Life’s better when you travel together, and Weddings are more fun when everyone’s on holiday. In a world where families and friends are split around the globe, it’s no wonder destination weddings have fast become the trend.

If you plan to marry overseas, it is essential to know the legal matters regardless of whether you are marrying a local or a fellow expat. I strongly advise you to seek the assistance of an International Travel Designer specialising in Destination Weddings. Your Travel Designer will get to know you and understand your every desire, then tailor your getaway to the finest detail. They will be able to help bring it all together and make your perfect day stress free for you and your partner.

Thailand

The Land of Smiles, whether you are sinking your toes into the pristine white sands of a deserted beach or navigating the rolling lush green scenery of a tropical rainforest. With friendly locals, an incredibly diverse culture, and activities to suit everyone, from couples to families, Thailand is the perfect destination for a wedding. Thanks to Thailand’s rich culture, you can even add some local surprises. With year-round sunshine, unsurpassed value and delicious local cuisine, Thailand is an idyllic choice for a destination wedding. But bear in mind that the Monsoon season occurs between July and October and for this reason, I recommend you plan your wedding during the high season months from November to March.

New York

What movies are made of! Perhaps not the most budget-friendly of options, but a NEW YORK city wedding is ideal for smaller wedding parties or even just the couple themselves. Those who choose New York City typically, want a no-fuss wedding ceremony and reception set New York offers simple legalities, beautiful venues, elegant hotels and, let’s not forget, photo opportunities! Just imagine – a picnic wedding reception in Central Park or saying ‘I Do” with the Empire State Building in the background, Weddings at The South Garden, The North Garden, Wisteria Pergola – The Carlyle Hotel, Tribeca Rooftop, The Highline Hotel, Hotel Brooklyn Bridge or The Liberty Warehouse. The options are endless.

Cyprus

One of the most popular wedding destinations in the world! Cyprus is known for its stunning natural scenery, clear blue seas, sandy beaches, and breathtaking mountain views. These striking backdrops create the perfect setting for a romantic wedding ceremony. There are a lot of all-inclusive hotels available which are famous for couples and guests alike. Some even let the wedding party use the all-inclusive drinks package for the wedding day! Not only is it budget-friendly, but the Mediterranean climate with long hot summers and mild winters makes it the ideal island for a wedding at any time of the year. Getting married in Cyprus is relatively easy. Legal requirements are minimal, and paperwork usually takes only a few days.

India

One of the oldest civilizations in the world, India is a montage of multicultural experiences. With a rich heritage and countless attractions, the country is among the most popular tourist destinations in the world. If you have ever attended an Indian wedding, you will know all about the preparation and celebration that goes into this monumental life event. India knows how to throw a wedding. The energy, the love, the colours, the celebration – from Royal Weddings to Beach Weddings; Udalpur to Goa. You can celebrate your wedding by choosing an extraordinary setting like a waterfront, perched on a cliff top in Kerala, cottage Lawns, beach shacks, boathouses, ancient forts, jungels or homes set amidst the backdrop of an old Goan village. And for the ultimate in grandiose – a Palace in Jaipur. The best time to visit India is between October and March, when the weather is more likely to be warm, sunny, and dry.

Malta

Perfect weather, charismatic architecture and a luscious charm no lover can resist! Malta offers unique wow factors from beautiful beaches, gorgeous villas, traditional churches, ancient heritage, and historical venues. Choosing Malta for your destination wedding in Europe can give you a dream island getaway without breaking the bank. A great selection of quality food and drinks accompanies every occasion in Malta, and you can be ensured that you and your guests will be privy to the superb Maltese hospitality many have already come to know.  While Malta’s winters are mild, its summers are legendary, and couples travel far and wide to turn their island wedding dreams into reality.

Morocco

Only 3 hours flights from the U.K and your guests could sit back to enjoy your Moroccan-themed wedding in no time. Whether you choose to stay in Marrakech or venture further into the picturesque Atlas Mountains, Morocco has a lot to offer. This boho-chic destination has everything from riads to rustic farms. One thing to note, though, is that the legalities here are not easy; this is one of those destinations that require formalities to be taken care of before arrival. Recommended months for the best weather would be May, June, September and October.

Photography: Jordan Voth

Saint Lucia

Thanks to the popularity of Saint Lucia for destination weddings, the island’s wedding planners are experts with abundant experience between them. Whether you want a small intimate affair in front of cascading waterfalls, or a grand ceremony attended by all your family and friends within a historical park, your dream wedding awaits in Saint Lucia. Voted the ‘World’s Leading Honeymoon Destination’ by the World Travel Awards nine times, this romantic island idyll has abundant activities to help make your destination wedding unforgettable for you and all your guests. December through February are the best times to travel to Saint Lucia if you’re chasing the best weather. March, April, October and November are great if you want to avoid crowds, band don’t mind a little rain.

Whistler, Canada

Suppose you’re looking for an adventurous honeymoon location. In that case, the summer and ski resort of Whistler, nestled amidst the splendid coastal mountains, deep ancient forests and dreamy meadows of Canada’s British Columbia, is becoming ever more popular for destination weddings and post-wedding escapes. Whistler’s hub is a charming pedestrianised village at the base of the Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. Having hosted the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, Whistler is home to the Olympic Park with its array of winter sports – including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and tobogganing under the stars on Wednesday nights in season. Whistler combines breathtaking vistas and outdoor activities with gourmet restaurants, luxury hotels and resorts, and indulgent spas featuring outdoor hot tubs and couples’ treatments. Many hotels offer unique wedding or honeymoon packages. It’s even an adventure getting to Whistler, with the road trip from cosmopolitan Vancouver (perfect for a couples’ city break at either end of your trip) giving plenty of scope for everything from whale-watching and clifftop gondola rides to brewery visits.

Image via www.blissevent.ca

Africa

The ultimate in destination weddings – in Africa – the mighty Masai Mara in Kenya, the majestic Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania or the spectacular Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe; there are so many different opportunities for a wedding in Africa. My favourite would be a Safari Wedding, ideal for any nature and animal enthusiast. You and your wedding party will enjoy luxurious accommodation, 5-star treatment and unforgettable safari experiences. And if it’s personal and intimate that you’re after… consider exchanging vows in a hot air balloon at sunrise over the Masai Mara, or on a private island in the Zambezi River. African destinations offer a tranquil setting, spectacular views and fantastic photo opportunities.

Travel Counsellors Wedding Planning Tip

Did you know that Travel Counsellors offers a Honeymoon Gift Registry, taking the hassle out of your big day and leaving you to enjoy your post-marital bliss.

Our unique service allows your wedding guests to contribute to the most memorable gift they can give – the honeymoon you’ve always dreamed of, planned to perfection down to the finest detail. Your individual Honeymoon Gift Registry webpage can be personalised with photos and messages, and your wedding guests can easily log in to contribute to your honeymoon.

This article was written by Tanya Robinson, a fully licensed and independant travel counsellor. Want to speak to Tanya about planning your destination wedding, honeymoon or romantic getaway? Click here.

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