We are almost a full month into 2008 and naturally the results of studies, research and surveys are revealed in order for the travel industry, and economies reliant on tourism revenue, to better accommodate us.

Naturally there are some trends that have been expected to grow such as the demand for more eco friendly travel with an emphasis on sustainability or more intense, “adrenaline rush guaranteed” adventure tours. Those of us into pop culture and luxury travel would rightfully expect that luxury travel itself is moving in a more eco friendly way and that philanthropic travel, championed by celebrities, will come into full force in 2008. What does catch me off guard though is a growing concern among travelers about germs.

According to a TripAdvisor survey, a top concern for travelers is to have a germ free environment when they travel. Is that even possible? If so how does a tour operator control that variable? It is almost as if we are saying as a whole “Let’s get greener, let’s get our hands dirty but can we please do all of that while in a plastic bubble?”

It is quite a tall order to ask of the industry and in many ways it will push the standards of cleanliness higher, but going to a different country, especially in tropical regions, means putting yourself in a situation unfamiliar to you and your body. This is always something to consider before planning your trip. If you are concerned that your immune system might not be able to handle street food (for example) then consider eating at the hotel restaurants and avoid the street food. Also, instead of asking the tour operators to guarantee you a pathogen free experience, who in turn will raise package prices in order to accommodate us and our bubbles, take the initiative to research how to stay healthy while traveling or perhaps purchase traveler’s insurance.

Here is a little something to get you started from familydoctor.org

While you're traveling

• Eat carefully if you're going to a country with an increased risk of traveler's diarrhea. Steaming-hot, well-cooked food is usually safest. Avoid eating foods from street vendors, unpasteurized dairy products, and raw or uncooked seafood. Peel fruits yourself. Drink water from commercially sealed bottles or drink carbonated beverages. Avoid ice. Use bottled water when you brush your teeth.
• If you're going to a country with a risk of malaria, take preventive medicine for malaria as prescribed by your doctor. Remember to start taking your malaria medicine before you leave on your trip, take it during your travels and keep taking it for 4 weeks after you get home.
• Avoid swimming and other water activities in freshwater lakes and streams. Schistosomiasis (also called bilharziasis) is a disease you might be exposed to in some African streams and lakes.
• If you're going to a country with an increased risk of mosquito-borne disease, protect yourself against insects. Insect repellents that contain DEET work the best. Wear permethrin-coated clothing and use bed nets while you sleep.
• Try to avoid taking overcrowded transportation. Try not to ride in vehicles without safety belts. Wear a helmet if you'll be riding a motorcycle. Try to avoid driving at night or in unfamiliar areas without local help and directions.

In the meantime take the risk and travel anyway. Germs, and avoiding them, are a part of the adventure!

Sincerely,

Seb