As a Los Angeles native, I believed I was prepared for the heat in Europe. But boy, was I mistaken! The scorching temperatures here are just as merciless as the blazing sun in Southern California’s San Fernando Valley. Growing up near the cool ocean breeze and always having the luxury of air conditioning in my car, I’ve been spoiled and have never truly experienced the full force of a blazing summer. But now, I’m facing it head-on, and it’s truly a test of endurance.
Contrarily, Europe presents a new challenge for me. I’ve traded in my car for my own two feet, walking everywhere and immersing myself in the heat head-on. As I trek through the city streets, I begin to comprehend why so many Europeans flee to coastal regions during August. The heat here is relentless and overwhelming, causing even the bustling city to become a ghost town. But, I admire their survival tactics, because let’s face it, who wouldn’t want to escape to the cool embrace of the ocean during these scorching summer months?
After coming back from my recent trips, here are my 5 suggestions that helped me beat the heat.
1. Water
Embrace the power of water and head to your nearest beach, lake, pool, or any other body of water for a thrilling and refreshing experience. Trust us, there’s nothing quite like feeling the cool breeze against your skin and splashing around in the waves.
Also, never forget to hydrate! Bring a bottle of water with you. Anywhere I travel to, I usually make a trip to the grocery store and buy a big bottle of water and a little one. The big one stays in my hotel room or airbnb and the little one comes along with me wherever I go. I never realized how much water I drink until I go through all of my bottles in one day. It goes to show how dehydrated my body is until I finish all of my water in a day.
2. Wear a hat
Crown Yourself with Style! Pack a hat for your next trip. Trust us, it’s a game-changer. Whether it’s to shield your face from the scorching sun or to add a touch of flair to your outfit, a hat is the ultimate accessory. I made the wise choice of bringing one on my trip to Croatia and I must say, I was beyond thrilled with my decision.
3. Clothing
Embrace the Heat! Summer is all about letting go and having fun, and what better way to do that than by sporting stylish, lightweight clothing? Say goodbye to sweat-drenched outfits and hello to breezy cover-ups, flowy dresses, and comfortable loose tops paired with fashionable gaucho pants. You may be tempted to follow in the footsteps of those women who walk around in nothing but a bathing suit, but don’t forget to keep it classy. Remember, style and comfort can go hand in hand, and with my go-to picks, you’ll never have to sacrifice one for the other. So, stay cool, look amazing, and make this summer one to remember!
4. Find a shade
If you find yourself far from a body of water, fear not! The solution to beating the heat lies in the power of shade. Embrace your inner lizard and seek out shady spots as you explore and sightsee. Take a break from the sun and indulge in a delicious gelato or sip on a refreshing cold drink like water or a delicious shake. Just a few moments away from the sun can do wonders for your mood and energy levels. So, don’t let the heat get you down, find your oasis in the shade and enjoy the best of summer, no matter where you are!
5. Pick your time wisely
At its peak, the sun blazes at its hottest at 2 PM. But fear not, adventurous traveler! Take advantage of the scorching heat by diving into the cool and captivating world of indoor sights. Whether you’re exploring museums, castles, or any other indoor attraction, the afternoon is the perfect time to do so.
Maximize your day and make the most of your travels by balancing your adventures. Start your mornings with a bang by exploring the beach, taking a leisurely walk, or any other outdoor activity. Then, as the sun rises high, retreat to the air-conditioned comfort of indoor attractions and immerse yourself in a world of art, history, and culture.
A Stint Abroad 