Spring is one of the best times to travel to East Asia, where many countries have cherry blossom festivals and celebrations when the weather begins to warm up. These blossoms have inspired art around the world, and when the wind blows blossoms off the trees, you’ll feel like you’re standing in the middle of a fairytale. However, spring is also the season of “yellow dust,” fine particles that come from dry desert regions and plague the air. Travel comfortably and safely in East Asia in the spring by following these tips.
1. Buy a mask
The best way to protect yourself from yellow dust while traveling is by purchasing a mask. However, many masks sold abroad are only protective against viruses and disease. A lot of yellow dust contains ultra-fine particles that can penetrate regular masks. Instead, look for the best yellow dust masks, like N95 or KF80+ masks for protection against even the tiniest of particles.
2. Protect your food
If you’re in East Asia in the spring to enjoy the warm weather and blooms, you might be tempted to go on a picnic. In fact, Yeouido Park in Seoul is one of the most famous spring hangouts in South Korea, where many people drink beer and order fried chicken next to the river. However, it’s better to enjoy your fried chicken from inside on a dusty day. Particles in the air can contaminate your food as well as your lungs.
3. Avoid prolonged exposure
To protect your skin from being dried out and irritated from the dust, wear breezy long-sleeved shirts and pants. In addition, wash your face as soon as you get back to your hotel or homestay with a gentle, non-irritating soap. Don’t forget to apply moisturizers, too. Yellow dust in East Asia is a common springtime phenomenon.
Even if the locals don’t seem bothered by the dust, you should still take precautions and wear a mask, protect your food, and avoid prolonged exposure. However, don’t let a bit of dust stop you from exploring the beauty that springtime in East Asia has to offer.