Katy Holland: A new arrival is not such a tie; wake up to the baby-cation
Are we there yet? No longer can it be said that having a baby ties you down
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Want to know one of the best things about being a new parent (apart from having an actual baby, I mean)?
No, it's not the endless flowers and hand-knitted bootees, or even being allowed to stay in your dressing gown all day if you darn well want to. It's the fact that a whole new world of possible holidays opens up for you.
No longer can it be said that having a baby ties you down. Mini-breaks, spa stays, and even full-blown luxury holidays tailored to cater for a new parent's every whim (and teeny tiny baby's whims, too) are springing up faster than you can say "Whose turn is it to change the nappy?" Yes, dear sleep-deprived, neglected reader: this is the dawning of the age of the new-baby-cation.
A prime example is the exclusive "Welcome to the World" package now being offered to parents and babes-in-arms at Bedruthan Steps in north Cornwall (01637 860555; bedruthan.com). This three-night pampering break has been created to "help guide you through the first stages of parenting", with lessons in baby massage, yoga and child development, as well as aqua babies lessons in the heated pool. Best of all, Bedruthan's qualified childcare team will be on hand while you enjoy a little pampering in the Ocean Spa.
For those with a little more energy, Tots To Travel (0845 269 4126; totstotravel.co.uk) is launching a fitness break at a Tuscan villa, Casa Alessia, designed specifically for mums who want to lose their "mummy tummy".
A personal trainer puts you through your paces with daily workout sessions, including pilates, fusion, and aqua aerobics. All meals are cooked for you, there's a free nutritional consultation, and babysitting is on offer during the fitness classes. The next one is scheduled for 1 May.
And if you're in need of some deep relaxation, how about a week at the luxury Almyra Hotel in Cyprus (00 357 2688 8700; almyra.com), which is running special "Week of Sleep" packages especially for exhausted parents. You'll be treated to all sorts of slumber-enhancing treatments, from reflexology to water therapies. Babies who insist on coming along for the ride, meanwhile, are cared for at the Almyra crèche.
The new-baby-cation hadn't been invented when I was a new mum, so I'm feeling rather envious. Honestly, parents these days. They don't know they're born.
k.holland@independent.co.uk
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments