Getting sober feels like turning your world upside down and shaking it. It’s not what your body or brain wants to do but you know it’s better for you in the long run.
But what are you to do when you’re far from home and close to caving? Check out our tips for sobriety during travel below.
1. Find a “Mocktail”
If you’re on a beach vacation and you see people lounging around with fruity drinks, you can start to feel jealous. You, too, want a cold and fruity concoction that will go straight to your head.
But you’re trying to stay sober, and vacation doesn’t change that. You’ve tried to drink water or juice, but it’s not cutting your craving. You need help — and fast.
So what do you do? Figure out a virgin version of whatever you’re craving. Drinks like daiquiris and coladas are often mixed without alcohol.
You can simply ask for a virgin cup of your favorite cold drink. If you don’t know the language – do some searching. Learn how to say “no alcohol” and “alcoholic,” for good measure.
The bartender will still be happy to serve you.
2. Plan Ahead
Maybe you’re not going on a trip to an exotic location, but a work trip to some monotonous city. Do they have meetings you can attend?
If language is an issue, then you might feel intimidated. That’s okay — you can still go. The feeling of community will still be there.
Plus, more people in other countries speak English than you think.
If that doesn’t work, ask someone at your normal meeting if they can Skype you. You’ll have to figure out the time change – but after that, all you need is a Wi-Fi password.
If you have a sponsor or accountability buddy, ask them to download a wifi texting app. iCloud has this capability, but people without iPhones can use Whatsapp and Kik.
They’re free to download and to use overseas. This way you can keep in contact with the people that keep you sober.
3. Bring Activities
If it’s a group vacation, then you’re likely to feel left out when friends want to go out to the bar. You know you don’t trust yourself at that stage yet.
Or maybe you do — in which case, that’s great!
But for some still-recovering addicts, they have to avoid temptation altogether. The best way to keep your mind off of the FOMO is to come prepared with a good book or to save up your favorite podcast.
If you’re in a place that’s a cultural center, go out and see a play — even if it’s by yourself. You don’t have to sit in the hotel room bored, staring at the wall.
You just have to plan ahead.
Getting Sober Globally
It’s not as hard as you think to keep your sobriety during your travels. People care about you and are generally understanding – even if you aren’t close.
Letting people know you’re getting sober can be hard, but it’s like ripping off a band-aid. Let them support you — wherever you are.
Want more vacation hacks? Click here.
