The best wedding destinations
Photo: Hawaii will be a top destination wedding location in 2018. (photo via Pixabay/Angela Czmiel)
You popped the question and your partner said yes. Now it’s time to set the date and pick the right destination for your wedding.
We asked travel agents and event planners to give us some destinations that make a great place for people to say, “I do.”
Livermore, California
“Located just an hour from San Francisco, Livermore is an up-and-coming destination wedding getaway,” said Heather Jones of Wente Vineyards in Livermore. “The area has received quite a bit of national press as an emerging hot spot for couples, and I’m confident Livermore will make a name for itself as one of the top spots to marry in 2018.”
Jones said the region boasts picturesque views, delicious restaurants and award-winning wineries.
“Attendees can also take advantage of our championship golf courses and shopping,” she said. “It’s the ideal place to relax after the hustle and bustle of the wedding itself.”
Hawaii
“Boasting rich and diverse scenery, Hawaii is one of the top U.S. destination choices for couples who want a once-in-a-lifetime trip,” said Megan Velez, Destination Weddings Travel Group. “Couples can pick from one of many idyllic backdrops—from rainforests or mountains to volcanic landscapes. The natural beauty is made only better by year-round warmth and sun.”
Couples can enjoy a tropical paradise in a destination wedding-friendly locale while still staying within the U.S.
“There’s no need for passports or dealing with international calling—this is a big relief for busy couples and their attendees,” she said.
New York
In addition to Hawaii, Velez said that some couples opt for new-to-them destinations within the country for a unique experience with less hassle.
“Given the return to chic, refined wedding décor, the elegance of New York City is a big draw for couples in 2018,” she said. “In addition to being home to many notable sites and activities, couples and guests alike will appreciate the ease in traveling. Flights are very accessible, and many may decide to turn it into a road trip.”
Riviera Nayarit, Mexico
Brittany Wahhab, Brand Manager, Weddings by Funjet, said that the once-forgotten Pacific Coast of Mexico is a trending romantic getaway that has travelers flocking from all corners of the globe, including Hollywood A-listers like Gwyneth Paltrow and Matt Damon:
“The 200-mile coastline boasts lush mountain peaks, authentic pueblos, a tantalizing food scene and surfer beach vibes, turning this town into an up-and-coming place for destination weddings and vow renewals.”
Between the Sierra Madre Mountains and the unparalleled sunsets, Wahhab said the exotic destination is filled with gorgeous wedding locations, the best golf courses and the most romantic excursions in Mexico: “This makes Riviera Nayarit attractive to couples looking to marry away or linger on their honeymoon.”
Costa Mujeres, Mexico
“Located just 30 minutes away from Cancun’s International Airport, Costa Mujeres is on the east coast of Mexico where luxury will be redefined by hotels like Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa (opening in 2018) and RIU Dunamar (opening Dec 2017),” said Wahhab.
Many hotels are cognizant of building their resorts with minimal environmental impact in order to protect the native species, while still maintaining modern design and top-quality services
“This allows couples to embrace and incorporate the natural beauty of Mexico,” said Wahhab, “from the white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters to wild mangroves and ancient Mayan civilization, into their celebrations.”
Costa Rica
“Over the past month, Weddings by Funjet intake specialists have received an increase in inquiries for destination weddings in Costa Rica, and we think this trend will continue into 2018,” said Wahhab.
“The gorgeous Central American nation caters to nature enthusiasts with 800 miles of rich biodiversity and protected reservations and appeals to couples looking for affordability and adventure all in one place. From Costa Rican coffee wedding favors to group excursions exploring natural wonders like Tabacón Hot Springs, the options to make a destination wedding truly unique and memorable are endless in this country.”
With the slogan of Costa Rica being “Pura Vida”, meaning pure or simple life, it’s no wonder that couples are rushing to say their vows in one of the happiest countries in the world.