Summer brings sunshine, holidays, and outdoor fun — but for people on dialysis, high temperatures can pose serious health risks. Whether you're traveling or staying home, here’s how to enjoy the season safely and stay cool without compromising your treatment.
1. Understand Your Personal Fluid Limits
Too much fluid can be dangerous — but dehydration is risky too. Stick to your prescribed intake and discuss any adjustments with your nephrologist.
2. Be Smart About Sun Exposure
Skin protection is essential. Many dialysis patients take medications that increase sun sensitivity. Use SPF 30+, wear a hat, and choose light, breathable fabrics.
3. Stay Indoors During Peak Heat
Midday sun can raise body temperature quickly. Try to schedule walks, appointments, or travel early in the day or after sunset.
4. Choose Cooling Strategies That Work
Air conditioning is best, but cool showers, foot baths, and wet towels also help. Don’t ignore signs of overheating like fatigue, rapid heartbeat, or nausea.
5. Eat to Support Hydration & Energy
Fresh foods like cucumbers or strawberries (in safe amounts) help hydrate without excess fluid. Avoid salty snacks that make you thirstier.
6. Have a Plan When Traveling
If you’re planning a trip, make sure your dialysis sessions are scheduled in advance and that the clinic is reachable if you need assistance. bookdialysis.com makes this simple and safe.
With a few precautions, you can enjoy a healthy, comfortable summer, in your city or abroad. Stay informed, listen to your body, and plan ahead — so you can enjoy the sunshine without added risk.
Lyon offers a perfect blend of charm, culture, accessibility, and healthcare excellence. Whether you're exploring for leisure or traveling with medical needs, this vibrant French city has something for everyone. Here are 10 great reasons to put Lyon on your travel list:
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1. UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Wander through Vieux Lyon, Fourvière, and the Presqu'île, where cobbled streets and centuries of history await in these UNESCO-protected areas.
2. World-Class Museums & Art – The Musée des Beaux-Arts and the futuristic Musée des Confluences offer an immersive dive into art, culture, science, and civilization.
3. Beautiful Parks & River Walks – Lyon is green and inviting. Stroll through the serene Parc de la Tête d'Or or relax by the riverside paths of the Rhône and Saône.
4. Access to Excellent Healthcare – With Médipole Hôpital Privé, one of France's most trusted hospitals, and support from bookdialysis.com, travelers needing dialysis can receive top-tier care without stress.
5. Local Markets & Shopping – From stylish boutiques in Presqu'île to open-air markets and artisan shops in Croix-Rousse, Lyon offers a unique and relaxed shopping experience.
6. Unique Architecture – Admire Lyon’s architectural diversity, from Roman ruins and medieval churches to innovative modern districts like Confluence.
7. Festivals & Cultural Life – Don’t miss Lyon’s iconic Fête des Lumières in December or the city's year-round music, theatre, and art events.
8. Excellent Connectivity – With high-speed TGV trains, a major international airport, and convenient road access, Lyon is incredibly well connected across Europe.
9. Comfortable & Accessible Accommodation – Lyon offers a wide range of accessible hotels and serviced apartments, ideal for travelers with medical needs or limited mobility.
10. Friendly & Welcoming Atmosphere – Lyon’s locals are known for their warmth and hospitality, and the city’s manageable size makes it easy to navigate and feel at home.
Travel Confidently with bookdialysis.com – Through our partnership with Médipole Hôpital Privé, bookdialysis.com helps you plan your trip with peace of mind – ensuring your dialysis needs are met while you explore the best of Ly
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Lisbon is a city full of charm, history, and sunshine, offering countless ways to enjoy your stay without worrying about where (or what) to eat. Whether you’re exploring between dialysis appointments or simply want to discover the Portuguese capital at your own pace, here are some wonderful activities to consider:
1️⃣ Take in the Views from the MiradourosLisbon is famous for its breathtaking viewpoints. Some of the best: Miradouro da Senhora do Monte- a panoramic spot with sweeping views over the old town and the river; Miradouro de Santa Luzia- a romantic terrace with azulejo tiles and Bougainvillea; Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara-perfect for photos of the castle and downtown. Bring a hat and water, and spend time soaking in the scenery.
2️⃣ Ride Tram 28The iconic yellow tram weaves through Alfama, Graça, and Baixa. It’s an easy way to see the cobbled streets and colorful facades without too much walking. Just remember: it can get busy, so consider going early in the day.
3️⃣ Visit the Oceanário de LisboaOne of Europe’s largest aquariums, the Oceanário is a peaceful, air-conditioned space to admire marine life. It’s accessible and great if you need a low-energy activity.
4️⃣ Discover the Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo)Portugal’s decorative tiles are a unique art form. This museum showcases centuries of colorful designs in a beautiful former convent. It’s indoors, calm, and rarely crowded.
5️⃣ Relax in the Parks and GardensLisbon has plenty of green spaces to rest and recharge: Estufa Fria- a lush greenhouse garden in Parque Eduardo VII; Jardim da Estrela- a tranquil park near the Basilica da Estrela; Gulbenkian Gardens-modern landscaping with shaded pathways and fountains. Perfect for reading or simply enjoying the day.
6️⃣ Explore BelémBelém is full of history and inspiring architecture: Jerónimos Monastery—an awe-inspiring UNESCO site; Belém Tower- a riverside fortress; MAAT Museum- contemporary art and architecture. You can stroll along the river promenade at your own pace.
7️⃣ Shop for Local CraftsSkip the food markets and instead visit shops selling Portuguese ceramics, cork products, and traditional embroidery. The LX Factory is also a fun, creative hub with design boutiques and galleries.
8️⃣ Listen to FadoWhile many Fado houses serve dinner, you can also find performances in cultural centers or public concerts. The haunting music is part of Lisbon’s soul and worth experiencing.
9️⃣ Take a River CruiseA gentle cruise on the Tagus River offers fantastic city views without any effort. Daytime or sunset cruises are available, and most boats have shaded seating.
🔟 Ride the Elevators and FunicularsLisbon’s famous lifts- like the Santa Justa Elevator or the Bica funicular-make getting around easier and more scenic.*
*September 3rd update: Following the recent accident, please check local updates and safety advisories before planning your ride.
Tip for Dialysis Patients:Check the weather first, as Portugal is quite a warm country, especially during the summer, to make sure you pack the right clothes. And read some smart packing tips here.
💙 Final ThoughtsLisbon is a beautiful, accessible city that can be enjoyed in so many ways beyond food. Whether you love history, art, nature, or simply relaxing, you’ll find something special here.
Find dialysis clinics and book in the easiest way here ➡️ https://www.bookdialysis.com/en/portugal/clinics-in/lisbon
Good Care Month is a powerful reminder that care doesn’t only live in clinics or hospitals—it lives in homes, communities, and relationships. At bookdialysis.com, we see care in many forms: the quiet strength of a family member coordinating treatment abroad, the daily dedication of carers and nurses, the empathy of social workers guiding patients through complex systems, and the solidarity of friends who simply show up.
This month, we celebrate all of them. July invites us to reflect on the real backbone of care—not just the systems, but the people. While Good Care Month began in the UK as a way to spotlight the vital role of social care, it now speaks to something universal: the everyday courage and connection it takes to support someone else’s wellbeing.
Whether professional or personal, paid or unpaid, care is essential work. It deserves visibility, respect, and gratitude—not just this month, but always.
A Look Back: The History of Good Care Month
The origins of Good Care Month are rooted in the UK’s deepening commitment to public health and social care. Its spirit can be traced as far back as 1948, when the National Health Service (NHS) was founded in the wake of World War II—a transformative moment that reshaped healthcare access and brought the value of care to the forefront of national life.
However, it wasn’t until 2008 that Good Care Month began to take its current shape. Spearheaded by the Hertfordshire Care Providers Association (HCPA), the initiative aimed to elevate the visibility of social care workers and promote the sector as both vital and deeply human. Over the years, it has grown into a national campaign that celebrates not just professional carers, but also families, friends, and volunteers who provide support behind the scenes. With policy support—including the appointment of Helen Whately as Minister of State for Care and Mental Health in 2022—the campaign continues to spotlight the value of care in all its forms, urging society to give it the recognition it truly deserves.
Honouring Your Carers: Simple Acts That Speak Volumes
If you’re a patient who receives care—whether at home, during travel, or in treatment—Good Care Month is the perfect time to show your appreciation. Here are some thoughtful, meaningful ways to do just that:
Write a handwritten thank-you noteIt may seem old-fashioned, but it’s deeply personal. A few sincere words in your own handwriting can stay with someone far longer than you’d imagine. It tells your carer, “You matter, and I notice.”
Share your gratitude on social mediaPublicly thanking someone on your platform not only celebrates them, but also shines a light on the everyday care that often goes unseen. Tag them (if they’re comfortable), and use the hashtag #GoodCareMonth.
Create a photo album or digital memory bookUse tools like FlipHTML5 to turn moments into memories. Include photos, captions, and anecdotes to build something beautiful that your carer can treasure.
Give a small, thoughtful giftPersonalised gifts—like a custom mug, a framed quote, or even a playlist of songs meaningful to your journey—show appreciation with heart.
Host a mini ‘thank-you moment’Whether it’s a surprise snack break, a favourite coffee, or a simple toast, a small gesture can brighten someone’s entire day.
These acts don’t need to be big—just real.
When you're traveling for dialysis, every bit of space—and peace of mind—counts. Whether you're headed for sun, snow, or something in between, packing smart helps you stay organized, comfortable, and ready for anything. At bookdialysis.com, we’re here to help you travel light but live fully. Here are our top space-saving packing tips straight from the road-tested checklists we share with patients:
🎯 Roll, Don’t FoldRolling your clothes saves space and reduces wrinkles. Try rolling full outfits together (like top and trousers) so you can grab what you need quickly without unpacking everything.
🧩 Use Packing Cubes or Zip BagsThey help keep your suitcase neat and easy to repack. You can even sort clothes by purpose, like clinic days vs. sightseeing days.
👟 Fill Your ShoesStuff socks, chargers, or other small items inside your shoes to save space and help them keep their shape.
🧥 Wear Your Bulkiest ItemsBulky items like jackets, hoodies, and sneakers take up a lot of room—wear them during travel to free up suitcase space.
🧴 Toiletries in a Clear BagAirport security requires liquids to be packed in a transparent zip bag (max 100ml per item). Keep it in an outer pocket for easy access.
🎁 Leave Room for ExtrasWhether it’s snacks, souvenirs, or supplies you pick up along the way, it’s always smart to leave some extra space—or pack a foldable tote.
💡 Bonus Tip: Keep Essentials in Your Carry-OnAlways carry your travel folder, comfort items, and any must-haves in your hand luggage in case of delays.
With just a few smart packing tricks, you’ll be ready to move easily and confidently—so you can focus on enjoying your destination. Need help booking dialysis sessions while abroad? Visit us at http://www.bookdialysis.com.
You can always download our quick packing guide here 👉 The guide
At bookdialysis.com, we believe wellbeing isn’t just about health—it’s about how freely and fully you live. It’s about movement, presence, dreaming, and the courage to explore. That’s why we dedicate time each year to reflect on what wellbeing truly means, especially for those traveling with dialysis.
For many, travel represents joy, spontaneity, and renewal. But when you live with dialysis, it can also require courage, planning, and a bit more care. That’s where we come in—to remind you that the world is still open, your dreams are still valid, and travel is still yours.
Wellbeing starts with intention. It starts when you give yourself permission to explore new places, new possibilities, and new states of mind. Sometimes it’s a bold trip across borders. Other times, it’s a quiet pause in a beautiful setting—a moment to breathe and be.
Planning is a form of empowerment. When you’re equipped with the right tools and support, the impossible begins to feel doable. Confidence grows. Your suitcase becomes a symbol of independence, not limitation.
And dreaming? That’s part of wellness too. Imagining where you want to go—whether it’s a sun-drenched coast, a mountain village, or a bustling capital—is a way of saying yes to life again.
This week, we’ve seen how even small steps toward movement and discovery can spark joy, clarity, and confidence. We’ve celebrated stories of freedom and intention, of people who choose to live well and travel far, despite dialysis.
We carry those stories with us every day. Because your wellbeing is not a side note—it’s the whole journey. And it deserves to be filled with meaning, freedom, and experiences that make you feel alive.
Here’s to continuing that journey—one trip, one dream, one empowered step at a time.
