Guest Author - Janet Collins

Ever traveled somewhere that is hot and you’ve noticed the locals barely breaking a sweat? How do they do it?

If you look carefully, you’ll learn a lot from those who live where you are traveling.

For example, wear loose, lightweight and light colored layers of clothing (take plenty of changes too). Buy a locally made, lightweight, broad-brimmed hat. In places like Australia and Africa, where the heat is often accompanied by extremely irritating and persistent flies and bugs, you’ll probably want one with built-in roll-down fly netting.

In some countries, it’s common to see locals carrying an inexpensive opaque-material umbrella (lightweight and small diameter).

Be sure to drink plenty of liquids. Select safe bottled (or boiled) water rather than beer or alcohol. Strange as it might seem -- iced drinks can make you perspire more but they feel great going down. It's your call!

The locals likely take a siesta or nap during the hottest part of the day. It gives them plenty of energy to play and party in the cooler evening hours – and you wondered why dinner is served later in so many countries!

Stay in the shade! Another obvious suggestion, but it's amazing how many people forget that the shade in tropical countries can be up to 30% cooler.

Watch the locals for other ideas. And enjoy your time in a warmer clime.