Wedding holidays
Getting married abroad is a very popular option for many couples. Deciding where to get hitched is the hard part, but you can narrow down the vast selection with a bit of research to best suit your budget and personal tastes.
The good news is there is a vast array of information available to anyone hoping to get married abroad, and a mass of deals on offer tailor made to your individual requirements. Have a browse through a variety of brochures to get inspiration and see what’s out there.
Whether you opt for an intimate gathering for a few close friends and family or an all-out bridal bash with an extensive guest list, travel companies will help you plan your big day down to the fine details. Planning is essential for a wedding anyway – but having your nuptials abroad requires more organisation.
Where and when to get married?
There are many things to consider when finding your perfect location for a wedding. If you already know for sure where you wish to go, find out the legal proceedings and documentation required. Most countries have rules about residency, the time you need to have been there for before you can get married (check the detailed breakdown for each destination), but this is usually only a few days. Think about the number of people attending the ceremony, costs, travelling time to your destination, weather and time of year.
Most aspects will be determined by your location, and once you make the initial decisions you can start to plan from there. The choices for your big day are endless – under a waterfall in Thailand, a sunset beach in Cyprus, or on a horse drawn carriage in New York! Popular destinations range from traditional ceremonies in Hawaii or not-so traditional chapel services in Las Vegas.
Top Tips
- Many websites allow you to keep a personalised page to update all your details, gift lists and information so guests can log in and be kept up to date with the arrangements.
- Because you are getting married in another country the risk of ‘hiccups’ can be higher – be safe with wedding insurance.
- If you're planning your wedding well in advance, you may even visit the hotel/area/venue beforehand and meet any wedding coordinators.
- If you need to take any medical certificates or have any vaccinations, visit your GP in plenty of time.