Becoming a parent for the first time is undoubtedly overwhelming. For those that are welcoming a child as a couple, the dynamic of the partnership will be forever changed once their bundle of joy arrives. In the meantime, it seems as though a nine-month schedule gets quickly filled with showers, appointments, shopping excursions, and changes around the house. So, it’s natural to feel anxious, exhausted, and even disconnected from yourself and your partner. Enter: a babymoon at the Holladay House.
Merriam-Webster defines “babymoon” as “a trip or vacation taken by a couple shortly before the birth of a child.” Babymoons are perfect for couples to take a little time together before everything changes, but babymoons can also be spent with a close friend, the mom-to-be’s mom, or even solo for expectant moms who just really need to recharge.
Planning your babymoon can vary depending on how far along you are in your pregnancy, where you are looking to vacation, and how long you are planning to stay. If you are less than eight months pregnant, most airlines will allow you to fly, however many doctors recommend limiting air travel after 37 weeks if you have experienced an uncomplicated pregnancy, or after 32 weeks if you have experienced any complications during your pregnancy.
Often, international or sea travel should be limited during pregnancies that are further along due to safety concerns for mother and baby. With that being said, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that expectant mothers plan their babymoon sometime during the second trimester, ideally between 14 and 28 weeks pregnant. Contacting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and, of course, consulting with your doctor is always the best course of action before making final travel decisions.
Taking all of these factors into consideration can make planning a babymoon seem almost as difficult as building that crib you’ve done so much research about! Many couples are preferring to travel locally instead. Our location, in Orange County, Virginia, makes it easy for people throughout the mid-Atlantic region to visit us for an unforgettable experience before their new arrival.
The all-encompassing Babymoon Package at the Holladay House offers an opportunity for relaxation, rejuvenation, and reflection. Our special package includes:
- A one-hour prenatal massage in the comfort of your room (for moms-to-be 12+ weeks pregnant)
- Add on: a one-hour massage for the father-to-be or accompanying guest
- A fruit and cheese tray delivered to your room, complete with pregnancy-friendly cheeses
- A bottle of sparkling, non-alcoholic, Virginia cider
- A selection of gourmet chocolate for the couple to enjoy
- A $75 gift certificate for dinner to one of four local restaurants of your choice
- A two-course breakfast every morning of your stay
When booking the babymoon package guests can choose their room. If you are coming during a warmer time, we recommend the Ivy Suite which has a private patio. A few of our rooms include whirlpool tubs (which you can enjoy at a cooler temp for safety), and in-room fireplaces for extra romance and comfort, if you visit during the colder months.
If you are looking to make your getaway even more special, we have a variety of special upgrades available for our guests. A floral vase arrangement, gourmet snack selection, or the addition of the Tea Time package, with our signature scones, local jam, and loose-leaf tea. We would love to host you or someone you love for their babymoon, so feel free to reach out for more information, or book directly on our website.
