The months leading up to junior’s arrival are also your last few months of unadulterated alone time with your spouse for the foreseeable future. So, it’s becoming increasingly popular for couples to take a babymoon trip, one last hurrah somewhere fancy.

The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends 18 to 24 weeks as the safest time to travel when preggers as you will most likely be over the morning sickness, but still feeling comfortable and energetic. Remember to keep your gynae in the loop, pack all the necessary meds and prenatal vitamins and choose a destination that’s close to home to minimise travel time and effort. Need some suggestions? Here are a few of our personal favs.

WHERE Bintan

WHY This is as near as you can go without having to get on a plane. Just a hop, skip and a 60-minute-ferry-ride away, this island paradise is laced with so many beach resorts, you will be spoiled for choice. If you love water sports, this is a great place for diving, kayaking or just a relaxing swim. It also has some of the freshest seafood kelong restaurants ready to satisfy even the most discerning diner.

STAY AT The luxurious Banyan Tree Bintan and treat yourself daily to their internationally acclaimed spa treatments. Or opt for Nirwana Gardens which has beautiful private pool villas overlooking the South China Sea. This resort also has plenty of child-centric activities such as an elephant show and their very own mini zoo, making it the perfect place to spend time with your older children before the new arrival gets here.

WHERE Thailand

WHY Binge shop in Bangkok to stock up on cheap baby clothes, maternity wear and décor for the new nursery. After your retail therapy workout, soothe sore muscles at the many massage parlours. Round up your trip by taking a short flight over to island paradises such as Phuket or Koh Samui. Both spots are well-known for their stunning crystal-clear beaches and laid-back lifestyle.

STAY AT Aloft Bangkok Sukhumvit 11 to be close to major shopping and food spots. Heading to Koh Samui? Then book into the Intercontinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort which is built into the cliffside and nestled within 22 acres of lush tropical gardens for ultimate privacy… Bliss!

WHERE Hong Kong

WHY Before this becomes a favourite hot spot with the kiddos (thanks Disneyland!), it’s also the perfect place for the couple who prefers the cosmo life. Update your wardrobe with high-street style, then treat your taste buds (and pregnancy cravings) to scrumptious local Cantonese cuisine. Since they say children bring good luck, try your hand (and your baby bump) at the many casinos in the vibrant city of Macau, just a ferry ride away!

STAY AT Five-star hotel, The Upper House. Together with round-the-clock personalised service, the stylish suites also have bathrooms so spacious you can take in sweeping views of the city from your tub. Take the luxe up a notch with a stay at The Venetian Macao. This world-renowned haven boasts sophisticated accommodations, a laundry list of dining options and non-stop entertainment.

Photo: INGimage

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