Arab News

Babymoon before the baby comes

- Rima Al-mukhtar

BABIES are a buddle of joy and happiness, but they also demand a lot of work and care. Before you start pulling all-nighters and start your routine of feeding, burping, bathing and cleaning diapers, you should take one last trip where you connect with your partner and kiss the carefree life goodbye.

A babymoon is pre-babies escape where parents-to-be take a week off work and spend time together in a peaceful place. This might be the best thing they can do to prepare for parenting.

Most babymoons take place in a resort or a romantic island where parents can enjoy a great escape to the beach and take advantage of luxurious spa treatments. Some like to head to big cities so they can enjoy lots of shopping, fine dining, sports, nightlife, movies, leisure activities, walking tours, museums, theater shows and parks. While others book cruises that give them the opportunit­y to explore more than one destinatio­n.

Arab News listed 10 great places for you and your partner to explore before the baby arrives. Zighy Bay:

This beautiful bay in Oman might be the only place in the GCC area where you can escape reality and indulge in daydreamin­g. You will love everything about it from the organic food to the variety of spa treatments at the resort. The one thing we guarantee you will love is the view of the open seas where you can unwind, chill and forget about any worries. Venice:

Perfect for both honeymoone­rs and babymooner­s. This place is so magical you will forget about the baby bump you are carrying around with you. You can satisfy your pregnancy cravings with pizza, pasta and lots of gelato. You should definitely take a gondola ride and explore the beauty of the city with your husband. California:

Perfect for those who are looking to take a road trip up and down the coast of California. The beaches here are amazing. If you want to stay and enjoy a busy city, just head to Los Angeles or San Diego where you will enjoy all kinds of beach and land activities filled with adventure and fun. Maldives:

Enjoy some quality alone time and white sand beaches at the Maldives. Your resort will definitely have a spa so make sure you ask for the prenatal yoga classes. Enjoy a light lunch by the beach or rent a private boat and go on a snorkeling trip to explore the nearby reefs off the island. Marrakech:

It is an amazing exotic place that blends the business of Africa and the luxuries of Andalusia in southern Spain. You are to explore great outlandish spa treatments, great food and amazing culture. You also get a great chance to see the busiest square in Africa with its snake charmers, monkey shows and even better shopping opportunit­ies for fabric, spices and home accessorie­s. Mallorca:

The largest island in Spain, it is a dreamy Mediterran­ean destinatio­n and perfect for those who are looking to get away from the noise of big cities. Many activities include lounging by the beach, long walks and exploring historical areas, hiking, shopping and delightful food. Bali:

This island is famous for its relaxed and romantic natural beauty and water sport activities. The charming view of the beach, the enchanted scenic waterfalls and numerous ancient temples across the island will never fail to charm you. Thanks to Bali’s warm and generous people, your visit will make a picture perfect vacation. Sharm El-Sheikh:

Perfect for mommies who don’t want to take long flights, you can just head to Egypt’s most relaxing and fun destinatio­n on the Red Sea. You can simply lie on the beach and enjoy the summer heat or you can indulge in the variety of Egyptian spa treatments. It is a great place to shop and explore local markets or take a Bedouin camel ride and

have a traditiona­l dinner feast at a Bedouin tent. Istanbul:

There is so much to do in this historical city. You get to explore its Asian and European part by renting a tour guide who can lead you to the best parts of the city. Historical sites attract a large part of Istanbul’s tourism. Visitors come to see old castles and mosques that have seen the rise and decline of one of the most successful ancient empires. The food is great and the weather is even better so make sure you look for open-air restaurant­s to enjoy both. Head to the Grand Bazar and learn about the local handicraft­s that Turkey is famous for. Don’t forget to try the Turkish bath, the exfoliatin­g and massage will leave you feel relaxed and unwound. The Caribbean:

It is warm and relaxing just enough to make you feel like you’ve gotten far away from reality and into a deep blue dream. The combinatio­n of soft white sand, high coconut trees and blue sea is the right mixture that offers you nothing but peace of mind. All you need to do is eat, sleep and enjoy, it is the place for laziness and relaxation. Ask your resort for other activities but make sure you add a spa treatment to that list.

Babymoon travel tips:

1)

3)

4)

5)

6)

7) Wear comfortabl­e clothing, especially around your baby bump. You don’t want a tight waistband around your belly when you are sitting in an airplane so instead wear a maxi dress that will keep you cool and comfortabl­e. Make sure you always have a bottle of water in your handbag to keep you hydrated and fresh. You might also want to carry light snacks with you to help prevent nausea. Don’t forget your vitamins, you will need them when you are away too. Don’t mess up your sleeping plans, you need to rest and take naps so don’t forget you are pregnant and you are resting for two. Discuss your travel plan with your doctor and learn about the good, the bad and the ugly, its better be safe than sorry. If you are traveling by plane, make sure you get out of your seat and walk around every once in a while. You should also do calf stretches or rotate your ankles. Finally, remember this trip is all about you taking a break so make sure your back takes a break too. Pack light and make sure all your luggage has wheels on them.

 ??  ?? Istanbul's famous Blue Mosque.
Istanbul's famous Blue Mosque.

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from Saudi Arabia