Welcoming a baby into the world is a life-changing experience for any couple. Amidst the nerves and preparations, parents-to-be genuinely deserve a break. It’s no surprise that “babymoon” searches have surged by 78% in the past 15 years, according to Exploding Topics, as couples seek a relaxing getaway before their little one arrives.
Craft Travel, an entirely female and mother-run luxury travel company, has shared its top 5 babymoon vacations for 2023 and helpful travel tips for expecting couples.
For the uninitiated, a babymoon is a trip taken by expecting parents, usually during the second trimester of pregnancy. It offers couples the chance to rest, rejuvenate, and spend quality time together before their new journey begins. If you’re considering planning a babymoon, keep these options in mind:
Spot the Big Five at A Luxury Safari Lodge in South Africa
Want to squeeze in one last big adventure before baby arrives? Head to Mateya Safari Lodge in South Africa, a malaria-free sanctuary. With just five luxurious suites perched atop a rocky outcrop overlooking Madikwe Game Reserve, this lodge offers privacy, intimacy, and a chance to experience the Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinos, buffaloes, and elephants). Personalized meals and a dedicated health therapist ensure a worry-free and adventurous babymoon.
Explore the Cloud Forests of Costa Rica
If adventure is on the menu, but you’re hoping to prioritize safety and relaxation on your trip, give Costa Rica a shot. Avoid challenging destinations like the Galapagos and opt for El Silencio Lodge & Spa in Costa Rica. Located within a private reserve in the cloud forest, this lodge offers serenity and a variety of pregnancy-safe activities, such as waterfall hikes and cooking classes. It’s an ideal destination for parents-to-be, with a beautiful on-site spa offering prenatal massages and yoga sessions.
Escape To A 5-Star Chalet Retreat in the Alps
Want to spoil your expectant partner? Indulge in a luxurious babymoon experience at La Sivoliere in Courchevel, a sought-after ski resort with a brand-new babymoon program. Led by a certified hypnobirthing practitioner, the prenatal package focuses on reducing stress and anxiety while promoting the health of both expectant parents and the baby. The lodge’s spa, swimming pool, and massage room add to the pampering experience.
Go Off Grid to Remote Canadian Islands
If you’re eager to escape the chaos of your daily routine, getting off the beaten path might be the perfect babymoon. Clayoquot Sound on Vancouver Island, Canada’s west coast, offers a perfect blend of remote wilderness and proximity to North American healthcare. Couples can immerse themselves in untamed natural beauty, indulging in soft, pregnancy-friendly adventures like gentle forest walks and wildlife spotting. The eco-lodge, Clayoquot Wilderness, provides a serene retreat with prenatal treatments and yoga sessions.
Unwind in the Convenience of Harbour Island, The Bahamas
Who says international travel has to be stressful? For a relaxing, unique, and easily accessible babymoon spot, consider Harbour Island in the Bahamas. Its beautiful pink shores and a range of activities that can be explored via a golf cart offer the perfect blend of history, luxury, and tranquility. The Dunmore Resort provides boutique cottages and a restaurant with health-conscious menus, ensuring a peaceful and enjoyable stay.
Tips for Planning Your Babymoon
Planning a babymoon is a wonderful and meaningful experience for expectant parents, but timing is critical. Aim for the second trimester when morning sickness and fatigue tend to subside, allowing for more comfortable travel. Always consult your healthcare provider before finalizing travel plans, as they can provide valuable advice on the destination and activities suitable for your pregnancy.
Selecting a pregnancy-friendly destination is paramount, with easy access to medical facilities and low health risks. Extreme climates and regions requiring vaccines not recommended during pregnancy should be avoided. Pack comfortable clothing, maternity wear, essential medications, and relevant medical documents wisely.
When choosing transportation, opt for convenient options, minimizing long journeys or rough terrain that may be uncomfortable for a pregnant person. Planning for downtime is wise, allowing ample time for relaxation, leisurely strolls, and enjoying each other’s company without overfilling the itinerary.
Investing in comprehensive travel insurance is also a prudent step to cover any unforeseen medical expenses or trip cancellations. Ultimately, a babymoon is about celebrating the relationship and savoring this special time together before parenthood begins. By following these tips, expectant parents can create lasting memories and cherish the journey into parenthood.
This article originally appeared on Wander With Alex. Photo Credit: [@Zolotareva123/DepositPhotos]
Chelsea DeAngio is a freelance writer based in Greensboro, NC. Inspired by a rootless childhood as a Navy brat, she enjoys traveling every chance she gets. Pop culture often drives her trips. Whether channeling her inner Lady Mary at Highclere Castle in the UK or noshing on nachos at Showgirls filming locations in Vegas, Chelsea is always in search of a little silver screen glitz.