With the risk of COVID-19 still looming large, many countries are insisting upon its visitors being in hotel quarantine, especially those who come from a red list country. We tell you how to make the most of this time. By Priyanka Lamba
Hotel quarantine is a measure many countries insist upon to prevent the spread of COVID-19, especially for travellers from a red list country. Countries like Australia, the UK, Hong Kong, New Zealand, China and Singapore have implemented a compulsory quarantine. Travellers usually have to quarantine in a hotel from anywhere between seven to 21 days at their own expense.
If you are planning to visit Hong Kong or returning there, you’ll have to be in quarantine for up to three weeks. The Hong Kong government has also released a list of 16 designated quarantine hotels. And now that you’re in isolation in a hotel room, why not make it a relaxing time instead of feeling trapped? Here are some tips that will help you survive your stay in a hotel room.
Book a room with a view
While the thought of spending your quarantine in a single room may not be pleasing, booking a room that has a decent view can help. Choose a hotel where you can book your stay that’ll make you feel positive about spending your quarantine in the same room. Even better if it comes with a balcony where you can sit and sip on your coffee!
Wake up with a purpose
Plan how you want to spend each day. Start with some workout, followed by a pampering session in the shower. Try to accomplish something—even the smallest of tasks count. You can also make a to-do list before you sleep to start the next day on a purposeful note. Getting good sleep is crucial to recharge your battery, especially when quarantining in a room. This will not only give you direction but also a certain degree of control over your day. Even studies have stressed the importance of establishing a routine.
Get some exercise
Exercising kills two birds with one stone—it keeps both, the blues and flab away. Workouts release endorphins, serotonin and norepinephrine, which are happy hormones. Dancing, pilates, acroyoga, aerobics—choose from a plethora of options to stay fit and happy as you quarantine in a room. According to an article published by Harvard Medical School, working out also reduces stress in addition to releasing happy hormones.
Soak in some vitamin D
Try to soak in the early morning sunshine. You can also meditate or practice yoga while you get some vitamin D, and the best way to get ample sunshine in the morning is to book an East-facing room. Sunlight will instantly cheer your mood and energise you, and it’s also good for your health. An article by National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) has also corroborated the same.
Stay connected
It has become important, especially amid the COVID-19 pandemic, to stay connected with our loved ones. So, use that complimentary hotel WiFi and take time out to talk to your friends and family during your hotel quarantine. Whether it be through messages, phone calls or video calls, don’t hesitate to share your thoughts with someone you trust. What’s more, a Harvard research even says that reaching out and connecting with people ensures longevity and happiness.
Digital detox
Put that phone away and give your eyes some rest. Yes, you heard it right. Lesser screen time comes with a host of benefits, which include improved sleep and attention span. Research has also shown that those who abstain from using social media are less likely to develop symptoms of anxiety and depression. So, instead of scrolling through your newsfeed, solve a puzzle or finally read that book you have been unable to start.
Pamper yourself
What’s better than a relaxing day of munching on some fruit with a sheet mask on your face? Start your pamper-sesh with a warm bath and proceed to show some TLC to your skin and hair. You can also whip up a hair mask to pamper your tresses. Put on some good music and let the quarantine rituals begin.
Eat healthy
As you hotel quarantine, try to choose healthy options when it comes to your meals. Giving into temptations once in a while is fine. But quarantine has made us seek comfort in junk food, which isn’t wise as it ruins our healthy eating habits.
Including junk and processed food in your diet has many cons, including obesity and lethargy. Make sure your breakfast, lunch and dinner satiate your hunger and nourish you during your quarantine period. If you are bored of the hotel food, you can also look for local delivery services that can provide you with some healthy and tasty meal options.
Cultivate a skill
With time in hand, why not learn something new when in hotel quarantine? You can choose from a multitude of options available online, or use that space in the room to take a virtual dance lesson. You can also start working on something you were planning to do for a very long time but weren’t able to find time.
As you get ready to quarantine in a hotel, be sure of even the minor details beforehand. Double-check your room booking, check all the services that are a part of your package, the food situation, and hidden costs.
Related: Here Are The New Quarantine Guidelines For International And Domestic Travellers Going To Gujarat
Written By
