Hi Courtesy Crew! It’s Christin. How’s it going in your world? Let’s just say things are crazier than normal in mine. As some of you may know, I’m currently six months pregnant with my first child. My husband and I are soooo excited. We’ve been together for 10 years (married for 5), and finally decided it was time to expand our family. I’ll be honest! This period of our life is a mixed bag of emotion – happiness, anxiety, fear and everything in between.

Last month we decided to put all the baby prep on pause and plan an epic vacation as a last hoorah before parenthood. As avid travelers, we had an itch for a vacation. Plus, we severely needed the downtime, so we went on what’s commonly known as a babymoon to Hawaii. When I first told my parents we were going on a babymoon, they stared and laughed in confusion. What on earth is a babymoon? Is this something else you millennials have made up? Ha! I’m not quite sure where the babymoon evolved from, but it’s exactly what it sounds like. It’s a honeymoon for expecting couples. It’s also a great time to relax, reconnect and recharge before some tiny human comes and turns your world upside down.

If you can and you’re up for one last adventure, I highly recommend the trip! Here are a few tips on planning the perfect babymoon along with a few photos from ours.

Choose the Right Time to Go

This will depend on doctor’s orders and your health, but make sure you plan the trip sometime in your second trimester and probably before you’re 24 weeks along. The second trimester is best because more than likely you’ll be over morning sickness and the awful fatigue of the first trimester, and you’ll still be comfortable enough to travel. Be mindful that some airlines and cruise ships have travel restrictions for pregnant women (usually deep into your third trimester).

Pick the Right Location

There are tons of factors when considering a babymoon location including vacation style and budget. Are you looking for fun in the sun? Do you want to get cozy in the mountains? Whatever you choose, just keep in mind that you’re on this vacation to relax. Lots of couples choose a domestic location because it’s easier and often more affordable. However, if you’re up for it, don’t shy away from taking an international trip. Just make sure you pick a place where you’ll have constant access to clean water and up to code food preparation.

I will admit Hawaii was a long trek from Atlanta, and it might not be for most. However, it was important for me to be on the beach, in a bikini, sipping a mocktail. My options were pretty limited for a February babymoon considering most of the Caribbean and South America were off limits due to the Zika virus (I was crushed about not being able to go to the Maldives). Hawaii made the most sense for what I wanted out of my babymoon. Other great locations I’ve seen: South Florida, Southern California, Sedona, Paris, and Greece.

Keep Your Schedule Flexible

Again, you’re on this trip to relax. Don’t overpack your schedule with activities. You’re still pregnant and you’ll still be tired. A good rule of thumb is one activity per day, anything else is a bonus. Also, be flexible with things like dinner reservations and activities. In fact, don’t prepay for anything if you can help it.

Treat Yourself to Some New Threads

I didn’t purchase a ton of maternity clothes before my trip, so this was the perfect excuse to go shopping. Cute maternity clothes can be tricky to find. I was overjoyed to find great pieces at ASOS, Target and Pea in the Pod if you want to splurge a little. Other things to add to your packing list are compression socks, sunscreen, antacid and Tylenol.

I couldn’t end this post without shouting out a few recommendations from our trip. If you head to Hawaii, Maui was bar far our favorite island. Also, check out the Wailea Beach Resort for accommodations. It was absolutely beautiful and the service was perfect.

Comment below with your babymoon questions.