You've done the hard work creating that baby, now it's time for a luxe holiday with your partner before you welcome your little bundle of joy!
You are pregnant in Singapore and thankfully the dreaded morning sickness phase is a dim memory. Take a break from organising your baby shower and plan a luxe babymoon with your partner. It’s the last holiday you’ll take as a couple before two become three (or more) and all your holidays are direct flight getaways to family-friendly resorts with kids clubs. A week putting your feet up and having spa treatments is just what the doctor ordered so we’ve come up with a list of the best babymoon destinations in Asia.
A little prior preparation
Before you jet-off, grab a letter from your doctor stating you’re medically fit to travel. Imagine the disappointment if you’re not allowed to board your flight in Singapore, or worse, the panic if you’re stuck in a remote airport abroad. Check with the airline the cut-off for pregnant travellers – 34 weeks is the absolute latest (and some are earlier). Review the terms of your maternity insurance, and top up with additional travel insurance as necessary. It’s also worth investigating the quality of hospital care at your destination in the event of an early labour.
Kuredu Resort & Spa, Maldives
“Lets take our four kids to the Maldives” said no parent ever. It’s a destination made for couples both in terms of romance and expense. We flew in there by seaplane on a babymoon sans kids and it was truly a trip of a lifetime. The Sangu Water Villas at Kuredu Resort & Spa (with private deck) are incredibly indulgent (pictured top). Located on the tip of the island, surrounded by crystal turquoise water and teeming sea-life you are transported to a paradise like no other. Wander about your adults’ only retreat on immaculately maintained sand (no need for shoes) and satisfy your pregnancy cravings with nightly candle-lit dinners. Depending on energy levels you can head to the family-friendly section for snorkelling (we saw turtles!) or a sunset cruise on the Indian Ocean. The lovely couples spa more than accommodates blooming bellies.
Kuredu Resort & Spa, Maldives, Lhaviyani Atoll, Republic of Maldives; www.kuredu.com
Telunas Private Island, Indonesia
Telunas Private Island is one chilled-out getaway, and you’ll probably love it so much that you’ll want to return for a minibreak with the baby! Just a short 50-minute ferry plus a scenic 90 minute long boat from Singapore – it’s a close, flight-free option. It’s a rustic, castaway style experience where you can enjoy the simple pleasures in life like reading books, relaxing by the beach, taking a dip in calm waters…. and indulging in a blissful massage or two. Given it’s a digital detox retreat (no Wi-Fi or TV), it’s the perfect place to unwind from busy city life and connect with your partner.
www.telunasresorts.com
COMO Shambhala Estate, Bali
Renowned for wellness programmes and spa treatments lush COMO Shambhala Estate, Bali is PERFECT for expectant mums. Your personal consultant will tailor your stay to ensure you’re packed off home refreshed for the final months of pregnancy. Select to-die-for spa treatments and a bespoke food plan to remove toxins and provide nutrients for you and your baby. The prenatal yoga classes are excellent (we take classes at the COMO Shambhala on Orchard Road). Book in for a post-baby treat once you’re ready to leave your little one in Singapore for a long weekend.
Banjar Begawan, Desa Melinggih Kelod, Payangan, Ubud,
Gianyar 80571, Bali, Indonesia; www.comohotels.com/comoshambhalaestate
The Nam Hai (Four Seasons), Hoi An, Vietnam
Hoi An is one of our favourite family holiday destinations, and on babymoon you can’t do any better than the lavish Four Seasons Resort, The Nam Hai. Nestled on a one-kilometre stretch of private white sandy beach, this resort is all class. The food is second-to-none and it’s only 11km from UNESCO listed old Hoi An town. You’ll be nipping there for a hit of culture, bespoke leather shoes and fresh local eats. As if things couldn’t get better, the Nam Hai offers a spa that is rated amongst the world’s best. Impeccable service only seals the deal.
Block Ha My Dong B, Dien Duong Ward, Dien Ban Town, Quang Nam Province, Vietnam; www.fourseasons.com
The Upper House, Hong Kong
For the parents-to-be that prefer the cosmopolitan life select The Upper House for your urban retreat in Honkers. Proximity to a wealth of shops, bars and restaurants in the Admiralty district, coupled with unpretentious, round the clock personalised service are what make this property one of our favourites in the Pearl of the Orient. The rooms and bathrooms are among the biggest in Hong Kong (which is a big deal on a densely populated island), with sweeping views of the city from your tub. Must be why Victoria Beckham’s partial to a visit… Check out our adult’s only guide to Hong Kong to plan your ultimate babymoon.
Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Hong Kong; www.upperhouse.com
Kahanda Kanda, Sri Lanka
We’re just quietly a little bit obsessed with Sri Lanka right now, so it just HAD to be on our babymoon list. Kahanda Kanda is an exquisite ten-room boutique hotel on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, just a quick tuk tuk ride from historic Galle Fort. You won’t have to schlepp your pregnant belly far to experience what this region is renowned for, as it’s set within a stunning tea estate. Once you’ve tired of the views of palm fringed jungle on one side and the Indian Ocean on the other, venture out for a easy stroll through Galle to discover its local cuisine, darling trinket shops, and rich history.
Angulugaha, Galle, 80000, Sri Lanka; www.kahandakanda.com
The Datai, Langkawi
If you’ve got your heart set on Langkawi, make The Datai Langkawi your home away from home. Secluded in a lush ancient rainforest, you’ll have no desire to leave the resort – you can even swim in the jungle stream after spotting abundant wildlife on a gentle nature walk. Or if chilling out is more your speed, put your feet up as you gaze upon exclusive untouched Datai Bay. You also deserve more than a few treatments (including a soak in stream-side tub) at the open air Datai Spa. Send your other half to the in-house golf club. Escapism + extravagance = happy bump. PSST: Ask for the discount available for ASEAN residents. It’s actually just had a major facelift, so not all the facilities will be up and running just yet, so do check ahead before you make your booking.
Jalan Teluk Datai, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia; www.thedatai.com
Abaca Resort, Philippines
One of the most exclusive boutique hotels on Mactan Island in the Philippines, Abaca Resort is a tranquil hideaway set in a lush tropical oceanfront retreat. Contemporary and traditional Filipino touches make Abaca a little different to our usual holiday in the region (off the beaten track). The huge, well appointed rooms make for an uber-relaxing stay, because let’s face it, we’ll be spending plenty of time napping.
Punto Engano Road, Mactan Island, Lapu Lapu City, 6015, Philippines;
www.abacaresort.com
Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, Thailand
Perched on a headland overlooking the Gulf of Siam’s turquoise waters lies the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui (and just 30 mins from the airport, bonus!). The luxurious pool villas offer a private refuge with all the mod cons and you may not want to leave the confines of hideaway all holiday! Should you decide to venture outdoors, take part in the hotel’s yoga classes, island hop or just laze on one of the two private beaches. And when you do come back with the fam in tow, don’t forget to check out our guide to acing it with kids before you arrive.
219 Moo 5, Angthong, Koh Samui, Surat Thani,Thailand, 84140; www.fourseasons.com/kohsamui
Twinpalms, Phuket
This intimate, luxury boutique hotel is located on the aptly named “millionaire’s row” of golden sands on Surin Beach, Phuket. While kids are not banned, they’re few and far between. Chillax by the sleek pool, hop across the road for a swim and a beverage at Catch Beachclub and don’t miss the lovely Sunday brunch at in-house restaurant Oriental Spoon (patrons come from around the island, it’s that good). Splash out for the presidential penthouse, it’s dreamy. Five star The Surin Phuket is just up the road if you’re looking for a romantic dinner.
106/46 Moo 3, Surin Beach Road, Cherng Talay, Phuket 83110, Thailand; www.twinpalms-phuket.com
Capella Singapore, Sentosa Island, Singapore
If you’ve a left it a little too late to travel (we hear you, it’s a busy time), why not have an indulgent staycay at Capella Singapore on Sentosa Island? Our former Editor, Lindene, had one brilliant babymoon staycation at Capella, and we think you’ll be just as floored by its sophisticated, mod-colonial charm. It offers low-rise luxury nestled amongst lush greenery. If you opt for a spacious one-bedroom villa you’ll be rewarded with a separate living room, balcony and private plunge pool: perfect for that mocktail overlooking the South China Sea. Pleasures abound throughout the resort from the tranquil Auriga Spa, to the stunning multi-level pool and the hotel’s three stellar restaurants. Cassia boasts fine Chinese cuisine, the Knolls’ Mediterranean fare will transport you to the Isle of Capri, Chef’s Table plates up home-style nosh and Bob’s Bar serves up hot Cuban dishes with flair.
1 The Knolls, Sentosa Island 098297; www.capellahotels.com
Photography (top image): Courtesy of Kuredu Resort & Spa, Maldives
Like this story? Here’s more we think you’ll enjoy!
Best ergonomic baby carriers for Singapore
Funny ways to bring on labour
How to throw a modern baby shower in Singapore
Your maternity rights in Singapore explained
Don’t forget to subscribe to our weekly newsletter and follow us for fun moments on HoneyKids Instagram!
