Words by Stacey Brown
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YOU’VE got those unmistakable two pink lines, then before you know it, a nursery to decorate, doctors’ appointments to make and a due date looming. But before you get that far why not schedule yourself in a mini break? Take a hot minute to unwind with your partner before life becomes all bottles, bum changes and hardcore sleep deprivation.
So when is the best time to schedule in a Babymoon? You can take a break at any time, but you may want to plan for some time after the first trimester, when hopefully that morning sickness has subsided but before you become too tired and uncomfortable in the last trimester, though its generally safe to fly up until 36 weeks.
Surveys have shown that 80% of couples planning a Babymoon choose a domestic location for ease and a sense of familiarity (pregnancy isn’t the time to kayak up the Amazon, or hike to Everest base camp), while 40% hope to book a beach holiday. So, what better place to relax and unwind with your beloved before two becomes three (or more), than Port Douglas? It’s only a short flight with no visas required, and with every convenience at your fingertips, you can be sunning yourself on Four Mile Beach before you know it!
This may be your last child free getaway so why not do it in style?
Here are my top tips for the perfect Babymoon in Port Douglas.
The main ethos of the Babymoon, is relaxation, luuuurve, eating, pampering and more relaxation, right? So where better than Niramaya Villas and Spa? They offer luxe self-contained accommodation in lush tropical surrounds and with their day spa on site, you don’t have to go far to experience the very best in relaxation.
You will float out of the spa feeling a million dollars and looking every part the zen mama to be.
First stop, full body massage. Niramaya’s Mum to be Massage, a divine 75-minute relaxation experience, is tailored for pregnancy and focuses on some of the sore and sensitive spots including the lower back, legs and those swollen feet. After being greeted by your therapist in the tropical gardens, you are led to the spa overlooking the rainforest where your therapist will work out all your aches and pains while you are feeling like an absolute queen. And if that’s not enough, why not add on a facial or extra treatment for your partner? You will float out of the spa feeling a million dollars and looking every part the zen mama to be.
And when you’re done there why not retire to the stunning wet edge pool for a delicious mocktail or barista made coffee in a shady cabana (order on the app, and you don’t even have to move!) or make your way back to your villa to enjoy your very own plunge pool in the villa’s private garden.
With everything you could possibly desire being so close at hand, it may be tempting to ensconce yourself at your villa (the king-sized bed may be calling your name) your entire stay, but Port Douglas offers much for the blooming mum to be.
EATING FOR TWO
For a unique dining experience make a reservation at the iconic Nautilus Restaurant. Open since 1954, Nautilus is a local institution and must do for many a visiting foodie. Follow the flame lit path to the restaurant and dine amongst the jaw dropping rainforest surrounds. You’ll be in good company, the likes of Mick Jagger, David Bowie and a sitting US president and First Lady have all dined at Nautilus in its long history. If it’s good enough for Rod Stewart, it’s good enough for me!
As the palms rustle and sway overhead in the evening breeze, leisurely work your way through the five-course degustation showcasing the best the region has to offer and be sure to let them know when booking you’re pregnant and they can tailor the menu to your dietary requirements.
The serene and peaceful vibe of the restaurant is in part because it’s a kid and baby free zone, so it’s best to go while yours is still in utero. There will be enough chaos soon enough so soak up the peace and quiet while you can!
DON’T WANNA MISS A THING
Unfortunately during pregnancy, there’s a seemingly unending list of things that are no-no’s, deli meats (heart breaking), sushi (devastating), the best kinds of stinky, gooey cheese (sob) and of course alcohol.
While there’s no way around the forced sobriety, there are some incredible non alcoholic options that are just like the real thing, without any of the downsides!
Seabean Tapas Bar, in addition to serving delectable pintxos, paella and tapas, also have a rotating list of mocktails on offer using Lyre’s non alcoholic spirits. Have the bartender mix you up something delicious to enjoy with a view over the Inlet and you won’t even know the difference!
TREAT YO SELF
With so many no-no’s, enjoy saying a little more YES YES! to those treats you can enjoy! A leisurely stroll (are we waddling yet?) up Macrossan Street will see you pass an array of delights. Traditional Gelateria Capannina offers homemade gelati and sorbet, as well as cakes, pastries and Cannoli. Just a few metres up the pavement Coffee Works has windows bursting with gourmet chocolates, tea and local coffee to tempt even the greatest gourmand. Saunter a little farther up the street and visit Nectar for their highly instagrammable and utterly delicious Acai Bowls and smoothies.
AND BREATHE
Life is all about balance, and with all that indulgence perhaps a gentle exercise is in order? The jury is IN on the benefits of prenatal pilates and yoga, with evidence showing regular practice can shorten labour, lead to better outcomes and faster recovery not to mention increased comfort and mobility during pregnancy. So why not visit boutique studio The Deep Retreat for a class? They offer barre and reformer pilates and a variety of different yoga classes to suit every level.
Who knows? Maybe with all that stretching you’ll be able to touch your toes again?
