Hey Nappers!

So today I am blogging from the sunny Port Macqaurie! I'm staying in a nice little hotel room with two single beds. That got me thinking, how can I get the best sleep possible whilst I'm away from the comfort and familiarity of home base (my bed)? At home, I've got my routine, my pillows arranged for maximum comfort and my own toasty, warm blanket. Here, I'm in foreign terrain – Terrifying, I know.

Here's how I got the best sleep out of my stay:

1. Investigate and explore

Hotel rooms always have hidden goodies hidden in the closets and cupboards. Make sure you check those out first because you are bound to find extra pillows and blankets to use in building up your bedding inventory. If you ever feel like you don't have enough in your arsenal, you can always call the lobby and ask them to bring up some more.

2. Take advantage of the complimentary tea

Tea has always been a friend of mine. If you know your teas well enough and drink the right ones, you can totally manipulate how you feel. If you're ever having a rough night or demand a good night's sleep, drink a cup of chamomile tea. Knocks me right out. For the best cup of tea, add milk and honey. You'll be counting sheep in no time.

3. Play around with lighting

You should try and manipulate the lights in a way so that its not pitch black but not light about an hour before you sleep. This will get you in the mood and have you feeling tired by the time it's actually time to doze off. Usually, rooms will have a bedside lamp. This is especially ideal if you're reading a book before bed – Reading a book also tends to knock me out but make sure it's one that isn't too interesting otherwise you may end up staying up all night instead! I recommend turning off all the lights besides the lamp or a light in a neighbouring room. 

4. Extra beds

Sometimes you may be travelling with a large crew and there aren't enough beds for you guys to sleep on. In this worst case scenario, most beds allow you to take the mattress off the bed support. The support is not ideal but when layered with many blankets, it's sleepable. That way, you've got two beds made out of the one.

I'm off to enjoy Port Macquarie, happy sleeping everyone!

Writer:
Julia Gapon
julia.gapon@students.mq.edu.auhttps://twitter.com/MacqNap

Image:
http://www.lafayettegardeninn.com/wp-content/fancygallery/1/3/laf_inn_rooms_1.jpg