Trying to plan a vacation for this summer before we have our first baby that is due in October. I will be in the second trimester. I think I want a beach and somewhat romantic setting for our last summer without child. I was thinking about Amelia Island, Palm Beach, or maybe Mexico or Carribean. I was just not sure about water or food in Mexico or Carribean while being pregnant. The only other thing is I live in Alabama and don't want to fly more than 2 hrs.

How about Bermuda? It's not far and it is very romantic.

Mexico is risky business while pregnant, in my opinion.

Hmm...I think I agree about being cautious in Mexico. However, if you live in Alabama, you are going to have to do more than 2 hours of flight time no matter what unless you drive to Atlanta. Then your options would open up signifigantly. You may also want to consider how far south you go b/c it is hot, hot, hot and even inyour 2nd trimester you could be pretty uncomfortable!

Sorry, I'm not much for suggestions but I know that there are lots of helpful people here who know the area well!

It will seem about 10 degrees warmer to you this summer than the actual temperature so choose your destination carefully. Pick somewhere that you aren't likely to go with a baby (Amelia is a great family beach so save it for after baby arrives) because you will remember this trip for a lifetime.

I think the Bermuda suggestion (fly out of Atlanta) is excellent.

October is the height of hurricane season, so keep that in mind in your planning...

Last summer, friends of ours traveled to Acapulco before having their baby early fall. They sent us beautiful pictures of themselves on the beach at sunset, expanded belly and all. In Mexico, as they say, just don't drink the water, or, brush your teeth with it. Congratulations

If you consider Mexico, it's more than just avoiding drinking the water and brushing your teeth with the water. Avoid eating salads (washed in the water), shell fish (pregnant women should anyway).

As for hurricane season...that begins June 1 until November 30th. Not that you would be going this late since your baby is due in October, but I honeymooned in Bermuda in September and we had outstanding weather. You just can't predict when they will strike -- so you may want to consider this when making your plans.

I admire you just for the fact that you are willing to hit the beach. I am 9 mo. pregnant and due any day now. I've had such an obsession over the weight gain and can't imagine myself in a swimsuit. Good for you for going for it! Whatever you choose, enjoy your trip!

I would not recommend going out of the US. Why not drive to New Orleans for a special time at the Ritz or Windsor Court? We always went to the Windsor Court for special pampering before our babies were born. They were "easy" memories that we never forgot.

I am partial to Amelia Island but would not limit myself to the US. For our past two pregnancies we were in Paris (6 months in) & in Puerto Rico (6+ months in). My children are almost 3 & 1 month old now. No problems, you know your body, you just need to make sure you allow for down time.

Hi 4thetide, I had a family member go to Cancun a few years ago in August. She was in her second triemester. Her Dr. gave her approval. However, due to the heat this Mom to be really did not have a good time. Evidently the poor thing spent most of her time in the hotelroom taking advantage of the a/c. Her husband said the heat was awful also but of course she felt it more.

If you could work out Bermuda I would think that would be nicer.

Thanks for all the suggestions and advise. We are still trying to decide were to go, but need to plan very soon.
Now we have considered the Ritz in Jamacia. Anyone been there? How is the heat? and would the food and water be OK for a pregnant woman?

I went to Mexico - Playa del Carmen when I was 6 months pregnant. I avoided ceviche. And I'm sure you have been advised not to eat certain fish anyway because of high mercury levels (such as tuna). I believe shrimp and lobster are fine as long as they are cooked using heat.

Any high-end respectable resort/hotel will have a water purification system that thay use in cooking and washing fruits and veges. Of course it's a no-brainer to only drink bottled water and use it for brushing teeth.

Go and have a fun and relaxing vacation; I was happy I did it too.