Planning Spa Vacation and Travel

Dear Travel Guru,

My husband and I are planning a much needed "Spa Vacation" this winter. We just found out we are expecting our first baby in the summer, and we want to go away and relax before our lives are happily, but chaotically changed.

We are looking at a couple different places now, but I am wondering if you have any spa vacation travel tips to share--and any travel trips for flying while pregnant.

Thank you very much!

Sincerely,
Stacy A.

Dear Stacy,

Congratulations on your upcoming addition. What exciting news! And certainly a spa vacation sounds like the perfect way to celebrate and relax with your hubby.

A spa vacation can calm and sooth your mind, body and soul--and you can find good spas and hotels in almost all price ranges. The only down-side is that you have near endless possibilities, from the upscale hotel in your town, to the beautiful beach resorts in Aruba.

The first thing to consider is your budget. This will determine if you will be going away, or staying local. Next you can decide what is important to you in terms of spa services. Many spas now offer pre-natal massage, which is a great option for you. Other services include pedicures, mud baths, yoga, and salon services.

Remember that saunas and whirlpools are probably out while you are pregnant. When in doubt, ask your doctor.

Relaxation is key, so investigate your spa options online, get reviews and check with the International SPA Association (ISPA) for photos and information on spas around the world. You can even narrow your search by choosing "medical spas," "beach spas," "weight loss spas,"etc. based on your preferences. Think about execise options, nutritional analysis, atmosphere, and types of services.

The most important thing is to enjoy your spa vacation and that you find that tranquility that you are looking for before the baby arrives.

As far as air travel while pregnant goes, the first thing to do is check with your doctor to make sure they feel that you are healthy enough to travel. There is minimal risk when flying when pregnant, but it is always important to address your specific situation with your doctor.

Most airlines do not put any restriction on flying until you are in your last month or so... mostly because they are not prepared to deliver your new bundle of joy in the aisle of business class on the flight from New York to LA! You think it is tough to fly normally--you definetly do not want to do it while having contractions every two minutes.

So as long you as you are cleared to fly, you should know a few things first. You will want to leave plenty of time to travel and in-between flights. It will be harder to dash between terminals while pregnant! And don't be afraid to ask for a ride from the airport staff in those cool little electric carts. That is what they are there for!

On the plane, you should try to get a seat with extra leg room. It is important to avoid getting blood clots, so get up and walk, and wear support stockings (like "travelsox" Travel Socks). Drink plenty of water on the plane to avoid dehyration and remember that this is supposed to be a relaxing vacation, so bring the travel pillow and blanket, (try the Dreamsack Airline Comfort Travel Set) the headphones and music player, and anything that will make you more comfortable while traveling.

Congratulations again and enjoy a wonderful travel and vacation experience--you deserve it!

The Travel Guru
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