Traveling and general tourist activity during the Christmas season, require an extra effort in planning considering the winter weather. When traveling, we can face abrupt climatic changes and extreme temperatures. For those who enjoy snow and winter sports or seek to participate in New Year's Eve races on their trip, it is important that they take into account the intensity of sporting activities. I the case of social and family gatherings, the excesses of food and drinks are easily forgotten.

Santamarta Clinic and the specialized website My Doctor in Madrid have developed a practical guide that brings together a series of tips, advice and actionable guidelines to ensure a pleasant and unsurprising enjoyment of travel during the Christmas holidays.

These recommendations include:

  1. For long-distance travel and those that take place outside Europe, it is a good idea to start by talking with your Doctor or primary Care giver to prepare any type of vaccination, preventive medication or prophylaxis that should be taken into account depending on your destination. Don’t forget to check the capacity of the containers, not all medications bottles are airline friendly.
  2. It is also a good idea to contract cancellation insurance for Winter Sports activities. That gives us guarantees and medical insurance specially indicated for Winter Sport Athletes. An unexpected injury could mean an early end to your trip.
  3. In relation to the control of the food, Christmas meals tend to be copious and of very elaborate recipes. In general, we should not abuse these foods, much less if they are exotic flavoring to which we are little accustomed. Needless to say, it is necessary to know the allergies that may occur and to have the corresponding medication, to ensure that food handling is produced with adequate hygiene and to have medicines that facilitate heavy digestion.
  4. When preparing the luggage it is necessary to include the appropriate clothing to protect against sudden temperature changes in destination. Special care must be taken with the costumes that are used in social celebrations and to ensure shelter.
  5. Familiarize yourself with public transport at your destination. Large foot traffic and unpleasant surprises should be avoided at the end of the night in the event of a temperature drop. Stay safe. The best way to get to see all the city is with Madrid City Tour. Tickets Available here.City Tour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus  - More Madrid
  6. In general terms do not abuse alcohol. Avoid mixtures of wines, champagne, distillates and moderate consumption local exotic drinks: tequilas, jäggermeister, "orujos" etc.
  7. During the holidays and whenever you travel, make a point of enjoy the tastes and customs of your destination. Don’t forget the good company of friends and family. The happiness is that results is the healthiest thing of all.
  8. If you are going to spend New Year's Eve in a ski resort, check your fitness level, most resorts have several fitness level options available. Perform the proper maintenance of your equipment to avoid accidents and don’t forget the insurance. It’s that important. Watch your activity level as well, especially during the last hours of the day. It is easy to overdo it when you’re having a good time.
  9. If you are in Madrid and have any questions or needs for medical services, please My Doctor In Madrid toll-free number +34900 101 915
    a service provided by Clinica Santamarta.