How to Avoid Jet Lag on Long Plane Flights from U.S. to Asia

There's no need for pills, hypnotism or acupuncture to save yourself from jet lag on those long trans-Pacific flights. I've mastered this technique through years of international travel. It really works!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Plane ticket that lands you in at your destination when it's evening in Asia
• Passport
• Book

1. 
    
   Make yourself comfortable

   Nestle In
   First or Business Class is nice for this technique to work. But they are not essential. Sure, they tend to be more comfortable than Coach class but not always. Sometimes there are enough empty seats in Coach to allow you to recline flat while your colleagues up front are stuck in an angular position.

2. 
    
   Don't worry what time it is

   Do What You Will With Your Watch.
   Some people set it to the time at their place of destination. Others don't bother. You're on a long flight of 12 hours or more and the time zones will just zip by. My advice: don't worry too much about what time it is.

3. 
    
   Try the Japanese

   Eat What You Want When You Want
   I liked to eat the Japanese meal choice to set the mood. It tends to be fresh and of good quality.

4. 
    
   Pass the Time With In Flight Entertainment

   Alternate Your Entertainment
   Pass the time by reading a few chapters of your book. Watch an in-flight movie or an episode of "Fraser." Back to the book.

5. 
    
   The in-flight cocktails aren't going to drink themselves!

   If You Drink Alcohol, Do It
   Some people believe in abstinence while flying. To them I say, "cheers!" Drink up, especially if it's free!

6. 
    
   Nighty night

   Nap or Pass Out Whenever You Feel Like It
   Wake up, eat, drink, read, watch a movie. Then start the cycle over again. Before you know it your body will be so mixed up, you won't care what time zone you're in.

7. 
    
   Indulge during stopovers

   If You Have a Stopover, Enjoy Yourself
   I especially like the beer tap at Tokyo's Narita Airport Travelers' Lounge.

8. 
    
   Hit the sack for a good night's sleep

   With This Regimen, You Will Reach Your Destination Tired and Ready for Sleep
   If you've bought a plane ticket that allows you to arrive at your destination as you've been instructed, you're in luck. It's time for bed. After a full 8 hours of sleep, you will awake rested and ready to start the day, even if the day is just ending where you came from.

Tips & Warnings

• You may not want to overdo it in the alcohol department. Airplane air does tend to dehydrate you.

[sonyasv]

on 2/7/2008 I've traveled many long-distance flights and find that I have trouble sleeping, so often book an aisle seat so that I can get up and walk around the cabin, which is good as it gives some minimal exercise. Also be sure to pack your carry-on with books and anything to pass the time!