Expecting a baby? Then you and your partner have likely considered taking a babymoon…one last vacation before that bundle of joy arrives. It’ll give you a chance to relax and connect with each other before life gets even more hectic. But whether this is your first or third child, you’ll want to find the perfect destination. There are so many great options for expecting parents. But where to go?
Novice at planning a babymoon? Check out: What You Need to Know Before Planning a Babymoon
One thing that inevitably comes to mind when planning a babymoon is “zika”. And whether you’re pregnant or trying, you’ll want to consider your destination carefully. Here are a few ideas from our 2018 post: Planning a Zika-Free Babymoon: 5 Ideas for a Safe Pre-Baby Vacation.
While in the past couple of years, tropical destinations were being affected, most hot-weather destinations no longer have reported cases of zika. It’s still best to regularly check the travel.gc.ca website to find out which destinations are affected.
Now let’s get to our destinations for 2020! From beach getaways to desert escapes, here are 3 more zika-free destinations for your babymoon. To make things easier, we’ve made sure these aren’t too far from Canada’s east and west coasts.
Scottsdale, Arizona
If you’re into striking desert landscapes, quiet solitude, luxury resorts and spas, not to mention… shopping and architecture, how about Scottsdale, Arizona for a unique and stress-free babymoon? With so many great spots to check out, it’s hard to go wrong. Plus, it’s only a few hours away by plane from Canada’s west coast.
A suburb of Phoenix, Scottsdale is conveniently located just half an hour away from the metropolis. The city is known for its Historic Old Town, art gallery scene and one if its biggest attractions, Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home, Taliesin West. So, for art connoisseurs and those who want to stay close to the airport and hospital, it’s a great option.
The Old Town is perfect for taking a stroll, admiring the architecture and visiting the many boutique shops! While you’ll find jewellery, clothing, and other speciality options, you’ll also find a plethora of Native American arts including dream catchers, turquoise gems, and other handicrafts.
Also check out one of Scottsdale’s many museums, if history’s your thing! And refuel at one of the many delish restaurants. Our favourites include The Mission and Fat Ox – both will be unforgettable meals! It’s a relatively small town, so you can easily get your exercise by exploring on foot. Feet too swollen? Hop on the free trolley instead!
Note: Before you book, consider the time of year. Think about visiting from fall to spring when the temperature is more manageable.
More ideas for your Scottsdale babymoon!
Bermuda
Looking for a zika-free tropical destination for your final vacation before baby arrives? More into a beach vibe than a desert vibe? At less than 3 hours by plane from Canada’s east coast, Bermuda is an attractive option!
What sets it apart from other tropical locales, in addition to its zika-free status, is its signature pink sand beaches. Dig your toes in, enjoy the sound of the waves on the shore, explore historic pastel towns and generally unwind. Paradise awaits!
Not only does Bermuda have unique pink sands, it’s also home to many secluded beaches. So why not enjoy some of those last few days of solitude before baby arrives on one of those? Explore the well-known South Shore and check out the rocky cliffs of Jobson’s Cove Warwick Long Bay. Take a long walk and enjoy the feeling of sand between your toes.
Although relatively expensive, as much of the food is imported, Bermuda boasts a wide array of dining options. There’s something for every craving, from Bermudian specialities like codfish breakfast, fish chowder, Bermuda fish cake and spiny lobster. Not a seafood lover? You’ll also find Asian fusion, French fare, pub food and so much more.
And of course, a babymoon wouldn’t be complete without a rejuvenating prenatal massage. Sources seem to agree, the Natura Spa at Grotto Bay Beach Resort is the must-visit place for a unique, utterly blissful massage. What makes it so special? You’ll receive a once-in-a-lifetime massage in an ancient cave, surrounded by stalagmites and stalactites. The massage is specially designed to relieve swelling, backache, fatigue and many more pregnancy related ailments.
Laguna Beach, California
A few hours’ flight from Vancouver, Laguna Beach is ideal for health-conscious couples who want to stay fit, while relaxing and enjoying fresh, delicious food at the same time. Plus, you’ll get gorgeous weather and breathtaking views to boot.
It’s hard to talk about a babymoon in Laguna Beach, without mentioning Surf and Sand resort. Although we haven’t been there, the resort gets multiple mentions by a plethora of bloggers singing its praises as a top destination for a babymoon vacay.
The resort offers a wellness inspired babymoon package which includes a welcome basket with in room movies, mocktails and a cold beer for the non-pregnant partner. It also comes with a healthy dinner for 2 and a healthy prenatal yoga class on the beach! Not to mention a mother-to-be massage with essential oils.
But there’s more than just hotels and spas to Laguna beach. Originally an arts colony, the town attracts art lovers from everywhere with its galleries, museums and public art works. Take an art-themed walking tour, check out a pop-up market featuring local artists, crafters and designers, or visit a weekly farmers market on Saturday mornings from 8am to 12pm for local produce!
Here are some more ideas for what to do in Laguna Beach.
Wherever you’re headed on your babymoon, have a fantastic and relaxing vacation!
Safe travels,
Sarah
