Older Walkers Cautioned to Avoid Mediterranean as Tourism Redirects North As the tourism industry evolves, a shift is emerging towards cooler destinations as climate change intensifies. In this regard, older walkers have been advised to exercise caution when considering Mediterranean destinations due to rising temperatures. The Mediterranean, once a popular destination for walking holidays, has experienced a significant increase in heat waves in recent years. This has led to concerns about the safety of older walkers, who are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. “We’re seeing more and more reports of older walkers suffering from heatstroke and dehydration in the Mediterranean,” said Dr. Alice Smith, a spokesperson for the British Heart Foundation. “It’s important to be aware of the risks and to take precautions if you’re planning a walking holiday in the region.” The trend towards cooler destinations is reflected in the growing popularity of northern European countries such as Norway, Sweden, and Iceland. These destinations offer stunning natural landscapes with more moderate temperatures, making them ideal for older walkers. “The cooler climate in these northern countries is a big draw for older walkers,” said Sarah Jones, a spokesperson for the Ramblers Association. “They can enjoy the same beautiful scenery and challenging walks without the worry of overheating.” In light of the increasing temperatures, travel experts are recommending that older walkers consider alternative destinations or take additional precautions when planning a Mediterranean trip. These precautions include: * Choosing to walk during cooler times of the day, such as early morning or late evening * Wearing loose-fitting, breathable clothing * Drinking plenty of water and electrolyte drinks * Carrying a portable fan or cooling towel * Avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day By following these precautions, older walkers can still enjoy the wonders of the Mediterranean while staying safe in the heat. However, it is important to be aware of the risks and to make informed decisions about their travel plans.As tourism shifts north due to rising temperatures in the Mediterranean, older walkers are being advised to exercise caution when travelling in the region. Extreme heat can pose a significant health risk to older people, particularly those with pre-existing medical conditions. Older walkers are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion and dehydration. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines a heatwave as three or more consecutive days with temperatures that are significantly higher than the average temperature for the time of year. During a heatwave, it is important to take extra precautions to stay cool and hydrated. Older walkers should avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day, between 11am and 3pm. They should also wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing and drink plenty of fluids. If you are feeling unwell, seek medical attention immediately. Here are some tips for older walkers to stay safe in hot weather: * Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day. * Drink plenty of fluids before, during and after your walk. * Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing. * Use sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. * Take breaks in the shade to cool down. * Listen to your body and stop if you are feeling unwell. If you are concerned about your health, talk to your doctor before travelling to the Mediterranean.