FAQs

If this is your first time crossing multiple time zones, you have probably heard stories of jet lag and its effects. Jet lag is when your body's natural rhythm and sleep cycle are abruptly changed when visiting a country in another time zone. Here are some tips we have to prepare you and your students for this change.

1. A few days before your trip to Asia, encourage your students to go to bed a few hours later than usual to prepare themselves a little more for the dramatic change. 

2. Before, during, and after your flight, drink a lot of water.

a. When you are heading to the airport, bring a large reusable water bottle. Once you are through security, fill the water bottle, that way you have some water to start your trip on the airplane.

b. Drink more water than you usually do to combat dehydration and "cabin air". The cabin in an airplane is usually around 10-20% humidity , which is dryer than an average day's humidity in the Sahara desert. While it might seem inconvenient to get up for restroom breaks during a flight, prioritizing hydration and taking those short walks back can significantly improve circulation during your long-haul journey. 

3. While on your flight, alongside your water intake, drink electrolytes or sugary drinks to promote fluid retention.

a. Examples of drinks with electrolytes and sugars are sports recovery drinks and coconut water. You can get electrolyte tablets to add to your reusable water bottles or order a soda from the flight attendants. Drinking these will help you stay hydrated and possibly reduce the amount of restroom runs you may take. 

Once you land, do your best to have a positive attitude! You may find that you are tired and feeling a little foggy. Jet lag, no matter how much water you drink, is still going to happen, and it is totally normal! You and your group will be experiencing feelings of tiredness and possibly irritation, so be patient with each other and tap into your collective enthusiasm for the journey! You will find that in no time, these symptoms are over, and in their place is excitement and curiosity to explore your destination.