Lately, taking a vacation during gestation (also known as babymoon) has become a trend. This mix of baby and honeymoon is nothing more than a trip made by “pregnant couples”, at some point between the beginning of gestation and the huge belly that precedes childbirth.
Many future parents wish to enjoy romantic and relaxing moments before having their lives turned upside down by exploring a new place that may be somewhat difficult to visit with children. There are also those who take advantage of the babymoon to do the layette shopping or photograph the future mother in exotic scenarios. Regardless of what you seek, Jamaica seems to be a destination that attracts more and more couples who are about to give birth.
Coral reefs, transparent waters, luxuriant nature, and picturesque towns are the dominant image of Jamaica, a country in the Caribbean that is presented internationally as an immense hedonistic resort. In addition, the island of reggae also features an array of cultural itineraries, a bunch of historical memory, and enough to infrastructure – including professional vacation photographers at your disposal – for a relaxing babymoon getaway.
Aside from the capital and main port of entry, Kingston, the vast majority of tourism is concentrated on the north coast of the island, between Ocho Rios and Negril. It is in this part of the country that there are a great number of beaches of fine sand and coves of crystalline waters, with resorts having been implemented further east in Port Antonio, a small city jammed between the sea and the mountain.
Among all other destinations in the country, Ocho Rios is considered to be the most well-balanced spot for a babymoon trip, with a combination of adventure, culture, comfort, and natural beauty. The town itself is quite small and simple, yet intriguing. In high season, transatlantic cruises usually make a stop there, which has contributed to the development of the place. The easiest ways to get to Ocho Rios is by rental car, from Kingston or Montego Bay. The region is much celebrated by the ubiquitous tropical scenery in the interior which provides incredible natural settings for a romantic photoshoot of the last stages of pregnancy.
Below is a list of the top places to visit (and take photos) in Ocho Rios:
Dolphin Cove
One of Ocho Rios’ highlights is a visit to Dolphin Cove – a natural marine aquarium built on the beach, where you can swim with sharks, stingrays or dolphins. To perform this eccentric dive just take a dash of courage and choose your favorite animal, then make sure to take some underwater photographs to register this unique moment.
Nine Mile District
For the couples who seek more cultural programs, enjoy reggae music, or simply wish to see an inland side of the country, it’s worth it to set aside time and go to Nine Miles. Just two hours drive from Ocho Rios, the village where Bob Marley was born houses a museum inside the singer’s former home.
Island Gully Falls and the Blue Hole
Climbing the hills of Ocho Rios, at the end of a series of waterfalls known as Island Gully Falls, is Blue Hole, a natural pool of incredible blue in the middle of the green of the woods. There, people have fun jumping into the water with vines, indulging in some natural back massage, or simply relaxing in this mineral-rich water. Regardless of your choice of activity, such natural exuberance will be worth many photos.
Mystic Mountain
This is a tour filled with incredible views, perfect for taking stunning portrait photographs. To start with, a cable car takes you to the top of the mountain, where visitors walk amidst beautiful gardens and can venture on zip lines and bobsled descents (winter sport in which athletes descend an ice rink using a sled, which in this case is a cart on rails).
Dunn’s River Falls & Park
As one of Jamaica’s natural treasures, a visit to the Dunn River Falls & Park is a must-do. Depending on the stage of pregnancy, you may choose to go down the waterfalls and at the end of the descent arrive at a beach of crystal clear waters – which can be a reward for the effort. Otherwise, simply treat yourself (and your baby) to a relaxing stroll by the beach or into the forest park – a great opportunity to have a local photographer around to capture stunning beach shots surrounded by Jamaica’s color-rich nature.
Craft Park Market
Even if you have taken a bunch of photos of the trip, it is possible to get a souvenir of the city at the Craft Park, an open-air flea market.
