As a member of the tribe of urban professionals, I am a traveler. For both business and pleasure I frequently find myself in airports, subways, hotels and restaurants. In the beginning of my career, I led a jet-lagged life of arriving to my destination only to get a cold two days later! If I have learned one thing from all of these cross-country commutes, it is how to travel and stay well. This is no small feat, considering that most everyone around you has just wiped their nose, scratched themselves or gone to the restroom. Here are my traveling tips to get you to your destination feeling refreshed and keep you healthy all along the way! Wash your hands! The more, the better! Minimally, before, during and after your flight. Wash your hands again the minute you get to your final destination (home or hotel) Boost your immune system with herbal medicine. For instance, Good Elements: Resistance is a natural immune system booster. I take two capsules every two hours while traveling. Drink lots of water. Constantly staying hydrated is key. Buy a big bottle of water right after you pass through security and drink it on the plane. Warning: you may want to choose an aisle seat so you're not bothering your entire row with your frequent trips to the head. Bring your own food. Airplane food is notorious for being unhealthy empty calories. Instead of eating the cookies and cheese spread, bring nuts, fruit and a nice sandwich. Get sleep: Bring a pillow, eye cover and earplugs. Melatonin: Take 1-3 mg before your ideal time of sleep to "reset your clock" to your new time zone. Lastly, NEVER EAT THE BEER NUTS! One of the biggest reservoirs of infection known to man is a public bowl of bar snacks. Trust me, stick to beverages. Happy traveling, Dr. C