Hi Everybody!
My name is Nikki, and I love the outdoors! I work for a boutique travel company/tour operator that focuses on sustainable travel all over the world. I love hiking, camping, climbing, you name it (and REI of course)! I would love to get involved with the wonderful REI community, and maybe even help other people start their outdoor adventures and share what I've learned so far.
Good Morning @NeverTrulyLost,
My wife’s lifelong dream is to visit the Positano to Amalfi coastline and surrounding area of Italy.
Some how, some way we want to make that dream come true.
Our concern is she has Multiple Chemical Sensitivity, a medical condition of which exposure to chemicals such as perfume/ cologne, scented laundry soaps/softeners, scented candles, plug in scented air fresheners, cigarette/cigar/pipe smoke, and wood burning smoke cause a severe migraine and inner ear balance issue, of which can last for days.
She historically packs a 3M 8577 Respirator Mask on our travels, as efficient defense from Covid-19 and nuisance organic vapor exposure.
With your “sustainable” travel profession, have you any travel and accommodation recommendations for folks in our situation?
Thanks!
Hi Marc!
Great question! I can see how that could make traveling tough!
I don't claim to be a medical professional at all, but as far as some tips go, I would recommend reaching out to accommodations you plan to stay in and making them aware of your wife's condition. A lot of places can be incredibly accommodating, and these kinds of sensitivities aren't too uncommon. It's possible that they may be able to accommodate you both (whether by using different laundering techniques, removing air fresheners, placing you in a room with extra ventilation, etc.)
I would also recommend packing a personal sleeping bag liner, which she can use and clean with non-fragranced cleaners, which may give you some peace of mind when it comes to shared linens at your accommodations. They're also a great option for hygiene in general, for everything from allergens to Covid.
Finally, I would try to avoid staying in hostels/refuges/dorms, etc. Just because you never really know what kinds of products your dorm-mates may be using and if they will affect your wife, even if the accommodation staff can make adjustments for you.
I hope that's helpful!
Hi NeverTrulyLost,
Thanks for the prompt and thoughtful reply!
👍
Marc
Hello, Nikki, and welcome. Generally speaking, what part of the globe do you call home?
Hi John!
I'm based in the US, but have quite a bit of experience with the UK and with the Alps (specifically the Tour du Mont Blanc).
Welcome to the community.
Enjoy
Welcome to the community @NeverTrulyLost ! Nice to "meet" you.
Welcome!
Nice to meet you all from Connecticut
by Redhawk05 | Casual Visitor | in Introduce Yourself | 10-19-2021