The Philippines is surrounded by (arguably) 7,107 islands, and a huge portion of it consists of beaches. You are probably going to be visiting one of them this summer, and when you are on a beach, there are so many things that may happen that can hamper your vacation.
Jellyfish stings. Mosquito bites. Sand flies. Sunburn. Coral graze. Here are a few tips which you can share to your family, relatives, friends, and colleagues to prepare them for their next summer outing.
Sun Protection
The sun feels harsher during summer, and even when it gets cloudy, you still have a chance to get the harmful UV rays on your skin.
Prevention:
Sunscreen. Protect yourself by applying high levels of sunscreen (SPF 30 and above) on your face and body. The rays of the sun can still reach your skin even when you have clothes on! Opt for sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB protection. If you plan to go swimming, find yourself water resistant sunscreen protection.
Hat or Cap. The skin in your face is a lot more sensitive than your body, so if you want to protect your skin from sun damage, always keep a hat or cap on.
Sunglasses. Your eyes are very sensitive to light, and too much sunlight going to your eyes is actually not good for you. Using plastic sunglasses is also harmful – so it is important to invest in a good pair of sunnies – with polarized lenses if possible!
Rash guards. Sometimes, sunscreen is not enough to protect yourself from the harsh rays, especially if you plan to be under the sun around midday. Get yourself a rash guard – it can still look as sexy as a bikini!
Water. You are more likely to sweat more from the heat this summer – so always hydrate! Opt for water or fresh juices to keep you hydrated and avoid over consumption of alcoholic beverages as they can cause dehydration.
Insect Protection
You may think that the only harmful insects you are most likely to come across are mosquitos, but during summer, sand flies or nik-niks are also insects you have to be alert for. Sand flies come out at dusk or dawn and their bites can cause allergic reactions. Sand flies are so tiny that sometimes you cannot see it and can only feel the bites the next day.
Prevention:
Avoid the beach during dusk or dawn. That is when the sand flies come out, and also when the dengue mosquitos start looking for their prey.
Bug Spray. Wear bug repelling sprays with DEET, eucalyptus or citronella.
Natural Oil. Apply natural oil around your body: coconut oil, tea tree oil or avocado oil.
Avoid walking in areas surrounded by mangroves, high grass, or foliage.
Stay in breezy or windy areas. Mosquitos and flies hate the wind!
Ocean Protection
This post is not meant to scare you away from swimming, but there are many things lurking beneath the surface of the water which you need to prepare for.
Jellyfish and Sea Plankton. I was a victim of jellyfish on my recent trip to Palawan and trust me, the after stings weren’t pretty! You can protect yourself with a rash guard or get some jellyfish sting protective sunscreen lotion. It also can help if you put oil in your body – but this technique is not safe if you plan to be out in the sun all day as you will fry your skin!
Trigger Fish, Sharks, and other naughty fish. If you are in areas with a lot of fish – you may get bitten by one of these naughty fishes. Its going to be very rare case, but best to stay away from their “home” which are the corals or rocky areas as these fish can be protective and bite you if you come too close.
Poisonous Corals. Stepping on corals is not advisable for the environment, and if the water is too low, try to avoid walking on them. This may cause serious skin grazes or even death. Corals are very pretty and are meant for your eyes only. Let them be pretty and admire them from afar. If you by any chance want to be protected while snorkeling or diving, get yourself a pair of aqua shoes. They are not that expensive and you can use them while walking in rocky and pebbly beaches.
Do you have any other suggestions on how to remain protected during summer? Please share your thoughts in the comment section below!
