Question:
Any special things I should take on my European vacation as a WLS person?

I'm leaving for France tomorrow for a three week vacation and I'm wondering if I've missed any WLS worthy items while packing. I've got the prepackaged protein drinks and a shaker bottle. I've got a leakproof water bottle and all my vitamins ready to go. I even have a new passport so I actually resemble the person in the photo now. Is there anything I'm forgetting? Particularly anything I'm forgetting that will be really tough to find in France? I have to say I can't wait to get to Europe now that I've lost the weight. The last time I went I weighed over 400 pounds and boy, does that limit your options! But I have to say I'm concerned about the rich food and fabulous wine in France, but I'm hoping that forced behavior modification kicks in and I only get sick once and learn my lesson. Thanks for your help! Traci - RNY 8/15/01 down 283 pounds.    — Traci H. (posted on May 28, 2003)

May 28, 2003
Oh, Traci! I am so jealous! I have not returned to France in so long because I had gotten so fat, I was afraid to face my famiy and friends there. Wait til they see me next year! I can't think of anything else that you won't be able to find there. The protein drinks are the most important. I know of someone who is 15 years or so post-op. She went to France last April, ate everything she wanted but in smaller portions. Drank wine too! For all the good eating they have there, they do not have the obeity problem that the U.S. does. Go figure. The portions are more reasonable there, they go for quality over quantity. Enjoy yourself. Bon vayage et bon appetit!
   — Suzanne M.

May 28, 2003
My husband and I spent three months in Europe before our wedding, and yes, we took a honeymoon after the wedding, too! Anyway, that was a few years ago and I was not a WLS patient then but the one thing that I had a hard time getting was Tylenol! I kept asking for it in every drug store but they only have Tylenol 3. That is the one thing I would take--a bottle of Tylenol. Just make sure you drink a ton of water and have a great time!!!!! I can't wait to go back!
   — jenn2002

May 28, 2003
Hi there. When I travel I always take protein BARS with me. They are much easier on the go and you can carry one or two with you. No worrying about mixing shakes. You never know when you will get stuck in a situation where there is nothing you can eat, or wind up going a long time without being able to stop and eat. Have a nice trip! I hope this tip helps you.
   — LMCLILLY