Mum Uses Maternity Leave To Travel The World With Partner And 10-Week-Old Baby In Tow | HuffPost Life

Mum Uses Maternity Leave To Travel The World With 10-Week-Old Baby

Amy Packham— The Huffington Post UK

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After the birth of a baby, the last thing new mums will think about is hopping on a plane to travel the world.

But that's exactly what Karen Edwards, 31, did 10 weeks after giving birth to her first child Esmé with her partner Shaun Bayes.

"I guess you could say I have not had your typical maternity leave," she wrote on her blog which documents her travels.

"As relatively new parents, we have already been on many travel expeditions with our baby: several road trips, long ferry journeys, long and short haul flights, stopovers, camping trips and much more planned for the coming months."

Hong Kong

Describing herself as "travel mad", Edwards finished university with the intention to see as many countries as possible.

When she found out she was pregnant, she was determined not to let it change anything.

The family-of-three spent 10 months travelling the world and Edwards admits her family thought she was "nuts" when she revealed her plans in November 2014.

Edwards, who was born in Ireland but lived in London when she gave birth, said the family boxed up their belongings, sold their car and put their house up for rent when Esmé was just under three months old.

Since first leaving London, the family have visited Ireland, Singapore, Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Taiwan, and Hong Kong.

"She was really well behaved and because she was small it was easy enough to keep her in the harness when we were on the move," Edwards told MailOnline.

"We have no regrets, she got to experience new sights, scenes and smells as she grew and that is incredible.

"The only time I felt Esmé was missing out was not having much socialising with other children."

But it wasn't always plain sailing.

Edwards said the hard parts of travelling with a baby included always being in the same room together (and not having the luxury of leaving the baby in another room to sleep), as well as not having enough toys all the time for her to play with.

New Zealand

Writing on a blog post titled 'Bali with a baby', Edwards discussed what parts of the country were accommodating for little ones.

"There are plenty of spots on the beach you can grab some shade for little ones," she wrote.

"Waves weren’t too dumpy in the shallows so all good for baby to have a dip.

"Ubud has tens of hundreds of spa and massage parlours. Again very reasonably priced. I think it’s safe to say most places wouldn’t like you to bring a baby with you.

"We found if you go out in the morning when there are not many other customers they were happy to have us."

Hong Kong

Edwards, who is a nurse, documented her journey on her blog and Instagram, posting photos of each place they visit.

After spending 10 months away and returning to London near the end of 2015, the couple are jetting off again with Esmé, now 17 months, to travel Thailand, Cambodia and New Zealand.

She wrote on her blog: "The overall aim is to inspire like-minded travel loving parents 'your travel days do not have to be over'.

"It is all about incorporating your little person into your way of life."

Keep updated with the family's adventures on Edwards' TravelMadMum blog.

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7 Things Couples Should Talk About Before Travelling

What You Want To Do(01 of22)

While some prefer the peace and serenity of lazing on a beach, others prefer shopping in a big city, or touring European history. Everyone has different things they look for in a trip, but when you go away, it's important to negotiate so that both of you enjoy the time away. “You need to agree on what you will do in advance because the [trip] will bring out your preferences,” Moffit said. “You may not be compatible on vacation [even] if you [are] every day.” (credit:Shutterstock)

Personal Hygiene(02 of22)

Although the concept of cleanliness is considered universal, everyone has a different understanding of hygiene. Some people may feel the need to shower twice a day, while others may focus more on moisturizing. Until you spend an extended time with someone in close quarters, you may not know what, to them, constitutes clean or hygienic. “[Do] you use [too] much toothpaste or leave the toilet roll empty or take a 30 minute shower?” asks relationship expert Kimberly Moffit. "Talk about all your quirky little habits in advance .. It’s important to make sure there are few surprises when you are on vacation." (credit:Shutterstock)

Fighting(03 of22)

Fighting is inevitable. Although couples disagree on a day-to-day basis, conflict can be harder to deal with on vacation. The relaxed vacay mentality can sometimes result in couples bottling their feelings, but it's just as important to communicate your feelings when you're away as when you're at home."The most important thing is to realize that even if these roadblocks are coming up, it doesn't mean it’s a bad relationship or you're incompatible. These things come up [everywhere] in life," Moffit said. "It's important that when you see the roadblock come up, to create a plan of action for your vacation." (credit:Shutterstock)

Money (04 of22)

A trip is a large financial investment on its own, which can set the tone for a vacation. The pricey nature of vacationing may cause people to want to save while away, while others may want to take the time to splurge. No matter what, couples need to discuss money before going away and organize who's paying for what, according to Moffit. A lot of young couples may not have shared finances, which means an agreement needs to be made. "It can create all kinds of issues if you don’t talk about it in advance," the expert says. "If you're lucky you'll agree on everything, but chances are going to be a couple of things [you'll] need to work on." (credit:Shutterstock)

Sleeping(05 of22)

Even if you live together, you may not know their vacation sleeping habits. Sometimes even couples who have been together for a long time can't seem to solve the problem of snoring or hogging the blankets. "It's about problem solving as you go," Moffit advised. If your partner has a different sleeping schedule from you, there's nothing wrong with reaching a negotiation. There's no reason why one of you can't go watch TV in another area, then come to bed when the time comes, Moffit rationalized. "It's not offensive or personal .. it's about knowing yourself." (credit:Shutterstock)

The Literal Travel(06 of22)

Some people read and some sleep. A long ride, whether it be on a plane, train or car, brings out something different in everyone. Moffit advises that the best strategy when travelling is to gauge how your partner feels."If you notice they're fidgety, then talk to them about it," she says. "Understand if they are reading and you want to talk to them, it's not that they don’t want to talk to you. It could just be that’s the way they travel." (credit:Shutterstock)

You Time (07 of22)

Seeing only one person's face for a week or two can make anyone testy. Just because you go away with your significant other doesn't mean you need to be constantly interacting. It's important that, as much as couples get time to spend together, both parties have time for themselves. Moffit says that while time apart may seem unromantic, it's sometimes necessary for couples to feel satisfied with their vacation. "Having that time and space is really important, just as it would be in our everyday life," she stresses. "You should be at the point [that] you're comfortable with silence." (credit:Shutterstock)

BIOLUMINESCENT BAYS(08 of22)

Photo Credit: Puerto Rico Tourism CompanyWhere: Vieques, Puerto RicoWhen the Spanish first encountered Puerto Mosquito in Vieques, they attributed the underwater neon-blue lights to the work of the devil; a more plausible explanation attributes the phenomenon to dinoflagellate, a microorganism that glows in response to movement. We can thank the Spaniards, who blocked off the entrance of the bay in an attempt to drive out evil spirits, for preserving the unique ecological environment in Puerto Mosquito. Visitors to Vieques can experience the bioluminescent bay by booking a kayak tour after dark (several companies operate in the area; try Kayaking Puerto Rico). Plan to visit on a night with no moon, so as best to see the lights in the shallow bay waters.Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Puerto Rico Travel Guide

YOSEMITE MOONLIGHT TOUR(09 of22)

Photo Credit: Rick Whitacre / ShutterstockWhere: CaliforniaSee Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and Bridalveil Fall against a backdrop of the unpolluted night sky on a Yosemite Valley Moonlight Tour. The two-hour tour takes visitors through the valley floor in an open-air tram, giving you plenty of opportunities to snap a picture of the moonlight reflecting off El Capitan’s granite walls. The after-hours tour of Yosemite Valley is held during full moon nights and the four days leading up to the full moon during select months of the year (typically April/May through September/October). During the winter months, Yosemite offers additional after-dark programs, including snowshoe tours.Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Yosemite National Park Travel Guide

PETRA BY NIGHT(10 of22)

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Petra Development and Tourism Region AuthorityWhere: Petra, JordanThe UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Ma’an governorate dates back as far as the second century B.C. and once served as the capital city of the Nabataeans during the Hellenistic period. The stunning structures of Petra, carved into the red sandstone walls, are the country’s most-visited tourist attraction, so sign up for the guided Petra by Night excursion to avoid at least some of the crowd. The walk through the Siq, lit by 1,500 candles and the moonlight, is a unique way to experience the ancient city, culminating at the iconic Treasury building. If you find yourself in a big group, linger at the back to avoid chatter and have the walk to yourself.Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Jordan Travel Guide

ALCATRAZ NIGHT TOURS(11 of22)

Photo Credit: Alison Taggart-Barone, Parks ConservancyWhere: San Francisco, CaliforniaTo avoid the crowds and enjoy the stunning view of San Francisco after dark, book a night tour of the infamous prison. Watch the sun set over the city as you circle the island, before a guided tour takes you around the prison building and into the cellhouse. After, an audio tour with recordings from former inmates lets you explore the eerie prison after-hours, and you can participate in several special programs offered only in the evenings. This tour is one of the city’s most popular attractions, so be sure to book well in advance (tickets are sold 90 days ahead of time).Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s San Francisco Travel Guide

WATERFIRE PROVIDENCE(12 of22)

Photo Credit: WaterFire Providence / James TurnerWhere: Providence, Rhode IslandBarnaby Evans’ sculpture in Providence’s Waterplace Park is an art installation, performance piece, and community event rolled into one. During select dates from May through December, more than 80 braziers light up the Woonasquatucket, Moshassuck, and Providence Rivers that flow through the city’s downtown on select evenings, creating a multi-sensory experience combined with the aromatic wood smoke and global music selections. WaterFire is put on free for the public by WaterFire Providence, a local non-profit arts organization.Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Providence Travel Guide

PRAGUE GHOST TOURS(13 of22)

Photo Credit: kavalenkava volha / ShutterstockWhere: PragueAn already spooky city with a distinct Grimms’ fairytale vibe, Prague comes alive when the sun goes down, with a wide variety of local ghost stories, real and fictitious, to add to the ambiance. Skip the clubs and head out for an evening tour of the city to learn about the many spirits that haunt Prague’s streets, from the story of the Golem, to legends of Templar Knights. There are several different companies offering ghost tours of the city, many of which sell tickets around Old Town Square in the afternoon. Mysterium Tour Prague leads a particularly good tour of Old Town, and McGee’s Ghost Tours offers a Prague Castle After Dark excursion for a look at the city’s iconic landmark.Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Prague Travel Guide

ANGKOR NIGHT MARKET(14 of22)

Photo Credit: withGod / ShutterstockWhere: Siem Reap, CambodiaThe first night market in Cambodia, the Angkor Night Market opened its doors in 2007 with the intent to showcase and preserve traditional handicrafts made by the Khmer people, the largest ethnic group in Cambodia. The market has more than 150 stalls, with plans to increase to 250, selling clothing, silk paintings, carvings, and a selection of sustainably produced goods made from recycled materials. A fun place to stroll around, the stalls are worth a visit even if you’re just window-shopping, but be prepared to haggle if you decide to buy something. Alternatively, head to the Island Bar and spend the evening people watching with a cocktail in hand.Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Siem Reap Travel Guide

NIGHT SKIING(15 of22)

Photo Credit: Keystone Resort / Bob WinsettWhere: Keystone, ColoradoIf you can brave the cold, there’s no better adrenaline-pumping way to spend the evening than on the slopes at Keystone Resort. Watch the sun set over the Rockies at the Summit House before enjoying the (usually) crowd-free runs with lifts open until 8 p.m. Keystone’s self-proclaimed “longest ski day in the state of Colorado” runs from late November through early April (check Keystone’s lift schedule for exact dates). The mountain’s Adventure Point tubing hill is also open for select night runs during the season.Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Colorado Travel Guide

NIGHT ZIP-LINING(16 of22)

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Ziptrek EcotoursWhere: Whistler, British ColumbiaFor a heart-stopping, après-ski adventure, head north for Whistler’s Ziptrek Twilight Tour. Platforms perched 150 feet up in the forest’s canopy help launch zip-liners up to 50 miles per hour through the wooded terrain, strung with twinkling lights to help guide your way. Heated and sheltered platforms will keep you warm as you zip through the night, outfitted only with a headlight to help preserve the tranquil environment. The Ziptrek Zone is located between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, and you’ll find Ziptrek Ecotours’ guest services desk at the Carleton Lodge in the heart of Whistler Village.Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Whistler Travel Guide

STARGAZING(17 of22)

Photo Credit: Milky Way Utah 1 by Mike Durkin CC BY-SA 2.0Where: UtahStargazing is the ultimate after-dark activity and Bryce Canyon National Park is one of the best places to see the light-pollution-free night sky. The park employs a group of Astronomy Rangers to help guests spot Venus, Jupiter, the Andromeda Galaxy, and as many as 7,500 stars on a moonless night, with Bryce Canyon’s iconic red rock hoodoos providing a vibrant foreground. For the ultimate night-sky experience, head to Utah during the Annual Astronomy Festival (June 17-20, 2015) for a series of speakers and workshops, followed by four nights under the stars. Also look for the semi-monthly full moon hikes offered year-round.Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Bryce Canyon National Park Travel Guide

MANTA RAY NIGHT DIVES(18 of22)

Photo Credit: Jeff Milisen / milisenphotography.yolasite.comWhere: Kona, HawaiiNot for the faint of heart, night diving is the best way to see Kona’s famous manta ray population. Plankton are attracted to underwater light sources at night, luring the rays out in large numbers to feed. Divers will be able to view the manta rays from below, submerged 25 to 35 feet, while snorkelers can watch from above. Manta rays are some of the more illusive species of sea life, and while there are no guaranteed sightings, Kona offers one of the best places to see the rare fish. Kona Honu Divers is one of the best companies in the area, offering one- and two-tank dives.Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Kailua-Kona Travel Guide

NIGHT SAFARI(19 of22)

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Chichele Presidential Lodge - Sanctuary RetreatsWhere: ZambiaThe South Luangwa National Park in eastern Zambia is one of the most concentrated areas of wildlife in Africa, with 60 different animal species congregating around the Luangwa River. With the exception of the rhinoceros, which has been poached into extinction in the area, you’ll have the chance to see all the big five game animals, as well more than 400 species of birds and a large hippopotamus population. The Sanctuary Chichele Presidential Lodge, one of the park’s premiere hotels housed in a converted grand colonial home, offers night game drives through the park; a rare find among African safaris, but one of the best ways to see the animals.Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Zambia Travel Guide

NORTHERN LIGHTS VIEWING(20 of22)

Photo Credit: Northern Lights 9 by David Becker CC BY-ND 2.0Where: NorwayNo nocturnal spectacle offers up a jaw-dropping display quite like the aurora borealis. The green, pink, and violet streaks across the sky occur when particles from large solar explosions collide with the Earth’s magnetic field, creating a vibrant atmospheric display. The lights occur most frequently between the autumn and spring equinoxes, when darkness falls around 6 pm, providing maximum exposure. The Lofoten and Svalbard Islands are the best places to see the lights, ideally on a night with little moonlight. If you’re looking for something to do while you pass the time, book a snowmobile safari in Alta.Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Norway Travel Guide

NIGHT HIKES(21 of22)

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Anywhere Costa RicaWhere: Costa RicaDespite surrounding the Arenal Volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in Costa Rica, this area’s rainforest is teeming with life, but because more than 60 percent of the forest’s animals are nocturnal, you’ll have to be willing to stay up late to see some of the amazing wildlife. Anywhere Costa Rica offers two different night hikes (and a safari float) through the rainforest, with the chance to see many different types of frogs and snakes, nesting birds, bats, caimans, and, on a good night, sloths and other large mammals.Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Costa Rica Travel Guide

FIREFLY VIEWING(22 of22)

Photo Credit: Firefly by Windslash CC BY 2.0Where: TennesseeIt only lasts for two weeks every year, but firefly season at Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an enchanting natural display. Different species produce shades of green, yellow, and blue bioluminescent light as part of their mating displays, resulting in a stunning, unexplainably synchronized light show. The two-week spectacle varies by year, usually occurring at the end of May and in early- to mid-June (this year’s dates will be announced in April). For the best display, head out on a warm, dry night and leave anything with a backlight in the car.Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park Travel Guide

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