After what feels like an eternity of winter layers, rushed mornings, and the constant juggle of parenthood, the moment has finally arrived—my husband and I are going on a much-needed, long-overdue solo trip. No kids, no schedules, no responsibilities beyond deciding which cocktail to order next. It almost feels like a second honeymoon, except with a deeper appreciation for uninterrupted conversation and the luxury of sleeping in.

We’re escaping to Playa del Carmen, Mexico—because if there’s one thing we need after months of Montreal’s icy grip, it’s sun, sand, and that warm ocean breeze. Of course, as excited as I am, there’s also that lingering feeling of nervousness. Leaving the kids behind, even in the loving hands of their grandparents, always tugs at my heart. But deep down, I know this break is necessary. A little distance, a little reset—it’s what makes us better parents, better partners, better versions of ourselves.

And since this trip is part relaxation, part rekindling the effortless romance of pre-kid days, I want to feel and look my best. Winter does no favors to the skin, and let’s be honest—arriving at the beach with post-hibernation dullness is not the vibe. So, I have a pre-trip ritual, a mix of beauty treatments and small indulgences that make me feel vacation-ready. Think of it as pressing refresh before stepping onto that plane.

The Skin Reset: Deep Cleansing & Hydration

Months of harsh weather, indoor heating, and general neglect have left my skin dry, congested, and anything but radiant. Before any beach trip, the first thing on my list is a deep-cleansing facial—because nothing says vacation-ready like fresh, glowing skin. A good facial isn’t just a luxury; it’s a full reset. It clears out clogged pores, sloughs away dead skin, and floods the complexion with hydration.

After months of Montreal’s winter air, my skin craves moisture and a serious circulation boost. Enter endermologie, my go-to treatment for that well-rested, just-spent-two-weeks-on-a-private-island look. This collagen-stimulating technique gives the skin vitality, smoothness, and that subtle, lifted effect. Fake it till you make it, right?

To maintain the glow, I make facial sheet masks a part of my routine in the days leading up to the trip. Hydration, hydration, hydration—because nothing ruins a vacation faster than looking in the mirror and seeing dehydrated skin staring back at you.

A Tan Without the Sun Damage

As much as I love the bronzed goddess look, I’ve learned my lesson with sun exposure. So instead of baking under the sun, I self-tan before I leave. It gives me an effortless glow without the damage, and I still get to bask in the sunshine fully protected. Sunscreen is non-negotiable—SPF is my best friend, even on cloudy days, because the real flex is having healthy, youthful skin for years to come.

I really liked the Tan Luxe bronzing drops for the face and the St Tropez luxe body serum, it gives a nice golden tone rather than orange.

For the drops, i mix 3 drops into my face cream and that covers my face and neck, make sure to wash your hands after so you don’t stain the palms of your hands, that is definitely not a natural look.

For the body i use this serum with the bronzing glove, after showering and exfoliating, i apply a bit of cream on my knees and elbows and then i start applying the serum all over my body, the color appear gradually within a few hours.

The Hair & Nail Refresh

No trip is complete without a hair refresh. A trim to keep things polished and a few golden highlights to catch the sunlight just right—because nothing screams vacation like hair that looks effortlessly sun-kissed. And of course, a mani-pedi in beachy hues. It’s a small detail, but there’s something about looking down at perfectly polished toes in the sand that just makes everything feel right. Plus, the appointment itself is a moment of relaxation before the trip even begins.

The Final Touch: A Scent That Signals Vacation Mode

No matter where I’m going, there’s always one product that instantly transports me to vacation mode: the Bum Bum Cream by Sol de Janeiro. The scent—warm, beachy, just the right amount of coconut and salted caramel—feels like a tropical escape in a jar. One whiff, and I’m already mentally lounging under a palapa, piña colada in hand.

Ready for Takeoff

These pre-trip rituals aren’t just about looking good—they’re about feeling good. There’s something powerful about taking the time to care for yourself, especially before stepping into a moment meant for pure enjoyment. This trip isn’t just about escaping winter—it’s about reconnecting, unwinding, and remembering what it’s like to just be us.

And when I finally step onto that white sandy beach, with hydrated skin, sun-kissed hair, and a golden (faux) glow, I’ll know I’m exactly where I need to be.