Relieve Travel Tension and Stay Energized at Historic Hotels of America(R)

Whether on the road for business or pleasure, today's travelers face obstacles at every turn from traffic snarls to delayed flights and long airport lines. When the hassle of travel leaves you stressed, try these simple tips from Historic Hotels of America to keep you energized, rejuvenated and relaxed while on the road.

  -- To rejuvenate aching feet, Leah Wagner, lead fitness instructor at the
     Spa at Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz, N.Y., offers a simple
     suggestion.  Place a tennis ball under the ball of your foot.  While
     seated, roll the ball back and forth under the arch of your foot.  This
     can be done in your hotel room, at your desk or even on an airplane.

  -- A sure-fire way to feel tired and irritable after traveling is to
     indulge in junk food.  Instead, Sheryl O'Brien, spa director at the Old
     Edwards Inn and Spa in Highlands, N.C., recommends reaching for fresh
     fruit.  A quick candy bar or bag of chips at the airport or gas station
     might offer a quick fix, but will only bring you down later.  A more
     nutritious snack will fill you up and provide a good source of energy.

  -- Daniel Chong-Jimenez, executive chef of the Spa at Norwich Inn in
     Norwich, Conn., suggests eating light meals comprised of lean protein
     such as chicken breast, tuna and light ham, along with greens and
     vegetables.  He says eating carbohydrates such as pasta, bread and
     sweets will result in drowsiness and diminished energy.

  -- The Hotel El Convento in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, reminds guests of
     the importance of staying hydrated.  This is especially true when
     traveling to warmer climates and higher altitudes.

  -- Kate Means, director of the Spa at Colonial Williamsburg in
     Williamsburg, Va., which includes the Williamsburg Inn and Colonial
     Houses, advises getting adjusted to the new time zone quickly.  Set
     your watch on the airplane, then focus on diet, exercise and relaxation
     and enjoy your surroundings.

  -- Once you reach your destination, don't just sit on the couch.  Sue
     Andersson of the Jekyll Island Club Hotel in Jekyll Island, Ga., says
     getting up and out will start you off on the right foot.  Take a 20-30
     minute stroll early in the morning to clear your mind for the day
     ahead, to get your circulation flowing and to explore the sites.

  -- Maintaining proper sitting posture while traveling helps prevent neck
     and back soreness according to Rob Vorhees, head personal trainer, and
     Phyllis Ellerman, fitness director at the Sports Club at Boar's Head
     Inn in Charlottesville, Va.  They suggest keeping your seat and head in
     an upright position; support your lower back by placing a small rolled-
     up towel between your lower lumbar back and the seat back; and keep
     your shoulders in proper alignment.

Historic Hotels of America, a program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, has identified more than 200 hotels that have faithfully maintained their historic integrity, architectural and ambiance. To be selected for this program, a hotel must be at least 50 years old, listed in or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places or recognized as having historic significance.

Source: Historic Hotels of America

Web site: http://www.historichotels.org/