The recipe for a delightful babymoon that will imbue you with a sense of placidity requires a few simple components; these are sun, rest, a little luxury and a lot of pampering. With the essential ingredients noted, where to go with your bump? The answer is the Indian Ocean; renowned for its faultless beauty, idyllic islands and relatively short plane rides, this part of the world is made for mums-to-be. Sugar-soft sands hem the tropical coasts and seductively lead into the turquoise, glassy sea. Each of the countries located along the shores of the Indian Ocean is a spotless and ever-alluring slice of heaven. Here are the top four islands for a babymoon to remember.
Mauritius
Surrounded by an endless emerald sea, this wonderful French-speaking island is blessed with swathes of beach and luxurious hotels, plus no jet lag means it’s great for tired mums-to-be. Curved bays glide as far as the eye can see, and gentle waters are ideal for relaxing dips. With scents of nutmeg and spices that fill the air, this gorgeous country will charm you. Shanti Maurice resort spoils expectant mothers and has a long list of spa treatments to help with pregnancy. The Kati Vasti treatment eases lower back pain and soothes those aching muscles.
The Seychelles
Barefoot island paradise awaits in this archipelago scattered across the vast blue ocean. Shallow waters are perfect for paddling and snorkelling. The shores provide hours of fascination in the magical underwater world. Each of the 115 islands has its own identity, from granite islands and coral wonderlands to lush tropical forests. Try Dhevatara beach hotel or Maia Luxury Resort and Spa, both of which cater specifically for babymoons and can supply you with the essentials for a superlative babymoon.
Of course, whilst you choose your destination, there are other considerations to make when pregnant. Check essential travel advice for mums-to-be, and even consider consulting a luxury travel advisor to ensure you have the right travel insurance coverage in place before your trip. You will have to specify your pregnancy as a pre-existing condition with your insurer.
Sri Lanka
There are some of the most stunning beaches in the world on the Sri Lankan coast, where white marble sands are dotted with stretching green palm trees. Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna and Kosgoda are some popular beaches, but you can still find secluded beaches all along the shores. Explore the island by renting a car and spend days ambling through the beautiful countryside. For a far-fetched activity, take part in a sunset turtle release at The Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, where you can watch the baby turtles swim to freedom under the stars. If the sun becomes too hot and heavy, why not head up into the hills and sip on tea surrounded by lush vegetation in one of the numerous teahouses?
Maldives
Crystal blue waters and empty beaches create an impeccable atmosphere to unwind and shake the stress away. Resorts with larger spa centres have packages expressly designed for mums-to-be, while smaller resorts are always happy to cater to your needs and design a pack to fit your requirements. You will feel like you have escaped to paradise, where fragrances of vanilla and coconut permeate the air and are carried on a soft, warm breeze over the islands. Flights to the Maldives can be direct, making it an easy destination to escape to, so you are free to enjoy a few last moments before your baby arrives. Baros is an ideal resort for expecting mothers; they have unique massages and offer tailored yoga classes to prepare you for the months ahead. Located on a private island, you will feel worlds away from everyone and able to babymoon in peace.
Whichever sublime getaway you choose for your babymoon, you are sure to find tranquillity and the ultimate break before the baby arrives with any of these options. Of course, there are other considerations to make when pregnant, check essential travel advice for mums-to-be and ensure you purchase the right travel insurance before your trip.