Hi Andrea, thank you for taking the time for this interview. You are a creator, a traveler and - surprise - pregnant! Congratulations!
You traveled to three countries during your pregnancy and generally have a lot of travel experience. What was different with a baby bump than before? Did your travel behavior or planning change? Were there things that you suddenly had to avoid or organize differently?
During my pregnancy I traveled to Split (Croatia), Curaçao and Fuerteventura. Normally when I travel I am active from morning to night, explore a lot and love strenuous activities. This time I had to cut back on that a lot - I got out of breath much more quickly! I also struggled with back pain on flights. Tip: heat patches work wonders!
Flying during pregnancy: How did you prepare for your trips? Did you have special strategies for long-haul flights, seat selection or measures against thrombosis and circulatory problems? What tips would you give to other pregnant women who are planning a flight?
In fact, it was a little different than my usual trips. Here are my three top tips:
- Compression stockings are a must, especially if you are prone to water retention
- I always had lots of snacks and enough water with me – that helps my circulation.
- In addition to heat patches for my back, pregnancy massages before departure and conscious rest breaks helped me a lot.
Healthcare in other countries: Did you have any concerns or did you research doctors and hospitals beforehand? How did you prepare for possible emergencies and did you actually seek medical help in Curaçao or the Canary Islands?
Especially in Curaçao, I have been intensively studying the Zika virus and researching it for hours. The country used to be considered a risk area, but has not been since 2018. My tip: Make sure you check the latest health information! Fortunately, I have not had to seek medical help on any of my trips.
Many pregnant women feel more insecure or cautious than before - have you experienced this on your travels? If so, how did you deal with possible fears or worries? What strategies or mental tricks helped you to stay relaxed?
The biggest challenge was definitely the physical limitation. That's why I:
- Planned more rest breaks and paid attention to a healthy diet.
- Accepted help, e.g. with luggage – especially on my solo trip to Croatia.
- Travel destinations deliberately chosen that are considered safe (e.g. Canary Islands, Croatia, Curaçao).
- In the third trimester I traveled with my partner, which made things a lot more relaxed.
Which travel destinations are particularly suitable for pregnant women - and are there places you would rather avoid? What makes a travel destination pregnancy-friendly? Are relaxed beaches, wellness hotels or well-developed cities more recommended?
This is of course individual, but I recommend the Canary Islands or Madeira for a relaxing break. Important for long-distance travel: Check for tropical disease risks (e.g. Zika) and ideally only plan longer flights in the second trimester.
What are your 7 (or more) most important tips for all pregnant women who want to travel? Are there certain travel destinations that are particularly pregnancy-friendly? What things should every expectant mother definitely put on her packing list?
- Don't be afraid of traveling! With the right planning, many things can be more relaxed.
- The second trimester is the best time to travel. Flying is often not recommended in the first trimester, but it becomes more strenuous in the third.
- Heat patches for the back – super helpful on long flights!
- Don’t forget compression stockings to prevent swelling.
- Choose the right accommodation: Make sure there are few stairs, a good location and comfortable beds.
- Check the local health situation (e.g. Zika, medical care).
- Plan more wellness & relaxation – beaches, quiet places and good hotels are perfect.
You can find out more about Andy on her website and Instagram .
