Hi Katie!

Too much sun exposure and you are risking skin cancer, but many people get too little and risk vitamin D shortage, which can also lead to other cancers! What to do?

Laying out for two weeks on a hot beach like an oily leg of lamb is a really, really bad idea. Getting a little sun everyday by going for a walk is a great idea. The sun peaks in it's intensity between 10am and 3pm, so during these times wear some protection, a sun hat, sunglasses, use a sunshade and wear some good quality sunscreen in the right factor for your skintype. Get yourself out and about but don't sit in direct sunlight and bake yourself! Sure a tan is nice, but you'll be better off gradually building up a sexy sun kissed look slowly rather than becoming Lobster Lady. If you are very fair skinned and burn easily avoid the mid-day sun, the same applies for children. People who are darker skinned can be out in it, but the no bake rule also applies, just because a person has darker skin doesn't mean that they shouldn't be careful. 

Different parts of the world have different levels of sunshine at different times of the year, so find out about the sun intensity that applies to wherever you will be.

Explain to your friend that you aren't comfortable with that level of sun exposure. Find some fun things to do early on in the day that don't involve being on the beach, like hanging out at a cafe, going to a market or exploring the local art and craft fairs. You both might have a more interesting holiday if the pair of you explore the place you are visiting! Have fun with 'not' tanning, buy big fabulous hats, some huge sunglasses and lots of pretty cover ups and jewelery.

For more information check

http://www.skincancer.org