As a mum of two beautiful children, I can honestly say having a baby completely changes life as you know it. In a good way of course! However, new parents need to appreciate the fact once bub comes along, it’s going to be quite a while before they have quality time alone together.

I say good on Wills and Kate for having their babymoon on the Caribbean island of Mustique before Prince George arrived. For the rest of us – let’s keep dreaming of that romantic break in the Caribbean!

Whether it’s to an exotic private island or simply up the coast, a babymoon is a great way to squeeze in some precious time together before another member of the family arrives. As I’ve told many friends who are soon to be mums and dads, whether it’s the first or fourth child on the way, it’s important to take time out to escape and focus on each other and not the all-consuming baby planning.

As many of you will agree, planning for a baby is great fun but exhausting. A babymoon is the ultimate chance to put that all aside for a week or two and simply zone out. No baby wipes, books or little clothes – just you, your partner, a good book and plenty of R+R.

Once convinced it’s a good idea, it’s now a question of where? As a mum working in travel, I can say from experience that beachside holidays are often a hit with those looking to lock in a babymoon. When it comes to quick domestic breaks, the Sunshine Coast and the Whitsundays offer an abundance of accommodation options to suit all budgets and needs.

For those looking for a value for money overseas getaway, Hawaii or New Zealand are always  safe options. Knowing the language and being confident about water and food standards is very important when travelling while pregnant. Fiji, Thailand and Bali are also popular but do be wary of where you stay and what you eat and drink. There are some great hotels, resorts and restaurants which offer world class quality service however when it comes to holidaying while pregnant in Asia or the Pacific Islands, be extra cautious. Your health and the wellbeing of your bub needs to come first!

Before setting your heart on a domestic or overseas location, it’s best to run your travel plans past your doctor. Flying is possible while pregnant however your doctor will be able to let you know what’s best for you and your baby.  For example, if you can avoid it, it is not advisable to fly during your first trimester as the risk of a miscarriage is still high. Equally, it is not advised to fly throughout your third trimester as the possibility of going into labour increases and you ideally don’t want to be having the baby while in the air!

No matter where you decide to go in the end, you will need to be prepared for all situations. Have all your doctor’s contact details on hand. Know where the nearest hospital is to your accommodation and bring with you any items you need should you happen to go into labour unexpectedly. If flying, no matter what trimester you’re in, I recommend you alert the airline to the fact you’re pregnant all the same. It’s good to do the same with your hotel too so they can quickly come to your aid if need be.

As long as you’re prepared and it’s financially viable, there’s no reason not to squeeze a babymoon in before each child!  The ability to relax and make time for each other becomes increasingly difficult these breaks energise you both. If you’re expecting, lock in a holiday as soon as possible. The Caribbean island of Mustique perhaps?

Did you go on a babymoon, or are you planning to? Tell us about your experience!