Marriage is as much about the romance of the occasion as it is about expressing mutual commitment and devotion. More and more couples are choosing to get married abroad in a romantic holiday destination and who would blame them? Is there any time in the UK when you could really choose a date to get married in complete confidence that rain is not going to dampen the proceedings?
This is actually quite a serious and very personal choice to make because it entails leaving many friends and perhaps even family behind, and in some ways denying them the opportunity to witness and celebrate the happy occasion. On the other hand, the lure of an idyllic ceremony under clear blue skies with a gentle breeze ruffling palm fronds overhead can be very tempting. The idea of a wedding combined with a honeymoon is definitely gaining ground. Here we take a look at some wedding destinations that are either extremely exotic or just that little bit different.
Bali
The Island of Bali, also known as the Island of the Gods has been a favourite wedding destination for as long as people have been planning exotic weddings abroad. One of 13000 islands that make up Indonesia, Bali can provide everything from volcanic landscapes to weddings that involve elephants. There is an atmosphere in Bali that exudes romance, and with some of the most stunning sunsets you will ever see, the sunset beach wedding on the shore of the Indian Ocean is always a favourite. Generally, the sunset wedding takes place on a jetty looking out to sea with an arch of tropical flowers framing the sunset. Some hotels in Bali offer great Wedding Packages. The climate is welcoming throughout the year but the conditions are perfect for romance between May and September. A wedding certificate issued in Bali is valid and legal in the UK.
Mexico
For some people, the idea of marriage in Mexico brings visions of star-crossed lovers running away to get married and confirm their love for each other in the face of all opposition. However, nothing could be further from the truth. People from all over the world pick Mexico as their perfect romantic wedding destination. Along the Yucatan Peninsula, what was once a string of small fishing villages has been transformed into a modern and luxurious tourist corridor. The Riviera Maya is a favourite, with some of the most beautiful expanses of white sandy beaches in Mexico, set against the backdrop of the clear blue waters of the Caribbean Sea. With exquisite restaurants, fantastic nightlife, spa resorts and great shopping, the area is well equipped to for the perfect romantic honeymoon after the main event. From November through to February is the ideal time to visit this part of Mexico.
Jamaica
If you dream of a tropical wedding with palm trees, garlands of flowers, perfect blue skies, and steel drums gently blending with the sounds of the warm Caribbean Sea as it laps against the shore, then Jamaica is the place for you. Jamaica simply exudes romance and a love of life’s pleasures. The famous resort city of Montego Bay has the stunning beaches and amazing backdrops for a romantic wedding along with the cosmopolitan facilities and attractions that blend together to provide the perfect honeymoon. Between October and the middle of December are the times when you will capture the best weather for an exotic wedding.
Africa – Falls
To round this off with something just that little bit different, why not succumb to the charms of Africa for your ideal wedding? Marriage on a plateau overlooking the River Zambezi with the thundering sound and swirling mist thrown up by the Victoria Falls is perfectly possible. Given that the Falls are said to be a powerful aphrodisiac, this might be a very productive marriage idea. At 1,708 metres (5,604 ft)wide and with a height of 108 metres (354 ft), the Falls make the largest area of falling water in the world. The area borders Zambia and Rhodesia and has opened up to tourism to provide a variety of experiences such as safari and adventure holidays. For the couple looking for a stunning wedding location and an inspiring honeymoon, this could be top of the list.
