Postcard from Turks and Caicos

As first-time parents-to-be, my husband, Barry, and I have been feeling a little anxious about how our lives are about to change, so when we came across the idea of a babymoon — a last-hurrah vacation that couples take during pregnancy to celebrate the final months of independence — we jumped at the chance.

We’re not generally the types to stare into each other’s eyes over candle-lit dinners, but our stay in Turks and Caicos was non-stop romance. Maybe it was the baby-bonding hormones kicking into high gear, but hand-in-hand strolls in the ocean surf and afternoons spent lounging under beach umbrellas felt totally appropriate and not at all cheesy. (I know!)

Editor's note: Karen Robock has since welcomed little girl, Matilda Grace!

A version of this article appeared in our November 2012 issue with the headline "Turks and Caicos" (p.28).

The Signature Island Inspiration Facial at the Spa at Regent Palms on the main island of Providenciales.

The calm waters at Seven Stars Resort are perfect for pregnancy-friendly snorkelling.

A jazz duo serenaded us at Parallel23 at the Regent Palms where I tucked into a delicious filet mignon — with all the sides.

A chartered escape from Big Blue Unlimited. The boat drops you off on a deserted stretch of beach with lounge chairs, sun umbrellas, a picnic and a cellphone for emergencies.

We spent most of our babymoon at Parrot Cay by COMO Resort, a boutique hotel located on a private island that shares the same name. A scenic 30-minute boat ride across crystal clear turquoise waters to Parrot Cay was one of the highlights of our stay. Our customizable package included a serene beach house with an outdoor plunge pool (perfect for soaking my swollen feet) and a prenatal massage. Not to mention the truly attentive room service, which served up my every craving. We didn’t have to see another soul if we didn’t want to, and the private time felt priceless.

-Turks and Caicos consists of 40 islands and cays, but only eight are actually inhabited.

-The islands are home to about 30,000 residents and welcome more than 200,000 visitors every year.