For newlywed couples, there’s the honeymoon. Full of blissful moments, romance and a taste of happily ever after. Then, there’s the Babymoon, which some might consider the calm before the storm. The last chance adventure a couple might take before two become three. The last family trip without nappies, children’s toys and cracker crumbs littering the backseat. A couple’s last vacation just being together. It’s the Babymoon, and whether a baby is already well along the way, or the couple just wants to take a pre-baby vacation, here are 7 trips to take before Baby makes the grand entrance.
Relax In These Destinations Before Having A Baby
1. To feel like it’s a Honeymoon (and not a Babymoon) - Venice, Italy
For a romantic getaway, Venice is the perfect Italian city to get you back into Honeymoon mode. The added bonus is that you can enjoy all the perks of a Babymoon as well! The Luna Hotel Baglioni in Venice has a package for expecting parents that includes two nights in a deluxe double room, a welcome mocktail, an hour-long massage for mom-to-be, a cooking class with a chef that features recipes for kids, complimentary breakfast and a 10 percent discount at the hotel’s restaurant and La Perla boutique. If the perks aren’t enough, think about all the gondola rides, Italian dinner dates and gelato for two that you can’t experience anywhere else.
2. To feel like a kid again - Northumberland, England
Most pregnant women feel their best during their second trimester, which is also considered the safest time for most pregnant women to travel. (Be sure to check with your OBGYN!) If you want to release your inner child before you yourself are responsible for one, check out Alnwick Castle in Northumberland, England. It’s an actual castle located in the North of England where the TV series Downton Abbey was filmed. Where else will you be able to fulfill your childhood fantasies of castles and dragons and knights in shining armor? You’ll get to dress up in medieval attire and be the hero of your very own fairy tale. You’ll also find plenty of charming accommodations in the area, so you won’t be without modern-day comfort after you’ve had your fun.
3. To satisfy food cravings - New Orleans, Louisiana
If you’ve always been a culinary explorer, New Orleans may already be on your radar. It’s where you can experience European, African and Caribbean influences, and taste flavors from all over the world. This might make a good trip before the couple conceives, but there’s no reason that expecting mothers can’t enjoy pillowy beignets and quality jambalaya, too. For couples who enjoy culture, local lore, fantastic music and food, New Orleans makes for a great pre-baby trip.
4. To prepare for Baby’s arrival - Miami, Florida
If you feel like you have too much to do (and buy) before the baby is born, head to Miami, Florida for some down time at the beach and retail therapy to feel productive. There are plenty of beaches that aren’t as loud and crowded as the tourist traps, and the warm sun and water is nature’s therapy for mothers-to-be. The city is full of shops and upscale boutiques if shopping is your jam. Stroll along Cocowalk or Lincoln Road to browse outdoors. Miracle Mile and Palm Beach Gardens also have stores for maternity and baby gear. Don’t forget the plentiful restaurant options and sights that the city offers as well.
5. To get some R&R - Scottsdale, Arizona
Spas give both mothers and fathers-to-be a chance for rest and relaxation. You can get pampered from head to toe in Scottsdale, Arizona. Get rid of those backaches, leg cramps and swollen feet with some of the best (or only) coddling you’ll receive in the foreseeable future. The Phoenician in Scottsdale offers a super lavish Swedish prenatal massage package and even a “Perfect Pair” couples spa treatment experience. The Westin Kierland Resort and Spa has a “Bundle of Joy” Babymoon package featuring a mother-to-be massage for mom and a massage of choice for dad as part of the deal. If you aren’t really into spas, indulge in one of their in-room treats such as “make your own” ice cream sundaes or visit the Kierland Commons to make the most of your guest discount.
6. To reconnect with nature - Hudson Valley, New York
Head to the Hudson Valley in New York to visit one of National Geographic Traveler’s “Top 20 Destinations.” You’ll be wowed by the scenic beauty, culture and local food of the area in no time. There are plenty of glimpses into country lifestyle, especially if you visit Millstone Farm. The Buttermilk Falls Inn & Spa also showers guests with nature’s bounties, from their locally sourced, nutritious menu items to their eco-friendly spa, which only uses organic and biodynamic products. The spa offers pre-natal massages, too. But the real kick you’ll get from a trip to Hudson Valley is the gift of nature itself—a picture-perfect environment that will remind you of all that is natural and good.
7. To an island paradise - Antigua, West Indies
It’s only a 3-hour flight from Miami, Florida to Antigua, one of the islands in the Caribbean region. It’s absolute paradise, with gorgeous surroundings and tranquility you can only find on a small island. Jumby Bay, the only resort on the island, is completely Babymoon friendly. It offers specially designed treatments for expectant mothers and an unlimited open bar for the rest of the party. The infinity pool overlooking the ocean is a nice added touch. You’ll find a serene escape from life as you know it with a trip to Antigua.
This article was written by Hanna Choi.