Jamaica Me Crazy: Getting Married Overseas
Why wait for the honeymoon when getting married overseas will have you in paradise before saying “I do”? As the wedding and travel industries are opening up to the idea of overseas wedding packages, couples are finding that matrimonial bliss can begin with the fulfillment of fantasies.
WHY ARE COUPLES GETTING MARRIED OVERSEAS?
- Cost: Traditional weddings in the States are averaging around $25,000 dollars! Many love birds are opting to spend the cash on an exotic getaway rather than paying for overpriced and outdated wedding productions.
- Excitement: Getting married is one of the most memorable experiences a couple can have. Soon to be newlyweds are making dreams a reality when they walk down the isle in a foreign land.
- Uniqueness: As the 21st century rolls on, more and more people are tired of living within the confines of traditional life. Determined to break free, couples are ditching antiquated ceremonies and discovering the beauty associated with union in another country.
IS GETTING MARRIED OVERSEAS LEGAL?
While not all overseas locations support a legally binding marriages back in the United States; several do. Unless you and your fiancée are determined to be married by a witchdoctor living in the Amazon Jungle, chances are your destination country will be able to provide you with a ceremony and paperwork acceptable upon returning to America.
Before you start planning, make certain that you look into any and all marriage laws required by the country in which you plan to wed. In some countries, couples may have to comply with residency conditions before being allowed to marry. Regardless of the location, most countries will likely expect the following documentation:
- Birth certificates for both spouses
- Divorce or death records if previously married
- A valid passport
- A notarized parental consent form if under 18
WHERE ARE THE BEST PLACES FOR GETTING MARRIED OVERSEAS?
The great thing about getting married abroad is that you get to incorporate the honeymoon. Depending on your desire, there are several places around the globe that make for the perfect destination wedding. Ranging from economy class where you can bring the whole family to exorbitant with just your closest friends, the possibilities are endless for that memorable day. Here are just a few of the most amazing locations where couples are saying “I do”.
Venice, Italy: As one of Italy’s most famous cities, Venice offers timeless beauty and romance. After the ceremony, be whisked away for a gorgeous tour of Venice’s scenic waterways.
Vabbinfaru Island, Maldives: Talk about paradise! For a perfect tropical getaway wedding, look no further than the atolls of the Maldivian Islands. Breathtaking scenery, tons of activities, and a secret bungalow on the ocean for two make this a marriage made in Heaven.
Cape Town, South Africa: For couples with a wild side, Cape Town will satisfy any need for adventure and romance. Take a peek at foreign wildlife at the Cape of Good Hope Wildlife Reserve or go kite surfing on Scarborough Beach to start your marriage with amazing memories.
Bangkok, Thailand: If you and your mate love the nightlife, Bangkok is the wedding destination you’ll both rave about. After the ceremony, be driven off in a famed tuk tuks and dance the night away at any one of Bangkok’s infamous rooftop clubs.
Regardless of which fabulous destination you and your soon to be spouse choose, one thing is certain; getting married overseas is sure to create a moment that will last forever. If you haven’t already, take a look into some of the amazing and affordable packages that travel companies are offering for couples wishing to make their wedding spectacular.