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Destination weddings add an extra layer to saying "I do."
By Aly Walansky — Written on Aug 19, 2019
When choosing a wedding venue for our big day, many couples choose to wed in their hometown or their partner's. But sometimes, we cast a wider net and consider a destination wedding.
Destination weddings are exciting, exotic, and they help keep the wedding small and intimate. While a local church wedding may have 300 guests, it's unlikely 300 people will fly to Europe for your wedding. Choosing wedding locations outside of the country is a great way to trim the excess and have the people who truly matter in attendance.
But when you're looking for unique wedding venues for your destination wedding, these are some great options that will make the wedding itself part of the honeymoon journey.
1. Hotel Rangá, Iceland
Set in the secluded countryside of South Iceland, Hotel Rangá luxury resort is elegant and rustic oasis specializing in one-of-a-kind destination weddings.
Why choose between shooting your wedding photos under the crystal Gluggafoss waterfall or at the base of a volcano when you can take a super jeep to both? Get married under the stars, on a glacier, or along a beautiful black sand beach, and stay in one (or two, why not?) of Hotel Rangá's wonderfully wacky continent-themed master suites.
2. Hedonism II, Negril, Jamaica
Situated on a white sandy beach is the all-inclusive, adults-only, clothing-optional resort, Hedonism II. Weddings and vow-renewal ceremonies are always complimentary here, and the tux and traditional white gown are definitely optional. Maybe opt for a sparkling white bikini and black speedo, or nothing at all.
Wedding packages include a personal wedding planner, a choice of location (white sand beaches, lush tropical gardens or waterfall lagoons), a minister, marriage license, champagne, a wedding cake, flowers and music.
3. Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa, La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Enveloped in lush green dotted with colorful, exotic flora, and spread across 900 acres of rainforest near Costa Rica’s Arenal Volcano, Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa offers couples a nuptial backdrop unlike any other. Couples can say "I do" in the heart of the rainforest, before dancing the night away in one of the several on-site event spaces, which include indoor and outdoor options.
At the thermal mineral springs, couples can soak in the natural pools with temps that reach 105°F, or visit the spa for an unforgettable treatment rendered in private outdoor bungalows tucked away among the trees. The heating properties of the spring also comes with health benefits as the natural waters are rich in minerals such as silica, calcium and lithium, known to promote overall health and rejuvenation.
4. W Punta de Mita, Mexico
Couples looking to tie the knot in an authentically Mexican, off-the-beaten-path locale, should consider W Punta de Mita, a chic beach resort located in Mexico’s coveted and tranquil Riviera Nayarit. The resort is edged with lush jungle that unfolds in winding, tree-lined paths — it’s so tucked away, guests are escorted to the check-in by private Tuk Tuks decked out in authentic Mexican designs.
With features that include oceanfront suites with private infinity pools, two incredible beachfront swimming pools, a 4,000 square foot spa nestled in the jungle, and F&B ranging from Jean Georges’ Spice Market to Mesa1 — an ultra-exclusive al fresco setting that offers just one nightly seating under the stars — this vibrant, bohemian beach escape makes for unforgettable, off-the-grid wedding.
5. Casa Palopó, Lake Atitlán, Guatemala
On the shore of Lake Atitlán, in the Guatemalan highlands, sits a private home turned luxury boutique hotel that offers the lake and its magnificent volcanoes as a backdrop for a traditional Mayan wedding. Casa Palopó invites couples to tie the knot with a nuptial ceremony officiated by a Mayan Shaman, followed by a personalized Mayan Shaman blessing. The ceremony can be held outdoors on a lush green patch of grass, amidst magical views of the three volcanoes and indigenous villages across the shore. And for the more traditional couple, an elegant chapel just on top of the hill near the hotel is available instead.
Back at the hotel, an intimate candlelit reception party will be waiting for the newlyweds and their guests. Casa Palopó offers wedding packages for up to 100 guests that include accommodations, transportation to the hotel, food and beverage, ceremony, reception, event set-up, decor, music, flower arrangements, and a photographer.
6. Aruba Marriott Resort, Aruba
Those looking for an exotic beachfront destination wedding in the Caribbean need to look no further than Aruba Marriott Resort on Palm Beach. Here, couples wedding dreams come alive with barefoot beach ceremonies under a native Kunuku gazebo or in an extravagant ballroom overlooking the beach, complete with cocktails served in coconut shells at the reception.
Couples having their wedding at Aruba Marriott Resort now have the opportunity to bring everyone to their wedding with the property's new live streaming service. Whether it's just the ceremony, or a few minutes in the bridal suite while the wedding party gets prepped, the ceremony and segments from the reception, this service is an add-on to the resort’s a la carte wedding menu.
7. Kilkea Castle Hotel Resort and Golf Club, County Kildare, Ireland
Kilkea Castle is a 12th century fortress and estate that has been transformed, now mixing medieval history with modern luxury in a magical castle. It's great for couples, as the castle team handles everything from makeup and hair to the horse drawn carriage. But it's also great for the guests who can enjoy a real vacation on site (golfing, tennis, riding, skeet shooting, archery, falconing) and the couples marriage.
8. Secrets Aura Cozumel’s Underwater Wedding Experience, Mexico
Dive deep and say your vows under the waters of Cozumel surrounded by beautiful fish and sea life. This package includes a symbolic ceremony, bouquet(s) and/or boutonniere(s) for the wedding couple, a dive trip of one tank for the couple, rings case, wedding cake and sparkling wine (up to 10 guests) at the hotel pier when the couple arrives, and a 15 percent discount on all spa treatments.
9. Carton House, Kildare, Ireland
Carton House is welcoming couples to the sweeping hills of the Irish countryside to say “I do” at one of the destination’s most storied venues. The historic 1,100-acre private Kildare estate makes for a picturesque summer wedding setting.
And with all the romance of the highlands (Ireland looks a lot like the Scottish highlands made popular in Outlander), this is an especially romantic back drop for a wedding. Plus, it'll make any bride feel like a princess!
10. Palace Hotel Tokyo, Japan
Set in the heart of Tokyo’s Maranouchi district, with sweeping views of the surrounding Imperial Palace gardens, planning a wedding at Palace Hotel Tokyo is easy. The hotel has six different wedding venues: two ceremony venues, including a Japanese Shinto Shrine and a beautiful chapel featuring a thin archway of hand-woven metal rods, as well as four ballrooms.
The hotel also offers a bespoke "Vera Wang Wedding Package," which includes a gown from the Vera Wang Bridal boutique in Ginza in addition to catering, a wedding cake, beauty stylists, in-house photographer, floral arrangements, and accommodation in a hotel suite.
11. Chedi Club Tanah Gajah Ubud, Indonesia
Renowned Indonesian architect and interior designer, Hendra Hadiprana, built Tanah Gajah for his own family. The Hadipranas celebrated intimate weddings at the Balinese garden pavilion watched over by stone ganeshas, hosted colourful cocktail parties at The Bird Lounge alongside the private aviary, held dinners at a restaurant pavilion surrounded by iconic rice paddies, and grander gatherings in the grassy amphitheatre surrounded by tropical foliage.
Today, after conversion from a private estate to one of Bali’s most acclaimed boutique hotels, guests follow in the Hadipranas’ footsteps. The Chedi Club is currently offering three different wedding packages — Garden Bliss, the White Wedding and Balinese Heavenly Unity Wedding — and customizes five different venues on property for events that can accommodate between 10 and 100 people.
12. The Anam Cam Ranh, Vietnam
The Anam has played host to intimate and large wedding ceremonies on a vast lawn overlooking a pristine stretch of beach. For weddings, the resort sets up an arch festooned in fresh flowers as well as aisle decorations and chairs against a backdrop featuring turquoise waters and dramatic headlands. With more than 300 sunny days a year on average in Cam Ranh, chances are it will be clear blue skies on the big day.
The resort’s planners take care of the all-important wedding cake, sparkling wine, and an MC for a cocktail reception, and dinner with the option of a large formal dining event in the resort’s elegant ballroom. A myriad of settings include reflecting pools and cobblestone pathways.
13. Grand Hyatt Taipei, Taiwan
Located in downtown Taipei, the iconic Grand Hyatt Taipei is one of Asia’s top choices for a destination wedding. The 850-room property offers 11 wedding venues, including an elegant Grand Ballroom, designed by the renowned New York-based interior designer, Tony Chi, which can cater to 1,200 guests.
For newlyweds looking to make a dramatic entrance, a special runway carpet can be rolled out that creates a dazzling crystal effect using the latest special-effects equipment. The property even boasts a private helipad where couples can pose for wedding snaps with the hotel’s famous neighbor, Taipei 101. Meanwhile, a team of in-house wedding planners, floral designers, and top chefs will work with the couple to create their perfect day.
14. Mantra Samui Resort, Thailand
Tucked away in the jungle overlooking Bophut beach, Mantra Samui Resort gives couples a tropical backdrop for their nuptials, without the sandy implications. The resort’s alfresco terrace above the pool area can be converted into a ceremony location, replete with tropical flowers and stunning views over the Gulf of Thailand.
The Thai ceremony includes a water blessing by holy monks and a traditional long drum procession with silver and gold gate passing. Prices are nclusive of planning services with wedding planner, the ceremony, flowers, a romantic private rooftop dinner, the bride’s hair and makeup, spa treatment for two, wedding cake and bottle of champagne, couples breakfast, and airport transfers.
15. Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, Vietnam
Located in Hanoi’s scenic French Quarter, the Metropole has long been a prime venue for nuptials and photo shoots. The historic hotel’s Legendary Wedding Package bundles combines customizable packages together with the services of a personal wedding planner. Three venues within the hotel can be tailored to the bride and groom’s wishes, as can a French or Vietnamese menu for the dinner reception.
The property’s in-house jazz band, spa vouchers, bespoke gifts for guests and other options are incorporated into the various packages, including accommodation in the hotel’s most luxurious quarters for the couple on their wedding night. Newlyweds looking for a nostalgic escape can book the very same suite where Charlie Chaplin and Paulette Goddard stayed during their honeymoon in 1936.
16. Banyan Tree Samui, Thailand
A team of onsite wedding planners, or Romance Concierges, cater to every whim for couples who dream of getting hitched on a tropical white-sand beach. The resort is totally secluded within a private palm-fringed bay, and guests will have the added luxury of staying in magnificent hillside villas, each with its own infinity pool and 24-hour butler service.
This resort specializes not only in white weddings on the beachfront, but Thai Buddhist ceremonies where the groom and bride are dressed in traditional Siamese robes.
17. Hacienda Barrigona, Nosara, Costa Rica
The property is made up of three Costa Rican styled villas, and two additional Bali style houses are tucked into the jungle with stunning ocean views. These open-air studios are ideal for yoga and meditation, and the entire property can be rented out for weddings and events up to 100 people, making it a stunning backdrop that's always sunny and welcoming.
18. Pestana Palace Lisboa, Portugal
Located in a restored 19th century palace, the Pestana Palace Lisboa boasts stunning views of the Tagus River and is listed as a Portuguese National Landmark. In addition to featuring a spa and two swimming pools on the property, the hotel is surrounded by an expansive private park and garden complete with lush greenery.
At the Pestana Palace, parties can dine at one of the bestand award-winning restaurants in Lisbon, Valle Flôr. The restaurant’s dining experience is led by Chef Pedro Inglês Marques and is located in the palace’s former ballrooms. Guests can opt to partake in a unique gastronomic experience or delight in elegant tasting menus.
19. Hotel Villa Honegg, Switzerland
If you love the vibe of dining on the sunny Winter Terrace, with awe-inspiring views and optional fur coats provided, this is a spot for your wedding. Villa Honegg offers the perfect backdrop for a destination wedding. You can reserve a private floor or the entire hotel.
"Visit the spa for a Finnish sauna or a steam bath, complemented by a crushed-ice fountain. Indulge yourself with panoramic views of the Alps, while at the heated outdoor pool. Discover Mount Bürgenberg on one of the hotel's Stromer electric bicycles, provided free of charge for guests,” suggests Sasha Semeniouga, founder and creative director of Room and Wild.
20. Hotel Kakslauttanen Igloo Village, Finland
Hotel Kakslauttanen is located along the road to the Arctic Sea, close to Urho Kekkonen National Park in one of the cleanest natural environments you will ever visit. Looking for a true northerner adventure? Spend a night in one of the snow igloos.
“Get married in the Ice Chapel or the Pine Chapel, arriving on a reindeer carriage. For accommodation, choose a personal igloo; perhaps the most unique part of the Hotel where you can watch the Northern Lights through your glass ceiling. The rustic chic cabins are made from kelp pines and include a fireplace and a sauna,” says Semeniouga.
21. Ion Hotel, Thingvellir National Park, Iceland
Says Semeniouga, “Ion is a luxury adventure hotel and is perfect for a unique winter wedding reception with the ceremony held at the charming Úlfljótsvatn Church 30 minutes away. The Award-winning Northern Lights bar and the Lava Spa provides the atmosphere necessary to recharge, reflect and rejoice.
Ion's location by the Golden Circle route makes it the perfect starting point from which to explore Iceland's rich heritage. Start with seeing the enormous geyser Strokkur (erupting every 5-7 minutes), following the scenic Gullfoss. Hike to the top of a dormant volcano, go glacier hiking, ice climbing and rafting, then sit in a thermal hot spring, or swim in the Blue Lagoon.”
22. Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, Norway
Imagine a world made of ice. Sleeping on reindeer skins. Walking on a frozen river and watching the changing colours of they sky. Warming up in the sauna after a day full of adventure. Sorrisniva is an all=year adventure retreat in Alta, Norway, whether you are coming in the winter to visit the famous Igloo Hotel or in the summer for salmon fishing or river tours.
“The Igloo Hotel consists of 30 rooms and suites (including the bridal suite), an ice gallery full of intricate sculptures, and the ice-chapel, perfect for a fairytale winter wedding. Everything is made of snow and ice and the hotel is rebuilt every year with a new theme. Next to the Igloo Hotel is the main Lodge, with all the necessary facilities: a living room with a fireplace, the restaurant and the sauna,” Semeniouga adds.
23. The Fives Azul Beach Resort, Riviera Maya, Mexico
What's better than a Mexican sunset? Tequila, avocado, glistening water and beaches. And you'll find that all at The Fives Resort.
"This modern ceremony venue gives the best of both worlds: contemporary style with oceanfront views, which is hard to come by when searching for beach wedding venues in Mexico,” says Jen Avey, VP, Marketing for Destination Weddings Travel Group. Rather than a traditional ceremony arch, add a touch of modern flair with a hanging chandelier and gorgeous, soft flowers amidst the sharp shape of this gazebo.
24. Sandos Caracol Eco Resort, Riviera Maya, Mexico
Riveria Maya offers a step away from the touristy parts of Mexico into something a bit more intimate.
“Getting married amidst Mexico’s stunning clear-water cenotes is the perfect way to make sure your ceremony venue is unique and personalized to your wedding locale. A ceremony (and reception) spot only available in the Mexican Caribbean, these natural sinkholes are the perfect way to set your venue apart from the rest,” says Avey.
25. El Cielo Winery & Resort, Ensenada, Mexico
You'll toast to each other, so why not do it at a winery?
Recommends Avey, “When most couples think ‘Mexico wedding,’ they’re thinking beach venues and sweeping seaside views. But for an extra unique Mexico celebration, the vineyards of Ensenada are the place to be. El Cielo Winery & Resort provides an exclusive setting that your guests wouldn’t expect when attending a destination wedding in Mexico.”
26. Hotel Xcaret Mexico, Riviera Maya, Mexico
Of course, some couples really go for adventure, and there's room for that in Mexico as well. With 900 rooms distributed in different buildings called “Casas”, Hotel Xcaret Mexico pays special tribute to the Mayan region. Each Casa is represented by a universal element, the basis of the Mayan culture: Spiral, Wind, Water, Earth and Fire.
“For an equally amazing and different experience on your wedding day, consider the many unique venues of Hotel Xcaret Mexico in the Mayan Riviera. The exclusive options at this resort include a showstopping wine cellar, a natural cave beside an underground river, and Mayan archaeological sites!” Avey says.
27. Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa, Montego Bay, Jamaica
Jamaica is tropical and fun and a great destination for a wedding away from home. The hotel rooms at Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa feature a sense of warmth and tradition blended with modern comforts. Lounge in sumptuous bedding, delight in breathtaking views, discover an enchanting world of gentle ocean breezes, warm sunshine and cool Caribbean nights at this luxury resort.
Avey says, “For an ultimate unique touch, couples can choose to exchange vows by the seaside ruins of an 1837 aqueduct in Jamaica. At Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa, the unique onsite venues of these ruins as well as the grand Rose Hall Plantation House or Johnny Cash villa provide an unforgettable experience for wedding guests.”
28. Komentu Maitea, Gordexola, Spain
This gorgeous, intimate indoor venue in Spain is the perfect getaway for your wedding rehearsal dinner or reception on your big day. Komentu Maitea welcomes its guests into a beautiful 18th-century convent that has been rehabilitated and conditioned. The experience of the magnificent team of professionals who deal with the culinary culture surprises customers with its exquisite cuisine, pleasant atmosphere, and excellent service.
“Natural stone creates a neutral palette to complement any decor, and the space can easily be transformed to fit any theme. This is a wonderful option if you’re planning an outdoor ceremony beforehand, then continuing the celebration into the evening with a more private location,” says Kylie Carlson of International Academy of Wedding & Event Planning.
29. Guana, British Virgin Islands
Guana is such a special place because it's not just a location, but a venue as well, and a less common choice for destination weddings, which instantly makes it feel more special. Guana Island provides an on-site wedding coordinator to assist you with every detail. Say your vows at sunrise or sunset, by moonlight or starlight, and entertain guests with a beach-banquet reception.
"This private island in the BVI has only one thing on it: the boutique resort. That means when you buy out the resort, you're also buying out the island. It's such intimate and private venue with so many hidden treasures, and for many, it's a once in a lifetime experience,” says Jamie Chang, Owner and Destination Wedding Planner at Mango Muse Events.
30. Rodin Museum, Paris, France
This museum in Paris is incredibly special. And is there a city in the world more romantic than Paris?
“When you enter, it's a wonderful surprise. Unlike other museums which can feel cold and hard, this one is welcoming. The serene gardens set against the estate are beautiful. And the fact that you can get married there in the secret garden with the grounds all to yourself is magical,” Chang says.
31. The Orangery at Kensington Palace
If you're a fan of the British royals, there's nothing better than getting married at the Orangery at Kensington Palace. “The Orangery itself is fit for royalty, but let's not forget the English gardens. The setting is beautiful and the fact that you're right in London, well... that can't be beat,” Chang adds.
32. Chateau de Jalesnes, France
France is romance and intrigue, and this chateau is even more. Chateau de Jalesnes has an in-house team that can assist with every aspect of the big day, whether it is an intimate ceremony or a large celebration. You can have exclusive use of the entire château and grounds, or select a few favourite rooms or spaces. They also offer a variety of romantic venues for when you say those all-important vows: The château chapel, private forest, formal gardens, and even a sylvan glade.
“There is the beautiful chateau itself with its gorgeous details and manicured gardens, but then you also have this forest and these awesome old ruins. The property has a way of transporting you and it's like stepping straight into a fairytale,” says Chang.
33. Flora Farms, Mexico
This wedding venue not only has multiple cute spaces where you can have your wedding, but it's also a farm! Select areas of Flora Farms are available for private gatherings, including event menus that are crafted to provide a fresh and unique connection to the field surroundings. There is a lovely barn in the Mango Grove equipped with a private kitchen and bathroom facilities. A herb garden amphitheater, lakeside lawn, and an enchanting potting shed for smaller groups.
"The food is fantastic, and if you're looking for farm to table in Mexico, you can't get much closer than this,” suggests Chang.
34. The Resort at Pedregal, Mexico
This wedding venue tucked into the rocky cliffs is breathtaking. Infuse your celebration with legendary warmth and luxury at The Resort at Pedregal, a premier destination for Cabo San Lucas weddings and special events. The exclusive experience is enhanced with thoughtful touches, and all of your wishes are fulfilled by an unmatched level of individualized service tailored to your every whim and need.
Chang describes, “The crashing of waves all around you and the view is an experience. But the private yet completely open space away from other guests is what makes it super special.”
35. Sanctuary Cap Cana, Dominican Republic
Those seeking royalty-level venues will fit in at the Castle Island Suites of Sanctuary Cap Cana Resort & Spa, which comes with their own ceremony-friendly private island. Sanctuary Cap Cana also offers a variety of romantic wedding venues to select from. Unique scenarios, all surrounded by turquoise waters that will take your breath away. And an on-site wedding planner is ready to help you organizing all the details!
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Aly Walansky is a NY-based lifestyles writer who focuses on health, wellness, and relationships. Her work appears in dozens of digital and print publications regularly. Visit her on Twitter or email her.