Congratulations! You’re expecting! Suddenly there is a flurry of activity surrounding the impending arrival. But before you welcome that adorable bundle of joy—that also comes with sleepless nights, zero alone time, and mommy brain—make sure to take some time alone with just the two of you. A “Babymoon”, as it’s been dubbed, is a quiet, romantic vacation you take with your partner as a kind of “lass hurrah!” before your baby arrives.

Celebrate

Let’s admit it, babies take a lot of time and energy, and despite your best efforts it will not be easy to fit in alone time. Celebrate your last moments of just the two of you and build up those energy reserves! It doesn’t have to be a super long vacation, maybe just a long weekend away, but make sure that it is as relaxing as possible. Something where you can just kick up your feet and not worry about cooking, cleaning, or entertaining.

For a sweet, charming escape for just a few days, drive up to Asheville and stay in the historic Biltmore Hotel or rent a luxury cabin up in the mountains of Blowing Rock. Visit art galleries, drive the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, and dine at local foodie spots featuring local produce and meats.

Nearby Babymoon

Or if an ocean breeze is more your style, head down to Charleston and stay in a boutique hotel on King Street and stroll through the historic neighborhoods of grand mansions lit with gas lamps. There is a plethora of cute shops and open-air markets and a mouth-watering Southern food scene. A little further south you can find relaxing beach cottages for rent on Folley Island or Kiawah Island. Early Fall or late Winter are off peak times so prices are better and you skip the crowds but the weather is still warm
enough to enjoy the scenery.

For longer escapes some ideas include enjoying the temperate weather in Santa Barbara, California, or stay in a charming country bed and breakfast in the mountains of Vermont —especially beautiful in the fall! If you are wanting something a little more exotic but worried about traveling to different countries, the Bahamas is the perfect option. The closure of the Caribbean islands to the U.S., flights are shorter and cheaper, and unlike other Caribbean islands there is no known risk for the Zika virus there.

Sandals Babymoon

My recommendation would be either the Sandals Royal Bahamian or Sandals Emerald Bay All Inclusive Resorts for the ultimate romantic experience. Enjoy the quiet bliss of a kid-less environment while enjoying a virgin daquari under a palm tree on the beach. Both of these resorts feature several restaurants to choose from, sparkling pools, private beach, and a variety of luxurious rooms with soaking tubs, including some that come with your very own Butler. The resorts are scattered with romantic little nooks, hammocks, and swings to lounge around in.

Another great option would be a cruise to the Bahamas. Three to five night itineraries are easy to find at several ports on the East Coast, including Charleston, S.C. This is what we did for our Babymoon back in 2010 before our oldest son was born. These cruises will almost always stop at a private, cruise ship exclusive beach where all you need to do is enjoy the sparkling, turquoise waters. Pamper yourself at the on board spa and soak up time in the adult only pool areas.

These are just a few ideas for a memorable pre-baby vacation. I hope my suggestions help you decide on the perfect destination—remember to enjoy every moment.

Colleen Travel Consultant

Colleen Kuerth is an Independent Travel Consultant with Mystical Dream Travel, which specializes in Disney Destinations, All Inclusive Resorts, and Cruises. Her FREE services help reduce the stress of planning the perfect vacation and give you the VIP service of a personal planner. From helping you choose the right resort to book reservations and special experiences to rate watching–Colleen treats all of her clients’ vacations as if they were her own. Contact her at 802-373-4547, or colleen@mysticaldreamtravel.com