Posted on Monday, 1 February 2016

As the World Health Organisation considers whether or not to declare the Zika virus a global emergency, many pregnant women may be wondering where is safe to travel.

20,297 cases of the mosquito-borne Zika virus have been confirmed in Colombia, making it the second worst-affected nation after Brazil.

Although definitive tests have not yet been carried out, the virus has been linked to around 4,000 cases of microcephaly, a disease that causes babies to be born with smaller than normal heads.

Until now the disease was not considered a major threat.

Where is it safe for a pregnant woman to go on holiday?

The period before the birth of a child is a very special time for soon-to-be-parents and any holiday before the big day especially so. These getaways before birth, sometimes called babymoons, are a final chance for a couple to enjoy time together before parenthood begins.

But with the threat of Zika in South America, where is it safe to go for some winter sun? Here are five great ideas.

Tenerife

Tenerife (RossHelen/Bigstock.com)

Around five hours flight from the UK, the Spanish island of Tenerife is one of the most popular islands in the Canaries. Experience the Spanish colonial atmosphere of the capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, or chill out on the south and west coast, where you'll find plenty of beach resort action.

Seychelles

Castor sugar beaches friended with nodding palms – it doesn't get much more quintessentially tropical than the Seychelles, a string of islands located in the sparkling Indian Ocean. While very popular among honeymooners, babymoomers won't be disappointed either.

Moroccan coast

While Marrakesh might be a little hectic for a pregnant woman, there are some wonderful coastal resorts that will give you your relaxing beach fix in the sun. Consider Essaouira Mogador, a beautifully preserved gem of a city, complete with ancient walls, bustling markets and a long sandy beach. For even more of a beach focus, head down to Agadir, the country's top coastal resort town.

Maldives

With its rainy season long gone, now is a great time to visit another wonderful Indian Ocean island cluster - the Maldives. While these islands can be pricey, deals are still to be had. And given the ultimate tropical experiences it offers - snorkelling, jet-skiing and sun lounging - it could be worth almost any price.

Cape Town

Handily in the same time zone as the UK, Cape Town is a vibrant town with plenty of beautiful coastline to enjoy. It's also pretty affordable, having been ranked the third cheapest place for Britons to go in this year's Post Office travel costs barometer. A great destination that lets you put even more aside for the little one.

Don't Forget Your Travel Cover

Any trip overseas carries some risk, whether that relates to illness, injury, cancellation, curtailment –or simply losing your baggage. Here at starttravel.co.uk we offer comprehensive travel insurance for a great price, with at least £5,000,000 medical expenses cover.

Get Your Travel Insurance Quote Now

Get a Quote