Learn how to beat jet lag and
thrive in different time zones. Essential advice for international travelers
seeking a seamless travel experience.
Introduction
International travel can be an exciting and
enriching experience, but it often comes with the challenge of adjusting to
different Time zones as well. Jet lag, the result of your body's internal clock
being out of sync with the new time zone, can leave you feeling fatigued and
disoriented. Especially frequent visitors going on business visits, official
visits, and emergency visits, wherein you need to straight away visit the site
office, or the headquarters for a conference, a business meeting, or a
presentation upon your arrival. This needs
your internal body clock to instantly adjust to the new environment and
continue to start the work for the purpose you are visiting. Even this is more so in the case of Tourists who
plan to visit the United States on a short trip or a Student going for Higher
Studies.
Russia has the maximum number of time zones. With a total of 11 time zones. These time
zones range from UTC+2 to UTC+12, with Moscow, the capital, typically following
Moscow Standard Time (MSK), which is UTC+3. Next to Russia is the United States which has 6 Time
zones.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore
the different time zones in the United States, how to set your internal body clock
as a traveler, and effective strategies to overcome jet lag. We will also discuss some of the tips for
setting dual clocks in Mobile phones and Smart Watches for handy
reference.
Understanding Time Zones in
the United States
The United States spans
multiple time zones, making it a complex landscape for both domestic and
international travelers. Because of its position in the globe, the region has
various time zones to be followed. Here
are the primary time zones you need to be aware of:
Eastern Standard Time (EST):
Eastern Standard Time is UTC-5:00. It includes cities like New York, Washington
D.C., and Atlanta. When it's 9:00 AM in IST, it's 8:30 PM (previous day) in
EST.
Central Standard Time (CST):
Central Standard Time is UTC-6:00 and covers areas such as Chicago, Dallas, and
Houston. When it's 9:00 AM in IST, it's 8:00 PM (the previous day) in CST.
Mountain Standard Time (MST):
Mountain Standard Time is UTC-7:00 and includes regions like Denver and
Phoenix. When it's 9:00 AM in IST, it's 7:30 PM (the previous day) in MST.
Pacific Standard Time (PST):
Pacific Standard Time is UTC-8:00 and covers cities like Los Angeles and
Seattle. When it's 9:00 AM in IST, it's 7:00 PM (previous day) in PST.
Alaska Standard Time (AKST):
Alaska Standard Time is UTC-9:00 and is used in Alaska. When it's 9:00 AM in
IST, it's 6:00 PM (the previous day) in AKST.
Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time
(HST): Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time is UTC-10:00 and is observed
in Hawaii. When it's 9:00 AM in IST, it's 5:00 PM (the previous day) in HST.
UTC
stands for Coordinated Universal Time. It is a highly precise and
internationally recognized time standard that serves as the basis for
timekeeping worldwide. UTC is sometimes referred to as Greenwich Mean Time
(GMT), although GMT is an older term and is now largely used interchangeably
with UTC.
Setting Your Internal Clock
for Travel
Gradual Adjustment: Several days before your international trip, start adjusting your daily routine to match the destination's time zone. Shift your meal and sleep schedules gradually.
Use Time Zone Converter Tools: There
are various online tools and smartphone apps that can help you track multiple
time zones, making it easier to plan your activities accordingly.
Reset Your Watch:
Change your watch or digital devices to the local time zone as soon as you
board the plane. This helps mentally prepare you for the new time zone.
Stay Hydrated and Eat Light:
Proper hydration and a balanced diet can aid in reducing the severity of jet
lag symptoms. Avoid heavy meals before or during your flight.
Overcoming Jet Lag:
Strategies for Success
Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol: Both
caffeine and alcohol can disrupt your sleep patterns. Limit your consumption,
especially during the flight, to minimize their impact on your body clock.
Stay Active:
Engage in light exercises and stretches during the flight to improve
circulation and prevent stiffness. Once you arrive, take short walks in natural
light to help adjust your body to the local time.
Napping Smartly:
Short power naps (20-30 minutes) can be refreshing without making it difficult
to sleep at night. Avoid long naps that may interfere with your nighttime rest.
Melatonin Supplements:
Consult with a healthcare professional before considering melatonin
supplements. When used correctly, they can help reset your circadian rhythms
and improve sleep quality.
Be Patient: It
may take a day or two to fully acclimate to the new time zone. Give your body
the time it needs to adjust, and try to stick to local schedules as soon as
possible.
Setting up your watch
Setting your Watch to display and
your mobile Display both Indian Standard Time (IST) and Eastern Standard Time
(EST): This can be helpful when
traveling internationally to the United States. This allows you to keep track
of both your home time zone and the local time at your destination. To set your
watch accordingly, follow these steps:
Setting up Dual Time in Mobile
Phone: Let us see a
typical example of a Redmi Mobile phone wherein we can set dual time in the
display. Go to settings --> Edit System time --> Scroll Down to find Dual Clock
Option --> and click enable and next to it is the Second
clock ---> Select the second Region (the destination region that you are going), for example, select the United States in the Region and EST in the Time zone. Now on the home screen, you can see a dual time
display for ready reference as below.
Setting up Dual Time in Smart Watch. Identify Your Watch Type: Depending on the make and model of your watch, the process of setting dual time zones may vary. Most modern digital and smartwatches offer this feature, while traditional analog watches may not have the capability.
Refer to User Manual: If
you have the user manual for your watch, go through it to understand how to set
dual time zones. Look for instructions specific to your watch's model.
For Digital Watches:
Access Settings: On digital
watches, typically there is a button or sequence of buttons used to access the
settings menu. This is often labeled as "Mode" or "Set."
Select Dual Time Zone: Once in
the settings menu, navigate to the option for setting dual time zones. This may
be labeled as "2nd Time Zone" or something similar.
Adjust Time Zones: Use the
watch's buttons or touchscreen to adjust the hours and minutes for both IST and
EST. Set IST as your home time zone and EST as the local time zone.
Save Settings: After setting
both time zones, save your changes according to the watch's instructions.
For Analog Watches:
Dual Time Zone Watches: Some
analog watches are designed specifically to display two time zones
simultaneously. If you have such a watch, you can simply adjust the secondary
time zone to EST while keeping IST as your primary time zone.
GMT Hand: Some analog watches
have a GMT hand or a 24-hour bezel that can be used to track a second-time
zone. Set the GMT hand to EST while keeping the regular watch hands-on IST.
Sync with Local Time: Upon
arriving in the United States, make sure to sync your watch with the local time
in EST. This helps you stay on schedule and avoid confusion.
Use World Time Feature (If
Available): Some advanced digital watches come with a "World Time"
feature that allows you to easily switch between different time zones. This can
be a convenient option for frequent travelers.
Adjust for Daylight Saving
Time:
Keep in mind that the United States observes Daylight Saving Time (DST) in many
regions. During DST, the local time in EST may be one hour ahead. Be prepared
to make this adjustment when necessary.
Remember that the specific
steps to set dual time zones may vary based on your watch's brand and model.
It's essential to consult your watch's user manual for precise instructions.
Once you've successfully set your watch to display both IST and EST, you'll be
well-prepared to manage your time effectively during your international travel
to the United States.
Conclusion
Jet lag is a common challenge
for international travelers, but with proper preparation and smart strategies,
you can minimize its impact and enjoy your journey to the fullest.
Understanding the different time zones in the United States and learning how to
set your internal clock are essential steps in overcoming jet lag. By following
these tips, you'll arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and ready to
embark on your international adventure. Do comment on your recent experience on
International Travel.