Durban - For many expectant parents today, the arrival of their newborn would be incomplete without a pre-baby getaway to relish the calm before the high demands of parenthood.
Babymoons – considered relaxing and romantic getaways taken by couples before their baby is born – are a growing trend abroad and have gained momentum in South Africa.
Emerging from their popularity among “A-listed” celebrities, babymoons have spurred significant media interest, with parenting and women’s publications highly recommending that parents-to-be consider “time out” before the new arrival.
There are now even websites dedicated to babymoons, each suggesting the perfect escape to relax and unwind before the baby arrives.
Local celebrities such as Anele Mdoda have embraced this growing trend. The radio personality enjoyed a romantic getaway in Thailand with her beau for their babymoon earlier this year.
However, locals need not board a plane or travel for hours to enjoy the relaxation and romance of a babymoon escape.
Responding to the emergent trend, Suncoast Towers Hotel has tailored a bespoke babymoon package to cater to every whim of mums-to-be while creating a perfect setting for the couple.
General manager Adrian Penny says: “My vision for Suncoast Towers is to deliver individually crafted, timeless hospitality experiences through creativity, exclusivity and sheer decadence. This deluxe hotel is spectacular, contemporary and luxurious and offers the perfect escape.”
Based on this premise and an understanding of the stresses experienced by expectant parents, as well as the demand on their time once the baby arrives, the hotel is now offering the getaway package especially designed for parents-to-be.
“We understand that this can be a demanding period, when parents have very little time for themselves. Considering the time constraints on busy couples and the concerns that are associated with travelling during pregnancy, Suncoast Towers’ babymoon package provides a convenient alternative without compromising on the full experience,” says Penny.
The package offers a pre-natal photoshoot, individual and couple’s pampering – which include a pregnancy massage created for expectant mums and a “sea whisperer” massage for dad, full-body exfoliations for the couple and non-alcoholic beverages.
Spa manager Simika Narang says: “Our prenatal massages are performed by therapists who are certified in pregnancy massages.
“Pregnancy massages assist in reducing swelling in hands, feet and ankles; lessening sciatic pain; easing calf cramps and muscular discomforts in areas like the lower back and neck; and helping with relaxation, which in turn can decrease insomnia.”
Suites include a selection of pregnancy and family magazines and pregnancy pillows, and the hotel’s chefs will cater to all mum’s cravings.
Sunday Tribune