to do is nap. That will throw off your internal body clock in your new time zone.
Go for a long, safe walk. Take in the sights. Have a late afternoon caffeine break if needed, but don’t forget the water. Walk some more and make a note of things or places you want to come back to see another time or stop and see them now.
Have an early dinner and maybe another tiny walk (Europeans love to walk after dinner). Stroll the waterfront, piazzas, or side streets.
Feel free to draw the curtains and get ready for bed right after dinner. It may be the best sleep you have had in a while! Have a great night, and wake up ready to tackle the next day!
I use an app called “Timeshifter,” which helps me adjust when I get home. You can try it for free for one trip.
Do you have any jetlag tips of your own? I would love to know. Please reply to this email and share! And if you have any European dreams in the near future, click here to schedule your planning call so we can make them a reality. Cheers to many more managed jetlags in our future… it’s a positive thing if you look at it the right way!
