It sounds like something to do with the summer solstice, but the term 'Babymooning' actually refers to the increasing trend for expecting couples to take one last, indulgent escape before their lives are changed forever.
If you're reading this whilst suffering with Braxton Hicks; morning sickness or raging indigestion, just getting off the sofa - let alone going on vacation - may be a tricky notion to grasp. But trust me; in a few months you'll look back on this time as a golden age. As the realisation kicks in that romantic breaks a deux will now require military precision (and a battalion of willing nannies or relatives), you'll kick yourself that you didn't make the most of these relatively carefree days.
In the USA, the concept of getting your kicks while the baby kicks is fast becoming big business. Google "babymooning" and you'll find hotels, specialist tour operators and websites, all promising to provide the perfect pre-kids package. Most focus on seriously spoiling you: think plush accommodation, spa treatments and goodie-bags (containing anything from designer baby clothes to parenting books to nipple creams!) thrown in for good measure. Others combine treats with tuition: so you'll vacation with other expectant couples, with whom you'll share intensive antenatal classes. Though quite whether you'll be able to relax after hearing all the gory details is another matter...
So what should the ideal babymoon deliver? Undoubtedly some luxury: so forget camping or self-catering. Steer clear also of city breaks where you'll feel pressurised to pound the pavement and see the sights. (Long jaunts during pregnancy are no fun - once your baby's head's engaged even a trip to the supermarket will take on Himalayan proportions.) Pampering - before you're knee-deep in Pampers - is the order of the day; so pregnancy specific spa treatments are a must, as is downtime for dad-to-be. (Just ensure that any treatments - including hydrotherapy treatments - are suitable during pregnancy - and steer clear of Jacuzzis, saunas and steam rooms... unless you enjoy fainting.) Most important is that you get time together - cosseted by good food and beautiful surroundings - and the opportunity to recharge your batteries. A little light yoga or swimming won't go amiss, but my advice would be to put your feet up - it does wonders for swollen ankles - and make numerous calls to room (or should that be womb?) service.
To celebrate its opening this summer, Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa, Portugal has created a "Mother to Stay" package that ticks all the boxes. Home to Portugal's biggest spa - the state-of-the-art 7-SPA - and with numerous, spectacular golf courses nearby to cater for sporty dads; its Algarve location means it enjoys one of the best climates in Europe. The getaway includes bed and breakfast, free access to 7-SPA and a Hydration facial treatment and Relax massage - both of which last one-hour and are especially suited for pregnant women. (Plus, if this isn't your firstborn and you have kids in tow, you get free access to the Paradise Island Kids Club and a 50% discount on their room.) Rates are from €349 per room, per night, including taxes.
If you're flying towards the end of your pregnancy, check with your airline that you're cleared for take-off. British Airways, for example, restricts travel beyond the end of the 36th week for "uncomplicated single pregnancies" - but only the end of the 32nd week if it's a multiple-pregnancy. In either instance, if you're 28 weeks pregnant or more, you need a letter from your doctor or midwife, confirming - amongst other things - that they're happy for you to travel and your expected due date. Most airlines work along similar principles, but restrictions can and do vary. And remember - and this bit is vital - those cut-off dates refer both to your outbound and your return journey. Quite how a heavily pregnant woman would react if she was barred from returning home, I can't say: but I hazard a guess the hormones might kick in.
