Y7 MAGAZINE A Lifestyle Magazine
THIS ISSUE: • How to Stay Hydrated This Summer! • 5 Vacation Packing Tips! • #SKINSCHOOL
STOP MOSQUITO BITES NOW!
July 2019 Vol.3
BEST BEACHES TO VISIT IN JULY
5 Odd but Effective Ways to Keep Cool Without A/C Going without A/C during the summer can be miserable. But these unusual tactics can actually help you cool down. Laura Prarie
Photo by Rob Bayer / Shutterstock.com Except for one glorious summer of apartment dwelling, I’ve never lived anyplace with a central air system. I didn’t even have a window air-conditioning unit until after I was married. I spent my childhood summers sweltering. The downstairs windows of our home didn’t open, and my second-story bedroom was cooled by one small fan. In fact, I remember sneaking down to the freezer at night for ice cubes to run across my forehead in hopes I would cool off enough to fall asleep. The heat can make you resort to all sorts of tactics to keep cool. If you’re feeling desperate for relief, try one of these sometimes strange — but effective — methods: 1. Take an icy foot bath The fastest way to start shivering in 90-degree heat may be to dip your toes into freezing cold
water. Fill a bowl with cool water, and dip your little piggies right in. Add some ice if you’re brave, but don’t overdo it. Quickly immersing your feet in ice-cold water can be painful — although I suppose it would take your mind off the heat. 2. Wear some cooling clothes To turn down the heat a notch and look fabulous at the same time, you could buy this stunning lime-green cooling vest from Amazon. Its evaporative cooling system is designed so that if you soak it in cold water for a few minutes, you can — in theory — wear it and feel cool and comfortable for hours. Actually, you can buy a whole range of clothing products that claim to keep you cool in the heat of the day. My favorite by far is the FlexiFreeze Ice Vest, which not only lets you wear ice packs on your body but also gives the illusion of six-pack abs. I’m so putting that on my birthday wish list. 3. Freeze your sheets You don’t need specialized sheets to stay cool at night. Simply throw the ones you have in the freezer for a couple of hours before bedtime. Then, pull them out, put them on the bed, and enjoy the cool. Just fall asleep quickly, because on an 80-degree night it probably won’t take long for the sheets to lose their chill. Of course, it might become a bit inconvenient to remake your whole bed each night. So, maybe try this strategy with just your pillowcase and a top sheet. 4. Go underground Head down to the basement on those scorching hot days. Our basement stays so chilly that we sometimes use blankets down there in the summer. Some people may balk at this idea if their basement is unfinished. However, don’t let that stop you. Simply clean out a corner and set up a chair or maybe a desk. Personally, I would rather smell mustiness than melt into the floor upstairs. 5. Live underground Are you ready to get extreme? Then consider buying or building an underground home. Sure, you might not get much sunlight, but that’s a small trade-off to have your very own naturally cool hobbit house. Often called earth homes, underground dwellings give you the same cool air of a basement without making you feel banished from your main living quarters. If you’re ready to get drastic, do a web search for “earth homes” or “underground homes” for inspiration.
5 Vacation Packing Tips For People Who Overpack By Jenna Elias It’s 11pm. I’m sitting at my desk in an empty office xidly writing up a hand-over note for my cover, tele I’m on leave. A small collection of kaftans, swimsuits, cute dresses and Net A Porter boxes fills the corner of my room. My out-of-office message is on. I fly to Spain tomorrow morning at 5am. My mind drifts off and I imagine myself on a sun lounge, cocktail in hand, surrounded by… Ahhh. I haven’t packed. “Bugger.”
I often under-estimate how tricky it is to pack for a sunny escape. I always leave packing to the night before (or morning of) and end up filling my suitcase with a bunch of c*** I never actually wear. This happens so often that I recently made a deal with my husband: any item
of clothing which I take but don’t wear on a trip, I will throw out/donate post-holiday. This results in at least three costume changes per day. Not ideal. So, I’ve started to put a little thought into my packing strategy. On my recent trip to Australia (with a little prep and a few mind games) I managed to whittle my packing list down so that I only needed carry on. This was my Eureka moment. For the person who doesn’t think twice of lugging 40kg around Europe for two weeks, this was A BIG DEAL. So, here are a few ways to focus your mind in preparation for the summer holiday packing caper.
How to pack light for a warm climate – All the summer vacation packing tips you need Do your research and due diligence: your new packing strategy
Add your destination city to the weather calendar on your phone the week before and monitor. What’s the temp likely to be at your destination? If you’re visiting a tropical climate, check if it is the wet season? You don’t want to be slipping around a Phuket night market in your Ancient Greek Sandals and break a bone. Or worse, destroy the leather! If there is the
potential for rain, pack a good book and a light jumper. Do a little Insta prep: search for your hotel, hashtag or location on Instagram. What are people wearing? What are the must-do Insta spots and what outfits make for eye-catching Insta shots? Bear this in mind when packing. Everyone loves a good holiday Insta-fest.
What are you going to get up to on holiday? How to pack for 2 weeks in a carry on
In the interests of full disclosure: packing for two weeks in a carry on is pushing the envelope a little too far, at least for me. But, what I can offer are ways to ensure you don’t go over your weight limit or pack stuff you won’t need. Answer me this: do you really need a kaftan to go hiking?
You might have bought a stunning Camillakaftan and three cute dresses from Paddo to Palmy, but these won’t be much chop if you spend 80% of your time hiking, kayaking or snorkelling. Shorts and a cute racer back camisole, with bathers underneath are the perfect uniform for active holidays. (Iris Lillian’s Founder, Elissa can vouch for this). Summer vacation packing list for females on tour – get an email chain or WhatsApp Group going
Shoot an email to your partner or create a WhatsApp Group with the friends joining you on holiday. Figure out what activities everyone is up for and then estimate the amount of time you’ll be chilling, doing light activities versus sweat-inducing activities and glamourising by the pool. You should then be able to land on the right mix between what makes you feel like a glamour puss and practical necessity. Summer vacation packing essentials and bulky items
Allocate bulky items to each member of your tour so you don’t double up and waste precious suitcase real estate. E.g. Sarah brings the hair straightener, you pack the shampoo, Jen is responsible for the conditioner and Jo brings the iPod speaker.
Packing for summer vacation – the visualisation strategy
If you don’t get the chance to liaise with your vacay crew, close your eyes and visualise what you see yourself doing each day. Does it involve laying on the beach or exploring a busy city or both? Will you be going out for expensive dinners or hiking through mosquito infested jungle? Take note of the outfit you are wearing in your mind’s eye. Whatever it is, pack it. Your subconscious knows best.
How to pack for a summer holiday and not forget your undies
One thing I almost always forget, is to pack my undies. Wearing shorts all day without knickers is surprisingly liberating, but being sans-underwear for a whole holiday is a risky proposition. For starters, you’ll be tempted to wear your bathers in their stead. And, unless you want to become familiar with the words ‘yeast’ and ‘bacteria’, best to avoid. To avoid this condundrum, I now pack my undies first.
Keep the packing list simple: light clothing, light accessories, light make up
A holiday in a warm climate is not the time to layer up and play with heavy accessories. Keep your packing simple with natural fabrics (cotton, silk and linen) that breathe and help you feel luxuriously relaxed. Pack an SPF50 daily moisturiser instead of liquid foundation and powder. If you’re used to formal corporate outfits and don’t want your wardrobe to be too casual, keep things interesting with a bright lip colour or eye-catching drop earrings. Tempting new trends – go with what you know
It’s tempting to stock up on all the new summer trends you’ve been eyeing off during your lunch break. “I can totally pull that off!” You tell yourself in the change room and you promptly purchase that off the shoulder, sheer, mid-riff top with tassels in all three colours. I’ve no doubt you can pull this baby off, but is the best testing ground your vacation? Probs not. More often than not, these items stay firmly at the bottom of my suitcase, because I gravitate towards my tried and tested pieces which suit my shape and flatter in all the right places. Feeling comfortable and confident makes for the best kind of holiday.
Stop saving your clothes for the dream holiday!
You know that Lisa Marie Fernandez white trimmed linen maxi dress, which you paid too much for and have been saving for a special occasion? The one you look lovingly at every weekend right before you slip into your practical errand-running uniform. This should be the second thing you pack, after your undies. Just imagine how gorgeous you will feel after a long day in the sun, your hair a little salty and sun bleached, as you sip an Aperol Spritz and watch the sun set. You’ll look and feel like a million bucks. So much so, that it could be the only outfit you need. Think about it.
The versatile piece – dress up and down
A white Irish linen shirt or Athena Procopiou kimono will work just as well at the beach or pool as it will at the bar, when paired with slides flats, a slick high bun and tinted lip gloss. Don’t worry about sunscreen getting all over it, that’s why they invented dry-cleaning.
Medical stuff
If you’re visiting a tropical climate you may need to have a few emergency medical items stashed in your luggage, so you’re not frantically searching for a pharmacy at midnight after developing heat stroke. On a recent trip to Thailand, I was going for the money shot and slipped on a particularly sharp volcanic rock. We spent the next hour searching for a first aid kit to stem the blood flow. So, pack plenty of sunscreen and aloe vera gel to soothe sunburnt skin (hopefully you won’t need it), a mini first aid kit, moisturiser, insect repellent and rehydration tablets. Now, you’re all set. Bon voyage! Are you good at packing for summer holidays? We’d love to hear your tips in the comments below.
8 Tips for Exercising in Summer Heat
Summer is the perfect time to go outside and have fun. It’s one of my favorite times of year because there are so many outdoor activities to choose from. Everything is more fun outside, whether you›re swimming, running or cycling. But the summer heat can be a problem if you’re not careful, particularly in areas with extreme heat and humidity. After experiencing the Badwater Ultramarathon (a 135-mile run through Death Valley) and the Marathon des Sables (a six-day, 152-mile endurance race through the Sahara Desert), I’ve learned a few things about exercising in the heat. For me, the biggest problems were staying hydrated and maintaining my body’s electrolytes and salt. When you sweat, your body loses not only water, but electrolytes and salt, too. This delicate balance of water and electrolytes is crucial to keep your body functioning properly. If you don’t drink enough water, you can get dehydrated and suffer from light-headedness and nausea. If not recognized, dehydration can even result in kidney failure and or, in extreme cases, death. However, if you drink too much water without replenishing your electrolytes, you can experience hyponatremia. This can lead to confusion, nausea, muscle cramps, seizures or even death in extreme cases.
You may not be racing in the desert, but there are some things to keep in mind when it comes to exercising in the heat: The time of day is important. Unless you are training for an event that takes place in the daytime heat, avoid exercising from 10a.m. to 3 p.m. It›s the hottest part of day. Generally, the early morning is the best time to workout, especially if it›s going to be scorcher that day. •
Wear loose, light-colored. The lighter color will help reflect heat, and cotton material will help the evaporation of sweat. You may also want to try specially designed, «hi-tech» running shirts and shorts. They are often made from material meant to keep you cool. •
Sunscreen is a must. I use SPF 45 just to be safe. It›s important to protect your skin. You can get burned and suffer sun damage to your skin even on cloudy days. •
Stay hydrated. Before you go out, drink a glass or two of water. Carry a bottle of water or even a hydration pack such as the CamelBak. Take a drink every 15 minutes, even when you›re not thirsty. When you›re done with your workout, have a few more glasses of water. •
Replenish your electrolyte and salt intake while exercising. I like to use SUCCEED capsules--small, simple packs of sodium and electrolytes that keep my system in check. •
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sun.
If you can, choose shaded trails or pathways that keep you out of the
Cryptosporidiosis Is An Illness Spread by Contaminated Pool Water—Here’s What You Need to Know We asked an expert how you can protect yourself. By Janna Mercer
Fourth of July is right around the corner, meaning many across the country are gearing up to go for a swim either in a community pool or one in their own backyard. But the CDC is warning about an illness that’s on the rise that can be spread via contaminated pool water. The illness is called cryptosporidiosis, and you can pick it up by swimming in a pool contaminated by someone who had diarrhea recently. We asked an expert what you can do to protect yourself and your kids from cryptosporidiosis over the summer months, and what you need to do to prevent the spread of the parasite-caused illness.
What is cryptosporidiosis? Cryptosporidiosis is caused by a parasite called Cryptosporidium. The way a person can get cryptosporidiosis is…well, less than pleasant. “It is basically fecal-oral transmission. Feces to oral intake is [the] number one cause,” Waleed Javaid, MD, director of infection prevention and control at Mount Sinai Downtown New York City, tells Health.
So if someone who has had diarrhea for the past few days jumps into a neighborhood pool, remnants of that diarrhea could float in the pool and infect other swimmers.
Most people who get cryptosporidiosis only get a mild form of the illness. Their symptoms might include diarrhea and some abdominal discomfort. But some people will develop a more severe form of cryptosporidiosis, namely those who have weakened immune systems (technically called “immunosuppressed”). They will experience diarrhea for longer than those who are otherwise healthy. The CDC says cryptosporidiosis-induced diarrhea can last for three weeks for immunocompromised people.
In addition to picking up cryptosporidiosis in a pool, you can get the disease from cattle that carry the parasite.
What does the new statement say? The CDC announced today that from 2007 to 2017, there were 444 cryptosporidiosis outbreaks. These caused 7,465 cryptosporidiosis cases, recorded in 40 states and Puerto Rico.
What’s more, the number of cryptosporidiosis cases is on the rise in the US. The number of outbreaks increased by about 13% each year from 2007 to 2017, the statement says. However, the CDC says that the rise could be due to more advanced testing methods that didn’t pick up on as many cryptosporidiosis cases in 2007.
What can you do to protect yourself from cryptosporidiosis? Be sure the facilities where you swim are kept clean. “Go to places you’re aware have high standards of hygiene. What are their processes and policies?” Dr. Javaid suggests. This is important for everyone but especially so for those who are more susceptible to diseases. “People who are immunocompromised need to be vigilant about these things,” Dr. Javaid says. Also, be cautious if you’re swimming in a pool where cattle or other animals are in close proximity, since the parasite can be transferred from animals to humans. And anytime you touch cattle, make sure to thoroughly clean your hands.
Other than avoiding pools altogether, that’s pretty much your only option. But you should
also do your part by making sure you and your children don’t swim in any community pools after having had diarrhea.
Dr. Javaid says anyone who has had diarrhea during the past few days shouldn’t dive in just yet, since that could transmit the illness to someone whose body isn’t well equipped to fight it off.
Hot Weather Running Tips
The Road Runners Club of America wants to remind the running community about the importance of following our hot weather running tips. Running in the heat of summer can be dangerous if proper precautions and preparations are not followed. Avoid dehydration! You can lose between 6 and 12 oz. of fluid for every 20 minutes of running. Therefore it is important to pre-hydrate (10–15 oz. of fluid 10 to 15 minutes prior to running) and drink fluids every 20–30 minutes along your running route. To determine if you are hydrating properly, weigh yourself before and after running. You should have drunk one pint of fluid for every pound you’re •
missing. Indications that you are running while dehydrated are a persistent elevated pulse after finishing your run and dark yellow urine. Keep in mind that thirst is not an adequate indicator of dehydration. Visit Gatorade Endurance’s site. You will find great tools for developing a hydration strategy. •
Avoid running outside if the heat is above 98.6 degrees and the humidity is above 70-80%. While running, the body temperature is regulated by the process of sweat evaporating off of the skin. If the humidity in the air is so high that it prevents the process of evaporation of sweat from the skin, you can quickly overheat and literally cook your insides from an elevated body temperature. Check your local weather and humidity level. •
When running, if you become dizzy, nauseated, have the chills, or cease to sweat…. STOP RUNNING, find shade, and drink water or a fluid replacement drink such as Gatorade Endurance. If you do not feel better, get help. Heatstroke occurs when the body fails to regulate its own temperature, and the body temperature continues to rise. Symptoms of heatstroke include mental changes (such as confusion, delirium, or unconsciousness) and skin that is red, hot, and dry, even under the armpits. Heatstroke is a life-threatening medical emergency, requiring emergency medical treatment. •
Run in the shade whenever possible and avoid direct sunlight and blacktop. When you are going to be exposed to the intense summer rays of the sun, apply at least 15 spf sunscreen and wear protective eyewear that filters out UVA and UVB rays. Consider wearing a visor that will shade your eyes and skin but will allow heat to transfer off the top of your head. •
If you have heart or respiratory problems or you are on any medications, consult your doctor about running in the heat. In some cases it may be in your best interests to run indoors. If you have a history of heatstroke/illness, run with extreme caution. •
Children should run in the morning or late afternoon hours, but should avoid the peak heat of the day to prevent heat related illnesses. It is especially important to keep children hydrated while running and playing outdoors in the heat. •
Do wear light colored breathable clothing. Do not wear long sleeves or long pants or sweat suits. Purposefully running in sweat suits hot days to lose water weight is dangerous! •
Plan your route so you can refill water bottles or find drinking fountains. City parks, local merchants, and restaurants are all good points to incorporate on your route during hot weather running. Be sure to tell someone where you are running how long you think you will gone, and carry identification. •
Stay hydrated, cool, and safe this summer!
How to Have a Happy, Healthy Summer Dave Kim
Summertime means longer days, sunshine, picnics, barbecues, and kids out of school. Here’s how to make the most of your summer and stay healthy, too.
Be active; be cool Regular physical activity is an important part of a healthy lifestyle in every season. The warm summer weather can make it easy to exercise outdoors and get the whole family involved. Just be sure to take some precautions so you don’t get overheated in the hot weather. Exercise in the morning or evening, when it’s likely to be cooler outdoors. If possible, exercise in shady areas. If it’s too hot to go out, work out at the gym, or walk laps or climb stairs inside an air-conditioned building. •
Drink plenty of water. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty. Help your body sweat and cool down by drinking water frequently. •
Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing to help sweat evaporate and keep you cooler. If possible, wear a light-colored, wide-brimmed hat. •
Involve the whole family. Physical activity is important for everyone. Take children and oldsters to the park, turn on some music and dance, or get pedometers for everyone in the family and have a friendly competition to see who can log the most •
steps each day. Plan an active vacation. Camping, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, scuba diving, and snorkeling are great ways to spend time in nature and get a lot of exercise. If you’re visiting a city, consider renting bicycles or taking a walking tour. •
Eat right and stay healthy Summer is the perfect time to enjoy an outdoor meal with friends and family. Refreshing salads, melons, and berries add color and flavor to picnics and cookouts. But because warmer temperatures can easily spoil food, you’ll need to be extra careful. Wash hands, utensils, containers, and work surfaces before handling food to prevent harmful bacteria from spreading. •
Cook food the same day as the picnic, not in advance, to give bacteria less time to grow. •
Wash fruit and vegetables before cutting, in case bacteria are present on the rind or peel. •
Keep mayonnaise-based foods and other cold foods in an insulated cooler with plenty of ice or frozen gel packs. •
Throw out leftovers that have been sitting out for more than 2 hours, or 1 hour if the temperature is over 90°F. •
And if you’re cooking out, follow these tips for safe, healthy grilling: Serve more chicken, fish, and vegetables, and cut back on ground beef, pork, sausage, and hot dogs. •
Defrost and marinate foods in the refrigerator, and don’t reuse marinade that touched raw meat or poultry unless you boil it first. •
Bring one set of plates and utensils for handling raw foods and another for cooked foods to prevent cross-contamination. •
Bring a food thermometer to be sure grilled foods are cooked enough. Hamburgers should be cooked to at least 160°F and chicken breasts to 165°F. •
Cooking meat at high temperatures creates chemicals that may raise your cancer risk. Reduce the risk by cleaning charred bits from your grill before cooking and from your food before eating. Line the grill with foil poked with holes. The fat will drip off, but the smoke won’t reach the meat. •
Stay safe in the sun Most skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun and manmade sources like tanning booths. Protect your skin from the sun when you go outside, especially during the long, warm summer days. Cover up: When you are out in the sun, wear clothing and a wide-brimmed hat to protect as much skin as possible. Protect your eyes with sunglasses that block at least 99% of UV light. •
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Put more on at least every 2 hours, and after swimming or sweating. •
Seek shade: Limit your direct exposure to the sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are strongest. •
Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps: Both can cause serious long-term skin damage and contribute to skin cancer. •
How to Prevent an Electrolyte Imbalance Dave Kim
Fluids in your body Athletes have been swigging electrolyte replenishers since 1965. That was the year a Florida Gators coach asked doctors why his players were wilting so quickly in the heat. Their answer? The players were losing too many electrolytes. Their solution was to invent Gatorade. So, what are electrolytes and why are they important?
Water and electrolytes are essential to your health. At birth, your body is about 75 to 80 percent water. By the time you’re an adult, the percentage of water in your body drops to approximately 60 percent if you’re male and 55 percent if you’re female. The volume of water in your body will continue to decrease as you age.
Fluid in your body contains things such as cells, proteins, glucose, and electrolytes. Electrolytes come from the food and liquids you consume. Salt, potassium, calcium, and chloride are examples of electrolytes.
Electricity and your body Electrolytes take on a positive or negative charge when they dissolve in your body fluid. This enables them to conduct electricity and move electrical charges or signals throughout your body. These charges are crucial to many functions that keep you alive, including the operation of your brain, nerves, and muscles, and the creation of new tissue.
Each electrolyte plays a specific role in your body. The following are some of the most important electrolytes and their primary functions:
Sodium •
helps control fluids in the body, impacting blood pressure
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necessary for muscle and nerve function
Chloride •
helps balance electrolytes
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helps balance electrolytes
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balances acidity and alkalinity, which helps maintain a healthy pH
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essential to digestion
Potassium •
regulates your heart and blood pressure
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helps balance electrolytes
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aids in transmitting nerve impulses
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contributes to bone health
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necessary for muscle contraction
Magnesium •
important to the production of DNA and RNA
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contributes to nerve and muscle function
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helps maintain heart rhythm
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helps regulate blood glucose levels
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enhances your immune system
Calcium •
key component of bones and teeth
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important to the movement of nerve impulses and muscle movement
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contributes to blood clotting
Phosphate •
strengthens bones and teeth
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helps cells produce the energy needed for tissue growth and repair
Bicarbonate •
helps your body maintain a healthy pH
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regulates heart function
When electrolytes become unbalanced Fluids are found inside and outside the cells of your body. The levels of these fluids should be fairly consistent. On average, about 40 percent of your body weight is from fluids inside the cells and 20 percent of your body weight is from fluids outside the cells. Electrolytes help your body juggle these values in order to maintain a healthy balance inside and outside your cells.
It’s normal for electrolyte levels to fluctuate. Sometimes, though, your electrolyte levels can become imbalanced. This can result in your body creating too many or not enough minerals or electrolytes. A number of things can cause an electrolyte imbalance, including: •
fluid loss from heavy exercise or physical activity
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vomiting and diarrhea
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medications such as diuretics, antibiotics, and chemotherapy drugs
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alcoholism and cirrhosis
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heart failure
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kidney disease
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diabetes
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eating disorders
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severe burns
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some forms of cancer
Preventing electrolyte imbalance
The International Marathon Medical Director’s Association offers the following guidelines for maintaining good hydration and electrolyte balance during activity: If your urine is clear to straw-colored before a race or workout, you’re well hydrated. •
You should drink a sports drink containing electrolytes and carbohydrates if your sporting event or workout lasts longer than 30 minutes. •
•
Drinking water with a sports drink decreases the beverage’s benefits.
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Drink when you’re thirsty. Don’t feel you must constantly replenish fluids.
Although the needs of each individual differ, a general rule of thumb is to limit fluids to 4–6 ounces every 20 minutes of a race. •
Seek immediate medical advice if you lose more than 2 percent of your body weight or if you gain weight after running. •
Serious emergencies from electrolyte imbalances are rare. But it’s important to your health and, if you’re an athlete, your performance to maintain a healthy electrolyte balance.
Symptoms of electrolyte imbalance Symptoms of electrolyte imbalance vary depending on which electrolytes are most affected. Common symptoms include: •
nausea
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lethargy
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fluid retention
Call 911 Electrolyte imbalances can be life-threatening. Call 911 if someone has the following
symptoms: •
confusion or sudden change in behavior
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severe muscle weakness
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rapid or irregular heartbeat
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seizures
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chest pain
Treatment Treatment is determined by the cause of the electrolyte imbalance, the severity of the imbalance, and by the type of electrolyte that’s either in short supply or overabundant. Treatment options normally include either increasing or decreasing fluid intake. Mineral supplements may be given by mouth or intravenously if depleted.
Say Bye to Bugs, the Natural Way Jen Howell
Finding a balance between being environmentally healthy and being free of bug bites can be tough. Although aerosol cans of DEET and ant traps often work well, they come at a price of smelling bad and being harmful to the world around us. So, what can you do? Here are four all-natural ways you can kick those pesky insects to the curb.
Vinegar Is there anything vinegar can’t do? Not only does it take the salt off your boots after a snowy day and pickle your cucumbers, it can also help prevent ants from invading your space. Vinegar is a natural deterrent for ants. A combination of half apple cider vinegar (although normal vinegar works just as well) and half water in a spray bottle works perfectly to repel those pests. This concoction can be sprayed around the perimeter of your home, on the legs of tables that have food served on them or even around a screen house or tent. While vinegar is an effective item you can use to get rid of ants, you will need to reapply, as it wears off.
Cayenne Pepper
Another useful ant deterrent is cayenne pepper. When sprinkled in places where ants tend to gather, like areas near sugar and places where crumbs linger, they stay away. The pepper’s spice serves as a deterrent for the ants by telling them that none of the sweet stuff that they’re looking for is there. It acts almost like caution tape. It can get a little messy, so try to sprinkle the cayenne pepper in areas that aren’t used as much, like a cabinet – especially ones that contain baking supplies or other sweet goods.
Peppermint Oil Not only does peppermint oil repel ants, it also repels spiders. In fact, peppermint keeps most pests away, including aphids, beetles, caterpillars, fleas, flies, lice, mice and moths. There are three ways to effectively apply this oil: soaking cotton balls in the oil and hiding them where the insects gather, applying the oil directly to the affected areas, or diluting it with water and spraying the perimeter of areas you’re trying to protect. If you’re diluting the oil, mix 10 drops of peppermint essential oil and 16 oz. of water, then transfer to a spray bottle. Peppermint oil can also keep some of the spiders out of the areas of the home where they frequent most, in addition to making the house smell wonderful. While this appears to be a simple solution, it’s a game of strategy – putting the oil in locations where you suspect pests are entering. With a little trial and error, you should be able to find sweet spots to focus on. It’s all about where you put it, using doorways and entrances to your advantage.
Lavender and Eucalyptus Essential Oil Finding natural solutions for keeping away mosquitos is always a challenging process. Using a mixture of lavender oil and eucalyptus oil can help prevent them and heal any existing bites. The mixture has a nice fragrant smell compared to most cans of spray you can buy in the store, and it’s as affordable as a bottle of DEET. Lavender oil is one of the only essential oils you don’t have to dilute with water to use on the body, although it’s recommended that you speak with your doctor first. All in all, these bug deterrents all do their jobs well, and finding some natural options for your household and family is always a plus. Do you have any natural remedies to keep the bugs away? Share them in our comment section!
SECRETWAYSTOSTOPMOSQUITOBITES•TOP PRODUCTS REVEALED (2019) Morris Levin As a world traveler, there is one thing I’ve come to hate more than anything in the world. Mosquitoes! Whether trekking through jungles or relaxing on beaches, these pesky bugs seem to get everywhere. So I decided to test all the best mosquito products from all over the world to find out exactly how to keep mosquitoes from biting you. And today, I’m going to reveal what I’ve learned and divulge the behind the scenes products I use to keep mosquitoes away. These are some of the most proven products on the market. Some are popular, some are less known, and a few of them will definitely surprise you… Let’s jump into my epic guide of how to keep mosquitoes away!
Quick Answer: How to Keep Mosquitoes Away?!
Mosquito repellent clothing – Craghoppers NosiLife Range
Impregnate normal clothing with mosquito repellent – Permethrin Spray
Best natural product to keep mosquitoes away – Mosquito repellent bracelet
Most effective insect repellent spray – Jungle Formula 40% Deet
Most effective natural insect repellent spray – Herbal Armour
Best way to avoid mosquito bites when sleeping – Box mosquito net
After traveling the world, I’m ready to reveal the best ways to keep mosquitoes away
If you’re unlucky and you get bitten by mosquitoes, it’s not uncommon to wake up with ten, twenty, thirty or even fifty mosquito bites in the morning. Mosquito bites are not just annoying for the itching that comes with their bites but they could be a real deterrent to your health if you are traveling to a country where Malaria or Dengue are a problem. It is well worth investing in some high-quality mosquito repellent clothing so that you can travel with ease, knowing that you are protected from mosquito bites and don’t need to worry about reapplying mosquito repellent every five minutes. Luckily, there are lots of techniques you can use to keep mosquitoes away and avoid mosquito bites when traveling…
• Pro Tip #1 how to keep mosquitoes from biting you • Wear mosquito repellent clothing to avoid mosquito bites
I’ve been wearing Craghoppers adventure gear for years, and they are one of the best ways to keep mosquitoes from biting you. Craghoppers gear is tough, relatively affordable given the quality and will help keep mosquitoes away when traveling. Personally, I always travel with a couple of Craghoppers NosiLife shirts as they are comfortable, super stretchy, can be worn to formal functions and stop mosquito bites. I also always have two pairs of Craghoppers NosiLife trousers. The Best Mosquito Repellent Clothing Product
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The best way to stop mosquitoes bites is to cover your skin as much as possible – that’s why this is such an easy pick. This is really no fun when the areas you are traveling to are very humid but a lot of the mosquito prevention clothingon the market is made of pretty lightweight material and is
comfortable to wear even in hot and humid conditions. The Nosilife range of clothing by Craghoppers is the best mosquito repellent clothing I have ever come across. Craghoppers has been making outdoor gear since 1965 and they have over 50 years worth of comfortable and practical outdoor clothing experience behind their exceptional clothing line. The lightweight and tough Nosilife adventure collection gives you all kinds of amazing outdoor clothing that has safe protection against the bites of insects and the diseases you can get from these biting bugs. I love the Nosilife Technology because these products still work great no matter how many times you put them through the wash! The clothing isn’t cheap but honestly, it provides exceptional value as it’s tough and built to last. If you do not want to go with a more expensive brand like Nosilife I have found other permethrin-treated clothing brands do work well but the permethrin tends to wash out of inferior brands clothing lines eventually.
• Pro Tip #2 how to keep mosquitoes away • Treat your own clothes with Permethrin spray
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One of the best ways to keep mosquitoes from biting you
In the last fifteen years the mosquito prevention clothing and Nosilife Technology, in general, has vastly improved. Lots of companies make it possible to buy permethrin-treated clothing although the industry leader is clearly Craghoppers and I’ve been wearing their gear for years. Permethrin repels mosquitoes, ticks, and other arthropods. Permethrin versus DEET products tends to be odorless and non-greasy. DEET was developed by the U.S. Army in 1946 and has been the go-to bug repellent for generations but there are a lot of downsides to this product and continued regular use may carry health risks. DEET is definitely not organic in any way shape or form and that’s why a lot of people are put off by this harsh chemical. DEET also can break down fabrics and therefore it’s not a good mosquito repellent to spray onto clothing as it will degrade your clothing over time. If you are serious about keeping mosquitoes away but don’t want to buy into Craghoppers range of clothing then a solid option is to treat your existing clothing with Permethrin spray – this is a very effective way to keep mosquitoes away when traveling and to help avoid mosquito bites. Never spray permethrin insecticide directly on your skin though. When I buy Permethrin insecticide by itself I always spray my clothing when I am not wearing it. Do not treat clothing directly on your body.
• Pro Tip #3 how to keep mosquitoes away • Mosquito Bracelet
Mosquito repellent bracelets can be an effective secondary product to keep mosquitoes from biting you
These lavender and citronella infused mosquito repellent bracelets are
fairly effective at keeping mosquitoes away and helping you to avoid bites on the road but only really work for your hands and wrists and won’t keep mosquitoes away from your face, neck or other sensitive areas. My advice – invest in some Craghoppers clothing, pick up some herbal mosquito repellent and buy a couple of these bracelets as well – if you do all this, mosquitoes should leave you alone and you will be able to stop mosquito bites ruining your adventure.
• Pro Tip #4 how to keep mosquitoes away • Use a Mosquito Repellent Spray with 40% DEET
If you want to keep mosquitoes away, make sure to use a repellent with 40% DEET
DEET was invented by the US Army to keep mosquitoes away and help personnel avoid insect bites whilst in the jungle and other inhospitable environments. DEET is a VERY effective mosquito repellent and if you apply it properly, you will not get bitten. However, DEET tastes like shit, try not to get it in your mouth and is made up of harsh chemicals that will often cause your skin to breakout if you apply it on your face. These days, I avoid DEET products and stick to natural mosquito repellents instead. If you do go for DEET, Jungle Formula makes the best stuff. View on Amazon View on REI
• Pro Tip #5 how to keep mosquitoes away • Use a Natural Mosquito Repellent
Looking to keep mosquitoes away naturally? These are your best options
If you are anything like me, then you try to stay away from harsh chemicals. The twenty-year-old me had no problem bathing in vats of chemical DEET to keep off the clouds of pesky mosquitoes. There are so many great natural bug repellents on the market these days and some even smell great as they are mainly eucalyptus or lemongrass oil based! Eucalyptus oil is a natural mosquito repellent and is one of my favourite organic ways to repel bugs and stop mosquito bites. Mosquito bites are a real pain in the butt (And the neck and both of my arms sometimes) but thanks to natural mosquito repellents like this I can repel the mosquitoes and still feel like I am protecting my body from harsh chemicals at the same time. Aside from essential oils, there are some really great natural mosquito repellents on the market today. A lot of these natural repellents include a few different essential oils like lemongrass, peppermint and eucalyptus. Since I am almost always wearing mosquito repellent clothing, I try hard to use a natural mosquito repellent as the place I am usually applying it is my face and hands; not a good place to dump a load of DEET. View on Amazon View on REI
• Pro Tip #6 how to keep mosquitoes away • Sleep under a Mosquito Net
A classic and effective way to keep mosquitoes away at night
If there is one thing I need while travelling the world, it is a good nights rest. I find it almost impossible to get a good nights sleep whilst being eaten alive by mosquitoes, that’s why I am obsessed with ways to keep mosquitoes away at night When travelling on a budget, you may find yourself sleeping in huts, shacks or other cheap accommodation that doesn’t have airtight walls and therefore is filled with mosquitoes and other crawling insects. I strongly recommend carrying a mosquito net but be sure to take a box net and not a pyramid net. Pyramid shapes nets (one centre hanging point) are very small and claustrophobic, and you can’t exactly keep mosquitoes away if they mesh is touching your skin. I recommend attaching a long piece of string to each of the four loops on the corners of your mosquito net. Tie a carabiner to the end of the pieces of string, you can then quickly and efficiently put up your mosquito net without having to tie any knots, simply loop the string around a support and then connect the string back to the corner of the net using the carabiner – hey presto, you’re ready for a chilled nights sleep without too many mosquito bites! If you’re like me, you will often sleep naked as it’s hot and humid. And that’s why you need one hell of a high-quality mosquito net to cover your bed or sleeping bag area. Take my advice, if you are trying to figure out
how to keep mosquitoes away at night, a mosquito net is the best way to go.
• Pro Tip #7 how to keep mosquitoes away • Mosquito Repellent Candles
Wondering what keeps mosquitoes away? This is a fantastic option
Super lucky fun happy bonus item time! These mosquito repellent candles are pretty cool, let me set the scene… You have your camping bed set up with your mosquito netting over it and you are just searching for the right lady to share it with. What is more romantic than some bug free mood lighting? What you really need is not the latest Barry Manilow CD but a few mosquito repellent candles. These mosquito repellent candles don’t just supply mood lighting but are also pretty effective at keeping mosquitoes away. The citronella infused candles seem to distract those pesky mosquitoes from your delicious skin, and hell, who doesn’t enjoy a few candles anyway?
• Bonus Pro Tip: Camp out with a Jungle Hammock •
The Hennessy expedition camping hammock is referred to as “the ultimate, all-in-one hammock”. You don’t need to purchase any extra parts because it comes with everything you need for any environment.Included in the package are a rain fly, mosquito net, tree straps, guy lines, steel carabiners and a stuff sack for the hammock – however, it ain’t cheap. The Hennessy camping hammock allows for breathability whilst protecting you from bugs with its mosquito net. It includes a waterproof rain fly that can also be used as a sunshade and can hold up to 115kg of weight. This lightweight hammock is strong and compacts down well; the whole pack will only add 1.65kg to your backpack, which is lighter than most sleeping bags. Plus it takes less than 3 minutes to set up.
Experiences trying to avoid mosquitoes when travelling My good friend and regular Broke Backpacker contributor Amber recently wrote about her travels across Alaska in which she was swarmed by mosquitoes… I’ve never in my life been to a place as awe-inspiring gorgeous as the tundras of northern Alaska. I’ve also never been to a land where there were so many millions of hungry mosquitoes and my uncovered skin was the delicious dish of the day. After a few minutes in the wilds of Denali National Park, my 2002 Alaska adventure definitely had me pondering how to keep mosquitoes away and avoid bites when travelling. It was the summer of 2002 and just planning this trip to the 49th state had not been simple as there was very little help from the internet as it is today. I had no idea that I needed to be so well prepared to defend my
skin against the official state bird of Alaska; no not the glorious bald eagle but Aedes albopictus, that pesky insect that was constantly buzzing in my ears from the moment I departed the jet in Anchorage to three weeks later when I would head back to California via Fairbanks. I had no concept of how to avoid mosquito bites when I travelled to the land of the midnight sun in 2002, mainly because bloggers were a thing of the future and finding information on travels through Alaska back in the day was not an easy task. The 2002 traveller had no idea that they should be prepared for swarms of mosquitoes in Alaska with natural mosquito repellent, mosquito repellent bracelets, insect shield bandannas and mosquito prevention clothing. Those are just a few of the items I wish I had packed when I was shopping for a new travel backpack and maybe a last-minute bottle of DEET. Since that three-week trip backpacking across Alaska and slapping about 500 mosquitoes off of my face, arms and legs in 2002 I have done a lot of world travelling and I have fought off mosquitoes in crazy humid lands like Kerala, India and tropical and lush, Fitzroy Island Australia. The internet today makes it so much easier than when I was in my early twenties to be prepared for these buzzing insect bastards. If you are about to trek to a land where mosquitoes are prevalent, after you pick up your Malaria pills, invest in some of the top bug repellent clothing brands on the market, plus natural insect repellent, and maybe a few citronella candles for when you reach your destination, hotel or campsite. In 2002 when we climbed off our six-hour flight from southern California to Anchorage, Alaska locals on the plane stared at us because we were “Dressed like Californians”. What that meant was that we were not wearing sweat pants, flannel shirts and hiking boots. We had no idea how to keep mosquitoes away or that it would come to be such a big deal, well pretty much as soon as we walked out of Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. Today, backpackers are lucky enough to have lots of information online and a range of mosquito repellent products, clothing and sprays to choose from – my advise; prepare properly!
Conclusion: The Best Way To Keep Mosquitoes Away Some people ask what are mosquitoes attracted to and I have heard that it could have to do with the foods you are eating and what your body smells like. We all may think we smell like a bouquet of roses while travelling but
mosquitoes have a crazy sense of smell and are more attracted to certain smells than others. This is why some people get shredded by mosquitoes and others barely get bitten, even when camping in the middle of the jungle. One of my biggest tips on how to keep mosquitoes away is to start taking Vitamin B a few weeks before travelling to areas with high mosquito infestations. Taking Vitamin B for mosquito bites is one tip my doctor gave me before I travelled to India a few years ago and it did seem to make a difference to how itchy and annoying the bites were. Make sure you are prepared with the correct mosquito repellent gear for your needs! I strongly recommend picking up some Craghoppers Nosilife clothing, mosquito repellent bracelets and natural mosquito repellent before you hit the road – if you travel with all three, you should be well placed to avoid mosquito bites and keep pesky mosquitoes away. My three top picks for avoiding mosquitoes on the road:
Craghoppers Nosilife Clothing
Mosquito repellent bracelets
Natural mosquito repellent
All this new mosquito prevention technology makes it so much easier to go out and enjoy your adventure whilst successfully avoiding biting insects. The easiest and most effective way to avoid mosquito bites is definitely to have mosquito repellent clothing.
#SkinSchool: Should you change your skincare in the summer? How to keep your skin glowing and protected in the heat BY BECKI MURRAY
When you dream about your skin in summer, you might envision it being tanned, smooth and glowing, but the reality can be somewhat different as you tackle the risk of sweat, sunburn and premature ageing due to the sunny conditions. In a panic, you might think you need to completely overhaul your winter skincare routine, bringing in an array of new products to fix the problems you now face, but as explained by Dr Stefanie Williams, dermatologist and medical director at Eudelo, the devil is in the detail when it comes to perfect summertime skin.
1. Make small changes “Just like you wouldn’t wear winter clothes in summer, you might want to tweak your skincare products going into the summer season. If during the winter you used gentler cream cleansers and more hydrating moisturisers on your skin to counteract the drying winter climate and central heating, you may now want to change back to more thorough foaming cleansers and more light-weight moisturisers.” Bazaar recommends Caudalie’s Instant Foaming Cleanser, £15, and Chanel’s Hydra Beauty Crème, £55.
2. Summer skincare starts in winter “Saying that, more often than not, my patients continue to use the same (optimal) skincare routine throughout the year, as healthy skin should be able to adjust to the changing climate without majorly changing your skincare routine. “It’s important to give the skin a chance to adjust itself, rather than being overprotective and doing all the hard work for it by using overly rich skincare in winter. Over-caring for your skin by plastering on too heavy skincare, unless you suffer with genetically dry and eczema-prone skin, may make the skin ‘lazy’ (for lack of a better word) and dull. So, don’t wrap your skin in cotton wool. See whether it may adjust naturally, which will take a few weeks.”
3. Sun protection, sun protection, sun protection “I always recommend using sun protection all year around. The reason for this is that while the burning UVB rays are much weaker in winter, the skin ageing UVA rays don’t fluctuate as much throughout the seasons. My recommendation is to wear an SPF30-50 to slow down the ageing process and keep your skin in optimal condition long-term. However, should you have down-graded your SPF (or even worse, not used
one) in the winter, then now is certainly the time to go back to daily SPF – no excuses.”
4. Avoid burning at all costs “Avoid getting burned at any cost! For fair skin types, even tanning is a sign of sun damage on a cellular level, so if you are fair, don’t aim for a tan. If, despite thorough protection, you manage to get burned, oral antihistamines and a topical hydrocortisone cream can be helpful, but speak to your doctor first.”
5. Break-up with moisturiser “A good SPF will moisturise your skin at the same time as protecting it, so usually there is no need for an additional moisturiser in the summer, unless you have very dry skin. In that case, you could layer a light-weight hyaluronic acid serum underneath your SPF.” Bazaar likes La Roche Posay’s Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum, £37, as well as a hyaluronic face mist for top-ups when necessary. Try Balance Me’s Hyaluronic Plumping Mist, £16.
6. Focus on antioxidants “Another absolutely mandatory ingredient for the summer is a high-grade antioxidant product (containing vitamin C or polyphenols). Again, however, I would recommend using this all year around anyway, as it also helps protect from other forms of oxidative stress, such as pollution.”
7. Fight pigmentation “Irregular pigmentation gets worse in the summer, no matter how good you are with sun protection, so you may want to add an anti-pigment serum into your regime if you are not already using one. Good over-the-counter anti-pigment ingredients include Arbutin and Kojic Acid.”
8. Don’t fear retinol... “I recommend using retinoids all year around in the UK, even in the summer, as they can benefit the skin throughout the year. Retinoids, such as retinol, are great collagen inducers. They also exfoliate the skin, even-out irregular pigmentation and help repair sun damage. You would waste an entire half a year of skin benefits, if you were to restrict such an important ingredient to winter only.” “Yes, retinoids can make the skin a little more sensitive to sunlight, but if you are wearing a SPF 30-50 every day anyway and are not overexposing your skin to the sun (which is essential, if you are serious about looking after it), you’ll be fine. In principal, anybody in their late 20s or 30s onwards can benefit from using retinoids, as col-
lagen production starts to deplete then and I am a big believer in prevention and early intervention. Use them, in the evening, as tolerated.”
9. … but don’t take it on holiday “The only exception to using retinol is on a sunny holiday, where it may be tricky to avoid the sun. If you are going away, stop any retinoids (and AHAs for that matter) about a week prior.”
10. Target inflammation “During the summer, some people may get itchy rashes on their skin. This could be something called PLE (polymorphic light eruption or ‘sun allergy’), a reaction to UV light, or milaria (‘prickly heat’), which is caused when excessive sweating leaves sweat trapped under your skin. To avoid the former, expose your skin to the sun very gradually, while for the latter, try reducing sweating using cool compresses, cool showers and non-occlusive cotton clothing. If either does arise, a mild hydrocortisone cream can help relieve them, but speak to your doctors first.”
11. Try a treatment “Certain in-clinic treatments, such as mesotherapy, are a great addition to your routine for the summer. Mesotherapy nourishes the skin from the inside to help protect and repair low-grade sun damage, as it often contains a high-grade mix of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and peptides. Having a good dermatology grade facial after your summer holiday is important as well, as the outer ‘horny’ layer of the skin naturally thickens when exposed to the sun. This means that, after returning from your holiday, you will have a tendency for clogged pores and breakouts, so exfoliation and extraction are key.”
The Best Convertibles 2019-2020 With eye-catching style and an immersive open-air experience, there’s nothing like a convertible. These are the best convertibles you can buy on the market today. Kelly DawnJe
ff XuCar and Driver Convertibles are irrational in the best way. They offer an open-air driving experience you can’t replicate with even the largest of sunroofs. Convertibles often weigh more and ride less smoothly than their hardtop counterparts, but our favorite convertibles minimize those drawbacks while maximizing everything else that makes droptops so enjoyable. Anyone who has ever considered a convertible should read our list of favorites. With charms that we find irresistible, we think these are the best convertibles for 20192020. Porsche 718 Boxster
A long-term resident of our 10Best Cars list and an Editors’ Choice winner, too, the Porsche 718 Boxster remains the standard for high-performance convertibles. If the Mazda Miata is the basis for a great convertible, the 718 Boxster is the best convertible taken to its extreme. The Boxster is every bit a sports car as its 718 Cayman coupe counterpart and arguably better. The sweet song of the previous flat-sixes might be gone, but the new turbocharged four-cylinders quickly become your friends with their considerable low-end power. Add in precise steering and sure-footed handling, and there is no better drive on a sunny day than the Porsche 718 Boxster with the top down. It›s one of the best convertibles, hands down.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
LEARN MORE There’s a reason the Mazda MX-5 Miata has been on our 10Best Cars list so many times. When it comes to convertibles, few cars available today are as clearly focused on driving enjoyment as the Miata. It›s a genuine driver›s car that›s rewarding for both skilled drivers and those who just want an affordable convertible. An increase in power for 2019 makes the standard four-cylinder engine even more capable of delivering sports-car performance, yet the Mazda Miata hasn›t lost any of its easy-to-drive nature. It›s a convertible in its purest form, which makes this Editors’ Choice one of the best convertibles available. Mercedes-Benz E-class
LEARN MORE We named the Mercedes-Benz E450 to our 10Best Cars list because it does everything well, and that includes top-down driving. It›s more than just a great top-down driver, though. It has an exquisitely appointed interior and is a blast to drive, thanks to its 362-hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6. You can tailor the E450 to match your driving mood, be it a spirited romp on curvy back roads or as a smooth-riding interstate rocket. Put the top up, and the interior is quiet and snug. Every element of this Editors’ Choice E-class convertible exudes a premium look and feel that makes every trip a special one. Mercedes-AMG E53
LEARN MORE The old saying that you can never have too much of a good thing applies especially, in our estimation, to horsepower. The newly available Mercedes-AMG E53 pushes the E-class into serious performance territory with its 429-hp straight-six, which features both a turbocharger as well as an electric supercharger—more good things! In our testing, the E53 hit 60 mph in 4.1 seconds. There’s plenty of tech on hand, too, with automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring (especially helpful with the top up), and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. Every E53 has all-wheel drive and an air suspension. Once again, Mercedes is able to blend performance and refinement, earning it a spot not just on our Editor’s Choice list but to our 10Best list, too. BMW 2-series
LEARN MORE It would be easy to call the BMW 2-series convertible a less serious version of its pint-sized sport-coupe sibling. But the truth is, even with a little extra weight on board, this Editors’ Choice winner is still a driver›s car through and through. Buyers can›t get the raucous M2 in convertible form, but the available 248-hp 230i and 335-hp M235i convertibles have all the get up and go of their coupe counterparts. Razor-sharp handling, quick steering, and instant power make either BMW model a joy to drive—top up or down. Mercedes-Benz C-class
LEARN MORE Compact dimensions, powerful engines, and an elegant interior give the Mercedes-Benz C-class cabriolet a sporty and expensive feel that make it one of the best convertibles in its class. The C300 and its turbocharged four-cylinder offers sharp handling and strong acceleration, but its ride can be harsh over rough pavement. While its interior is handsome and can be outfitted with many upscale amenities, its back seat is cramped and really not fit for adults. Its modern cabin design is complemented by its sleek exterior, and it looks especially handsome with the top down. This is a fun-to-drive luxury convertible, and you get your money’s worth with every drive. It’s on our Editors’ Choice list as a result. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below Mercedes-Benz S-class
LEARN MORE The Mercedes-Benz S-class is the best convertible to choose when you want a little bit of everything—and you have the means to make it happen. Few convertibles on the road have the presence of a Mercedes S560 convertible, which makes it one of our Editors’ Choice winners. Its 463-hp twin-turbocharged V-8 is silky smooth, and the suspension underneath is equally adept at filtering out road annoyances. And then there’s the interior, which is a mix of rich materials that look and feel supreme in every way. Even the convertible soft top exhibits a level of craftsmanship that exudes quality. The S-class is a big car, so it’s not the most nimble convertible by any stretch, but if all you want to do is eat up miles with the top down, there is no more luxurious way to do it.
Audi A5
LEARN MORE Audi offers several open-top options, but it’s the cabriolet version of the A5 cabriolet that requires the least amount of compromise. It›s not exceedingly small like the sporty Audi TT or prohibitively expensive like the exotic Audi R8 roadster. Instead, the A5 sits perfectly in the middle, offering a spacious cabin, solid performance, and just the right level of luxury to make it feel special. Its soft top lowers itself in just 15 seconds, and when it’s up, the A5 feels nearly as buttoned down as the coupe. When the top is dropped, there’s a wind blocker available, but it’s hardly necessary. The Audi A5 cabriolet is one of the best convertibles for every climate. Mercedes-AMG C43
LEARN MORE Luxurious and powerful, the Mercedes-AMG C43 cabriolet will impress luxury-inclined buyers as well as fans of performance. The interior is simply gorgeous, with fine details and rich materials. Onboard Wi-Fi is standard, but we encourage you to stop posting updates on Instagram and enjoy the C43›s awesome performance instead. With a 385-hp twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 and a nine-speed automatic transmission, it will have you smiling every time you pull away from a stoplight. Fast, fun, and close to frugal are traits we can all admire, which is why the C43 finds itself on our Editors’ Choice list.
When I Told My Doctor I Thought I Had Endometriosis, He Said, ‘Stop Practicing Google Medicine’ Lina Kharnak’s gut feeling about what was behind her terrible pain turned out to be right. I always considered myself to be in relatively good health. I had annual checkups, maintained a healthy diet, and tried to exercise. Overall, I was happy to be completely average. True, I had very heavy and lengthy periods, along with bad cramps. But so did my mom. So does my daughter. I thought that’s just how it is.
Then in 2011, after two previously healthy pregnancies, I suffered a miscarriage when I was four months pregnant. Soon after, I started having severe back and leg pain. At first, I blamed it on getting older or the fact that, as a lawyer, I sat so much during the day. When the pain didn’t go away, it seemed likely that it was due to sciatica or a pinched nerve. After a normal pelvic exam and ultrasound, my ob-gyn agreed. So did the chiropractor I consulted.
Mysterious, worsening pain But despite physical therapy appointments and Pilates classes, the pain never completely cleared up. Not until 2014 did I realize that it worsened during and after my period. I also began suffering from other symptoms like frequent urinary tract infections, constipation, and high blood pressure. Even sex became painful. I felt so confused. If nothing unusual was showing up on my exams and tests, then what wascausing my pain?
My ob-gyn suggested that I consult doctors who specialized in uterine issues, but I didn’t do so right away. I couldn’t imagine that anything I had could be that bad. Plus, by this point, I’d learned to live with the two weeks on, two weeks off pain. (It required carefully timed Ibuprofen, which dulled the pain so I could function but didn’t eliminate it.) It was hard to take time
off from my demanding job—not to mention find a good specialist who not only took my insurance but was accepting new patients. I waited 14 months to see a specialist. In hindsight, that was a big mistake.
“Stop practicing Google medicine” In 2015, while researching my symptoms online, I came across endometriosis, a disorder in which uterine tissue grows outside the uterus. It seemed like a possible cause of my symptoms, yet neither of the two specialists I saw that year mentioned it. When I did, I felt like I was irritating them. In fact, one of the doctors told me to “stop practicing Google medicine.” Although both said they could treat my symptoms with various medications, they blamed the 20 or so extra pounds I was carrying at the time as the cause. I did try going on birth control pills, which they had suggested. But I had to stop because it made me throw up all the time and gave me bad headaches.
I remember walking out of the second specialist’s office on a hot August day. I had to walk several blocks to the train station, and as I walked, I tried to process my frustration. I decided I’d had it with these so-called “specialists.” No more appointments with doctors who didn’t listen to me. I’d simply deal with my two weeks on, two weeks off pain cycle until menopause.
But the pain kept getting worse. In 2017 my ob-gyn, knowing how exasperated I was, suggested I have another ultrasound. I have a habit of looking at techs’ faces when I get tests. They’re not allowed to say anything, but don’t have the best poker faces. As the tech prodded my left side, I saw her whole face drop. I found out later that she couldn’t find my left ovary.
An abdominal ultrasound was ordered, as well as a CT scan. The results showed that I had a condition called hydronephrosis [kidney swelling, caused by a backup of urine.] It was so severe that my kidney had stopped working. I was astonished. Upset. Scared. And I was at a loss about what to do, since doctors didn’t know the cause.
I went back to Google for answers. This time, I found an obscure blog, where a woman de-
scribed how her kidney had been impacted by endometriosis. I knew I had to have the condition, too. I began searching for an endometriosis specialist near me.
The right diagnosis—and extensive treatment Three months later, I met with Tamer Seckin, MD, a New York-based gynecologist laparoscopic surgeon. He’d already taken the time to read all my medical files—and he was horrified that no one spotted what he said were classic endometriosis symptoms, such as back pain and pain during sex.
Besides endometriosis, I had adenomyosis (similar to endo, it’s when the uterine lining grows into the muscle of the uterus). Dr. Seckin also diagnosed me with a frozen pelvis, a severe complication of endometriosis that caused my pelvic organs to adhere to my bones. In addition to excision surgery [in which abnormal growths and scar tissue are destroyed], my uterus, both my ovaries, and fallopian tubes would all need to be removed. The surgery took nine hours; it involved not just Dr. Seckin but also a urologist and colorectal specialist. During the procedure, they discovered that my kidney was infected and swollen to four times its normal size. They had no choice but to take it out as well.
No one feels great after this type of surgery, but truthfully, I was happy. The pain was gone. I vividly remember sitting in the waiting room before the operation, signing paperwork, and being unable to put weight on my left side because of the intense pain shooting down my leg. After the surgery, I was achy and groggy, but the pain on the left side of my body had disappeared.
Recovery was not easy—I was home on disability leave for three months—but the mental peace I finally had was worth it.
Putting dismissive doctors on notice
I agreed to open up about my story because I want other women to not wait for years to get diagnosed. Listen to your body. Believe your symptoms. Do your research and come to your doctors prepared.
We need to put medical professionals on notice that they cannot continue to ignore millions of women who have endometriosis. I want insurance companies to hear this, too, and start covering excision surgeries, which are currently out of pocket and very expensive. I don’t want anyone else to lose major organs to endo.
Looking back, I didn’t live—I survived between pain cycles—for seven years. Now, I feel I have a life again.
The Best Beaches to Visit in July The dog days of summer might not seem so ideal for spending grueling hours in the sun, but we found seven best beaches to visit in July—from sultry Jamaica to the South Pacific—where you can still enjoy breezes, cocktails, and ocean views without the triple-digit temps.
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Malolo Island, Fiji Finally ready to just bite the bullet and book a trip to the South Pacific? Without question, July is the opportune time to visit Fiji, whose dry season gets in full swing and the water is at its clearest and calmest. You won’t go wrong with any of the white-sand beaches here, but our eyes are trained on Malolo Island’s Six Senses Fiji. Just 24 pool villas—all teak, wood-beamed ceilings, and white linens—sit at the cusp of the sea, separated by lush jungle gardens and shaded by palm trees. Of course, the renowned spa is worth a look, as are the restaurants, which serve fruit and vegetables grown on-site—but we won’t blame you for spending most of your time out on the sand or snorkeling the
nearby Malolo Barrier Reef. Deal
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Newport, RI Known as “First Beach” to locals, Newport’s Easton’s Beach is the closest one you’ll find to downtown—ideal for popping by whether or not you decide to spend a full day there. Its proximity to the Cliff Walk means you can start or end your day with your toes in the sand between tours of Newport’s famous mansions and cliff views, while live band Tuesdays and Thursday Children’s Nights (July through August) make it a must for families. Keeping it casual? Grab a lobster roll from Easton’s Beach Snack Bar, then check in to Castle Hill Inn, a collection of cottages just a five minutes’ drive from downtown complete with lawn games, a private beach of its own, and a yacht for cruises nearby. ee Deal
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Montego Bay, Jamaica Reggae Sumfest, Jamaica’s biggest music event of the year, takes over the streets and sands of Montego Bay every July. Over six nights, you can catch reggae’s biggest acts (Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, Beres Hammond, Maxi Priest) along with a few more well-known names like Shaggy and Snoop Lion (Snoop Dogg’s reggae album pseudonym) as they hit stages around town. After all that high-octane fun, retreat down the coast to Round Hill Hotel and Villas. Designed by none other than Ralph Lauren, it’s one of the most luxurious lowkey escapes in all of the Caribbean, with a private beach, splurge-worthy spa, and themed dinners that keep the live music flowing. Check Prices for Round Hill Hotel And Villas in Montego Bay, Jamaica ee Deal
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Palm Beach, Aruba By July, hurricane season is already well underway throughout the Caribbean—but Aruba, one of the region’s most southerly islands, remains below the hurricane belt, making it an easy (and safe) spot to get away. The tiny Dutch isle is famous for its sugar-white sands, gabled houses, and twisted divi-divi trees. Skip the rockier, rougher seas of the north for posh Palm Beach, in the west, where Aruba’s most luxurious sleep—The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba—makes for an impressive landmark with its multi-tiered saffron façade and sprawling pool area. Check Prices for The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba in Noord, Aruba ee Deal
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Shoal Bay East, Anguilla Anguilla claims 33 beaches to its name, but Shoal Bay—a two-mile stretch of sand on the island’s Atlantic side—is by far its prettiest. The powder-fine white sand meeting crystal turquoise ocean is a sight to behold, the shallows extending farther out than usual thanks to a protective reef. You’ll find all amounts of authentic beach bars (like Gwen’s Reggae Bar and Grill) on both sides of “The Bend” (which divides the beach in two) as well as arguably Anguilla’s most luxurious resort, Zemi Beach House, on the eastern end. Drop your bags in one of
the 69 tropical rooms—think rattan furniture, dark-wood accents, and floor-toceiling beach views—then check out the island’s only hammam. Check Prices for Zemi Beach House Resort & Spa in Shoal Bay Village, Anguilla
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Tsilivi Beach, Zakynthos, Greece July spells high season for Greece’s famous isles, but there’s still glorious beaches to be found without so many crowds—if you know where to look. Despite being one of the largest Ionian Islands, Zakynthos welcomes fewer tourists and lower hotel rates than the likes of Mykonos and Santorini, and, as long as you avoid Shipwreck Beach, its sands are far less visited as well. On the hilly
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Cornwall, England England might be the biggest surprise in any round-up of “best beaches,” but let us make a case for Cornwall. The UK sees its best weather patterns in July, when the sun is out consistently and the temperatures are warm and comfortable. Along the Cornish coast, you’ll find long, untouched beaches—Land’s End and Porthcurno among the best—shaped by turbulent waves and natural rock formations, which form calmer tidal pools . After checking into The Idle Rocks, a chic waterfront inn in St. Mawes known for its rustic, “collected” look (think antique wooden fishing boxes, African jewelry, and driftwood sculptures) and breezy terrace, head further west to St Ives, where artist studios, an outpost of the Tate, and historic seafood restaurants draw a cultured crowd of foodies and gallery-hoppers.