It's every traveler's most dreaded situation when on trips; not being able to sleep. While this is believed to be common especially on the first night, sad news is there's not much anyone can do about it.
Australian Dr. Karl Kruszelnicki on his new book "The Doctor" attributes the unrest to the "First Night Effect". Primarily our brain's awake when in an unfamiliar place and relative to the venue's security. This behavior is called "neurological night watch", where the left brain is partly awake and watchful, evidenced in recent research says the doctor.
Doctor Kruszelnicki in his book also likened the experience with that of dolphins and some birds that can sleep at a time, half a brain. During this state, these creatures manage to swim, surface for air and be vigilant of threats.
The best way to remedy this travel constraint according to the doctor, is to make the new place as familiar as possible. Try bringing your pillow, or pajama, or make sure to stay within the same chain of hotels so the mind can be relaxed and comfortable.
Stuff offers the following practical tips to beat your sleepless night during travels.
Reserve a room midway the hallway - rooms located in this part of the lobby have less noise compared to those located at both ends of the hallway. Stay away from rooms near the pool area - pools can be a source of commotion especially when guests go night swimming or gathers by the pool.
Ask for pillow options at the front desk - some hotels offer extra pillows, or one that better fit you in terms of firmness and comfort. Bring earplugs and eyeshades - slightness of noise or light can disturb you so gear up.
Turn off your mobile phone - spare yourself of trivial text messages or wrong calls that can distract to sleep. Put the don't disturb sign on the front door knob - this alerts housekeepers not to intrude and other visitors to tame down to some extent. Consider to bring your own blanket - other than skin issues, the familiar scent and feel on your skin fools the brain that you are in your own bed. But, when all else fails, can I suggest - pray.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
