https://www.ricksteves.com/watch-read-listen/read/articles/heat-wave-tips-europe
Tips for Beating the Heat in Europe Heat waves are becoming the new
summertime normal across Europe — and while Europe is doing its best
to adapt, travelers need to as well. With the following advice in
mind, you can enjoy a cool trip despite hot temps. By Rick Steves
My tip: Lots of gelato! Is there a better flavor than pistachio? I don’t think so.
Happy travels!
Walk in the shady side of the street.
Turn down the shower temperature control by at least a couple of notches, and you might need to take more than one a day.
Pack a small portable fan that you can carry in your day bag and/or prop up next to you in bed at night. I have two of these https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRDSSRHG?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_2&th=1 which were recommended in New York Times wirecutter column
Living in Texas, I only go out in the day time during the summer months when I must.
But I put a towel in the freezer and put it over my shoulders or my head when I go out. It is not stylish and some people look at me but who cares when it is 100 F.
Of course, you may not have a freezer large enough to put a towel in it. You can put the towel in the refrigerator assuming that you have one.
Carry a plastic bag with you to put the towel in when you are not wearing it, keeping it in your tote bag.
It will be defrosting as you walk in the heat so water will be dripping on your clothes.
Wear llght colored clothes. Avoid wearing colors like black or navy.
Bring a refillable water bottle with you and drink water all day long.
As Rick says, heat is not just very uncomfortable. it can be dangerous.
Depending on where you are sightseeing, go out very early mornings, evenings and the nighttime. Try to be indoors during the hottest parts of the day or at a pool or beach.
If you have to travel in summer, go to Orkney or Shetland.
If you have to travel in summer, go to Orkney or Shetland.
Winner!
Actually, one finds that cooler temperatures in Europe typically are present in the morning hours. We're in the midst of yet another canicule in Bordeaux right now, but temperatures before noon or even 2 pm are generally quite pleasant. Things start to heat up big time after 3 pm, though. Bottom line: if you need to get some exercise, get it in the morning.
Indeed we have another canicule (heatwave in French) in Bordeaux. It has been the relentless summer of the canicule. Last summer we went to Scandinavia from Bordeaux to beat the heat. This year, we broke down and bought a portable AC unit. I keep un éventail (hand fan, think flamenco dancer) in my purse, car, etc. I have a YETI water bottle (honestly the best water bottle I've ever owned) filled every day with ice water--and the ice doesn't melt!
Lots of good suggestions on this thread! Stay cool everyone!
I was in a recent heatwave in Europe and this wearable neck fan saved me. So many people stopped me and asked me where to get one. Several models on Amazon. Here is a link to mine.
https://www.homedepot.com/pep/JISULIFE-8-in-3-Speeds-Personal-Fan-in-Grey-FA14/328724547?
I carry a tiny spray bottle of water , about 15 mls, to spritz myself with when outside in the heat.
It’s a lifesaver and lasts a couple of days before refilling.
Also a small travel umbrella for shade when walking.
I hate hats, they make me feel even hotter.
A wet bandanna around the neck.
Wearing loose flowy skirts instead of pants/crops/shorts.
In Europe , most churches are dark and cool….good for sitting in to cool off for a bit.
Shady cafes.
AC in all the accommodation…not fans, actual AC.
I now travel late September-October…I’m hoping the heat will have dissipated a bit by then this year.
Go somewhere cooler.
Last week, I was in London and it was 32 C (90 F).
So I went up to Scotland. When I got off the plane, it was 13 C (55 F).
We were in Orkney ourselves just the other week- it was indeed a lot cooler- high of 14C (57F) which was quite a shock as when we left London it was 30C (86F). Altho I personally prefer the heat.
Something I recommend is a reflective sun umbrella. These are really useful particularly when you're in a big open area with no shade, like an archeological site or a park where you're far from trees. The little handheld fans are also good for when you're on the non-air conditioned tube lines.
A few more ideas from an Italian on-line newspaper subscription:
I am so glad you have been following official Italian Health Ministry guidance, Jean !! A model visitor you are, doing as they recommend.
The Chinese (I assume) manufacturers and the UK importers of those little hand-held fans must have made an absolute fortune this year. Everyone's got them. Must have sold millions.
Along with one of my fans, I carry a vaporisateur in my purse for a light water spray. Sephora sells a little travel model that fits in the palm of my hand.
Two scoops, chocolate then hazelnut, in that order and only from the shops with the silver canisters with lids. Of course if you can find fresh strawberry….
From late May into about mid-September we have to expect it could be had as Hades. It's a roll of the dice when planning, which is why I'm avoiding the months with the best odds of a heat wave, never mind the massive tourist influx during the peak summer months. Perhaps the most important tip is to ensure your hotel/VRBO/etc. has reliable AC. Check reviews although I realize there is no 100 percent guarantee, but it doesn't hurt to do your research.
Kim, if gelato keeps me in good grace with Italy, I’m willing to do my part! LOL!
Go somewhere cooler.
Last week, I was in London and it was 32 C (90F)
Cooler? Go see a movie! I was in London last week, too, and the Prince Charles Theater showed A Hard Days Night at 3:00 P.M. last Monday. It was definitely cooler inside, and the darkened theater added to the sense of a more temperate environment. It was neat seeing & hearing Beatles songs while in their country, and seeing scenes in London, presumably filmed “just down the street.” The train scenes were interesting, too, with older-style cars.
Of course, the film was in English, without subtitles. Depending on the movie and where you are, that might be different. I’ve sat in on double features in France, where it was also hot many years ago, so the situation isn’t entirely new.
The Prince Charles opened in 1972, so I’d say it was named after the current king. They have no plans to rename it the King Charles, however.
A few more ideas from an Italian on-line newspaper subscription:
- Lightly spray water on bed linens or curtains
Jean, this is from Italy, so would that be still or frizzante?
Cyn,
I prefer to drink the acqua frizzante! I’m not sure I would want to try sleeping on damp sheets, but it was an idea they shared.
They have no plans to rename it the King Charles, however.
Totally unrelated fun fact:
In Denmark we have "Kronprins Frederiks Bro"/"Crownprince Frederik's Bridge", which is named after the grand father of our current king. It was never suggested to update the name.
A few kilometers south of this we have "Kronprinsesse Marys Bro"/"Crown Princess Mary's Bridge", which is named after the current queen. I don't think this will be renamed either.
Cyn, thanks for mentioning Prince Charles Cinema- in my opinion one of the very best cinemas in London. They have such interesting programming, a mix of new and old films, sing-a-longs, etc. Earlier this year I saw 2001 there which was amazing on the big screen. And yes, cinemas are always air conditioned!
