By: Teresa Jonson
When looking to get married on foreign shores, there are so many wonderful options—but some cities stand out above the rest as prime spots to tie the knot. If you’re dreaming of metropolitan matrimony, here are four of the world’s best cities to consider for a destination wedding.
Phuket, Thailand
Photo by Juliia Abramova on Unsplash
The city and island of Phuket has long been on the radars of international travelers—and for good reason. It’s home to some of the world’s most beautiful secluded beaches, and the amazing network of islands means there is always something new to discover. Although there are plenty of indoor venues, it’s a matrimonial crime not to make use of the region’s alluring beaches, which are tailor-made for memorable ceremonies. Symbolism is an integral part of traditional Thai ceremonies, and incorporating some of these local customs is a wonderful way to host a truly authentic celebration.
Remember that Phuket succumbs to a rainy season between May and October, at which time a beach ceremony may be out of the question. For the best conditions, book a date between November and March, when you’re more likely to be welcomed with dry and warm weather.
Bari, Italy
Photo by Maria Bobrova on Unsplash
Located in the heavenly region of Puglia, a walk through the city of Bari is like stepping back in time. The first things you’re likely to notice are the historic buildings that line the cobblestone streets, and the laid-back vibe that permeates the city. But don’t be fooled by its unassuming demeanor. The city certainly knows how to throw a party, so if you’re dreaming of a larger-than-life celebration, Bari will be willing to oblige as host.
Making the right musical choices can really set the stage for your Italian ceremony. Whether you opt for traditional tones from local artists or favor a more modern approach with a DJ in situ, your soundtrack is a key component of the day, so take your time deciding on the atmosphere you want to generate. And of course, when it comes to your wedding menu, it’s impossible to ignore the wonderful local ingredients. Simple and rustic are two words that encapsulate the city’s culinary scene—tie some traditional dishes into your wedding menu to acknowledge the heritage of this wonderful place.
Split, Croatia
The Croatian city of Split offers something for all tastes: a vibrant nightlife scene, historical charm and gorgeous venue options make it deserving of a place on anyone’s shortlist. Whether you’re picturing a seafront celebration with the waves lapping against your toes, or a more rustic ceremony set amongst ancient architecture, Split has a catalog of wedding venues to rival any other destination on the planet.
As beautiful as Split is, why limit yourself to just one place? Croatia was made for exploring, and Split is the perfect set-off place to do just that. Ferry services connect the city to neighboring islands like Hvar, Brač and Vis—with each offering their own brand of beguiling beauty. With so many spectacular spots to explore, Croatia is the perfect honeymoon destination, so consider extending your stay to bask in the post-wedding euphoria a little longer.
Related: Croatia Digital Nomad Visa Guide: Live in Croatia and Work Remotely
Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
Photo by KADM Creations on Unsplash
The modern city of Honolulu is an excellent option if you want a tropical escape without venturing too far from home. World-class beaches, idyllic sunsets and unrivaled hospitality all converge to make Honolulu one of the most romantic destinations in this part of the world. Not to spoil the illusion, but there is a small amount of admin in this particular fairytale—you must obtain a license to legally get married here. But fear not, the process is straightforward and you can send an application online.
Back to the fun part. The photography at your Hawaii wedding takes care of itself—breathtaking backdrops surround you at just about every turn. An outdoor wedding here can be a great way to make the most of the natural decor, but you’ll need to get your timings right. Warm temperatures year-round are conducive to travel in any season, but less rainfall is likely to occur in the summer months. At this time, it’s worth noting that you will have to contend with the tourist rush, so it’s worth booking your accommodation and venue as far in advance as possible.
About the Author
Teresa Jonson is an international wedding planner who has worked with couples to create their dream ceremonies for over a decade. She is passionate about making destination weddings more accessible to everyone, and tries to share actionable advice through her posts.
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