Maternity leave—this time isn’t just about sitting around at home with a newborn in tow. No, not for Esther Draycott, a 31-year-old professional midwife from the UK. After giving birth, Esther’s adventurous spirit led her to embark on an incredible journey with her family, breaking the traditional mold of maternity leave. She, along with her husband Daniel, 13-year-old daughter Bella, and baby Reuben, decided to take on a backpacking trip to Southeast Asia, leaving many in disbelief.
The idea of traveling the world sparked during Esther and Daniel’s honeymoon in Thailand, where they fell in love with the beauty and culture of Southeast Asia. Inspired by another NHS mom who embarked on a similar journey during maternity leave, Esther and her family decided to take the leap. The couple carefully planned their itinerary, ensuring that they would only book flights once they were confident in their health and readiness for travel.
Setting off with just one check-in bag between them, the Draycott family waved goodbye to their familiar surroundings and embraced the unknown adventures that lay ahead. While some relatives expressed disappointment over missing out on Reuben’s early months, they ultimately supported Esther’s pursuit of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
With a mix of excitement and apprehension, Esther shared her concerns about health and well-being while on the road. However, her fears were eased by the outstanding private healthcare available in the region and her ability to breastfeed Reuben, providing him with essential antibodies. Daniel’s sabbatical from work, Bella’s school approval, and the couple’s savings and inheritance money all played crucial roles in making their dream trip a reality.
Since their departure last June, the Draycott family has traversed through Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand, with more destinations like Malaysia, South Africa, and the Maldives on the horizon. Despite facing criticism from naysayers, Esther remains undeterred, believing that their travels have been enriching for baby Reuben’s development.
As they journey through different countries, Esther marvels at the sensory experiences that captivate Reuben—new sights, smells, and sounds that contribute to his happiness and relaxation. Their travel routine includes strategic planning to avoid the midday heat, allowing for flexibility in accommodations and rest when needed. Esther acknowledges that while Reuben may not remember the trip, the family cherishes the opportunity to create lasting memories together.
Contrary to common perceptions, Esther attests that traveling with a baby has been more manageable than anticipated. She encourages other families to consider similar adventures, emphasizing the minimal pre-planning required and the benefits of spontaneous experiences. Reflecting on her own struggles to find resources on traveling with a baby, Esther hopes that sharing her journey will inspire and assist others in embracing the world with their little ones.
In the midst of their globetrotting escapades, the Draycott family remains grateful for the unique bonding experiences and the unforgettable moments that come their way. Esther’s message is clear—seize the opportunity for adventure, embrace the unknown, and savor each moment as it unfolds.
