The mentioning of this old 60’s Beatles song is really going to date me here; but I’m willing to risk it for the sake of sunlight.  The tune went something like, ‘Here comes the sun, do, do, do, do.  Here comes the sun and I say, it’s alright”.  The question is; is it really alright?  There is controversy over the issue of sunlight and how it affects the body, namely concerning the issue of skin cancer.  The sun is a powerful force and we must respect it.

I have always taken a common sense approach to sunlight and its possible dangers.  When I think about how much time is spent in doors in the western culture I can understand why we need to avoid being exposed to too much direct sunlight.  However, I don’t think it is necessarily due to the sun’s dangerous rays.  No, I think it’s more due to the fact that when we expose ourselves to the sun it is for long periods of time, with a lack of frequency.

A common philosophy of Westerners is, “Work hard, Play hard”.  Most work 40 hours a week in doors.  Then try to alleviate that by a weekend of activities, having fun in the sun.  We do not moderate our sun exposure; finding ourselves charred, if you will, after a good ole’ “play hard” weekend.

Here in Krabi we find an endless number of Western tourists who walk the streets with lobster red skin shortly after their arrival to our amazing tropicana.  Often times ruining a long dreamed of and fabulously planned holiday only a couple of days in to it. They’ve come with the mindset that they carry in their homeland.  Not aware the sun here is not the same as the sun they’ve grown to know and love in their country.

Located close to equator; not only is the Thailand a land with intense sunlight it is intensely hot.  Visitors travelling from temperate countries who long to enjoy any outdoor activity like trekking or sun bathing need to consider how the beach and reef increase sun exposer; as UV rays reflect off the water and sand. With this you face the risk of not only a horrible sun burn but possibly heat stroke as well.

With a melody being sung in your head we can assume your tickets have been purchased and you’re plans have been confirmed to come and play hard; the Western way.  So let’s use ‘Sun Sense’.   Here are a few ways that you can make your stay in Krabi the most incredible tropical experience of a lifetime and one that will warrant a return visit.

1. When the sun is shining (early morning hours) expose your body to 10-15 minutes of direct sunlight.  Expose as much of your skin as possible, as this will allow your body to naturally produce more Vitamin D as well as develop a tan.
2. Avoid over extended periods of time in the sun, especially on large portions of your body.  If you know that you will be in the sun for long periods of time, prepare clothing to stay covered.
3. Avoid direct sunlight between the hours of 10:00 am-3:00pm. Until you have a tan (a part of nature’s sun screen).  The sun’s rays are the strongest between these hours.  Exposure for short periods of time are okay, but not for over extended periods, without protection.
4. Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated.
5. Avoid chemical based sunscreens.  Placing chemicals on your body can be avoided by using natural sun screens (avoiding other cancers that come through carcinogens).
6. Use ‘sun sense’.  If you feel you’ve had too much sun, you probably have.  Find some shade; drink a fresh coconut juice and enjoy your holiday in Amazing Thailand!

Zina is the founder of “i AM WOMAN”.  Educating woman to discover their health and beauty from the inside out; overcome weight issues, sickness and disease. Want to know more.  Contact:  zinathailand@gmail.com