Best Ways to Beat the August Heat

So you say you’re jealous of your neighbor bragging about his trip to Europe? That the only Rome you’ve seen is either on TV, or the one in Georgia (or New York)? Sick of the heat and humidity that from the time it takes to go from your front door to your car, you have to change your shirt? Well, have no fear good reader, your loyal scribe is here with the best ways to escape the true dog days of summer. To dispel the doldrums. A reprieve from the repressive swelter that sucks the soul out of every man, woman, dog and cat, so that the only thing you want to do is move from one airconditioned spot to another, like a game of human Frogger. How you ask? Easy.

Travel. I know, it’s expensive, complicated, and can be intimidating. But in this digital age, it’s also been simplified to the point where all you need to do is point and click. And have some idea of where it is you want to go. In the old days (like 5-10 years ago), strange creatures called travel agents roamed the earth. They would cheerfully take your call, line up the hotel, airline (or cruise or train) and send you on your way. No more. Now just type in a preferred destination, how you want to get there, and voila – away you go!

Of course, there are some basic travel rules you will still want to follow, even if you are an experienced globetrotter. First, plan carefully. Decide how long you want to travel, how much is in your budget, and how you would like to get there. Maybe a cruise? If so, your choices are multiple, be it Alaska, Caribbean or my personal favorite, Rhine River cruises, which wind their way through the heart of Germany, making each stop an instant memory.

If immediacy is your goal, then flying is best, but beware – going abroad can be tricky and a challenge, especially if you don’t speak the language. Fortunately, most smart phones provide a language translator app to help you navigate your way through each country. One more tip: it’s always best to fly the national airline of the country you’re traveling to – even the food is better.

So get your shots, bags, phone batteries and clothes ready, your only limit is your imagination – and your wallet.

Bon voyage!