Best Places for Destination Weddings | My Romantic Travel

What better way to begin your happily ever after than by saying ‘I Do’ in a serene outdoor setting surrounded by pristine views? If this has been your dream all along, then planning your wedding in Sri Lanka will make it a reality. Here’s what you need to consider.

Choose the Perfect Venue

Sri Lanka is rich in magical outdoor landscapes, from serene beaches to misty valleys and colonial buildings. Consider the outdoor wedding locations in Sri Lanka if you want to make the most of the island’s natural beauty.

Incorporate Lankan Tradition

Sri Lankan traditions can really make your wedding a meaningful celebration of the island. You can organise for a traditional performance by Kandyan drummers or incorporate a few Buddhist rituals and blessings by Buddhist monks.

Opt for Authentic Decor

Local flowers like jasmines, orchids and lotuses can really bring the Sri Lankan charm to your venue. It’s a great way to make your wedding authentic with a unique tropical look while also supporting local florists and decor artisans.

Plan for Guest Comfort

Ensuring that your guests are comfortable is key. Consider details like travel and parking logistics, and whether the food and drink incorporate special preferences. If you’re having a hotel wedding at the likes of KK Collection, you can even arrange for guest accommodation.

Image by Wikimedia Commons

Work With a Wedding Planner

Rather than plan from afar, work with an experienced local wedding planner. You’ll have an easier time organising logistics, legal documentation and all the event details with their help.

If you’re dreaming of a wedding straight out of a fairy tale, an Emirati wedding might just be your perfect fit. Combining rich cultural traditions with ultra-modern luxury, these celebrations are known for their opulence, family spirit, and jaw-dropping aesthetics. Here’s how to make your special day shine in true Emirati style.

Choose the Perfect Venue: Where Magic Begins
From regal ballrooms to lavish beachfront settings, the venue sets the tone for your entire celebration. Consider a top-tier wedding hotel in Abu Dhabi such as the Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat that offers tailored services, privacy, and stunning interiors fit for royalty.

Incorporate Emirati Traditions: Honour the Heritage
Henna nights, traditional music, and the elegant zaffa procession are essential elements of an authentic Emirati wedding. Blending these customs with modern touches adds emotional depth and cultural richness to your day.

Dress Like Royalty: All Eyes on You
A luxurious Emirati bride often dons a series of exquisite dresses, sometimes changing looks multiple times during the celebration. Think crystals, embroidery, and opulent fabrics that shimmer under golden chandeliers.

Image by 明辉 李 from Pixabay

Gourmet Catering: A Feast to Remember
Serve your guests a decadent menu with both traditional Emirati dishes and international favourites. Presentation is key, imagine gold-dusted desserts and ornate platters that are as Instagrammable as they are delicious.

Luxury Retreat for the Couple: End on a Dreamy Note
After the festivities, retreat to a haven of romance. After all, breathtaking views and serene luxury sound like the perfect way to start your new chapter together.

Planning a destination wedding is both magical and overwhelming, but if you’re dreaming of palm-lined beaches, golden sunsets, and ocean breezes, Desaru might just be your perfect “I do” backdrop. From charming resorts to unforgettable guest experiences, here’s how to make your Desaru wedding one for the storybooks.

Choose the Perfect Venue
The first step? Locking in a venue that captures the coastal magic. Whether you’re after a beachfront ceremony or a grand ballroom affair, Desaru offers it all. One standout location is the Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas, blending luxury and tropical beauty with impeccable service that caters effortlessly to destination weddings.

Plan Around the Seasons
Desaru enjoys tropical weather year-round, but timing is everything. Aim for dry months like March to October for clearer skies and breezier evenings. Always check local calendars for holidays that might affect availability or pricing.

Add a Local Touch
Celebrate the charm of a wedding in Malaysia by incorporating local elements, think bunga telur favours, tropical flower arrangements, or a traditional Malaysian tea ceremony. These thoughtful touches will give your celebration an unforgettable cultural flair.

Sort Guest Logistics Early
Destination weddings require extra coordination. Send your save-the-dates early and consider group rates for nearby accommodations. Desaru is easily accessible from Singapore and Johor Bahru, making it convenient for guests flying in.

Capture the Moment

Image by Fotos pks from Pixabay

The stunning coastlines, golden hour lighting, and lush greenery make Desaru a photographer’s dream. Hire a photographer familiar with the area to ensure every palm-framed moment is picture-perfect.

The Maldives is more than just crystal-clear waters and powder-soft sands, it’s a paradise designed for romance. Whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, or spontaneous escape, these magical islands deliver unforgettable experiences that bring couples closer. Here are five swoon-worthy ways to spark the romance in this tropical haven.

Private Dinner Under the Stars
Nothing says romance like a candlelit dinner on a secluded beach, waves gently lapping nearby. Many resorts offer bespoke dining setups with gourmet menus, your own chef, and the starlit sky as the only witness. It’s intimate, luxurious, and truly unforgettable.

Sunset Dhoni Cruise
Glide through the Indian Ocean aboard a traditional Maldivian dhoni as the sky blazes with fiery oranges and soft purples. Sip champagne with your partner as dolphins leap in the distance. This moment, both timeless and tranquil, is the epitome of island romance.

Snorkelling Adventures
This idyllic resort offers direct access to vibrant reefs perfect for hand-in-hand snorkelling. At Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort, you’ll discover colourful marine life, serene lagoons, and shared moments of awe that linger long after the holiday ends.

Stay in a Maldives Villa
Imagine waking up to panoramic ocean views in your overwater villa, followed by a plunge into your private pool. A Maldives honeymoon villa offers the ultimate in privacy, luxury, and indulgence, ideal for couples wanting to escape and reconnect truly.

Couple’s Spa Rituals

Image by Saunum Sauna from Pixabay

Rejuvenate together with a couple’s massage in a glass-floored spa pavilion suspended above the sea. The soothing sounds of the ocean paired with expert hands make for a deeply relaxing and intimate experience.

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is a place where you can find both adventure and romance. Are you celebrating a milestone in your relationship? Or do you just want to treat your partner to something special? Whatever it is, the options are endless in Abu Dhabi. Here are a few suggestions.

Romantic Dinners 

There’s something magical about dining in a desert city like Abu Dhabi. The city has no shortage of amazing restaurants with beautiful views. Many luxury hotels offer romantic dinners in stunning settings.

Stargazing and Desert Walks 

For something truly unique, head out into the desert. Join a guided safari where you can walk across the sand dunes while holding your lover’s hand. Camel rides, stargazing, and dinners in a camp are some of the must-dos. Speak to your resort to arrange a desert safari. Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, one of the 5-star hotels in Abu Dhabi, offers trips to the desert.

Sunset Cruises 

Sign up for a sunset cruise for an incredibly romantic experience. You’ll be cruising along the calm waters as the soft rays of the evening sun drape the ocean and the beaches. Some sunset cruises also include dinner and music.

Explore the Rich Culture 

Image by Mariakray from Pixabay

Exploring the rich culture of Abu Dhabi can also be an incredibly romantic experience. The city is home to stunning buildings that not only boast beautiful architecture but also offer a glimpse of the culture. Must-visit places include Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Be sure to visit the old souks as well.

If you’re dreaming of a peaceful beach holiday with your partner, Sri Lanka’s south coast is a great choice. With golden sands, turquoise water, and comfortable accommodation, it’s the perfect place for love and romance.

The South Coast 

From Bentota to Yala stretches the South Coast, full of beach towns like Galle, Mirissa, Unawatuna, Tangalle, and Kalutara. Each of these towns carries a unique charm – some are lively and fun, others are laid-back and quiet, and a few offer a mix of both. Things to do on the South Coast abound, so brace yourself for an unforgettable romantic adventure.

Where to Stay 

Choosing the right place to stay is important, wouldn’t you agree? Luckily, the south coast is home to a selection of cosy hotels and resorts. Anantara Kalutara Resort, for example, is loved by couples. It’s known for romantic dining in Kalutara.

Best Time to Go 

The best time to visit is from December to April. You’ll enjoy sunny days, calm seas, and a lower chance of rain.

Romantic Things to Do 

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The south coast of Sri Lanka is a haven of activity. Here are the top picks for couples:

  • Walk on the beach at sunset.
  • Enjoy a romantic dinner.
  • Get a couple’s spa treatment.
  • Try water sports like jet-skiing, canoeing, and water skiing.
  • Take a cooking class.
  • Try archery.
  • Take a boat trip on the Kalu Ganga.
  • Tour Lunuganga Estate, once home to Geoffrey Bawa, the world-renowned architect.

When it comes to romance, nothing beats the allure of a secluded island. Picture this: crystal-clear water, white sand beneath your toes, and no one around except you and your partner. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, anniversary trip or spontaneous escape, these remote island activities are bound to turn the love levels up to full volume.

Maldives, So in Love
If you’re dreaming of turquoise lagoons and starlit dinners, the Maldives is your ultimate playground. Spend your days snorkelling in coral gardens and your nights dining overwater under the stars. The privacy of the islands makes even a simple walk on the beach feel like something out of a movie.

Private Beach Picnics with a Twist
Why settle for a restaurant when you can have a chef-prepared meal on a deserted beach? Many resorts offer gourmet beach picnics complete with champagne, fresh seafood, and a personal butler to whisk it all away when you’re done. It’s Instagram-perfect and utterly intimate.

Image by Fotos pks from Pixabay

Couples’ Spa Treatments by the Ocean
There’s nothing more bonding than a couples’ massage with waves crashing nearby and palm trees rustling in the breeze. Look for treatments that use natural island ingredients like coconut oil, frangipani, and sea salt for a sensory love story.

Stay Somewhere Unexpected
While remote islands are ideal for romance, why not mix things up with a stopover in a buzzing city? At SO/ Maldives, couples can unwind in a vibrant yet peaceful setting before jetting off to paradise.

Most Romantic Maldives Resorts
For an unforgettable stay, check out some of the best resorts in Maldives for couples. Think private pools, open-air baths, and candlelit dinners on the beach, pure bliss.

Qatar’s dazzling capital is an incredible blend of tradition, modern luxury, and scenic beauty—making it a surprisingly perfect destination for your next romantic escape. From first dates to anniversary outings, discover the most charming spots in and around Doha for couples seeking a romantic adventure.

Doha Corniche

The city’s iconic waterfront spot is undeniably romantic. Hugging the coastline of the city, the Corniche is a peaceful retreat for an afternoon walk by the water, passing incredible art installations and greenery along the way.

Souq Waqif

In the heart of Doha, Souq Waqif injects the city with historic charm and rich heritage. Explore the alleyways brimming with colourful wares, or sit down in the courtyard for a coffee as dusk begins to set.

Sea Garden (Al Wakrah)

Located just a little away from Doha city, Al Wakrah offers a slower pace of living, along with some of the best hotels in Qatar. Take in the seaside beauty at Sea Garden, a golden stretch of beach offering a respite from the crowds. Some of the best sunset views can be seen from here, just minutes from Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar by Tivoli

Gondolania

Located in Villaggio Mall, Gondolania gives you a taste of Venice. Enjoy a whimsical gondola ride under indoor skies or engage in fun activities like ice skating and bowling, making it a playful and memorable date spot.

Museum of Illusions 

Image by ekrem from Pixabay

Explore the Museum of Illusions, another popular location for dates in Doha. Experience mind-bending rooms and interactive exhibits that make for both exciting memories and great photo ops.

Krabi is best known as a popular vacation destination near the Andaman Coast. This province is all about turquoise waters, dramatic limestone formations, and breathtaking beaches, so in addition to being a famous holiday spot, wouldn’t you think that Krabi would also make a great wedding destination? For those who plan to bring out the best in Krabi on their wedding day, here are a few things to consider.

The Weather 

Krabi is blessed with a tropical climate – yes, it’s all sunshine and smiles throughout most of the year. However, the ideal time to guarantee good weather on your wedding day would be to select a date between November and April, which is the dry season.

Wedding Themes

With this unique destination comes unique wedding themes too! You could opt for a beautiful beach ceremony or even try a tropical garden setting for your big day. Better yet, Krabi also offers couples the exclusive cliffside option with stunning panoramic views. Check out popular hotels for weddings in Krabi the likes of Avani Ao Nang.

Cost and Budgeting Tips

Expenses vary based on venue choice, guest count, and desired amenities. Try picking a date for your wedding between May and October, which is the off-peak season. This means that rates with vendors and any Ao Nang Cliff resort will be lower.

Image by Sonam Prajapati from Pixabay

Honeymoon Tips

Post-wedding, Krabi offers numerous romantic activities for honeymooners. Couples can explore nearby islands like Phi Phi or Koh Hong, indulge in spa treatments, or enjoy sunset dinners by the beach. For the adventurous, activities like snorkelling, rock climbing, or kayaking through mangroves provide memorable experiences.

Bali, with its breathtaking views, romantic atmosphere, and spiritual splendour, is the perfect honeymoon destination for couples. Whether you’re celebrating your honeymoon or want a tropical escape, here’s the perfect 4-day Bali couples itinerary that will make you experience your romantic escape to the fullest.

Day 1: Arrival and Ubud Serenity
Begin in Ubud, the cultural centre of Bali. Walk through the Sacred Monkey Forest, visit local art markets, and enjoy serene rice terrace landscapes. Spend the night at one of the many private luxury retreats in the area, such as Anantara Ubud Bali Resort. Pair your stay with panoramic views over the jungle and spa treatments aimed at complete relaxation.

Day 2: Temple Visits and Waterfalls
Begin the day with a sunrise visit to Tirta Empul, a holy water temple. Continue with a scenic hike to Tegenungan Waterfall, and enjoy lunch at a traditional Balinese cafe with a view. Head back to your villa for a private pool evening, with many luxury suites in Bali offering romantic sunset views.

Image by Aron Visuals from Pixabay

Day 3: Seminyak Sunset and Beach Time
Head south to Seminyak for a mix of luxury and vibrant beach activity. Spend the day lounging on the beach, sipping cocktails at a beach club, or surfing the gentle waves together. End the day with a candlelit dinner at a beachfront restaurant, perfect for sunset lovers.

Day 4: Spa and Farewell Shopping
End your trip with a couple’s spa treatment at one of Bali’s serene wellness centres. Then head to boutique shops or art galleries to grab memorable souvenirs. Take one last scenic drive through rice fields before bidding farewell to the island of the gods.