Curious about the best-kept secrets for a destination wedding & honeymoon? We asked three travel experts to spill the details on their favourite under-the-radar spots and share surprising trends in romance travel. From scenic cruises to secluded beachside escapes, these recommendations go beyond the usual to offer unforgettable locations for your big day and beyond.
Shiel McClure
Wedding planner, consultant & coordinator, certification Wedding Planners Institute of Canada; destination wedding and honeymoon specialist
What are the best underrated or under-the-radar destination wedding & honeymoon locations, and why?
Cruising is both underrated and under the radar; I believe in being able to enjoy three to six ports, great food, entertainment, and so much more. It is a unique idea with multiple choices of itineraries throughout the world, and most have private islands in the Caribbean for a different spin of one-of-a-kind. There are also ports convenient to the West Coast that give us the opportunity to enjoy cruising without the stress of connecting flights to the East. Each cruise line caters to different demographics and price points depending on the size of your event. Cruising combines the wedding ceremony and honeymoon into one seamless experience. Guests can attend the ceremony and then enjoy a vacation together without the hassle of additional travel arrangements. And best of all? You unpack once!
What new destinations or trends in romance travel are surprising you or that you’re recommending?
I think small group travel that includes a wedding is an upcoming trend, more micro weddings in unique locations (eight to 12 guests during an African safari or 30 on a coach tour through Ire- land/Scotland or various locations in Europe) that incorporate a once in a lifetime adventure.
I also see a resurgence in Las Vegas, not necessarily for eloping but for ease and price point from Western Canada. I highly recommend the Valley of Fire at sundown. It’s stunning!
Pattie Kisilewich
Travel, wedding and event planner, certified wedding and event planner
What are the best underrated or under the radar destination wedding and/or honeymoon location, and why?
Costa Rica – for its less-crowded resorts
Cruises – most people go to land options first and do not consider a cruise (Especially around Europe)
Europe – Italy, France, Spain: beautiful and romantic locations that can be done at a leisurely pace
New destinations or trends in romance travel in general that are surprising you or that you’re recommending?
Not that it is new, but I offer a Honeymoon Registry where the Bride and Groom plan and book their honeymoon with a deposit, and the guests can contact me directly to put money toward the couple’s honeymoon instead of gifts – great for 2nd marriages or couples with big dreams
I am hearing of amazing requests for Tus- cany weddings in a castle, private island weddings or even underwater weddings (for scuba people) but couples are not preparing themselves for the price that comes along with these weddings. Qualifying them with a maximum budget is so important upfront. Destination weddings are not cheap for the most part, and the couple must consider the budgets of their guests, so it is more of a challenge than it used to be.
Best underrated or under the radar destination wedding and/or honeymoon location, and why?
Tulum, Mexico. Consider getting off the beaten path in Tulum, which offers an undiscovered feel with small boutique hotels, top-notch spas, and amazing local Mayan culture. The sun-warmed shores of Tulum offer stunning wedding-worthy stretches of white sand beaches, with unique photo settings in locations such as Mayan Ruins and Cenotes.
What new destinations or trends in romance travel are surprising you or that you’re recommending?
Adding a cultural flair to your special day is something upcoming brides are adding to their special wedding vacations. Cultural immersion, embracing diverse traditions and supporting local talent is the new trend in whatever destination you choose. Make your day one-of-a-kind by adding unique gifts for guests, hiring traditional live music, custom décor, flower leis and arranging traditional cuisine for the wedding breakfast.
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