Babymoons: a rite of passage for some, a loved-up luxury for others. But what’s stopping parents from (literally) pushing their holiday back so they can enjoy it with the newest addition to their family?
This is something Wotif.com’s Kirsty La Bruniy can certainly attest to; having run out of time to go on a babymoon with her partner, she decided to embark on a French adventure with her family, just five months after giving birth to her adorable little tot.
Kirsty’s husband and newborn baby taking in the sights of Paris.
“At five months old, our daughter was at a great age for a road trip holiday,” Kirsty explains.
“A lot of the time she slept in the car. She got tonnes of entertainment being in cafes and new surroundings, which was definitely more exciting (for all of us!) than being at home in our normal environment.”
“Not to mention, it was a great way to meet the locals; so many people along the way would come up to us to say bonjour to our cute daughter!”
Kirsty and her family on their maternitymoon in France.
Although, similar to most holidays, planning this kind of vacation does require planning with precision, which is why Kirsty’s tips for making the most out of your maternitymoon are so important.
1. Choose the right destination for your family
It really depends on the style of holiday you’re after. For us, we were quite happy with a driving holiday overseas for our first maternymoon, however, we’ve decided on a relaxing, tropical holiday closer to home for our second one. Yep, you heard right – a second one!
2. Money matters
Family travel is very affordable these days, with kids staying free at many hotels and resorts and most airlines not charging extra for children under two as long as they sit on your lap. Packages are also a huge money saver, combine your hotel and flight for added discount and extra spending money.
3. Finding family-friendly accommodation
If it’s space that you’re after or if you need a kitchen with a microwave in the room to heat bottles and a washing machine, go for an apartment.
Another top tip is to filter your online search results according to your preferences, with options including accommodation with free parking, hotel restaurant, free breakfast and more.
4. Timing matters
If possible, choose travel times to match sleep times. Whether you’re driving or flying to your maternitymoon destination, try and time it with your baby’s sleep pattern.
5. Flying with babies
Feeding on the ascent and descent helps little ears from blocking.
Plenty of airlines also offer child friendly services, including Etihad which has onboard nannies for short-haul flights, and airlines like Emirates and Singapore Airlines offer babies wipes, bibs, diapers and bottles available on request.
6. Trip length
Look to go away for at least a week, rather than a weekend away. This will give you all time to really settle in and relax.
Now, no matter your price range, be prepared to relax, reset and revel in new-baby bliss on any one these magical maternitymoons, all available at the click of the mouse on Wotif.com.
Budget friendly
New Zealand, Fiordland National Park: Distinction Te Anau Hotel and Villas
This New Zealand South-Island road trip is perfect for a family who’s just welcomed a newborn baby who loves to sleep.
Aim to travel during your baby’s sleep times and take things at your leisure, stopping along the way to check out the natural landscapes, lakes and village towns.
Top of the must-not-miss list is Fiordland National Park, which is home to Milford Sound. Base yourself at the family-friendly Distinction Te Anau Hotel and Villas (located next to Lake Te Anau Lake), and book yourself into a spacious 2-bedroom villa – you’ll receive complimentary cribs and infant beds per room.
Not only does the Distinction Te Anau Hotel make for an excellent maternitymoon destination, but it’s picturesque as a wedding venue, too!
The mid-range maternitymoon
Fiji: Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort
Situated on the Coral Coast, the Outrigger is the ultimate in tropical relaxation with eight on-site restaurants, two beach bars and two poolside bars, plus the Bebe Spa offering pampering, massages, body wraps and scrubs.
Want to indulge in a baby-free dinner with your significant other? Call Reception to enquire about the Outrigger’s expert babysitters, who are on hand to look after your little one from the comfort of your own room.
Luxury
Bali, Nusa Dua: The Laguna Resort & Spa
If you’re baby isn’t crawling or walking yet – make the most of it while you can – and book a maternity moon in a Balinese villa, which offers relaxation, luxury and plenty of privacy.
Live the luxurious life this Balinese resort offers by booking into a private one- or two-bedroom villas – do so and you will have your own pool, 24-hour butler, living area and kitchen facilities to prepare food, as well as the option of taking advantage of the resort facilities, spa, restaurants and stunning beachfront.
Kick back, relax and enjoy your first-ever family holiday beachside at The Laguna Resort & Spa.
