Jet lag is a fact. Coming to Germany from most points West, you will arrive in the morning or early afternoon after having spent at least 7 or 8 hours on the plane plus your time in airports, taxis, packing, waiting for delayed flights, losing your luggage, waiting for your room to be ready at the hotel. That being said, it is well worth a little jet lag to experience Germany. Here are a few tips to innoculate yourself against the effects of jet lag.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: Prepare and plan wisely and you can add hours to your German experiences
Here's How:
- I know, easier said than done, but get a good nights sleep before your trip. Have everything packed in advance and try to avoid the stress of throwing things in your suitcase at the last minute.
- Pack a carry on bag that contains (basically nothing in light of new travel regulations):
- Dental Cleaning Strips
- A sleeping mask or scarf to cover your eyes if you have problems sleeping on planes
- Socks or slippers
- On the plane:
- Avoid drinking too much alcohol
- Drink lots of water
- Use your creams or lotions
- Make sure your feet and shoulders are warm
- try not to eat heavy foods or wait until too late to eat
- Go to sleep after your meal if you can
- Do the exercises they suggest in the airline magazine or on the video or walk up and down the aisles to keep swelling down
- Change your watch to German time as soon as you get on the plane so you start thinking in German time
- Call ahead and schedule a massage with your hotel for the morning when you get in, this is especially a good idea if your room is not going to be ready when you get there.
- When you get to your room, unpack a little, take a shower or bath then DON'T go to bed
- Go for a walk, a swim or a workout.
- Eat a good lunch.
- Go on a boat tour or take a guided bus tour around town - something where you can relax but still enjoy some of the sites.
- By now, it should be early evening, have a light dinner out or order room service and relax with a little television, a book or some music.
- Try to sleep in a little in the morning, when you get up enjoy a good breakfast and head out for the rest of your German holiday.
- Our travel guide for Europe, James Martin swears by "No Jet Lag" - You may want to try it yourself.
Tips:
- If you have kids, let them sleep, try to get child care arranged in the hotel but don't drag them around the first day - they will hate you, conversely, you will probably not have much patience either.
- Try to reserve your first day and a half for relaxing and enjoying the local sites before you head out for major sightseeing or driving tours.
- Eat healthy and hearty foods and remember to drink lots of water.