I Took a "Hatchelorette" Trip to Costa Rica and It Was the Highlight of My Pregnancy

When I found out I was pregnant, I knew I wanted one last trip with my girls before baby boy arrives. A friend introduced me to the concept of a hatchelorette and I was instantly on board. It's like a bachelorette for expectant parents: a chance to unwind, bond with your crew, and enjoy some pampering before parenthood kicks into full gear. Some people even choose to do a hatchelorette trip it instead of the standard baby moon or baby shower. After a year-long battle with unexplained infertility and going through IVF, I needed this break more than ever.

We headed to Guanacaste, Costa Rica to stay at El Mangroove, an Autograph Collection resort by Marriott. Just a quick drive from Liberia Airport, the beachfront property is surrounded by greenery and gives you the feeling of being tucked into nature. I spent my days by the adult-only pool sipping mocktails while my girl sipped cocktails, enjoying the peace and tranquility. And when I come back with my baby, I'll definitely be checking out the family-friendly pool too – and transition back to cocktails, of course.

Image Source: PS Photography / Alexis Felder

El Mangroove is a wellness-focused, eco-conscious resort, and it was an ideal setting for my first full-on wellness retreat. I received my first prenatal massage, did yoga, participated in a cacao ceremony, and experimented with meditation and sound healing - the last of which was the most powerful and emotional experience of the trip. The resort's wellness programming was thoughtful and intentional, and it made me feel refreshed even as the stress of preparing for a new baby looms.

Of course, no hatchelorette trip is complete without amazing food. Three on-site restaurants - Malu, Matisse, and Makoko - served up fresh, locally sourced dishes that were both flavorful and nourishing, and baby boy and I enjoyed. Overall, it was a relaxing, restorative retreat that you'd enjoy whether you're pregnant, celebrating something special, or just need a reset. Here's what I packed at 16 weeks pregnant.