I am trying to get some more measurable results while training, and I would like to get a watch that can measure my pulse during workouts. I see that the market is HUGE for watches meant for this, but I am a bit lost. Here are some things that are relevant to finding a good watch for me:

• I have smallish wrists.
• I would like to wear it also while swimming or showering
• I need it to work really well independently of any phone, as I don't use iOS or any Android variant. This also means that the watch needs to be good at keeping the time without syncing with a phone.
• I need the watch to be privacy respecting. Even though I don't plan on using it with a phone at the moment, I do not wish to support a scummy company.

Do you have a favorite watch that could fit some of these points?

Summer is here! What are you going to read, and what would you recommend to others?

I'm visiting Germany, Italy and France over the next few weeks. I won't have access to a kitchen most of the time, but I am going to want snacks. It has taken me a lot of time to find my favorite snacks in my home country, and I won't have that much time in each country to try all of your delicious and less delicious offerings.

So:

• What's your favorite snacks, fit for a movie night, a long train ride, a low effort lunch or a hike?
• What's the name of the store that usually sell these snacks?
• Any other advice you have for a vegan visitor to your country?

I'm considering onebagging through Italy and France in May by train, no airplane travel involved. Do you have any tips or tricks for doing that? We'll be two women traveling, no formal events to attend or special equipment activities planned.