How to Be a Pale Person in a Sunny Place
April 24, 2020
Eliza, our Director of Guest Services, speaks from experience
My family is full of freckled, pale people. Our skin is like lighter fluid in the sun – we burn thoroughly and quickly. When I look back and reminisce about our vacations, I just see a bunch of cooked lobsters.
As we have aged, we are all starting to see the long term effects of the sun. The freckles the sun has kissed us with are turning against us. All 6 of my family members have had some sort of pre-melanoma spot removed. This has not stopped us from enjoying the great outdoors, going to the beach, or showing skin – we have just gotten smarter and know the limits of our bodies.
In Costa Rica and Panama, the sun can be quite strong since you’re closer to the equator – this makes people more susceptible to burning. Through my experience and some actual science, I want to equip you with some tips on how to have a burn-free vacation while in Central America.
Plan your outdoor activities for the morning or evening especially if they are in direct sun
Avoid long term, direct exposure in the heat of the day when the sun is at its peak. Try to go to the beach in the morning or in the evening. I personally love going to the beach in the evening for happy hour. You can pack a picnic of hors-d’oeuvres, drinks, and watch the sunset (you will be on the Pacific Ocean so you will be able to see the sun dip under the horizon). During the middle of the day, pick activities
that will allow rest from sun exposure – like a massage, a canopy zipline tour, or a nice lunch at a restaurant. Besides sunscreen, you should also wear a hat and cover up as much as you can.
Overcast days can be a blessing but remember your sunscreen
I thrive on an overcast day. It is not as hot and I can extend my time in the sun. Also, the beach and pools seem less crowded and I can get a prime spot! But, the biggest mistake is not wearing sunscreen because UV rays can still make their way through the clouds. You need to make sure that you apply the same amount of sunscreen in the same intervals that you would if it were sunny.
Bases burn and base tans are not a thing
Before you leave for your trip, you might try to get some color so you can look good in your vacation pictures or so your tan protects you from the sun while on your trip. That is just a myth though – Central America has strong sun exposure so your base tan means nothing. Exposing your skin without sunscreen even with a tan can be extremely dangerous.
Now that I have told you to wear sunscreen, what kind of sunscreen works the best?
Most people are fine with an SPF between 30-50. Anything above SPF 55 is slightly more effective, but not enough to make a huge difference. Below 30 won’t give you the protection you need in the strong sun. For constant protection, you need to reapply sunscreen every 40-80 minutes and make sure that you are using water-resistant products. This might be a controversial opinion but I prefer lotion over spray sunscreen – I feel like it works better. There’s just more room for error when it comes to applying spray sunscreen. It can be blown away by the wind, you can easily miss spots without realizing it, and you don’t apply enough. However, no matter what kind you prefer, you are allowed to bring aerosol cans and lotion sunscreen on an airplane, but there are size restrictions for carry-on luggage so check before you pack.
The sun should only make your trip better; it shouldn’t ruin it. There are pools to swim in, beaches to relax on, and places
to explore – so get out there and bring a hat and sunscreen! Lastly, remember no one is better than the sun.
Top 5 Reasons Why Costa Rica is a Must-Visit Destination Costa Rica, known for its stunning natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and vibrant culture, has become a top destination for travelers from around the world. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this Central American gem has something for everyone. Here are the top five reasons why Costa Rica should be at the top of your travel list. 1. Breathtaking Natural Beauty Costa Rica's landscapes are incredibly diverse and breathtakingly beautiful. From pristine beaches along the Pacific and Caribbean coasts to lush rainforests and towering volcanoes, the country's natural beauty is unparalleled. The iconic Arenal Volcano, the tranquil Monteverde Cloud Forest, and the stunning beaches of Manuel Antonio are just a few of the must-see spots. Highlights: Relax on the white sands of Playa Conchal. Hike through the misty trails of Monteverde. Marvel at the powerful La Fortuna Waterfall. 2. Rich Biodiversity Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. The country is home to more than 500,000 species, including howler monkeys, sloths, toucans, and sea turtles. Numerous national parks and protected areas, such as Corcovado National Park and Tortuguero National Park, offer visitors the chance to experience this incredible biodiversity up close. Highlights: Spot wildlife on a guided tour in Corcovado National Park. Witness the nesting of sea turtles in Tortuguero. Explore the rich marine life while snorkeling or diving in the waters of the Guanacaste coast. 3. Adventure Activities For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Costa Rica is a playground of adventure activities. Whether it's zip-lining through the canopy, white-water rafting down roaring rivers, or surfing the waves, there's no shortage of thrills. The country's varied landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for a wide range of outdoor activities. Highlights: Zip-line over the treetops in Monteverde or Arenal. Raft the rapids of the Pacuare River. Catch some of the best waves in the world at beaches like Playa Tamarindo and Santa Teresa. 4. Commitment to Sustainability Costa Rica is a global leader in eco-tourism and sustainable travel. The country's commitment to preserving its natural resources and promoting sustainable tourism practices is evident in its numerous eco-friendly hotels, tours, and conservation projects. Costa Rica aims to become the first carbon-neutral country by 2050, making it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious travelers. Highlights: Stay in eco-lodges that minimize environmental impact. Participate in conservation programs and eco-tours. Learn about sustainable farming practices at local coffee plantations. 5. Warm and Welcoming Culture The warmth and friendliness of the Costa Rican people, known as "Ticos," add to the country's charm. The local culture is a blend of indigenous traditions, Spanish influence, and modern innovation. Costa Ricans are known for their "Pura Vida" (pure life) philosophy, which reflects a laid-back and positive outlook on life. This welcoming attitude makes visitors feel at home and encourages them to immerse themselves in the local way of life. Highlights: Experience the vibrant culture in the capital city, San José. Enjoy traditional dishes like Gallo Pinto and Casado. Celebrate local festivals and events with Ticos. Costa Rica's stunning natural beauty, rich biodiversity, thrilling adventure activities, commitment to sustainability, and warm culture make it a top destination for travelers. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors, relax on beautiful beaches, or immerse yourself in a vibrant culture, Costa Rica offers an unforgettable experience. Plan your trip to this incredible country and discover why it's a must-visit destination.
Downloading basic apps like these on your phone can really save you in times of need. Ordering food, needing directions, finding help – the list goes on.
The most important safety rules while traveling are pretty similar to the same safety techniques you have likely inherited in your daily routine at home. Stay in groups, don’t walk down dark alleys in the middle of the night in a place you are not familiar with, keep your phone with you; lock your doors, etc. We can all assume those types of daily rituals have become nothing short of human nature. Let’s take a look at some of the more in-depth, easy to use, safety tips that will make you feel much more comfortable on your next experience in a new place.
If you’ve traveled with Ghyd before you will likely know the answer. We can sum it up in one word; seamless . These are the four non-negotiable attributes a location must have in order to be a Ghyd destination: Transportation Cost Climate Experiences It goes without say ing, that our first priority is the safety of our clients and the destinations we offer. Let’s save that for another article – perhaps, the Top 5 Tips to Stay Safe .
Johnson Small, Owner of Ghyd, talks about his experience in the travel industry
