Going on vacation! Help!

I am going on vacation next week and I don't want to slip into bad habits for two weeks because I'm somewhere else and it's easier.  I know it's about consciously making good choices, but when you are running around trying to see everything and do everything, getting something quick and  bad seems like a feasible and reasonable choice.  Has anyone survived a vacation and not come back with added pounds?  Please give me suggestions!!!

Where are you going? that can make a big difference. I went to Italy and between all the walking and eating only the portions they served, I maintained and even lost a bit. If I'm going to visit family, big meals are often a big part of it, but at least I have more control and can measure food, etc.

edit: I left out the gelato. Had I not had gelato everyday, I probably would have lost weight. But who goes to Italy to lose weight, right? It was a FABULOUS trip! :)

I'm going to MExico for two weeks and then I'll be flying to NY to visit family.  I'm not concerned about family because I have a bit more control there.

I am going on a 2 1/2 week vacation myself and to prepare I sort have made a Battle Plan. I have thought about the foods that will be available and what my best choices will be. In the past I didn't do this and then when confronted with the different choices I would screw up. I know that I am having breakfast at all the hotels I am staying in and they always have fresh fruit and yoghurt, some have healthy cereals, some have the little boxed cereals etc.  I know I have to stay away from the pasterie table and the cheese etc. I actually prepare myself for this, I know it sounds stupid but it helps to mentally prepare. Also if you are eating your meals out, pick the restaurant by looking at the menu and when you order ask for a small portion or if your salad has bacon or something unhealthy ask them to not include it. It is much better not have it on your plate at all. If you see something you really want to eat try to postpone it. I tell myself I can have it tomorrow if I still want it. Also be active during the day, I have planned lots of walking tours and bike trips and musea visits so I am not just sitting on my behind at the pool. I know it will be difficult, I will be in Brussels for 2 days. That is the chocolate capital of the world. Last time I was there just about every store had a chocolate fountain and when you walk in they give you a biscuit to hold in the fountain so you can taste their chocolate.  So my plan is to stay active and stay consious of what I am putting in my mouth. I have worked too hard to gain even a pound. Have fun in Mexico!

PS. Stay away from the alcohol, it is loaded with calories.

Thanks!  That helps, I appreciate the advice!  You have fun too!

Enjoy mexico!  While I can go on vacation and not gain much (gained 1 lb during trip home to NY- and have to say it was probably the pizza & bagels :) ), I couldn't go to say Cancun and not gain- I just love the drinkies and the street meat carts too much.

Just have fun, don't gorge yourself but eat what you want- and have memories to enjoy while you work out back home :)

I always loose on vacation, in fact I should have some sort of a vacation diet. The thing is, especially when travelling abroad, and even more so to warm places- you are going to be doing a lot.  Walking, swimming, hiking, snorkling, boating, and food, though delicious, is probably not going to be the number one thing you are thinking about.  There are so many other stimuli.

I would say watch what you drink more than what you eat.  If you are going to a tourist spot you may want to limit those margaritas.  But otherwise have fun, explore, I am sure the extra activity will balance with more fatty food.