I used to go on vacation and behave one of two ways: I'd either avoid all desserts, fine food, burgers and fried foods or I'd overindulge and regret it.
People have anxiety about dieting before a vacation and about not eating too much and looking like a balloon in a bikini. But, believe it or not, keeping weight off on vacation is rather easy. In fact, once you are in the mindset, it's a no brainer.
Whether on a cruise, at an inn or in a luxury hotel, there are steps to staying thin. A few simple tips will lead you to a life of eating contentment, lack of deprivation and peace of mind about gaining weight.
Instructions
1. Limit liquor to two drinks a day. Make sure that it is clear alcohol such as rum, vodka and tequila or wine. Champagne can be OK too, although sugary. To make clear alcohol interesting, be creative. I personally drink one of my "skinny" girls cocktails like my Margarita or my teqrantula. The first is clear 100 percent agave nectar tequila with a tiny splash of cointreau and four squeezed lime wedges on the rocks. The second is the same, except replace the lime juice with the tiniest splash of cranberry and a lime wedge. Even better are flavored vodkas such as raspberry or blueberry on the rocks with some fruit. If you like it with plain soda, then you are ahead of the game.
2. Keep it simple at breakfast. It sets the pace for the day. Many hotels have buffets and free breakfast including pastries--even though you may not even be hungry. Don't eat just because you want to get your money's worth. This will cost you much more in the gym memberships and diet books. Have some fruit, your favorite coffee beverage and a few bites of egg for protein or a scooped bagel with a small amount of cheese or a small cup of whole grain cereal. It's what I do; don't get crazy.
3. Work out if you can, but don't push yourself. Working out makes you feel entitled to eat what you want. A nice walk on the beach or a yoga class will keep you relaxed enough to make sensible food choices.
4. For meals, pick your battles. If you want to "taste everything, eat nothing." Order decadent entrees or pastas in half orders or share an entree with someone else. Have half a burger and a few fries, but eat a salad first to curb your hunger. Also, try your best to keep hydrated. I hate water, so I drink club soda. It feels more special and I love the bubbles. In regard to dessert, have a few bites at one meal or have an after dinner drink with tons of ice and sip it slowly. You probably won't finish it.
5. Don't deprive, yet don't indulge. Try to learn when you're really hungry and have a healthy snack to save you from ruin later. A vacation is just another point in your life and no reason to go off with reckless abandon leaving you work to do when you get back.
6. Choose an active vacation. I'm a devout surfer and snowboarder and I love having physical activity as part of my daily routine. You get fit, you get sun and are productive. Just don't let that be any excuse for you to overindulge. These calories burned are just an added bonus.
Tags: clear alcohol, some fruit