Sun - The passion for sunbathing is on the wane, but your skin is at risk whether  you’re sightseeing or stretched out on a beach chair.

What To Do: Wear sunscreen at all times, of course, but remember to reapply after each meal and after you swim to ensure that you’re protected all day. Watch your shadow - when it’s shorter than you are, take extra precautions or avoid the sun entirely. If you’ve overdone it and you’re fried, get plenty of rest and fluids- and stay out of the sun.

Heat - It takes as long as three weeks to get used to a hotter climate, which means your body may be adapting just as you’re heading home. The term “sunstroke” is  something of a misnomer, since heat exhaustion can strike you even if you’ve avoided the sun - especially if you are overweight, engaging in strenuous exercise or overindulging in alcohol.

What To Do: Symptoms of heat exhaustion can mimic the flu: fatigue, slight fever, headache, giddiness or nausea. If you begin feeling ill, get out of the heat immediately. Remove tight clothing, cover yourself with wet towels or take a cool shower. Seek medical help if you faint or vomit or if your symptoms are worsening.

Dehydration - Sweating is a great defense against heat, but you’ll be losing the equivalent of six large glasses of fluid each day in a hot climate. Failing to top up with warmish water or fruit juice can allow your body temperature to become dangerously high.

What To Do: Avoid over-exertion and watch your diet-spicy food encourages you to sweat. Drink liquids beyond the point of merely quenching your thirst.

Mosquitoes - Those tropical pests can carry dangerous diseases such as malaria, a potentially fatal disease that is found in more than 100 countries.

What To Do: Check with your doctor before you go to assess your risk, and take medication as advised. Wear insect repellent, pants and long sleeves when you go out in the evenings.

Swimming Hazards - That tranquil beach may be hiding strong currents or an undertow.

What To Do:  Always ask local people or hotel staff about areas safe for swimming. Don’t swim alone or while intoxicated, and avoid walking barefoot, as beaches might hide sharp stones, jagged shells and broken glass.

Beach Safety - Strolling the sand at night may be romantic, but it also may be unsafe.

What To Do: Take late night walks only if the area is well-lit and well-populated. During the day, carry only those items you can afford to lose if you take a dip or fall asleep on the beach - the rest should be safely stowed in your hotel’s safety deposit boxes.

Infections - Cuts and scrapes in the tropics can quickly turn into  infections, so be sure to treat an injury as soon as possible, no matter how minor.

What To Do: Clean and bandage the area and check the injury each night for signs of infection. Use ear plugs while swimming to help prevent an infection known as swimmer’s ear. Think about whether a pool is properly chlorinated before you take the plunge - you should be able to smell the chlorine.

Excessive Air Conditioning - Instant immersion in frigid air puts your sinuses, nose and throat on alert - membrane linings can swell up, causing stuffiness and congestion.

What To Do: Go natural and choose hotel rooms with overhead fans, when available, or turn down the temperature setting on your room’s air conditioner.

By being aware of potential hazards, you can protect yourself  from mishaps and have the kind of holiday you want - safe, fun, and relaxing

Uniglobe consultants are experts at helping business and vacation travelers plan their trips.