For those who don't know (I didn't), April to June is considered to be the dry season in this part of the world. And it isn't 'dry'in the sense that Malaysia has a "non-monsoon"season. It's dry, as in the grass turns brown, the lakes dry up and the temperature hits 40 degrees celcius. Or maybe even more.

I'm sitting out here on the verandah in the shade and I can feel the reflected heat soaking through my damp t-shirt. And I have a slight headache now.

This is nothing compared to the day before yesterday when I'm sure I was suffering from heat exhaustion. I was absolutely zonked. My brain was fried, I was incapable of making straight-forward decisions. As soon as I realised, I drank lots of water, tried to get some sleep, and eventually went to the bathroom three times that night.

Anyway, things I learnt the hard way:

• Drink lots of water. Lots and lots of water. We're talking about three litres a day, at least. Water is best. Or you can make your own isotonic drinks by mixing some salt and sugar into your water. Gassy sugar drinks is a no-no. Coconut water is pretty good.
  
• Wear a hat. It makes a big difference.
  
• I haven't used suncream yet, but I'm sure that it wouldn't be such a bad idea.
  
• Make sure your clothes are loose and baggy and are thin enough for the sweat to evaporate easily.
  
• Try not to be a hero and go walking in the midday sun if there is no good reason to do so.
  

Labels: big trip