Expecting a child is one of the most life-altering changes that can happen to any parent. Whilst it is such a beautiful experience, it can also be nerve-wracking and stressful as you prepare for sleepless nights and navigate the chaos it ensues. This is why it’s so important to check in with yourself mentally and physically and simply press “pause” before the final preparations of birth.
The term “babymoon” was only coined in the early ‘90s and has since gained popularity. It allows couples to celebrate their relationship and pregnancy by enjoying quality time together, having that much-needed R&R, and simply making some memories!
Before flying, be sure to check with your doctor and the airline whether it’s safe and if they allow you to fly. Go with a trusted travel agent (I used the prestigious Matthew Rian Travel Concierge) for a stress-free trip; let them take care of all logistics and your needs. Generally, airlines allow travel up to 36 weeks (provided you have a medical certificate to show you are fit to fly) for an uncomplicated single pregnancy. However, consider whether you feel comfortable doing so during this time. Remember to stay hydrated during the flight and wear compression socks to reduce swelling and avoid issues like DVT.
When choosing a destination, have an idea of what you want. My priorities were to have some quiet time and be grounded in nature. I love being by the ocean and wanted to let my baby hear the waves lapping onto the shore. Hence, I chose the Maldives: beautiful, idyllic islands with acres of pristine white beaches surrounded by turquoise waters and countless coral atolls filled with rich and diverse marine life. You can’t get any more zen than that, it is absolute heaven!
For accommodation, I chose to stay at the Baglioni Resort Maldives – one of the first luxury Italian brands to arrive in the Maldives. Only a short 40-minute seaplane ride away from the main international airport, the resort is located on the magical island of Maagau in the Dhaalu Atoll.
The moment you step onto the island, you are immediately greeted with “buongiorno’s” everywhere, it could almost feel like you’re in the Med. After a quick tour of the island, which has 85 villas meticulously dotted around for seclusion and privacy, it’s time for lunch. As the saying goes, you are what you eat, and good nutrition should factor high on your list, especially for your baby. Protein intake is important during pregnancy, so opt for fresh seafood from their Japanese restaurant Umami, and satisfy all your Asian food cravings while you’re at it! For a quick carb fix, you can indulge in your favourite pasta and pizzas at their authentic Italian restaurant Gusto. Should you happen to stay at a floating villa, which I highly recommend, order the floating breakfast served straight to your pool. You can also book an intimate private dining experience on the beach or even in their cellar of fine Italian wines, which includes non-alcoholic options.
Ultimately, this trip’s main goal is to rest and relax, but that doesn’t mean you can’t be active and indulge in daily excursions, bar the intense activities like scuba diving which are not recommended during pregnancy. However, you might still chance upon some manta rays and other aquatic marine life like whale sharks! Don’t miss this opportunity to book a boat or the traditional Maldivian dhoni out to the nearby coral reefs for snorkelling, a dolphin tour, fishing for tuna or barracuda, or, if you prefer something more laid back, a romantic sunset cruise on a golden sand bank.
You can also make use of the yoga pavilion, which is tucked away in the coconut groves, and practise some grounding techniques. This art of electrically reconnecting with the earth has a multitude of health benefits that can help with inflammation, chronic pain, mood, and cardiovascular diseases and improve your immune system. Even a walk on the beach or submerging yourself in the sea constitutes grounding. Pregnancy is an excellent time to get in touch with your spirituality — seek guidance from wellness practitioners visiting the island and practice self-awareness using techniques such as hypnotherapy, reiki, shamanic breathwork and more.
The memories you make on your babymoon will last a lifetime, which brings me to my last point: don’t forget to take lots of photos! As your body changes and grows, it’s normal to feel a little self-conscious. It’s important to embrace these changes and love your body. Being pregnant is one of the most beautiful experiences that can happen to any mama. The process is not always glamorous, so dress up the bump and pose up a storm! Life will pass by quickly, and this is a chance to look good and feel good as you celebrate your pregnancy journey and embark on a new chapter in life.
Editor
Antonia Da Cruz
