Sun Protection Essentials:

Beat the heat and safeguard your skin from harmful UV rays with sun protection essentials. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses to shield your eyes, and a wide-brimmed hat for added protection. Additionally, lip balm with SPF and aloe vera gel can provide relief from sunburns and keep your lips hydrated.

Lightweight Clothing Options:

Embrace the spirit of summer with lightweight and breathable clothing options that keep you cool and comfortable on your travels. Pack versatile pieces such as cotton shirts, shorts, flowy dresses, and swimsuits for beach outings. Opt for wrinkle-resistant fabrics to minimize the need for ironing and save space in your luggage.

Hydration Essentials:

Stay hydrated on the go by packing a reusable water bottle in your travel bag. Fill it up whenever you have access to clean drinking water to quench your thirst and reduce plastic waste. Consider packing electrolyte packets or tablets to replenish lost minerals during outdoor activities or hot weather.

Travel-Friendly Toiletries:

Travel toiletries in clear plastic, quart-sized bag on white background

Streamline your toiletry bag with travel-sized essentials that meet TSA regulations and save space in your luggage. Pack items such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, and moisturizer in leak-proof containers. Don’t forget to include a compact travel towel and wet wipes for quick refreshment on the go.

Tech Gadgets and Accessories:

Capture unforgettable moments and stay connected with essential tech gadgets and accessories. Pack your smartphone, camera, or GoPro along with chargers, power banks, and adapters for international travel. Consider investing in a lightweight and portable Bluetooth speaker for impromptu beach parties or outdoor picnics.

First Aid Kit and Medications:

Home first aid kit on a blue background. The elements of the first aid kit are laid out on the table.

Be prepared for minor emergencies and health-related issues by packing a well-stocked first aid kit in your travel bag. Include items such as adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, antihistamines, and motion sickness tablets. Don’t forget to pack any prescription medications you may need during your trip.

With these essential items packed in your travel bag, you’re ready to embark on a summer adventure filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished memories. From sun protection essentials to tech gadgets and first aid supplies, being prepared for every situation ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey wherever your travels may take you. So, grab your bags, soak up the sun, and let the summer adventures begin!

The post Essential Summer Travel Bag Must-Haves appeared first on FWD Life | The Premium Lifestyle Magazine |.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate:

One of the most crucial aspects of staying energized in the summer is staying hydrated. With the sun beating down and outdoor activities in full swing, it’s easy to become dehydrated quickly. Make it a habit to drink plenty of water throughout the day, and consider adding electrolyte-rich beverages like coconut water to replenish lost nutrients.

Eat Light and Fresh:

Summer is the perfect time to indulge in fresh fruits and vegetables that are hydrating and packed with essential nutrients. Incorporate plenty of salads, smoothies, and light meals into your diet to keep your energy levels high without feeling weighed down.

Stick to a Sleep Schedule:

While the longer days may tempt us to stay up late, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule is vital for feeling refreshed and energized. Aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night to allow your body to rest and recharge fully.

Protect Yourself from the Sun:

Exposure to the sun’s rays can drain your energy and leave you feeling exhausted. Make sure to protect yourself by wearing sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses when spending time outdoors. Additionally, seek shade during the hottest parts of the day to prevent overheating.

Take Regular Breaks:

Avoid burnout by taking regular breaks throughout the day, especially if you’re spending long hours in the sun or engaged in physically demanding activities. Schedule time to rest and recharge, whether it’s a quick power nap, a leisurely stroll, or a refreshing swim.

Stay Cool:

Beat the heat by staying cool whenever possible. Keep your home or workspace well-ventilated, use fans or air conditioning as needed, and wear lightweight, breathable clothing. You can also cool off with cold showers, ice packs, or by taking a dip in a pool or the ocean.

Practice Mindfulness:

In the midst of summer activities and excitement, it’s essential to take moments for mindfulness and relaxation. Whether it’s through meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply enjoying quiet time outdoors, practicing mindfulness can help reduce stress and boost your energy levels.

Listen to Your Body:

Above all, listen to your body and priorities self-care. Pay attention to how you’re feeling physically and emotionally, and don’t hesitate to adjust your activities or rest when needed. By honoring your body’s needs, you’ll be better equipped to stay refreshed and energized throughout the summer season.

With these tips, you can make the most of your summer while staying refreshed, energized, and ready to embrace all the season has to offer. By prioritizing hydration, sleep, healthy habits, and self-care, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the sunshine and create lasting memories with those you love. So go ahead, soak up the sun, and make this summer your best one yet!

The post Tips for Staying Refreshed and Energized This Summer appeared first on FWD Life | The Premium Lifestyle Magazine |.

Text Credit: Nivedita V

Everybody craves for that perfect summer tan but what happens when it gets excessive and undesirable. In spite of the thick coating of sunscreen, tan patches can be seen unevenly around your body. So here are 5 hacks comprising of natural remedies for you instead of spending money at beauty parlours for tan removal.

Gram flour curd pack

What you need: 2 tablespoons of gram flour, equal amounts of curd and pinch of turmeric powder.

Image Source: Pinterest

Mix the gram flour with the curd and turmeric powder until you get a yellow color mixture. Then apply this mixture on your face and the other tanned areas. Use this mixture with special concentration on the darkest parts and gently scrub those areas to exfoliate it. Keep the mixture on for 15 minutes in order to let it dry. Then rinse it off with lukewarm water, you will be left with an exfoliated and rejuvenated skin.

Aloe Vera, Red Lentil and Tomato pack

What you need: aloe vera gel, a tablespoon of soaked red lentil and a tablespoon of tomato pulp.

Image Source: BodyBuilding.com, TheKitchn.com, EarthOriginsMarketplace.com

Make a paste out of the soaked red lentil and mix it with the aloe vera gel and tomato pulp proportiontely. Massage this paste onto the tanned areas. Aloe vera helps in the lightening of the skin, tomato is one of the most effective de-tanning agent and the red lentils serve as the best scrub in removing dead skin cells and exfoliating your skin. Take this mixture and apply it onto your face or any other tanned parts. Keep it for about 20 minutes until it is dried. rinse it off with cold water. You will notice a slight tan reduction and moistened skin.

Lemon and Sugar Scrub

What you need: 1 lemon and 1 tablespoon of sugar.

Image Source: Fitlife

This scrub can work wonders on your skin and the all you need is a lemon and some sugar to start with. Lemon consists of natural bleaching properties and the sugar acts as the scrub and helps in exfoliating your skin. You need to squeeze the lemon into 2 tablespoons of sugar and mix it. Apply the scrub on the affected areas and gently scrub it in circular motions. Leave the scrub to dry for about 15 minutes and then wash it off. Repeat this 2-3 times a week and be amazed by its results.

Sandalwood, Milk and Turmeric face pack

What you need: 2 pinches of sandalwood powder, 1 pinch of turmeric powder and 1 tablespoon of milk

Image Source: Pinterest

Mix the sandalwood powder, turmeric and milk to form a paste. Apply this paste on the affected areas and leave it on to dry for about a half an hour. Sandalwood consists of anti-inflammatory properties while the milk consists of skin lightening properties. On the other hand the turmeric consists of anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-ageing hence playing a vital role in skin lightening and skin rejuvenation. Wash this the paste off in lukewarm water and soon you will be left with a soft and moist skin.

Egg- Oatmeal Face Pack

What you need: 1 tablespoon of whole rolled oats, egg white and 1 tablespoon curd.

Image Source: DIY

Stir the whole rolled oats with the egg white and curd until the paste made is smooth and even. Apply the mixture on your face and neck area and let it dry for about 20 minutes. the whole rolled oats helps in the softening and smoothing of the skin and also scrubs away the dead skin, the egg white helps in tightening of the skin and in removing blackheads and the curd helps in revitalizing the skin. After 20 minutes wash the pack from your face and you will be left with a soft, smooth and radiant skin.

As a precaution to avoid excessive tanning it is recommended to carefully select the sunscreen you are intending to use while you are out. It is advisable to select a sunscreen consisting of 30 SPF and above in order to protect your skin from the harmful UV rays of the Sun.

The post Natural Remedies To Get Rid Of That Unwanted Summer Tan appeared first on FWD Life | The Premium Lifestyle Magazine |.

Text credit: Charishma Thankappan

With the heat soaring higher each day, we can’t wait to head out of the city to some place cooler and refreshing. FWD Life gives you five best options to head to in Kerala, South India, and the rest of the country.

5 Fine Places to Run to in Kerala

Vattavada

Source: campper.com

With its pleasant climate throughout the year, Vattavada is a lesser known retreat near Munnar. It will be an ideal option to go to avoid the rush that will be there in Munnar during the peak months of summer. Known as the ‘Market of Kerala’, don’t forget to relish the fresh fruits and vegetables that grow here, which are sent to the other parts of the state, such as apple, blackberry, egg fruit, gooseberry, passionfruit, peach, and plums.

Kumarakom

Source: WikiCommons

While beaches are not the best option to go to in the scorching heat of the summers in Kerala, you can still be closer to the refreshing waters of lagoons. Give a pass to Alappuzha which will be crowded, and instead choose Kumarakom. Spend a perfect family time lounging on the serene waters of the Vembanad Lake, the largest lake in Kerala.

Vagamon

Source: WikiCommons

Listed by National Geographic Traveler in their list of ’50 Most Attractive Places to Visit in India’, Vagamon is a green heaven. The cool climate of the place allows a fun lolling over its gentle, rolling hills, called ‘mutta kunnu’. Natural beauties like green meadows, pine forests, orchid flower gardens; and adventurous activities like paragliding, trekking, and rock climbing, are the main attractions here.

Kalpetta

Source: WikiCommons

Rich with history and blessed by nature, Kalpetta offers a withdrawal into peace and calm. Historically rich, Kalpetta has a number of ancient Jain rock temples, most of which are in a dilapidated state. Learn about the several rare species of butterflies at the Botanic and Butterfly Garden. The place is also a hub for trekking enthusiasts, who can trek to Myladippara for an enchanting trail.

Ponmudi

Source: WikiCommons

The most popular hillstation in the south of Kerala, Ponmudi is favoured for cheerful climate. The place offers beautiful scenic landscapes that are popular with backpackers. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Golden Valley, Deer Park, Meenmutty Falls, are some of the main attractions.  The ride to Ponmudi is equally breathtaking, with the Kallar River lining the route.

5 Top Destinations to Escape to in South India

Kodaikanal

Source: WikiCommons

Nicknamed ‘The Gift of the Forest’ and ‘Princess of Hill Stations’, Kodaikanal is one of the most beloved havens for rest and relaxation. The cool climes of the city invites people from all over to its mist laden hills. It is a touristy place with a number of attractions such as Kodaikanal Lake, Pillar Rocks, Pine Forest, Coaker’s Walk, Bryant Park, Guna Caves, Dolphin’s Nose, Silver Cascade, etc.

Coonoor

Source: WikiCommons

Well known for the production of Nilgiri Tea, Coonoor is the second largest hillstation in the Nilgiris after Ooty. It is therefore a perfect alternative to Ooty, which can be teeming with the summer rush. Sim’s Park is a botanical garden with over 1,000 varieties of plant species. Don’t miss the annual fruit and vegetable show that is held in May.

Araku Valley

Source: famousplacesinindia.in

Blessed with natural formations, Araku Valley is an up and coming tourist attraction in South India. Located in Andhra Pradesh, it is an area inhabited by tribals. Borra Caves are a 1mn year old limestone caves that form the main attraction in the place. Ananthagiri Hills and Chapparai are the other major allures the place offers.

Yercaud

Source: WikiCommons

Known as the ‘Jewel of the South’, Yercaud is an attractive hill station for Summer travellers looking to run away from the heat. Prominent for fresh native fruits such as bananas, jackfruit, orange, and pear; it also offers enticing picturesque locations. It is also celebrated for its flavoursome coffee, the shrubs of which begin blooming in April to present a scenic view.

Kotagiri

Source: WikiCommons

Among the plentiful hill stations that the South of India offers, Kotagiri is a lesser known gem that will be a perfect hideaway for travellers looking to beat the crowded and more fashionable hill stations. Encounter the tall, double cascading Catherine Falls, explore the John Sullivan Memorial, take a mesmerising look at the Dolphin Nose View Point, probe the Bison Park, and inspect the Ralliah Dam.

5 Terrific Summer Getaways Beyond South India

Shimla

Source: WikiCommons

Get your dose of summer snow at this erstwhile capital of British India. Be awed by the Tudorbethan and Neo-Gothic architecture from the colonial era through the copious churches and buildings of importance. The Kalka-Shimla Railway line dating back to the British times is a must-see allurement that is also listed among UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. The capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is also host to the MTB Himalaya mountain biking race, considered to be the biggest event of its kind in South Asia.

Rishikesh

Source: WikiCommons

Introduce yourself to the mighty Himalayas at Rishikesh, known as the ‘Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas’. Not just a splendid hill station, the place in Uttarakhand is also a crowd pleaser for yoga enthusiasts, being known as ‘Yoga Capital of the World’. Other than being a pilgrimage destination, it also has an adventurous side to it, providing an impeccable site for white water rafting, paragliding, and skiing.

Darjeeling

Source: WikiCommons

Situated in West Bengal, Darjeeling is in demand during the summer months. The birth place of the world famous Darjeeling Tea, the place also has the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO Heritage Site, which has one of the few remaining steam locomotives in India. Touted the ‘Queen of the Hills’, Darjeeling is the most leading tourist destination in the East of India, and according to the 2015 India Today survey, was the third most Googled tourist destination in India.

Dharamshala

Source: eragenx.com

Surrounded by a thick coniderous forest consisting of impressive Deodar trees, Dharamshala offers a peaceful retreat to enjoy quality time in communion with nature. In vogue with international tourists and hippies, the place important as the base of the Tibetan community in India, being the headquarters of Dalai Lama. The place is really famous for treks, with the most popular being the day trek to Triund, where you can also camp overnight.

Nainital

Source: WikiCommons

A classic hill station renowned since the colonial era, Nainital has been an exalter summer retreat for Indian and international travellers. Nainital Lake, Naini Peak, Snowview Point, Gurney House, Naini Devi Temple, Cave Garden, Sat Tal, Hanumangarhi, Mall Road, are some of the most extraordinary features of the place. Well-equipped libraries are also another characteristic attraction of the place.

The post Best Destinations In India To Cool Off This Summer appeared first on FWD Life | The Premium Lifestyle Magazine |.