Dear Tammy, Cheri and Bety:
Happy New Year! With the New Year upon us, one of my resolutions this year is to watch what I eat! I’m a little concerned about my upcoming cruise to the Bahamas. I’m worried that I’m going to blow it or blow up! Do you have any suggestions to help keep me on track?
Sincerely,
Fit and Slim from Sun Lakes, AZ
Dear Fit and Slim:
Think going on a cruise means an expanding waistline? Think again. Cruise lines are fighting back against their all-you-can-eat buffet reputation; you just have to know how to work it.
Nutritionists and celebrity chefs have been brought on-board to create healthier, lighter options. The buffet has been replaced on some ships and hardcore exercise programs have been introduced.
There’s a dedicated running and walking track on the deck of Princess cruises as well as complimentary Zumba classes and a fitness center with Pilates, yoga, cycling and weights. Royal Caribbean ships have a rock climbing wall to work your muscles and there’s a Flow Rider so you can learn to surf far above the waves, ice skating and some ships have basketball courts. There is much to offer onboard to keep you active.
We suggest writing a fun exercise circuit program while on board and set yourself a target for number of times and days you plan to do it. Oh and don’t forget about the dance floor. Shaking your booty on the dance floor is a great way to burn a bit of energy and makes you feel great!
There are a range of healthier options now available on cruise ships. Ponton has worked with Carnival ships’ chefs to put a “thumbs up” symbol next to the healthier selections on the Empire Dining menu. There’s a health-focused specialty restaurant on-board Celebrity cruises called Blu with fresh and healthy dishes. This is just to name a few!
Eating can be tough challenge on a cruise yet there are some simple steps to assist you while visiting the buffet:
Fill your plate just once; while it’s nice to graze in small amounts, you end up eating more than you need.
Ensure half your plate consists of non-starchy vegetables then add protein and carbohydrates after.
Eat naked salads — those that aren’t already dressed and you can simply add your own olive oil, lemon or lime juice and/or vinegar.
Enjoy dessert on some nights and leave other nights without.
Be conscious of how much alcohol you are consuming when it’s so readily available. Alcohol makes you eat more and move less.
Enjoy your cruise and stay on track!
If you have a travel question or problem you would like to submit, please contact Tammy Sikorski, Cheri Sigurdson or Bety Dar at El Sol Travel located at 10325 E. Riggs Road, Suite 105, Sun Lakes, AZ 85248. Call 480-895-9362, or e-mail [email protected], [email protected] or [email protected]. View our web site at www.elsolvacations.net.