Asia Travel Guide

Health and safety always come first when we are travelling, and many travel-specific health concerns arise on the road: you may be uncomfortable with local drugs and procedures, be prone to food poisoning, or have trouble explaining medical needs to others. The best advice is to bring what you need and find ways to communicate your health concerns to locals. Before you leave, make sure you have had all of the necessary inoculations and vaccinations. Strongly consider vaccinations that are recommended but may not be required. For example, in parts of Central and Eastern Europe, stray dogs run rampant, bites are common, and rabies shots are available in very few hospitals; especially for those traveling to regions outside capital cities, it is advisable to have a rabies shot before departing.

Be sure to bring enough prescription medicine to last your trip. Although foreign pharmacies sell medicines, it may be hard to find drugs you are comfortable with, so it’s best to pack any over-the-counter medicines you may need. You can buy most hygiene products such as soap and toothpaste on the road, but if you wear contact lenses, you’ll need an ample supply of contact lens solution, which is not available in all countries, to fend off eye-infection. A first-aid kit is always advisable and is a must when traveling to the wilderness or the developing world. In areas where hospitals are unsanitary, you’ll need to bring your own syringes and bandages.

If you have a medical condition, write down or learn how to express your needs in the language of the country you are visiting. If you have an allergy, you’ll need to bring your EpiPen, a note from your doctor, and a scrap of paper stating “I’m allergic to X.” If you have a food allergy, you’ll need to explain, “I will die if I eat X” every time you dine. Acclimating oneself to local bacteria prevents food poisoning. Tricks include eating locally produced yogurt and brushing teeth with local tap water. Beware of food sold on the street, as it can be a breeding ground for food poisoning. Check up on the quality of local water: if it is not drinkable, buy bottled water or bring a water purifier.

Many travelers experience food poisoning, infection, or injury because they are unaccustomed to local bacteria and engage in physical activities like hiking or extreme sports which they do much less frequently at home. While dining on local cuisine and ascending a breathtaking mountain can be the most rewarding parts of a trip, it is essential to keep in mind that health comes first.