10 Things to Know Before Booking Your Babymoon in Hawaii
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Babymoons are definitely becoming a common trend for growing families - and I 100% get it. It's the perfect excuse to get away and spend some much-needed one-on-one time with your spouse. But even if you're the most avid traveler, traveling while pregnant is very different than what you're used to. So, I put together my top tips (and things to keep in mind) to help you plan your babymoon.
1. The flight is long, but longer when pregnant.
I'm no stranger to planes and long flights. In fact, my honeymoon destination in Thailand took almost 24 hours to get to (and it included traveling by plane, van, and boat). However, when you're pregnant, the shortest flight can feel twice as long. Prepare!
Wear compression socks. Even if you're not a fan (like me), wear them! They help prevent blood clots and even I have to admit I felt better when I landed.
Download extra movies on your iPad (and bring back-up power), bring books/magazines, and anything else to keep you busy. Not all airlines provide in-flight entertainment and you'll want the distraction.
Buy the big water bottle before boarding. Honestly, buy two. It's important to stay hydrated.
Get up... a lot. It keeps your blood moving and let's be real, you'll be peeing every half hour as it is. So get a seat in the aisle to make this easier on you and your neighbors.
Buy the good neck pillow. Depending on how far along you are, you're going to get uncomfortable fast so invest in the good stuff to help you relax or nap.
2. Snacks, snacks, and more snacks.
This can also be included in your plane preparedness list, but it deserves a section on its own. You're going to be hungry more than usual so it's smart to have snacks in your travel bag at all times. It's cheaper than adding (and planning for) an extra meal each day and you'll have a back-up if those dreaded food aversions decide to kick in. My favorite go-to snacks were Clif Bars and Munk Pack oatmeal fruit squeeze (they're amazing, I highly recommend them).
3. No fish for you.
One thing I did not take into consideration when we booked our Hawaii trip (and I deeply regret it) is that Hawaii has the best fresh fish in the country, including Mahi Mahi (my fave!) - and I couldn't eat any of it. And the one time I went for shellfish I got food poisoning. So, my meat choice was only beef (at the time, I couldn't eat chicken let alone look at it). Don't get me wrong, I love beef. But when you're on day 5 of it, it gets old! My advice? Plan your restaurants ahead of time so you're guaranteed to get a variety of choices and still enjoy local cuisine.
4. Mai Tais... oh wait.
This one is obvious, but something you don't think about until you're poolside and everyone around you is enjoying their fancy cocktails and you're downing... water. Many places do have non-alcoholic "mocktails" so look up your hotel's poolside menu before booking.
5. Excursions.
Hawaii has a lot of fun and exciting excursions you can book, from scuba diving trips to guided hiking tours. The downside? Your options are limited depending on how far along you are. Even going on a boat for a whaling tour is a no-no (the bouncing - who knew?). When you check into your hotel, go to the concierge next to plan your week. They'll be able to let you know what's available for pregnant couples and provide suggestions you may not have thought of. My suggestions - splurge on a helicopter tour and create your own hike (like the Maha'ulepu Heritage Trail).
6. Sun safety.
As you know, your skin is super sensitive while pregnant and time in the sun doesn't make it easier. So, prepare! Find shade when going to the beach, stay hydrated (seriously, buy your own pack of water bottles for your hotel room and keep a few extra in your beach bag), invest in the good sunscreen, and dress comfortably to avoid overheating.
7. Spas.
Girl, you're creating a human. A babymoon is the perfect time to get some much deserved R & R. Many Hawaiian hotels have an in-house spa (or can help you book with one) that offers couple/prenatal massages. There are two types - one where you're on your side and one with a fancy pillow that allows you to be on your stomach. I highly recommend the latter if you have a choice, but both are wonderful.
8. Gym time.
If you're like me, I like working out while on vacation. I don't have to get up at the crack of dawn to do it and I like trying out different gym equipment when I actually have the time to test them out. And being pregnant shouldn't stop you. Sure, you have to adjust your routine and be aware of your limits, but getting a workout in will keep your energy up for the rest of the day (plus, it's good for you and baby!).
9. Rain.
Yep, Hawaii has a rainy season. We were not aware of that when we booked our trip for February. The benefit? It is pretty. You'll definitely see more waterfalls and greenery. The downside? It can put a damper (pun intended) on your plans. And in Kauai your main attractions involve outdoor activities. Oahu has more attractions that help you escape the bad weather, however. So, we did face a couple days where our beach visits were cut short or didn't happen at all.
10. Jetlag.
Sure, this is a given when traveling outside your time zone, but when pregnant, it's even more exhausting! It took me a good 10 days to fully adjust back to my normal day-to-day life. My tip - include one (or two!) buffer days before heading back to work. You'll adjust faster and not be in a vacation daze the next week.
- J
