In the mad rush that precedes the days on which we actually travel, we always seem to find time for a trip to the beauty parlor for a facial, a manicure or simply a rejuvenating spa. After all, we need to look our best when we get our pictures clicked on the latest DSLR camera that we just bought for the trip. The Pyramids may be crumbling in the scorching Egypt sun, but you will look like a fresh lily in all your holiday photos. At least that is what you thought, till you found the time to actually take a look at your pictures, once you returned from your trip abroad. Your make up had caked, and thanks to the sweltering heat, your lipstick had run on to your front teeth. You now begin to hate the clarity your DSLR brings.
Here is a list of things you need to do while on the go- if you need those perfect holiday pictures.
1. Remove your make up before going to bed
Every day while we are traveling we try to pack in as much activity as possible. So by the time we hit the hay we are so tired that we do not care to remove our shoes or our makeup. As a result, we allow the dust and grime that stick to our face during the day, one whole night to work on our face- enough time to destroy the complexion.
Next time you go out, please be sure to remove all traces of make up once you reach your hotel. The routine of cleansing, toning and moisturizing is never more important than now- when you are out in the sun house most of the time.
Buy small travel size packs of cleanser, toner and moisturizer for the trip. It is okay, even if it is not your favorite brand. So long as you do not have any allergic reaction to it and it is serving its purpose, any moisturizer is fine.
2. Green tea bags for your eyes
Most hotels serve tea in the room. If not, you can always ask for some hot water. Carry your own green tea bags. Have a cup of refreshing green tea to detoxify your body in the morning. Keep them in the fridge in your room when you are going out. Even if your room has no fridge, just keep them somewhere. By the time you return, they will have cooled. After removing all traces your make up and ten minutes before going to bed, apply the tea bags to your tired eyes. These will help prevent those dark circles from showing up in your pictures.
3. The miraculous talcum powder
You may wake up one morning to find a head full of oily hair and no time to wash, since you are getting late for that exciting early morning animal safari. Or worse, you need to reach the Statue of Liberty before others start thronging the place. How much you had wanted to show off your picture with Lady Liberty in the background. And yet, here you are- your oily hair, ruining everything for you. Do not worry. Just rub some talcum powder in your palms and run your fingers through your hair. The powder will quickly absorb the oil. Make sure no white streaks show in your hair.
4. Let Shapewear be your friend
I know, I know. I can already hear all of you crying out in agony. But think of the dress you have planned to wear on that special night out during your honeymoon in Paris. Do you really think you can afford for your bulges to show? Never! Not when all your holiday pictures are going to be passed around among aunts and great aunts, uncles and nephews, and third cousins.
However, you can always be smart with your choice of size and design of Shapewear. Try to pick a size on the larger side, since a smaller size will make travel uncomfortable. Stick to a two piece Shapewear since a full body one will make trips to the washroom a struggle.
5. Passes to fitness classes
The idea of a fitness class while traveling may sound like taking things a little too far. But for many, travel is more about getting in touch with oneself in an unknown place. I have seen many friends (especially those who travel alone) look for short term yoga training sessions to rejuvenate. I would advise you to get in touch with international gym chains that have fitness centers all over. These chains offer classes in yoga, Zumba, kickboxing and many other styles of workout, at a very nominal price. Plus, they have expert trainers. And you also get the added opportunity to measure yourself against fitness lovers of other cities and countries.
At the end of the day, there is nothing like a picture of you doing your Pilates, to buttress your fan following on social media.
Image credit : Debs (ò‿ó)♪, Selma90, Herald Post, LACMA Image Library