I’m headed off to the windy city of Chicago today and I can’t wait to tour the city! I truly love my job and feel so fortunate that my company flies me out all over for business. I love traveling from one place to the next, experiencing different scenes and meeting people from all over the world.

The only negative about traveling is that it interferes with my routine of healthy eating and exercise, so I usually put aside some time before my trip to investigate the hotels and surrounding areas.

Everyone around me knows how much of a health nut I am, and they are very supportive when it comes to my needs.

For example, my sweet secretary will always scope the scene for me by locating hotels that offer a fitness facility. After she finds a few possible options, I then research them a little further.

I prefer to stay at a comfortable quiet hotel with a fitness center that offers a variety of  machines and weights. If there is a sauna or a pool, then that is just a plus.  I love fitness centers that offer free fruit and water, that  way I can re-fuel my body right after an intense workout and sneak some back to my room for later.

Not only do I consider the hotel’s fitness center, but also its surroundings.

I always Google any parks,  beaches, restaurants or shopping areas. If I am traveling to Florida, then I would rather run on the beach than be in a florescent lit fitness room.

Maintaining my eating program is very important when traveling. I seek out restaurants that offer healthy clean options such as salads, lean meats  and fruit. You can never go wrong with a steak house.

Remember to be a “Dining Princess” and have them prepare the food your way.

Grocery and drug stores are also a necessity. I like to stock up on water, protein shakes, fruit and healthy snacks to last me the length of the trip.

Shopping areas are great for walking around (extra calorie burning), meeting new people and buying things I don’t need like another cute hand bag.

Another must have on my check list, is having internet access because tracking calories is very important when trying to maintain my weight goals. My travel involves so many dinners and meetings, so tracking prevents me from pigging out with my co-workers and clients. The dailyplate.com is a FREE food tracking site that is very easy to maneuver and displays nutrition facts for almost every food item.

Traveling is so much fun, and I am truly blessed to have an opportunity to do so. But just because I am on a trip, does not mean I have to sacrifice my weight loss achievements.

How do you maintain your lifestyle when traveling on business or pleasure?

Love, Ghada

Oh! And if you know of any healthy eateries and fun places to visit in Chicago, I would love your suggestions!