Tropical weather help!

[inulro]

My family have recently decided that we're going to try to go to Iguazu Falls while we're in Argentina. I am now sorted for factor 50, malaria prophylaxis and yellow fever vaccination.

However, some people say it's hot & wet so wear as little as possible; others say that due to nasty things in the jungle one should wear long sleeves and trousers.

Some of you must have experience of this - which is best?

In a rare case of good news, it seems the kind of tops that are in for spring are crumpled-look short-sleeved numbers, which is exactly what I need for the holiday. I also need some loose-fitting white t-shirts. It's going to be in excess of 30 degrees every day (ranging from dry to very humid indeed) and all my summer tops are tight-fitting, black and without any sleeves. I know from experience that no matter how much sun block I apply, my shoulders will burn to a crisp if not covered. I need relatively smart clothes for Buenos Aires and Cordoba & more comfortable things for travelling. I trust that the relatives who live in the province that isn't even in my guidebook won't notice if I'm less than elegant.

Comments

[zoo-music-girl.livejournal.com]

Go long. If you get thin cotton tops and trousers you'll be ok in the heat, but you really do need the protection from the bugs. When I was spending holidays in Indonesia I used to wear a thin cotton shirt and thin cotton drawstring trousers - not the most chic of outfits but the best for the climate. Do take a cardigan or jumper for over zealous air conditioning too though!

[the_axel]

If you're going to be in mosquito ridden areas, wear long sleeved, light coloured clothing [1], preferably with close fitting cuffs & collars.
Nothing like catching dengue fever to ruin your holiday.

In general long & loose is better for keeping cool than short & tight, albeit less so in humid climates than dry ones.

Make sure you use breathable fabrics, preferably ones that wick off sweat.

A wide brimmed hat is another essential for ridiculously hot & sunny climes.

[1] Bright colours like blues & greens are the worst to wear.

[jhaelan.livejournal.com]

Loose-fitting but full sleave/leg, prefererably something with wicking as that will draw the moisture from your body with retaining it itself

[mimmimmim.livejournal.com]

I find in hot places, something long and floaty and covering is best.

Shops like Itchy Feet also sell stuff you can spray on your clothes to kill/repel insects - it's stronger than the stuff you can spray on your skin.