Brilliant trips to take when you're pregnant

Horse-drawn caravan in Ireland
If you're travelling en famille, nip over the pond to the Emerald Isle to escape the hustle of modern life by renting in a horse-drawn caravan. You'll travel at a walking pace in some of the most beautiful areas of Ireland, stopping off at farms, country houses and pubs on the way, after receiving instruction and practice in dealing with all the horsey bits. (An operator from the tour company is at the end of a phone line to help with things like loose horseshoes and other issues.) Designated farmers, guesthouses, pubs and hotels offer overnight facilities, so you needn't feel cut off from civilisation.

Top Tip:
If you must fly, the best time is during the three middle months of pregnancy. Most airlines won't take you after the 36th week and require a medical certificate at 28 weeks. Try to get an aisle seat so it's easy to get up and stretch your legs or visit the loo, and sit near the front of the plane, where the ride is smoother.

Irish Horse Drawn Caravan Federation
www.irishhorsedrawncaravans.com

Tourism Ireland
www.tourismireland.com

Irish Tourist Board
Tel: 0207 518 0800

Direct Ferries to Dublin and Dun Laoghaire from Holyhead
Direct Ferries to Rosslare from Fishguard www.stenaline.com