Take the time to treat yourself to some of the best prenatal spa treatments and pregnancy massages in Hong Kong! When it comes to life’s challenging tasks, making a new human is pretty high on that list. It’s normal to experience some aches and pains, so combine that with the stress of preparing for a new life, and you’ve more than earned some spa time! Here are some of the best prenatal spa treatments and pregnancy massages in Hong Kong, from some of the best spas in Hong Kong, with options for every budget.

Editor’s Note: Some prices are subject to a service charge, don’t forget to check before booking.

Read More: Hair Removal Salons In Hong Kong – Where To Get Waxing, IPL And More

The Mandarin Oriental – Hotel prenatal massage in Central Hong Kong

Using rose-scented oils and body balms to nourish the skin and help towards the prevention of stretch marks, the Body & Bump prenatal massage also includes a hydrating facial and hair mask. The aromatherapy Mum-to-Be pregnancy treatment helps to release any tension in the upper back and shoulders.

How Much: $2,100 from Monday to Thursday and $2,250 from Friday to Sunday for the Body & Bump package (1.5 hours), $1,650 from Monday to Thursday and $1,800 from Friday to Sunday for the Mum-to-Be package (1 hour)

Mandarin Oriental Spa, 5 Connaught Road Central, Hong Kong, 2522 0111, www.mandarinoriental.com

Read More: The Ultimate Guide To Fighting Stretch Marks

Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong – Prenatal and postnatal spa massage to release tension

This Prenatal Massage, performed on a specially designed massage bed with comfortable cushions, is the therapy you need to soothe all of your aches and pains. To maximise safety for you and your baby, this treatment is only offered to Mamas beyond their first trimester. Look out for the postnatal massage, as well.

How Much: $2,300 from Monday to Thursday and $2,550 from Friday to Sunday for the 90-minute package; $3,300 from Monday to Thursday and $3,500 from Friday to Sunday for the 120-minute package.

Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, 8 Finance Street, Central, Hong Kong, 3196 8888, www.fourseasons.com

The Peninsula Hong Kong – Prenatal massage and facial in TST

Peninsula Hong Kong spa’s Maternity Massage includes gentle back exfoliation and is followed by a massage that is specifically targeted to the areas and issues you want focused on. It also offers ocean-inspired organic facial treatments for expectant mothers (after the first trimester).

How Much: $1,550/60 minutes

The Peninsula Hong Kong, Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 2926 2888, www.hongkong.peninsula.com

Plateau Spa, Grand Hyatt Hong Kong – Pregnancy spa package in Wan Chai

The Grand Hyatt Spa’s Mother-To-Be Massage is suited for all mums after the first trimester. Skilled technicians will ease away water retention, muscle tension and stress. If you have specific requirements, the pregnancy massage can be tailored to your individual needs. See the full Grand Hyatt Spa menu here.

How Much: $1,250 for the 60 minute-package; $1,750 for the 90 minute-package

Plateau Spa, Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, 1 Harbour Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2584 7688, www.hyatt.com

Read More: Nail Salons In Hong Kong – Where To Get Nail Art, Manicures And Pedicures

Zhen Foot Spa and Body Massage – Pregnancy foot massages in Hong Kong

Zhen Foot Spa and Body Massage uses Decleor oil and a slightly lighter touch for their prenatal foot and body massages. We’ve had both but keep going back for the foot massage. It’s so good that we’ve even fibbed and said we were pregnant when we weren’t so we could get the special treatment!

How Much: Prenatal Massage (Foot & Calf) $388/50 minutes; Prenatal Massage (Body), $548/50 minutes

Zhen Foot Spa and Body Massage, Suite 1802, Century Square, 1-13 D’Aguilar Street, Lan Kwai Fong, Central, Hong Kong, 2116 3980, www.facebook.com/zhenhk

Iyara Day Spa Nail Lounge – Pregnancy manicures and prenatal pampering

With soft lighting, warm neutral tones, the smell of essential oils, each of Iyara four spa’s is a perfect place to get your nails done. Offering Couleur Caramel a French vegan 7-free polish that is also free of parabens you can be assured that your hands are in good hands.

How Much: Prices start from $250 for a regular manicure and $350 for a pedicure.

Iyara Nail Lounge, 1/F 28 Cochrane Street, Central, 2545 8638, various locations for massages across Hong Kong, www.iyaradayspa.com

Nail Me – Pregnancy-safe manicures, pedicures and pampering

With multiple branches on and off the island to choose from and professional service, Nail Me offers Ella + Mila a 7-free vegan US nail polish with vibrant colours. It also has kids’ manicures and pedicures.

How Much: Prices start from $240 for a regular manicure and $400 for a pedicure. Kids manicure $120, kids pedicure #200

Nail Me, various locations across Hong Kong, www.nailmehk.com

Read More: The Best Nail Salons On Hong Kong Island And In Kowloon

Love Hair – Organic mineral hair colour that’s safe during pregnancy

Does getting your hair done make you feel revived? From the moment you walk into Love Hair you’re in for a relaxing time! Friendly and casual, you can sit back, sip on your beverage of choice, relax and enjoy the process. Love Hair uses Original mineral permanent hair colour, which is free from ammonia, resorcinol and PPD – paraphenylenediamine. The salon also offers Bhave, which is a chemical-free smoothing treatment.

Love Hair, 1/F, 99F Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2458 0190, www.lovehairhk.com

Emmanuel F – Organic, eco-friendly, pregnancy-safe hair products

The overarching philosophy at Emmanuel F is organic, and eco-friendly products. The salon uses ‘Organic Colour Solutions’, a UK-based hair dye, that is ethically sourced and cruelty-free. A one-stop shop also offering NCLA, a 5-free nail polish, so why not get your nails done at the same time whilst gazing at the starlit sky inside the shampoo room!

Emmanuel F, G/F 176 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2167 8280, www.emmanuelf.com

Read More: Hair Salons In Hong Kong – Where To Get Your Hair Cut, Dyed Or Styled

More Pregnancy Massages And Prenatal Spa Treatments In Hong Kong

• Glow Spa – Prenatal massage in Hong Kong with a special pregnancy-safe massage pillow. www.glowspa.hk
• The Body Group – Specific pregnancy massage spa in Hong Kong, massage therapy. www.thebodygroup.com
• The Feel Good Factor – Pregnancy Spa Packages, foot massage in Central. www.feelgoodfactor.com.hk

Pregnancy Massage And Prenatal Pampering: Spa Safety During Pregnancy

During this extremely sensitive time, safety precautions are a necessity.

Do:

• When in doubt, speak to your doctor before booking any prenatal treatments.
• Be cautious about using essential oils during the first trimester of pregnancy, especially for mums prone to miscarriage.
• Use safe essential oils, in droplets or even diluted with a carrier oil. The best include citrus oils, lavender, ylang-ylang, and eucalyptus to name a few. Make sure you’re using 100% pure therapeutic-grade oils in your massages.
• Opt for scent-free lotions, especially if you’re super sensitive to smells during this time.
• Make sure you’re in a well-ventilated room, especially if you’re receiving manicures and pedicures.

Avoid:

• Attending spas during your first trimester, so as to not affect the baby’s early development.
• Heat treatments, like saunas, steam rooms, tanning beds, hot springs, whirlpools, and hot tubs – let that bump breathe!
• Chemical peels of any kind, as absorbing these chemicals have not been proven safe for your baby.
• Essential oils like nutmeg, rosemary, basil, jasmine, clary sage and juniper berry – especially without consulting a doctor first.

Read More: Hong Kong Eyebrows Services – Threading, Waxing, Microblading And More

Editor’s Note: “Pregnancy Massages And Prenatal Spa Treatments In Hong Kong” was most recently updated in September 2023 by Sassy Mama. Special thanks to Dervla Louli and Alex Purcell Garcia for their contribution.

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The end of the first trimester generally signals the end of nausea-infused mornings and you can start enjoying your pregnancy. This is the best time to travel before motherhood starts. For first-time parents, your babymoon is even more special, knowing holidays are never going to be the same again. Take this time to relax and spend some quality time with your partner.

Sassy Mama Tip: Be sure to check in with your doctor or healthcare provider before making your travel plans.

Read More: How To Get A Passport For Your New Baby In Hong Kong

Goa, India – Budget-friendly babymoon destination in Asia

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly beach babymoon, you cannot go wrong with Goa, a coastal state in western India along the Arabian Sea. In addition to its golden beaches and streets lined with palm trees, you’ll also find preserved 17-century churches and Portuguese-style art and architecture, thanks to its long history as a Portuguese colony until 1961.

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Goa

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa offers a luxury seafront getaway with gorgeous suites and sea view rooms that are inspired by Goa’s rich history. Take a look at its special package for babymoons which includes a buffet breakfast, a maternity photo shoot, private meditation and spa sessions and much more!

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Calwaddo, Goa, India, reservations@ihcltata.com, www.tajhotels.com

Hamsa Villas

With lush green surroundings, chirping birds and a fresh sea breeze, Hamsa Villas are a nature lovers’ delight. You’ll also have access to your own private pool, jacuzzi and Yoga room, plus access to The Spa.

Hamsa Villas, 1/272-D, Gauravaddo, Calangute, Goa, India, +91 956 006 2833, goa@hamsavillas.com, www.hamsavillas.com

Prainha Resort

Situated near Dona Paula Beach (also called lover’s paradise) Prainha Resort is ideal for couples. You’ll be surrounded by swaying palm trees, warm red rocks and the endless ocean as you sip on mocktails at the beachside restaurant.

Prainha Resort, WhatsApp: +91 777 401 0131, reservations@prainha.com, www.prainha.com

Read More: Top Philippines Destinations To Visit On Your Next Family Holiday

Singapore – Babymoon destination in Asia within close proximity to the city

A babymoon in Singapore is perfect if you prefer to be near a big city with world-class medical facilities. There are plenty of resorts in Singapore that promise a quiet, romantic retreat.

Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa

The only beachfront resort in Singapore, Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa is within easy reach of the city. Its’ Rasa Romance package is ideal for couples and includes breakfast and sunset drinks (including mocktails!), plus you can choose your preferred pampering experience – picnic set, foot massages and more!

Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa, 101 Siloso Rd, Singapore, Hong Kong Toll Free Number 3069 9788, enquiries@shangri-la.com, www.shangri-la.com/rasasentosaresort

Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa

Here, you’ll enjoy a tranquil stay surrounded by lush greenery, wildlife and a refreshing sea breeze from the South China Sea. Check out its A Romance Hideaway package for couples, inclusive of breakfast, a 1-hour massage for two and more.

Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa, 2 Bukit Manis Road Sentosa 099891 Singapore, 65 6708 8310, h9474@sofitel.com, www.sofitel-singapore-sentosa.com

Capella Singapore

Capella Singapore offers a beautiful escape with its colonial architecture set amidst 30 acres of lush rainforest. There are plenty of experiences for to-be-parents including cooking masterclasses, afternoon tea and spa.

Capella Singapore, 1 The Knolls, Sentosa Island, Singapore, +65 6377 8888, gr.singapore@capellahotels.com, www.capellahotels.com

Read More: Sassy Mama’s Guide To Visiting Singapore With Kids

Sanya, China – White-sand beach babymoon destination in Asia

A premier beach destination in China, Sanya has white-sand beaches, and clear blue waters and offers a gorgeous tropical island escape for expecting parents. Pamper yourself at these resorts…

Rosewood Sanya

Launched in the summer of 2017, Rosewood Sanya offers panoramic ocean view rooms and five restaurants and lounges, plus an infinity pool, spa, a health club and over 2,000 square meters of outfoot spaces.

Rosewood Sanya, 6 Haitang North Road, Sanya, Hainan, China, +86 (898) 8871 6666, sanya@rosewoodhotels.com, https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/sanya

Mandarin Oriental, Sanya

Mandarin Oriental in Sanya combines contemporary design with a laid-back beach chic vibe. It offers everything from spacious suites to luxurious villas and loads of special experiences including beachfront restaurants and a spa.

Mandarin Oriental, Sanya, 12 Yuhai Road, Sanya, Hainan, China, +86 (898) 8820 9999, mosan-reservations@mohg.com, www.mandarinoriental.com/sanya

Malaysia – Luxurious rainforest babymoon destination in Asia

Another great babymoon destination is Malaysia, a country spanning many islands and full of gorgeous resorts to discover.

The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi

A vacation at The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi feels like stelling into a world of luxury in a midst of a rainforest. Its Ultimate Romance package is ideal for couples and includes lavish experiences including a romantic drawn bath, dining by the beach and a relaxing massage for two.

The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi, PT 313, Jalan Pantai Kok, Teluk Nibong, Langkawi, KD, Malaysia, +604 952 4888, reservations.langkawi@ritzcarlton.com, www.ritzcarlton.com/langkawi

The Chateau Spa & Resort, Penang

Inspired by an 18th Century castle in France, The Chateau Spa & Wellness Resorts offers expansive views into the sloping hills and beyond. You’ll enjoy impeccable 7-star service upon arrival and be able to indulge in spa treatments and sumptuous dining experiences.

The Chateau Spa & Resort, KM 48, Persimpangan Bertingkat Lebuhraya Karak, Bukit TInggi, Pahang, Malaysia, + 60 (9) 221 3888, www.thechateau.com.my

South Korea – An exciting babymoon destination in Asia to shop and dine

Seoul is a great city break; you’ve got bright neon lights and a bustling atmosphere, but it is also incredibly safe, clean and well-organised. Eat your way around the city and indulge in some classic Korean food while you are there, plus check out these resorts ideal for your babymoon.

Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul

Unwind in this urban oasis with a striking view of Namsan Mountain along with a premium experience and world-class service. You can also book its Sense of Romance package that offers a spa treatment for two, breakfast and access to the swimming pool and fitness centre.

Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul, 60, Jangchungdan-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, Korea, +82 2 2250 8000, clubandspa-seoul@banyantree.com, www.banyantree.com/club-and-spa-seoul

L7 MYEONGDONG

With a cosy atmosphere, L7 MYEONGDONG is ideally situated close to major shopping destinations and tourist attractions. Sip on mocktails at the rooftop bar, indulge in a foot spa and enjoy a relaxing stay at its sophisticated suites.

L7 MYEONGDONG, 137 Toegye-ro Jung-gu, Seoul, Korea, 02-6310-1000, rsv.L7.mdong@lotte.net, www.lottehotel.com/myeongdong

Editor’s Note: 5 Babymoon Destinations In Asia – Hotels And Resorts For Your Babymoon was most recently updated in April 2023 by Najuka Redkar.

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Being pregnant during the festive holidays can make you feel like you’re missing out on a lot of fun, especially when everyone around you seems to be overindulging on the food, wine and general merriment. Breathe! This is not the time to get resentful. There are plenty of fun things for you to do and have fun while at it. Keep this handy Christmas survival guide by your side, mamas-to-be!

Read more: Chinese Soups And Teas That Benefit Your Body During Pregnancy

Festive Food: What to eat and what to avoid

Whilst everyone will take a different approach to their body and pregnancy, there are some general guidelines that most mums-to-be like to follow to be on the safe side. Though Christmas is the season of indulgence, you need to be just a little bit cautious about the choices you make. We, at Sassy Mama, recommend avoiding anything with a high risk of carrying bacteria. This isn’t new advice and, throughout your pregnancy, you’ve probably been keeping away from uncooked seafood (oysters, smoked salmon or sushi), soft cheeses (brie, stilton and camembert) and some desserts (mousse, cheesecake and even meringues).

But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy plenty of other things on the festive menu. Load up on the turkey – it’s lean and high in protein, so it is the perfect meat to enjoy on the big day. Brussel sprouts may not be your favourite vegetable but they contain folate, protein and magnesium, so don’t be shy about going for seconds! The lure of Christmas snacking is inevitable, but try to limit the chocolates and sweets and reach for roasted nuts, dried fruit and healthy dips instead.

Seasonal Tipples: What to drink and what to avoid

One of the hardest parts of being pregnant during this season can be forgoing a glass of bubbly. There are some great non-alcoholic alternatives out there to ensure you can still raise a glass along with everyone else. The Bottle Shop in Sai Ying Pun and Wine Rack (with five stores across the city) stock a wide selection of alcohol-free wine, beer and Prosecco, such as this bottle of Le Petit Beret sparkling wine at just $112. Be sure to also stock up on a bottle of Seedlip, an alcohol-free spirit that offers a tasty alternative to a gin and tonic when celebrating with friends. Meanwhile many bars in Hong Kong now offer extensive and delicious mocktail and drink menus that ensure you don’t feel forgotten on a night out. Opt for the spirit-free cocktail pairing at Vea, Designated Diver at Honi Honi Tiki Bar or Hibiscus at BEDU.

Read more: The Best (Mama-Approved) Mocktails In Hong Kong

Keeping Cosy

Shopping when you’re pregnant can be a challenge. But winter is the best possible time to be at your most “blossoming” because of all the layering! You can cosy up in oversized jumpers, waterfall cardigans and chunky coats. The other benefit of wearing oversized winter pieces is that you can head back to your usual high-street faves and just choose a simple size up! When it comes to winter jumpers we love the cosy knits and simple styles available in H&M. It has a great selection of polo-necks, jumper dresses and chunky cardigans (reasonably priced from $179 and up). For something with a bit more sparkle, head to Zara for embellished knits and sequin jumpers. If you prefer to stick to form-fitting maternity wear, then Linea Negra Maternity is a popular stop for most new mums thanks to its thoughtful collection of over 30 brands at its centrally-located store.

If you want something a little more festive, try ASOS which has a great range of show-stopping options for all bump sizes (with the option of next day delivery for last-minute dressing dilemmas!). You can also find great options at Mayarya.

Read more: Maternity Wear In Hong Kong: Sassy Mama’s Ultimate Guide

Your Gift Wishlist 

Christmas is a time to dial up the pampering, so make sure your letter to Santa reflects that! Add your personal preferences to the list below and drop giant-sized hints to the dad-to-be, friends and family.

Candles: There is nothing that instantly soothes the soul as quickly as a scented candle. Naturally, you’d want one with no nasties in it, so opt for a soy or vegetable-wax based one, with a lead-free wick and preferably with lavender or citrus smells. Our top choices for style and scent are Diptyque, Candle Up and BeCandle.

Skincare: Neals Yard is a pioneer in natural and organic skincare. We can’t recommend its Mothers Massage Oil highly enough – one Sassy Mama used it nightly during her third trimester for the ultimate calming evening routine. Pair it with the Mothers Balm for a truly relaxing gift. Another Sassy Mama swears by The Body Shop Thai Makrut Lime Firming Oil that’s full of antioxidants, fatty acids and amino acids.

Read more: The Ultimate Guide To Fighting Stretch Marks

Lux Loungewear: The White Company is renowned worldwide for its high-quality home wear. In particular, the cashmere range is perfect for mums-to-be and for good reason, it’s super soft against itchy pregnant tummies and keeps you warm (whilst still looking stylish when relaxing at home). The White Company offers free international delivery on orders over $1,000. Already thinking of twinning with your baby? Look at the soft and breathable collection from Malabar Baby.

Perfect Pampering: For the ultimate in R&R, every mum-to-be would love to be packed off to a luxurious spa for a massage, facial, hair mask, pedicure and more. Most of the five-star hotels offer great prenatal pampering packages so take your pick and slip it onto the list.

Hair Care: Whilst some women benefit from those pregnancy hormones, you may need a helping hand with your tresses. If you would like to get a new look, why not put a good haircut and blowdry on your wishlist? Thankfully, Hong Kong has a plethora of fabulous hairdressers who will get you party-ready in no time.

Read more: Hair Salons In Hong Kong: Where To Get Your Hair Cut & Styled

Where To Shop

If you need to get your shopping done, then the last thing you need is to be traipsing around and getting crushed in the masses on the MTR. Instead, opt for the ease of shopping from the comfort of your home. Sassy Mama has done all the hard work for you with our carefully curated gift guides. Whether you’re looking for something stylish for a partner, cute for your firstborn, useful for the bump or heartfelt for your helper, we have the best suggestions for you.

If you want to step out, look for a one-stop shop. For luxury shopping, head to Harvey Nichols at Landmark or Lane Crawford at ifc mall. For something a little more unique and truly local, get your gifts from PMQ, a home for Hong Kong’s creative community. Shoes, jewellery, art and even specialist sake – you can find something for everyone here!

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So your little one is on the way… that doesn’t mean you have to give up making plans come Friday night! After a long day, when you’re hankering for some celebratory bubbles, a refreshing G&T or a relaxing glass of good wine, stay strong and opt for a delicious mocktail instead.

We’ve rounded up some of the top alcohol-free drinks being served up by the coolest bars in the 852. Don’t mock ’em till you try ’em…

Read more: How To Survive Summer When You’re Pregnant: Tips For Staying Cool

Mina House

Best known for its delectable desserts (perfect for those sugar cravings!), Mina House at The Peak also serves up some of the best mocktails in town. These Instagram-worthy beverages are colourful and captivating and sure to be a hit with all the mamas-to-be. Choose from the Plum Spritz with ginger ale and plum foam, the Berry Love – a blend of raspberry, strawberry and cranberry, topped with silky cream or the refreshing Osaka Sunset with passion fruit, pineapple, coconut and lemon.

Mina House, Shop G03, G/F & Shop 101, 1/F, Peak Galleria, 118 Peak Road, The Peak, Hong Kong, 2885 3320, www.thefoodstoryhk.com/minahouse

Le Garçon Saigon

To complement its vibrant Vietnamese cuisine, Le Garçon Saigon has a delicious array of “Les Innocents” to choose from. To get a true taste of the French influences that characterise Saigon, go for the Les Amoureux – a mix of mango, passionfruit and lemon, or the Saveurs de Saigon, which is made with Vietnamese lotus tea, lychee and mint.

Le Garçon Saigon, 12 Wing Fung Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, www.legarconsaigon.com

Jalan

Newly opened Malaysian street-food eatery Jalan is also a great place to go for a well-deserved mama mocktail! With libations ranging from the Granny’s Panties (lavender syrup, orange, cranberry, blueberry and rosemary) to the Jewelled Garden (Seedlip Garden, verjus and lychee syrup), you’re sure to find a suitable non-alcoholic substitute.

Jalan, 42 Peel Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2386 2216, info@jalanhk.com, www.jalanhk.com

Honi Honi Tiki Bar

Hop to Hong Kong’s premiere Polynesian cocktail lounge, Honi Honi, where going without the booze is a breeze. Try the Designated Diver, which infuses orange juice with vanilla and a dash of passion fruit and lemon juice.

Honi Honi Tiki Bar, 3/F, Somptueux Central, 52 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong, www.honihonibar.com

Sip Song

Can’t quite escape on that tropical babymoon you’ve been dreaming of? Make your way to Sip Song in Repulse Bay and be transported to the beaches of Phuket, Krabi and Koh Samui without leaving Hong Kong island. Sip on a Thai Iced Tea or a lovely Lavender and Coconut Spritz and drink in the holiday vibes.

Sip Song, 1/F, The Pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay, Hong Kong, 2328 8285, www.sip-song.com

Duddell’s

The mocktail menu at Duddell’s is perfect for a mama indulgence. Relax on the terrace and enjoy drinks that promise to provide relaxation, stress reduction and an overall sense of contentment according to the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku (or forest bathing). Any excuse to relax sounds good to us!

Duddell’s, Level 3, Shanghai Tang Mansion, 1 Duddell Street, Central, Hong Kong, www.duddells.co

Bedu

For flavours from the Middle East, head to Bedu. The restaurant and bar serves up food and drinks inspired by the rich culinary traditions of the nomadic Bedouin tribes that wandered across the deserts of North Africa and the rocky sands of the Middle East. The affordable mocktail menu features several drinks that are sure to hit the spot. We like the sound of the Naenae – sweet green tea with mint (served hot or cold) as well as the Garden Party with homemade lime avocado curd, tomato water and lime.

Bedu, G/F, 40 Gough Street, Central, Hong Kong, www.bedurestaurant.com

La Petite Maison

Dreaming of carefree days in the French Riviera? We can’t help you with the airfare, but for a taste of the Niçoise region head to La Petite Maison in the H Queen’s building. Pick yourself up with a Vitamin Sea, pink grapefruit with flavours of rosemary and hibiscus or the Petit Coco with coconut water, sorbet and just a touch of citrus.

La Petite Maison, H Queen’s, 23-29 Stanley Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2887 1113, www.lpmlondon.co.uk/hongkong

Chaiwala

We’ve all heard that eating spicy curry at the end of your pregnancy can kick things along. Well, head to Chaiwala and wash it all down with a delicious selection of Indian-inspired mocktails. Don’t miss the Punjab Cadillac Colada Virgin with chai syrup, coconut and nutmeg or the refreshing Shikanji (pictured), with lemon juice, black salt, mint leaves and cumin.

Chaiwala, Basement, No. 43-55, Wyndham Street, Central, info@chaiwala.hk, www.chaiwala.hk

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published on 20, January 2017 by Annie Simpson and was updated on 17, October 2019 by Jess Mizzi. 

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Pregnancy, whilst an amazing miracle can be an exhausting time in any expectant mums life. Your body is changing, your hormones are playing havoc, smells make you nauseous, tiredness is setting in, and amongst all of that there seems to be a never-ending list of things you should and shouldn’t do! Suddenly, you find yourself googling what’s okay and what’s not: is nail polish ok for the baby? Can I dye my hair? All the things you used to do without a thought suddenly require extra attention. For example, did you know that nail polishes can be 3-free, 5-free, 7-free even 10-free? This means that they are free of harmful toxic chemicals, which is especially important when you are growing a tiny human! Hair dye is next, can you? Should you? Is that massage baby appropriate? Should I get that facial? Here we have compiled a round up of some of the places that offer baby friendly treatments to give you some reassurance.

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Making her way from London to Hong Kong several years ago, Toni Ovenden found herself in a new city that excited her with the possibilities to grow her career. As a creative and passionate hair stylist who believes in making a smaller carbon footprint, she set out to start her own hair salon that reflected her deeply rooted ethos of using natural and organic products on her clients. After seeing the affects of many toxic hair products, she made a choice to use items that would be good for people and the world. And thus, Love Hair was born.

As Love Hair grew and celebrated it’s one year anniversary, Toni is now expecting her first human baby! Getting help from her friend Birgit Wahlhaeuser of W Interior Concepts, she invites us into her gorgeous nursery space and dishes on the funniest preggo moment to sharing which was her most difficult trimester. Read on in this edition of The Bump.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and how you ended up in Hong Kong.

Ten years ago I was backpacking around Asia and came to Hong Kong to visit a good friend who was here doing her year abroad. It made a big impression on me and I left saying, “I am coming to live in Hong Kong.”. When I went back to London to continue my hairdressing career I got caught up in climbing the career ladder there and five years flew by. Due to sudden loss of a good friend, I reevaluated what I was doing and decided it was time to pack up and finally embark on my journey to Hong Kong.

What was your first impression of Hong Kong?

My first impression was that I loved the mix of East meets West. It was a city full of local Chinese tradition that was still cosmopolitan and modern in so many ways. The fact that you could live in Asia and it’s also relatively easy to get around daily life. I am from London, so there’s no denying that I’m a city girl through and through but you can’t take a taxi to the beach there!

How did you get into hair styling and cutting?

I started as a Saturday girl at the salon whilst at school in a local salon. I was always very practical and loved being creative, so naturally when I left school it seemed like the right path to take. When you enjoy what you do, it makes all the difference.

Read more: Where to Get Kids’ Haircuts in Hong Kong 

Why has it been so important for you to adopt the organic and natural products and ethos for your salon, Love Hair?

As hairdressers, we are exposed on a daily basis to toxins in everything we use. I believe this contributed to me having high levels of metals in my body making me unwell for a period of time. Once finding out the cause and how to prevent this, I decided to take action and control what I expose myself to on a daily basis. Also, being environmentally conscious is the only way forward for new businesses in my mind. Every person and business has a carbon footprint, also it encourages others to be aware of their own impact and the choices they can make.

What was your initial reaction when you first found out you were pregnant?

Excited!

What was your husband’s reaction to your pregnancy? Did you find out together or did you surprise your partner?

I had an inkling and rather than waiting to see if my period would arrive, I took a test… at the IFC shopping mall toilet! I didn’t want to tell my husband, Ian on the phone so it was a long day at work keeping it to myself! It was Valentine’s Day too, so I put the pregnancy test in with his present. He was very happy.

Read more: Team Sassy Mama Shares Their Labour Stories

Do you know the gender of the baby? Are you keeping it a secret or doing a reveal?

We have left the gender as a surprise, which has been hard at times, but now we are getting so close to Labour Day, the suspense is making it even more exciting! Can’t wait to meet our little being!

Name a moment in your pregnancy experience where you’d like to freeze time.

When you feel the first kicks and punches.

What are your top three cravings?

I’m not sure I have craved anything in particular… I’d like to say chocolate but I crave that normally! I have actually gone off a few things like bananas and eggs.

Read more: Hydrating Foods to Keep You and Your Bump Refreshed

Name a funny moment in your pregnancy.

The amount of farting and burping!

What has been the easiest trimester and which one proved most difficult?

The first trimester was hard as you’re exhausted and feel like the baby is literally sucking the life out of you. Being on my feet all day as a hairdresser was challenging. The second trimester was great, felt very mobile and got my energy back. The third has just started to be difficult in the last few weeks as I am now uncomfortable. My fingers and toes look like sausages!

What have you struggled with most since being pregnant?

It’s like having a new identity! I was no longer Toni but my identity was overtaken by a pregnant woman. It felt like you were just generally being restricted with food while being more tired effects your social life. All the changes your body goes through is tough as right from the beginning it instantly starts to transform.

What has your experience been with being pregnant in Hong Kong? Healthcare system?

Hong Kong is a great place to access anything you need. The heat and humidity is a challenge. We are fortunate enough to be able to access the private system which has been great. Very quick and efficient with appointments. I would say I miss the personal touch and rapport with doctors in London. However, I have had some extra appointments at Annerley to give me that and they are excellent.

Read more: Antenatal Classes to Get You Ready for Labour

What do you think every woman should know before getting pregnant?

There is so much that isn’t spoken about and I think it would be more informative to have more articles on the things people don’t tell you about pregnancy. It is fascinating and the most amazing thing that your body can grow another human being from a ball of cells but it isn’t all glamorous and comes with many physical changes.

Any good suggestions on books to prep you for motherhood?

I haven’t read any books but my clients at the salon are a fountain of information and have given me enough advice to help me through.

Do you follow a specific fitness programme to stay in shape?

I am pretty active at work and was walking everywhere still up until about two weeks ago! I have done a mixture of prenatal Pilates and yoga throughout (Flex and The Yoga Room are my go-to’s).

Any fashion tips and tricks for maternity dressing?

Buy normal clothes but in a big size! Being comfortable is important, I like just being able to throw on a dress and go.

Read more: Maternity Clothes: Where to Shop for Every Occasion

Name a mama you find inspiring and why?

My mumma is inspiring as she managed to bring up three daughters all on her own.

What are your hopes and dreams for your baby?

For them to be confident and comfortable in their own skin. To be grounded, have compassion and emotional intelligence for other people and the world around them.

The post The Bump: First Time Mama and Founder of Love Hair, Toni Ovenden appeared first on Sassy Mama.