IF YOU CAN’T STAND THE HEAT …
Summer’s nearly here and, after a long, cold UK winter, there will be plenty of us dreaming about some sun. But are you really ready for the heat …?
When you plan a new life overseas, better weather is perhaps up there on the list of things you’ll really take time to appreciate.
You’ll tell yourself it will be great to be able to anticipate long, sunny days in a place where barbecues are not rained off and you can leave the house with confidence without taking a coat or an umbrella.
You may even go as far as to vow, no matter how high the mercury climbs, you will never curse the heat but relish it because you will always remember just what it’s like to be cold, wet and miserable.
But you’ll be wrong …
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IF YOU CAN’T STAND THE HEAT …
After a week of dodging from shadow to shade in temperatures as high as 50c, burning your hands on the car steering wheel, standing under fans or diving into supermarkets you pass simply because they have air-con, you will crave a little drizzle as a blessed relief from the relentless glare of the sun.
Living in a hot country full time is not the same as visiting on holiday. There are probably going to be chores to do just as there are at “home” and there won’t always be a swimming pool a few feet away or a long cold drink to hand.
You might not admit it; you may be very British and soldier on regardless while the locals are snoozing to avoid the worst of the merciless heat. But, inside, there will be a bit of you missing an occasional rainy day.
However, there are a few things you can do to make life a little easier in the heat of high summer so here are our suggestions:
Timing
If you have to go out shopping, on errands or perhaps to walk the dog, early morning and evening are the best bet. You’ll avoid the higher temperatures and be able to spend the middle part of the day either indoors near the air-con, close to the pool, the fridge or even the beach.
Also there are few worse things than having to do everything in a hurry when the temperatures are in the 40s. It’s not only uncomfortable but it can help to make you irritable or irrational – not pleasant for those around you and perhaps even dangerous when you’re behind the wheel of a car. If you’re going out, give yourself far more time in the hot summer months. Move slowly and rest often.
Drink lots of water – and carry a small towel
We all know drinking water is essential in hot weather – but don’t wait until you’re thirsty. Lots of sips at regular intervals helps to keep you hydrated – and so can drinking a glass before going to sleep. But, if you have to go out, have you thought of carrying a small towel or a flannel in a waterproof bag? Dipping it in water and having it to hand in the car or the café can help to take the edge of the heat.
Much the same technique can be used at night. If you don’t want to leave the air-con or a fan running until morning, you could try sleeping on top of a towel with a damp sheet over you. It may seem an unattractive proposition right now but there will be hot, sultry nights when you’d sell your soul to be able to sleep and it might be worth a try.
IF YOU CAN’T STAND THE HEAT …
Close the curtains or draw the blinds
Have you ever wondered why you find heavy wooden shutters over windows in hot countries? They help keep out the early morning light but also some of the heat of the day. It may mean the house is a little gloomy but, if you keep the curtains or the blinds drawn – particularly in rooms you’re not using – less direct sunlight through the glass will mean a little less heat.
Wear loose-fitting clothes in white
There’s a good reason flowing robes are popular in hot countries; they help to keep air circulating around your body and therefore help to keep you cool. White is also the best colour as it reflects heat – but it also hides some of your discomfort. A blue or a grey T-shirt on a hot afternoon is going to give away just how hot, sweaty and uncomfortable you’re feeling.
Playing it cool
You may have to steel yourself a little when you’ve been sweating all day but, when the blissful moment comes for that long shower, try to keep the water temperature as low as you can stand. Even tepid water helps to bring down the body’s core temperature, which will help you feel cooler for longer once you’ve dried off. Concentrate of running areas like wrists, the backs of your knees and your neck under the water for a while, as these are all pulse points where cooler water has the most effect.
Summer is not far away now and, if it’s your first, enjoy … But don’t forget we’re here to help if you have an eye on a permanent move to Spain, Portugal, Turkey or Greece. We have a selection of villas and apartments in all four countries and can even help with some of the paperwork and logistics. If you think we might be able to assist you, just drop us a line or give us a call.