A Warm Zika-Free Vacation Destination

Growing up, my mother always told the story of she and my father’s trip to Bermuda. It was my brother’s first trip as he was safe and sound in her womb while they enjoyed sunshine, gorgeous beaches and relaxation before growing from a couple to a family of three.  Due to stories like this one, Bo and I always dreamed of enjoying a relaxing, beach vacation together during pregnancy. We used to brainstorm where we’d go, dreaming of a return Anguilla, where went on honeymoon, or exploring one of the other islands. Unfortunately, the Zika virus derailed those plans and forced us to think differently about our babymoon, or vacation together before we become a family of three.

Breathtaking views at Muir Beach

Since I am due in mid-June and my doctor preferred that I not travel after 30-weeks, our options were constrained due to the months of February and March, when much of the United States is experiencing cold, frigid winter weather.  We spent some time researching options, ensuring that our location would meet the following criteria:

• Warmer than New York City
• Provide options for both relaxing and active adventures
• Zika free
• Direct flights, if possible
• Sunshine

After much research, we decided to plan a four night, five-day visit to the San Francisco bay area.  While I have visited San Francisco multiple times for both work and pleasure, I haven’t had the opportunity to explore the region and Bo had only visited San Francisco for a brief, 24-hour business trip.  Over the past month, we started to question our decision. Daily Facebook updates from friends showed cold, wet weather battering the area. Then, just a week before our departure, we had to scramble to change our plans due to the due to the collapse of the Pfeiffer Canyon Bridge and Big Sur closures.  When we arrived at the San Francisco airport last night, ready to board our red-eye flight back to New York City, we both said that this was one of the most wonderful vacations we’ve ever taken due in part to the agility we each had in the process and the faith that things would work out.

Morning views from Cavallo Point Lodge

While I am going to share in depth posts on each area, I wanted to share a brief itinerary for anyone who is trying to plan a Zika free babymoon or vacation.  Below you can find a glimpse of where we stayed and ate at in each location. The detailed posts coming this week will include more details such as the scenic drives, hikes, and reviews of the restaurants and lodging.

The spa pool at Bernardus Lodge

Wearing AG Maternity jeans – Lilly Pulitzer Elsa Silk Blouse – JCrew Espadrille Wedges

San Francisco Bay Area (2 nights)

• Stayed: Cavallo Point Lodge
• Dined:
  • Homegrown
  • Mamacita
  • Smitten Ice Cream
  • Farmshop
  • New Morning Cafe

Carmel (1 night)

• Stayed: Tickle Pink at Carmel Highlands
• Dined:
  • Flying Fish Grill
  • Carmel Valley Coffee Roasting Co
  • Salumeria Luca

Carmel Valley (1 night)

• Stayed: Bernardus Lodge
• Dined:
  • Roux
  • Lucia Restaurant and Bar