How to survive a South European summer vacation

First of all, the best advice is to NOT book a vacation to the South of Europe during the summer months. June, July, and August are the months when all children, students, teachers, government workers, and many others take a long vacation. And they mostly go to the seaside. Plus, on the weekends, everyone else joins in the escapade. Besides the crowds, it gets very hot. If you're not used to a hot environment, you need to know how to cope with the summer weather in Europe.

But if you're already packing for your trip, here are a few tips to make your vacation more comfortable.

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Pack comfortable clothing

Europeans know how to dress for hot weather. You should wear loose clothing in light colors, preferably white. That's the best color to keep you cool in the sun. Wear natural, breathable fibers.

Wear a light-colored hat when you're in the sun. Covering your skin will actually keep you cooler and less sunburnt. The face and the shoulders are the first to burn, so protect them.

You may also encounter a summer storm- rain, thunder, lightning, and even hail. Take shelter, as it usually doesn't last long. It's good to have a tiny umbrella, instead of a raincoat, because it will still be warm outside. Or just take cover in a fancy cafe, and continue your journey after it settles down.

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Always carry water

It's best to have a reusable bottle that will keep your water cold. Then refill it throughout the day, and aim to drink at least 2 liters or half a gallon of water a day. That's four 16.9 oz bottles. If you don't hydrate, you will feel ill from the heat, and it's easier to get heat fatigue or even heat stroke without cold water on hand.

Keep in mind that restaurants in European countries don't offer free tap water. Tap water is not usually good to drink, mostly because of old pipes. Especially as a tourist, it's best to buy bottled water, less risk of having to stay in because of a stomach issue.

I drink a lot of water, so I like to get supermarket water, which is cheaper. I keep it in the hotel mini-fridge. Then hydrate in the room and take some with me for the road.

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Plan your day

Plan each day of your European summer vacation, so you can make the best of every hour.

To visit attractions outside, go there as early as possible, maybe at sunrise. There will be way less people at the Trevi Fountain, for example, at 7 am. You won't have a huge crowd in your photos.

If you're interested in museums, check them out at noon or afternoon, when the heat is the worst. You'll spend a few hours in AC. Find a place to eat or snack nearby, and then continue your exploring when the heat declines.

For the beach, be there early for a swim. From 11 am to 3 pm, stay under your umbrella, go eat lunch, or have a nap. Then return in the late afternoon for more sun and sea. Avoid having alcohol while you're sunbathing. It can make you feel sick or more accident-prone. Sure, a cold beer will cool you off. But anything more than one drink in the sun will make you lie in bed, wasting your whole next day.

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Do most of the walking in the mornings or evenings

If you want to walk along the streets, go early in the morning or later, from 5 pm. Aim to walk in the shade. Most places are open late, so you can do your shopping or snacking in the evening. And dinner is usually late as well, usually from 7 pm onwards.

Exercise in a cool gym or very early in the morning. Do not go for a run in the middle of the day, your health is better off inside a place with AC.

There are cases every summer of tourists finding fatal consequences when they go walking in deserted places in the middle of the day. Any hikes, long walks, or runs should be done very early in the morning and end before 11 am. Be prepared with supplies, plenty of water, a fully charged cell phone, and a buddy.

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Adapt your eating habits

On vacations, calories don't matter. But eating healthier is great for dealing with a hot summer. And it's so much easier to eat healthily in the South of Europe.

For breakfast, include fruit for hydration. And always have protein for energy. For lunch, a big salad is a light option, plus you might not have a huge appetite in the midday heat. For dinner, include vegetables for hydration and to fill up without feeling heavy. Most Europeans eat lighter in the summer- salads and fresh, smaller meals are popular.

Don't forget the delicious options to keep you cool: ice cream, cold watermelon, and frappes.

You do have to indulge in the local foods and treats, of course. I love how European countries have a menu relying on local produce, fresh food, and vast options for everyone's taste. Things you should try in the summer are Caprese salad, garlic shrimp, Greek salad with halloumi, and fresh fish filet. A spread of local cheese, bread, and nuts can make a great meal.

And next time, skip the South of Europe for the summer. The better options to visit are in the North of Europe, like Norway, Iceland, and the Baltic countries. If you want a beach vacation in the Mediterranean, my best tip is to visit in September. The sea will still be warm, and it's less crowded. For very popular spots, like Venice and Paris, I recommend going during the off-season. Aim for dates that have no festivals or Taylor Swift concerts. Yes, the weather will not be amazing. But you won't have a heat stroke, you'll miss the huge crowds, and it's more affordable.