Travel & Hotspots

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU’RE ON A CITY TRIP

and all it does is rain

So there you are… You planned a nice weekend getaway to Paris, Berlin, Antwerp or anything along those lines. But instead of clear blue skies and breezy weather, it’s pouring out. 24/7. Going outside means getting drenched to the bone. So then what?

Even during my last holiday in Sri Lanka and Thailand, I couldn’t avoid the rain. In both countries I dealt with massive downpours so so much for thinking a tropical island is always, well, tropical. Here are some ways to turn your frown upside down and bare through the rain.

Tip 1

The classic rule: go to a huge department store and never come out.

New York is quite possibly the best place to be if you get caught in a rain storm, and Paris isn’t all too bad either. A good department store  has multiple places to grab something to eat and some even have spa’s and hair salons. Start off on the first floor and work you way up. This is bound to keep you busy for a while and the sun will be out before you know it.

Tip 2

This really depends on which city you’re in. If you get trapped in the rain in Paris (where the weather can be pretty depressing) there are heaters on nearly every terrace. Find a comfortable place to sit and relax and stay dry. Order some wine, some cheese and bread… Trust me, you’ll completely forget it was raining in the first place.

Tip 3

I never travel without my trusty little MacBook friend, but that does mean I always carry around an extra bit of weight. The main purpose I tag it along is for work, but being able to watch a movie or tv show is an added bonus. Especially on a rainy day. Before my recent holiday, I uploaded two seasons of The Walking Dead and let me tell you – I am so glad I did. There was one day that I was in Tangalle, a mini beach resort in Sri Lanka, and I had to hide from the storm in my wooden beach hut.  Whilst the island almost got blown away, I was content sitting in my hut binge watching my show in bed. So my advice? Bring your laptop or iPad, download some movies and your favorite shows and you’re good to go.

Tip 4

Now I’m not really the artsy fartsy type, but visiting a museum is the perfect activity when it’s raining outside. It’s always good to use Google to see if any of the museums in your neighborhood have exhibitions or cool collections that interest you and turn it into a day trip. Not only will you stay dry, you’ll be doing something cultural too. Win-win.

Tip 5

Every city has a spa, sauna or other health retreat. Why got opt for some R&R and get pampered with massages, manicures, pedicures, etc. Standing outside in the rain is no ones cup of tea, so you better make the best of it.

It’s almost starting to sound like something to look forward too; a rainy day. Almost.