**Staying Healthy Abroad: Expert Advice from Seasoned Travelers**
Understanding the Risks
The Easter holidays have brought out the adventurous spirits of many, with some opting to escape abroad for a well-deserved break. However, the fear of falling ill while traveling can be a daunting prospect for many. According to research, over a quarter of holidaymakers are unaware of what to do if they contract an illness while abroad. A staggering 60% express concern about the prospect of illness in a foreign land, with respiratory infections topping the list as the most common illness experienced by travelers. Public Health England’s report suggests that between 20-30% of travelers experience some form of sickness upon returning home. The most common culprits behind these illnesses are contaminated food or water, exposure to unfamiliar bacteria, and the stress of dietary changes. The last thing anyone wants is to be confined to their hotel room, desperately seeking painkillers or tissues. Expert Advice
Fortunately, doctors Méabh and Danny, a couple who have visited an impressive 41 countries without succumbing to sickness, have come forward with valuable advice on how to avoid holiday ailments. The Australian pair, who live in a van and document their health and travel tips on Instagram under the handle @celtsontheroad, have a wealth of experience in staying healthy while traveling. Their advice is centered around four crucial rules that have helped them maintain their health while exploring the world. These rules are:

1. Trust the locals and look for somewhere busy
2. Wash your hands before every meal
3. Don’t touch your phone/cash until after you’ve finished eating
4. Carry some antibacterial gel just in case you can’t wash your hands

According to the doctor duo, enjoying different foods is one of the absolute best things about traveling. They reassured their audience, saying: “Don’t be frightened by some old wives’ tales. Wash your hands, eat local, and savour the experiences!”
Caution and Prevention
While the doctor duo’s advice is invaluable, they also acknowledge the risk of getting unlucky with unhygienically prepared food. They emphasize the importance of taking precautions, such as seeing a health professional before taking a trip to determine if any additional vaccinations are necessary. Their followers have welcomed their advice with open arms, with many confirming the effectiveness of these suggestions. A follower testified: “I do the same! I eat in crowded places and I take probiotics just in case – I have sensitive intestines – and guess what. I have never been sick before.”
One individual highlighted the importance of personal cleanliness, stating: “Hand hygiene…very underrated topic. It doesn’t matter how hygienic the restaurant is…your own hygiene is extremely important.”
Conclusion
By following the doctor duo’s advice and taking a few simple precautions, travelers can minimize the risk of falling ill while abroad. Staying healthy abroad requires a combination of trust in local food, good hand hygiene, and a healthy dose of common sense. By embracing these tips, travelers can enjoy the culinary delights of different countries, immerse themselves in local cultures, and create unforgettable memories.