Destination Weddings: 10 Best places in the world to tie the knot

Karen GEORGE 21 Jul 2015 updated the 6 October 2015 à 22:53

1/10
Phuket, Thailand
Often dubbed the ‘Pearl of the South’, Phuket is one of the more popular tourist destinations of Southeast Asia. But it’s not just a backpackers paradise –Thailand’s largest island located in the Andaman Sea is blessed with limestone cliffs, tropical forests, pristine white beaches and a myriad of exciting activities for newlyweds and their guests to enjoy. Getting hitched in Phuket gives you the choice of having your ceremony at a luxury resort, on the beach or even in a traditional Buddhist temple.
Stay at: Kamala Beach Hotel, Point Yamu by Como or Andara Resort & Villas
2/10
Bali, Indonesia
It’s no surprise that Bali is known as the world’s most busy wedding destination. Beautiful beaches, lush paddy fields and magnificent temples share real estate with luxury villas, world class restaurants and pulsating bars. Indeed, this Indonesian island with its favourable, year round summer weather has much to offer couples looking to tie the knot in paradise, without breaking the bank. Also, where else can you arrive at your wedding on the back of an elephant?
Stay at Hotel Tugu, Alila Villas Uluwatu or Bulgari Resort Bali
3/10
Hong Kong
Bright lights, big city. Those who want the joys of a vibrant, cosmopolitan wedding will find Hong Kong an absolute delight. The city can host everyone, from the couple looking to have a traditional Chinese ceremony to those looking for a lavish bash at any of the world-renowned hotels that dot the neon-lit city. What’s more, Hong Kong is just an hour’s ferry ride away from old-world Macau which serves up European flair with a spot of gambling for the newlyweds and guests alike. Whatever your nuptial style, your Hong Kong wedding is sure to be equal parts exciting and memorable.
Stay at: The Peninsula Hong Kong, The Langham, W Hong Kong
4/10
New Zealand
Leave behind the hustle and bustle and flock to the remote and serene landscapes of New Zealand that will have even the most hardcore of city dwellers marvelling with awe at its breathtaking beauty. A destination wedding in New Zealand cannot be anything but wonderful and its dramatic mountain peaks and sweeping glaciers and lakes will make the perfect backdrop to your dream wedding.
Stay at Azur Lodge, The Spire Hotel, or Matakauri Lodge
5/10
South Africa
South Africa is known as "a world in one country," and it's easy to see why: here, nature intermingles with the urban sprawl and it's one of the few countries where you can find rolling vineyards, lush forests, pristine beaches and wildlife preserves within the same area. The adventurous couple will no doubt find South Africa appealing with its reputation for having one of the best animal safaris in the world. This is literally the only place where zebras and other wild animals will attend your wedding and entertain your guests on request.
Stay at: The Table Bay Hotel, Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel or The Bay Hotel
6/10
Paris, France
Couples looking to tie the knot will be spoilt for choice in the City of Love. A mix of old world romance and modern luxury, Paris has plenty to offer, from centuries old chateaus to modern 5 star hotels overlooking the Seine. The beauty of Paris is enough to make your wedding album a stunning one. One simply has to say oui for a magical wedding filled with memorable moments for the newlyweds and their guests.
Stay at: The Ritz Paris, Plaza Athénée or Four Seasons George V
7/10
Boracay Island, Philippines
Simmering in the melting pot of sun, sand and culture is Boracay, a tiny island that is rapidly becoming a popular destination for couples looking to tie the knot. Swaying coconut palms and gentle waves lap at the 4km, postcard-perfect stretch of sand that makes up the dreamy White Beach area where swanky hotels, restaurants and bars converge. Exchange your vows at the beach before your guests tuck in to the freshest seafood and enjoy the gorgeous sunset on display.
Stay at: Boracay Regency Beach Resort & Spa, Sea Wind Boracay or Shangri-La Boracay
8/10
Hawaii
Hawaii is an enchanting island getaway that is a popular wedding destination in its own right. Blessed with a scenic landscape that is arguably one of the best in the world, Hawaii will provide you with the perfect backdrop to your dream wedding, whether it be white sandy beaches, tranquil ocean waves or the majestic volcanic mountains. With fantastic weather year round, Hawaii is certainly the perfect wedding destination regardless of your wedding dates.
Stay at: The Fairmont Orchid, The Royal Hawaiian or The Grand Wailea
9/10
Fiji
In the Fijian language, there are fifteen words for heaven and a trip to this paradise island will explain why. With over 300 magnificent islands to choose from, Fiji is an alluring South Pacific wedding destination with white sandy beaches, lush foliage, clear blue waters, incredible weather and warm welcoming people. Viti Levu and Vanua Levu are the main attractions, with plenty of post-wedding activities the newlyweds can indulge in. No matter your wedding style, Fiji is the ultimate place for couples seeking to start their new life together in paradise.
Stay at: Uprising Beach Resort, Natadola Beach Resort or Royal Davui Island Resort
10/10
Santorini, Greece
We probably don’t need to wax lyrical about the beauty of Greek islands considering that their reputation precedes them in popular culture from movies to novel settings. It’s easy to see why the birthplace of Western civilization is the dream wedding destination of many with its classical monuments, historic art and postcard-perfect whitewashed villages that contrast beautifully with the stunning turquoise of the Aegan Sea. There are plenty of Greek islands to choose from, but Santorini remains one of the top draws for its unspoiled island life and quintessential Greek culture. Regardless of your choice, regret will not be a part of your big fat Greek destination wedding.
Stay at: Mystique, Grace Santorini or Pegasus Suites

Your dream wedding could just be a plane ride away. Check out our list of the hottest places around the globe to say “I do”.

Just got engaged? Well, it’s never too early to start planning for your wedding, whether it’s three months from now or a year away. And as with all wedding planning, the most important decision you’ll make (apart from your wedding gown of course) is the wedding location.

While most couples favour getting hitched close to home, a good number of other lovebirds are choosing to say I do in far-flung exotic destinations as it allows them to spend quality time with their guests in a relaxed setting. Contrary to popular belief, they’re also a more affordable option as guests usually pay for their own accommodation and flights.

Whether you’re the romantic bride wanting to exchange vows at the top of the Eiffel Tower or looking to have a laidback walk down the aisle at an island getaway, the wedding of your dreams is just a plane ride away with our guide to the best wedding destination s to suit your style and budget.

Karen George

Photos: Shutterstock

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Destination Weddings: 10 Best places in the world to tie the knot

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