ROMANCE, IT'S IN THE AIR OVER THERE
With Prince Harry set to marry Meghan Markle on Saturday, we’ve come over all romantic. Jane Jurgens tracks down the best places in the world for a destination wedding, or a renewal of vows.
England
You can’t get married at St George’s Chapel like Harry and Meghan unless you’re a knight, a resident of Windsor Castle, a resident of the College of St George — or a royal, of course. In fact, even Harry and Meghan had to ask the Queen’s permission to marry there. You can, however, follow in the footsteps of Charles and Camilla and marry at the nearby Windsor Guildhall. This elegant building was completed in 1689 and is a dominant feature of the town. The royal couple held a civil ceremony in the intimate Ascot Room, which holds up to 15 guests, whereas, for a larger crowd, the impressive chamber seats up to 100. Another nearby option is the Sir Christopher Wren Hotel and Spa, an historic riverside hotel under the ramparts of Windsor Castle, with views of the river Thames and Eton Bridge. To help you feel like royalty, the hotel has wedding co-ordinators who can organise everything from red carpets to vintage cars.
Tahiti
For a picture-perfect Pacific Island wedding, you just can’t beat Tahiti’s French charm. In recent years, a change of regulations has seen a flurry of wedding chapels pop up at the island’s many resorts. At Bora Bora’s Le Meridien, St Regis and Four Seasons resorts, beachside nuptials are becoming increasingly popular — especially between June and August.
But if you really want to surprise your guests, take your celebration under the island’s beautiful clear waters. Bora Bora Underwater Weddings offer a ceremony that combines traditional Tahitian customs. You’ll arrive by an outrigger canoe, with local musicians and a Tahitian priest — however, these weddings are not legally recognised, so you’ll have to do the paperwork later.
Sri Lanka
This Southeast Asian destination is growing in popularity as an exotic wedding destination — you could even combine it with a honeymoon in the Maldives, where it’s not legal for non-residents to get married. The island nation offers a diverse range of wedding ceremonies, from elephants on the beach to private islands to tropical jungle. For a seaside wedding, Avani Kalutara offers the perfect location, with a private beach surrounded by gardens. With top-notch cuisine and space for 200 guests, it’s one of the most sought-after wedding locations in Sri Lanka. Or for a more intimate wedding in a traditional style — complete with dancers, drummers and elephants, Saman Villas offer 16 wedding packages. Choose from garden weddings by the ocean or celebrate barefoot on the beach. You can also opt for a Hindu Mehndi ceremony, where henna is used to draw intricate patterns on the bride’s hands and feet.
Las Vegas
For the original destination wedding, look no further than the bright neon lights of Las Vegas. Sure, the garishness isn’t for everyone, but if you’re looking for a novel way to celebrate this big day, you can definitely find something to suit your tastes. If you’re keen to have your special day officiated by Elvis, look no further than the Graceland Wedding Chapel. Part of the Las Vegas Strip for more than 70 years, it's where many celebrities have tied the knot — Jon Bon Jovi even renewed his vows in the carpark in 2001, along with 75 other couples who did the same. Or you can reach new heights in your relationship by marrying at the High Roller at the LINQ Promenade — the largest observation wheel in the world. One pod carries the groom and up to 38 guests for a half-hour spin around the wheel, before they are joined by the bride for a second turn — and of course, the ceremony takes place in the pod. Time the ceremony with sunset for a truly romantic experience.
Italy
Italy is perfect for a beautiful, romantic wedding, with a range of gorgeous and varied locations to choose from. Venice is a top choice for many, with even George Clooney and Amal Alamuddin opting to tie the knot here in 2014. To follow in their footsteps, book in at the Aman Canal Grande, a grand palazzo built in 1550 — but the Clooneys’ wedding suite will set you back nearly $6000 night. Or for a tranquil wedding day in the countryside, head to the hills of Tuscany. Whether you decide to tie the knot at a traditional vineyard, an elegant villa, or a fairytale castle, there’s a beautiful location to suit everyone’s tastes.