Destination weddings: Top spots to tie the knot

With some of Asia and Australia’s most beautiful destinations just a short flight away, it’s easier than ever to host your wedding overseas. Whether you want an intimate garden ceremony, an over-the-top beach party with family and friends or a sophisticated do in a glamorous city, you have loads of options to choose from in the region.

Destination weddings are a trend for many reasons. For one, you are going on holiday with your nearest and dearest. Second, depending on where you host it, it can cost you far less than if you were to have it at home. Third, you get awesome wedding photos – the more scenic, unusual or exotic the locale, the most interesting your shots are likely to turn out. And finally, when the wedding is over, you can stay on in your destination for your honeymoon. What’s not to love?

1. Singapore

The island-state boasts some pretty special locations and its skyline makes a great backdrop for wedding pictures.

Australian couple Dean and Courtney Killen, who tied the knot in 2014, chose Singapore for its buzz. “We’d travelled there multiple times and were never short of things to do and see. When Dean proposed to me over one of those drinks, we knew we had to return to Singapore for our wedding. The city holds a special place in our hearts. We held our wedding at Barnacles by the Sea at Shangri-La’s Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa,” says Courtney.

Venue Ideas

Shangri-La’s Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa
Imagine having a romantic sunset ceremony on the beach, followed by a reception on the waterfront. There’s also a ballroom if you’re after a more traditional setting.

Hotel Fort Canning
Hotel Fort Canning is the only hotel in Singapore that’s nestled amongst 18 hectares of lush national parkland. Its Garden Terrace is ideal for weddings, although its ballrooms and Grand Marquee are also popular.

2. Bali

The island’s beaches give it a romantic vibe but, with its ancient temples and mountains, it also has a mystical allure. Emma and Jonathon Porter chose to have their wedding ceremony in beautiful Lombok. “The event was magical,” Emma shares. “[And beforehand] along with our guests, we went on boat trips, visited the waterfalls, and went snorkelling.”

Venue Ideas

Hotel Yugu Lombok
Hotel Yugu Lombok lets you create your own wedding package from a variety of dining, décor and entertainment options. For example, choose a Bali blessing ceremony followed by a cultural-themed dinner, which includes traditional performances and a beach barbecue.

W Bali Seminyak
Here you can choose from a selection of programs at W Bali Seminyak. The Social Media Concierge, for example, can help you share your special day on social media platforms, while The Beat Goes On includes hangover kits and brunch for your guests the next day.

3. Phuket

This small island off the southern coast of Thailand has some of the most amazing beaches on the planet, not to mention great seafood. Plus, compared to many other popular destinations, it is more affordable. Singapore couple Daniel and Joanne Tan chose to wed in Phuket so that they could holiday straight awards. “It’s the perfect honeymoon destination so we thought we’d bring our family and friends along with us. There are so many resorts catering to all budgets,” says Daniel.

Where to find Phuket’s hidden gems opens in new window

Venue Ideas

Avista Hideaway Phuket Patong
This secluded resort is located on a hilltop, overlooking the sea. In addition to wedding planner assistance and welcome drinks for guests, the Avista Hideaway Phuket Patong packages here also give you creative options for your guestbook, such as a fun photo booth.

Aleenta Phuket Resort & Spa
This resort is far from the crowds and the city. Choose to hold your ceremony on its exquisite private beach or in one of its grand villas. Aleenta Phuket Resort & Spa packages include a turtle release to celebrate your nuptials.

4. Perth

Perth’s natural beauty is what compelled Jakarta-based couple James and Lynn Lam to exchange vows in the city. “James and I met in Perth when we were students there many years ago,” Lynn shares. “We’ve also loved the place because of its year-round good weather and natural attractions. The food and wine are excellent, too.”

Venue Ideas

The Vines Resort & Country Club
Do you and your soon-to-be spouse love golf? The Vines Resort & Country Club’s open-air Garden Pavilion accommodates up to 100 guests and overlooks the resort’s stunning golf course, koi ponds and gardens. As part of your wedding package, you’ll also receive a complimentary nine holes of golf.

5. Danang

While Danang in Vietnam is known for its pristine beaches, it also has many cultural and historical attractions, from pagodas to pretty bridges. Malaysian couple Justin and Catherine Ho wanted to honeymoon in Hoi An so they chose Danang for their 2015 wedding. “Danang is just 25 minutes away from Hoi An, so it was convenient for us,” says Catherine. “It was also easy for our international guests to get to, not to mention the fact that it’s a top beach destination.”

Venue Ideas

Pullman Danang Beach Resort
Host a traditional Vietnamese ceremony at Pullman Danang Beach Resort – the event takes place on the beach, and includes traditional costumes for the bride and groom, and a blessing from a Buddhist monk.

Hyatt Regency Danang Resort & Spa
Hyatt Regency Danang Resort & Spa is right on the beach and near many historic sites. You can have your ceremony and reception by the ocean or poolside, or in the Regency Ballroom.