Whether you are expecting your first child or even your tenth, your entire world is about to change–in the most fantastic way! You can spend the entire pregnancy planning for the future and anxiously awaiting the arrival of your little one, but it’s important that you and your partner take some time for yourselves as well. So, between choosing baby names and discussing options for stem cell banking, you should consider a pre-baby getaway or “babymoon” to enjoy these last moments of pregnancy with your partner.
What is a Babymoon?
So what is a babymoon during pregnancy? If you have never heard of a babymoon or pre-baby vacation, do not worry! We have gathered everything you need to know about enjoying a little bit of calmness and serenity before the birth of a new baby.
A babymoon is similar to a honeymoon, in that it’s a celebratory getaway for you and your partner. But instead of a vacation for newlyweds, a babymoon is all about spending quality time with your spouse before your baby arrives. Think of it as having one last taste of “your old life” before you embark on your new adventure of becoming parents. And let’s face it, you might not have many opportunities for alone time or getaways once the baby is born.
Planning your Pre-baby Vacation
The best thing about planning a perfect pre-baby getaway is that you get to make the rules! You choose when and where you want to go–there is no correct time to take your babymoon, but make sure that you talk to your physician before solidifying any travel plans. Many women prefer to travel during the second trimester when early-pregnancy symptoms subside, and energy often returns.
Remember that a babymoon doesn’t have to be incredibly luxurious or expensive–unless you want it to be and have the means to do so– it can be as simple as driving a few hours outside of the city and staying in a cabin.
However, if you do decide to travel overseas, additional precautions should be taken, especially when it comes to particular destinations. For example, pregnant travelers should avoid some destinations, including areas with a risk of Zika and malaria transmission.
You can learn more about safety regulations and travel advice for pregnant travelers on the Centers for Disease Control's (CDC's) website.
If you’re concerned about getting sick or other complications, consider a staycation babymoon instead! You can book a hotel in your own city or the next town over and be a tourist in your own town–we will get into more ideas for your perfect pre-baby vacay in the next section.
Babymoon Ideas
As we mentioned before, there is no right or wrong way to enjoy a babymoon, but if you need some inspiration or ideas, here are our favorite babymoon getaways:
- Beach Babymoon Many parents-to-be opt for an easy-going beach vacation to celebrate their last “hurrah” before the baby comes. The beach is an excellent choice because there are so many different destinations that are only a few hours away–either by car or plane. Some of the popular beach destinations for expecting parents include Florida, California, Hawaii, Virginia, and South Carolina.
- Staycation Staycations have grown in popularity over the years, and rightfully so. Many of us live our daily lives in our hometowns and we don’t really explore our own city. Staycations are great because you don't have to worry about car rentals or airfare and you can find some really cool things to do in your own city. Try a new restaurant, a cooking class, pottery class, or even an afternoon at the museum. Book a hotel room near your home or find a rustic bed and breakfast nearby.
- Overseas Babymoon Many moms-to-be choose to travel internationally for a babymoon, because let’s be honest, once your bundle of joy arrives, it may not be quite as simple to travel abroad with a newborn baby. As we said before, talk with your physician before making travel plans. Some of the top destinations for babymoons abroad include Turks and Caicos, Bali, French Polynesia, Bahamas, and Anguilla.
- Babymoon In The Mountains Looking to get away from the city and find some serenity in nature? The mountains can be a wonderful place for that. Look for a mountain resort or even a cozy cabin.
Now that you know what a babymoon during pregnancy is, you can see that it actually doesn’t matter where you go, as long as you are spending quality time relaxing and reconnecting with your partner before the baby arrives.
