Travelling by ship can be both romantic and enchanting. But for some, it can lead to discomfort and stress but there are remedies, which travellers can always avail to get rid of ship sickness. Not everyone can afford to the luxury of having a dedicated doctor onboard a cruise, but, fortunately, there are number of precautions one can take to avoid ailments, given the mode of transport. On a ship, there is limited space within which, hundreds of people are moving about and mingling for several days, and may be even weeks. It is very likely there are viruses on every possible surface in public places. Besides, travellers can be passing on viruses when literally rub shoulders with co-travellers, shake hands, or accept a drink or food from anyone. Naturally, the risk of catching a gastrointestinal or respiratory infection is high. Influenza and cold and cough are easily transmitted if travellers aren’t careful.
Unless one can have that stupendous luxury to book the entire cruise liner for family or friends, there are always have some sort of health hazards one has to watch out for. It is always better to bath twice and washing hands with warm water and soap in long journeys. Every good cruise ships have a medical team on board. It is also prepared for medical emergencies. In fact, cruise liners have standing arrangements with hospitals at port-stops en route. However, it makes sense to carry your own medical kit. After all, only one can know the history of allergies or reactions to certain substances, and it would take a while for the doctor on board to find out.
If you have a medical condition, carry papers giving details of the health problem or ailment and medications needed along with copies, one in your handbag or pocket, the other in your baggage. Beside your own health, another factor which matters greatly is the state of your ship. Ensure that the cruise liner you have chosen enjoys a good reputation where hygiene and sanitation are concerned. Check this out with your travel agent or with those who have been on the same ship before.
Motion sickness is also a big hazard travellers suffer more often. While almost everyone is susceptible, women are more vulnerable, especially those who are pregnant. Those sailing on smaller ships and on choppy waters are most likely to suffer from motion sickness. The first rule is to avoid any place that involves swaying movement. Since movement is the least at the centre of the ship, stay at that point as far as possible. Also, remaining seated helps as standing increases the movement of the head, triggering and even aggravating motion sickness. Second, avoid focussing on objects close by, and, instead, look at once in the distance. This is precisely why reading is not a great idea on cruise ships, especially in mid sea.
Since food and drinks on boards a cruise ship are in plenty, you will need to exercise some willpower if you are on diet regimen. And whether you are on a diet or not, most cruise passengers are subject to gastrointestinal problems. The main symptoms are vomiting, stomach cramps and diarrhoea. The cause could be either poor personal hygiene or unsafe water and food.
Fortunately, cruise vessels, especially the big ones, are becoming health conscious. Nowadays, the bigger liners even offer health food onboard, and a number of them have spas and gyms. Some ships boast of jogging tracks and volleyball courts. And there are cruises, which offer yoga and meditation classes onboard.
