Ask a Cathay member: how do you look after your wellbeing when you travel?

Travel is exciting, offering a gateway to new discoveries and unforgettable experiences. But exploration often comes at the expense of routine, leaving even the most seasoned traveller at risk of feeling drained. 

Thankfully, there are many simple ways you can safeguard your wellbeing while on holiday — and for the best tips, who better to ask than our very own community of globetrotters. Read on for Cathay members’ tried and tested hacks for taking care of your mental and physical health when on the go. By weaving them into your next journey, you can return home feeling truly refreshed by your experience. 

“Travel is my way of recharging. I’ve found solo trips are the best way for me to unwind — especially in Europe, which gives me the perfect balance of culture and nature. I often plan hikes along scenic trails and make time for quiet, restorative moments in peaceful settings. Both help me feel more grounded.”

“To avoid the stress of crowds, I steer clear of big cities and instead explore smaller towns and rural areas. These quieter places give me space to breathe and slow down, while also creating opportunities to connect with the people I meet. My analog camera is a travel necessity — shooting on film makes me move more slowly, notice details, and appreciate moments as they unfold. For me, wellbeing on the road isn’t about ticking off sights, but about finding stillness and meaning along the way.”

“I think a lot of people forget the basics. As a scuba diving instructor, I always tell people to remember to breathe slowly, and this applies to flying. The aircraft environment is quite confined, which people often find stressful. You can usually tell when someone isn't relaxed on a flight; they might be fidgeting or seem generally unsettled. This is especially true during moments of turbulence. Instead of panicking, what you can do is take a deep breath. It will be okay.”

“The second, and equally obvious thing, is to make sure you drink enough water.”

“There’s nothing more grounding than exploring a new place on foot or by bike. It’s free, simple, and a great way to enjoy the present.”

“What’s even better is exploring a cycle-friendly city after dark. One of my fondest memories is visiting Paris for the first time and cycling over the Seine at night – the evening lights were straight out of a film scene. So find yourself a helmet and switch on your bike lights; I cannot recommend it enough.”

“I always eat a hearty and healthy breakfast of toast, eggs, and maybe some avocado and vegetables to fuel myself. Even when I’m travelling, I find that maintaining this part of my routine sets me up nicely for the rest of the day — and I can indulge for lunch and dinner. It’s especially easy to do when you’re staying at a hotel, as these items are found on most hotel breakfast menus.” 

“When I travel, I prioritise my wellbeing by kicking off most days with a gym session. This not only boosts my energy levels but also sets a positive tone for my day. I often seek out hotels with gyms or look for local facilities that offer day passes. By staying committed to my fitness routine while on holiday, I ensure I maintain my progress. It also helps balance out the amount of food I indulge in during my travels.”