happy new year

Sydney have already celebrated, and it's on it's way to us - New Year 2013! And as luck would have it - after being off sick only once this year - I've got a stinking cold! No Vancouver trip for me, which I'm rather annoyed about as I was planning to buy some more 'Holiday Blend' coffee over there from a stall in Granville Market, I doubt they'll be selling it next time I get to go. Plus I have loads of surplus Canadian dollars in my handbag and now I'll just have to wait until next time! But hey, flying with a cold is never worth the potential health problems, we've all heard the stories of burst eardrums. Anyway, last thing I want to do right now is go to a raucous party, so for the first time, tonight I'm planning on having a chilled one with a few close friends - dinner and films.

Nevertheless, being ill has inspired me to write another 'How to...' page: 'How to be your own travel doctor'. Dealing with a hectic schedule, long working hours, minimum time off, different timezones and non regular eating times, your body can feel out of balance. My mother always advocated the importance of a good night's sleep and regular mealtimes to keep your body in harmony, but when that's just not possible you might have to cheat (a little!). From my own experiences on the job, as well as observing other crew and frequent flyers, I've learned a trick or two about keeping your immunity strong. Over time I've created my own mini medicine chest I carry with me everywhere to prevent, and ultimately combat the most common ailments that travelling can cause. Of course this can be applied to anyone with a non-routine working life. I'll post in the next few days.

In the meantime, enjoy yourselves tonight, stay safe and have a very happy new year!