Brides Abroad - Issue 23

1

Issue 23

285 fabulous

WEDDING

IDEAS

REAL WEDDINGS

for magical weddings abroad

French Polynesia

Lake Como, Cyprus, Malta, The Algarve, Florida

Los Angeles

Sail the South Pacifi Pacificc to Bora Bora and Mo’orea!

Plan your wedding ❤ Tips from expert planners ❤ Countdown to the big day ❤ The art of tipping ❤ Avoid family feuds

Discover North Island

NEW ZEALAND HONEYMOON SAVINGS

www.bridesabroad.com

HONEYMOON LIKE A STAR

Month by month guide to

Honeymoon Weather Get the look! ❤ Beach bride ❤ City Style £3.99

❤ Incredible venues ❤ Gorgeous gowns ❤ Honeymoons in Paradise ❤ Those extra touches

LONDON FLAGSHIP STORE 94, NEW BOND STREET CONTACT CENTER 0203 445 5424 WWW.PRONOVIAS.COM

STYLE: C A ROLI N A

Haute Couture 2019 collection

Welcome&

Credits Published by Joint Venture Media Ltd Tel: 01937 58 48 92

Publisher Martin Cody-Owen martin@bridesabroad.tv

Editor-in-Chief Congratulations

Terri Cody-Owen terri@bridesabroad.tv

Congratulations!

As the autumn and winter season is upon us, your wedding date – next summer or perhaps even the year after – suddenly seems to be rapidly approaching. Don’t worry! When planning your wedding and/or luxury honeymoon abroad, you are in safe hands with Brides Abroad.

Assistant to Publisher

We know how important it is that your big day is the best day of your life. With this in mind, we have researched the international wedding market, and kept in step with the latest ideas and trends, so that whatever stage you’ve reached in planning, we can guide you through the pitfalls and lead you in the right direction for the stress-free wedding and honeymoon of your dreams.

Fashion Editor

When it comes to choosing your destinations, the world is your oyster. With the help of our World Weather Chart (p.72) you can also be sure that you won’t arrive at your chosen destination at the wrong season.

Contributors

For weddings abroad, we take a look at short-haul destinations, including Italy’s stylish Lake Como (p 16); the historical Mediterranean island of Malta (p. 22); Portugal’s sparkling Algarve coast (p.32) and the holiday island of Cyprus (p.42), and feature real weddings at each destination. We also check out stunning long-haul locations, including exotic Thailand (p.54) and Florida (p.48) where we feature a totally unique underwater wedding.

We believe we can amaze you with gorgeous honeymoons suggestions – fancy a sublime cruise around French Polynesia, taking in the awesome tropical islands of Tahiti and Bora Bora? (p. 90); Or New Zealand’s North Island, a destination kissed by Mother Nature? (p.120); Perhaps Los Angeles for some film star pampering? (p.98) Or simply combine the jungles and culture of Sri Lanka with the magnificent Maldives. (p.112).

If you prefer not to fly, we inspire you with a magical train journey around Europe’s famous sights and cities for the ultimate honeymoon adventure (p.104) Plan your big day meticulously with the help of Brides Abroad – we offer everything from your wedding countdown (p.78) and tips from professional planners (p.80) to a guide to the art of tipping for service in foreign lands (p.82).

Our fashion special will inspire you to steal Megan Markle’s elegant, understated style (P.64), plus we have accessories and hair style suggestions for looking beautiful on your big day.

If you need further inspiration our team are always happy to help on 0800 211 so much more, and honeymoon bargains too, visit www.bridesabroad.com

8255. And for

Enjoy!

Patsy Owen

Lulu Bousfield

Lisa Burton Kieron Flowls Holly Catz Lily Hardwick

Photography Dreamstime www.costastudio.com Adam McNicholas Marco Torre Fintastic Photo at Clearwater Marina Aquarium Kate Hopewell-Smith by Lumiere Quanchai Ridhiwanna at Narz Photography Johnny Carr

Design Chris Peach www.chrispeachdesign.co.uk

Printer Warners Midlands Plc. www.warners.co.uk

Advertising Sales Joint Venture Media 01937 58 48 92 martin@bridesabroad.tv

Terri Cody Owen Editor-in-Chief terri@bridesabroad.tv To Subscribe to Brides Abroad for just £22 for 6 issues, email Martin@JointVentureMedia.tv

0800 211 8255 www.BridesAbroad.com ©Joint Venture Media Ltd. All material in this publication is strictly copyright and all rights are reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The views expressed in Brides Abroad magazine do not necessarily represent the views of Joint Venture Media. Every care is taken in compiling the contents but the publisher of Brides Abroad magazine assume no responsibility for any damage, loss or injury arising from participation in any offer, competition or advertisement contained within Brides Abroad magazine.

Director of Sales Sylvia Oakley 0113 284 31 00 Sylvia@bridesabroad.tv

Cover Photo by istockphoto

48

Contents

IN THIS ISSUE REAL WEDDINGS

18 24 34 44 50

Love vows by Lake Como

Kate and Ilya say “I do” on the beautiful shores of Lake Como in a spectacular Italian cathedral.

Vows of love in Malta

When school friends Georgina Hyatt and Michael Shape met, they never imagined that they would marry on the magnificent island of Malta.

Disney magic in the Algarve

They met whilst working together on a Disneythemed cruise ship, but it was on the shores of Portugal where Gabriela Yamauti and Ruben Garcia sealed their love!

Classmates to soulmates

Nicola Rodman and Hamish Goodall discovered they had much more in common than having been classmates when they tied the knot in Cyprus.

How deep is your love?

Anamaria and John’s amazing underwater wedding in Florida – the perfect ceremony for diving enthusiasts.

WEDDING DESTINATIONS

8 16 22

18 24 SUBSCRIBE SIX ISSUES FOR ONLY £18.00 Worth £23.94 inc FREE P&P

martin@bridesabroad.tv

6 www.BridesAbroad.com

32 42

Wedding & honeymoon news Romance by Lake Como

There can be few destinations around the globe with more wow factor for dream weddings and honeymoons than Italy’s stunning Lake Como.

Magical Malta

If you want so much more than simply sun, sea and sand then Malta, with its glorious heritage, offers an incredible choice of wedding venues.

Vows in the Algarve

Portugal’s Algarve is the perfect choice for couples looking for a bright, warm, sunshine destination that’s just a short hop away from the UK.

Cyprus - the love island

Who wouldn’t want to get married on the island known as the ‘island of love’?

50

83

WEDDING DESTINATIONS CONTINuED

48

Wedding bliss in Florida

54

Thai the knot

Barefoot on a Florida beach, the sun shining and marrying the person you love – can life get any better?

Say “I do in exotic Thailand in some of the world’s most spectacular beach settings, and have a sublime honeymoon discovering this amazing country.

FAShION & BEAuTy

64

Pure & simple

66

Get the look beach bride

67 68

Ditch the glitz and steal Megan Markle’s classical style with cool, understated elegance.

Brides can celebrate the freedom of nature with flowers, shells and driftwood.

Get the look city style

Look hot in the city with stylish glamour and a touch of sparkle.

Tresses on trend

Celebrity stylist Kieron Fowles, of Regis salons, gives his expert advice on the latest hairstyles for brides-to-be.

PlANNING

68

8

72

Weather permitting

76

Pop the Question

78 80 82

Don’t let your wedding day be a washout – check our worldwide weather guide for the sunniest beaches, snowiest peaks and perfect temperatures.

Expert wedding planners answer your most frequently asked questions.

Wedding Countdown

Your 18-month wedding abroad planner!

Ask the planners!

Lisa Burton of the Bridal Consultant professional wedding planning service shares her wisdom and experience with brides-to-be.

To tip or not to tip

Should you give the porter a generous tip for handling your baggage? And if so, how much is too much?

hONEyMOONS

84

98

90 98

Honeymoon health

Don’t let medical emergencies ruin your honeymoon, be prepared with our top eight tips for staying healthy.

Cruise French Polynesia

Float to paradise in the South Pacific aboard luxury liner Paul Gauguin. Boarding in Tahiti then sailing to stunning tropical islands including Bora Bora.

La La Land

Honeymoon like a star in Los Angeles, the film capital of the world and discover the delights of Hollywood, Santa Monica and Venice Beach.

104 European honeymoon on track

If you don’t like flying, then take to the train to Europe’s iconic hotspots – from romantic Paris to historic Rome, and from ancient Pompeii to wealthy Zurich.

112 Twice as nice

Why settle for one honeymoon destination when you can visit two islands in the Indian Ocean – from the jungles of Sri Lanka to the magnificent Maldives.

120 North Island, New Zealand

New Zealand’s North Island may be a long way from British shores, but well worth the journey to see Mother Nature at her best! www.BridesAbroad.com 7

India in the Dominican Republic Bride and grooms seeking a wedding ceremony with a difference can now choose an Indian- themed wedding on the private Minitas Beach at Casa De Campo Resort and Villas in the Dominican Republic. The luxury resort, a member of the Leading Hotels of the World, is set in stunning natural surroundings that are perfect for both destination weddings and honeymoons. This year sees the introduction of its Indian-themed weddings which combine ornately themed arches, swathes of luxurious silk in an array of vibrant colours and decorative ornaments to complete the Indian look. Food, music and entertainment can also be Indian themed. Alternatively, couples can choose from a number of other wedding venues in and around the resort – from the beautiful Minitas beach to the romantic 16th century style St. Stanislaus Church overlooking the river valley, a luxurious beachfront Villa or one of the many traditional ballrooms with decor and ceremony to suit their individual style. Casa de Campo is a romantic haven, which is popular with celebrities, in fact, Jay-Z and Beyoncé stayed at Casa De Campo to celebrate their wedding anniversary. The hotel is set in 7,000 acres and boasts a luxury spa, Marina & Yacht Club plus Polo & Equestrian Club and tennis centre. www.casadecampo.com.do

Book it!

A 7-night all-inclusive stay in an elite room with patio and including return flights from Manchester and London Gatwick with Thomas Cook start from £1,799 pp.

Wedding packages start from approximately £900. www.thomascook.com

BRIDESABROAD NEWS Be inspired, informed and amazed by the latest news on overseas weddings & honeymoons

Sandals weddings over water

Can you imagine exchanging vows with your loved one over the sparkling waters of the Caribbean Sea? Now you can, thanks to Sandals Resorts International, the Caribbean’s leading luxury all-inclusive hotel company. Sandals has recently renovated its flagship resort, Sandals Montego Bay in Jamaica, and added an Over the Water Bar and Over the Water Wedding Chapel, as well as several new 5-star gourmet dining restaurants, all of which will give weddings and honeymoons at the resort an extra wow factor. Couples can now enjoy premium spirits and stunning views at the new over-the-water bar, Latitudes, which is equipped with hammocks and underwater lighting. Those wanting to say: “I do’ will be delighted to tie the knot over the Caribbean waves in the new over-the-water chapel, which is a truly magical setting. Sandals Montego Bay has also upgraded its room offerings and added a new ‘living room’ lobby area, plus new conference facilities for those mixing business with pleasure! With 16 stunning beachfront settings in Jamaica, Antigua, Saint Lucia, The Bahamas, Barbados and Grenada, Sandals Resorts continues to offer more quality inclusions as part of its all-inclusive package than any other resort company on the planet, making Sandals Resorts the perfect romantic choice for both destination weddings and honeymoons. www.sandals.co.uk

8 www.BridesAbroad.com

Honeymoon in a bubble

Want a wow honeymoon staying in the most extraordinary accommodation? Off the Map are now offering a stay in the amazing Bubble Lodge. Nestling in the jungle on the honeymoon island of Mauritius, a stay in your own bubble hotel room in the grounds of the historic Cap Malheureaux tea plantation in Bois-Cheri is a stunning and unforgettable experience. This intimate honeymoon hideaway offers panoramic views from its breathtaking position amidst the natural surrounds of lush jungle. At night, newlyweds can lie back in air-conditioned luxury, and gaze into the starry night sky from their bedroom or lounge area. The eco-friendly ‘dreaming bubbles’ were created by French designer Pierre Stephane Dumas, and are 100 per cent renewable, designed to have no environmental impact. Guests have the opportunity to add a private gourmet dinner and exclusive waiter service, personal stargazing session from an expert astronomer, street food experiences and tours of the plantation and island by helicopter.

Book it!

Off the Map Travel holidays are tailor-made. For example, a 5-night itinerary to Mauritius, on a halfboard basis, including private transfers, B&B at the Bubble Lodge and Hotel Sakoa (on the beach), a Bois Cheri Tea Plantation tour, helicopter trip over the islands and a Mauritius street food tour costs £1,395 per person, excluding flights. www.offthemap.travel/destinations/mauritius/

Glamping in the Arctic Enjoy toasting the Midnight Sun on your honeymoon with the new Arctic Glamping Under the Midnight Sun experience, launched

by Off the Map Travel. Guests stay in the Arctic Circle in Lavvu, an indigenous Sami tepee, next to a white sandy beach and clear turquoise sea. Here you are offered the chance to fish for your dinner and learn traditional Scandinavian wilderness cooking! The new glamping eco-camp is pitched in one of the world’s most spectacular wilderness locations on the Lofoten Islands, on the banks of one of Norway’s most picturesque fjords framed by the Arctic peaks beyond. In the summer, you can experience the long Arctic summer days – and even the 24-hours of uninterrupted Midnight Sun in June and July, when the temperature rises to a pleasant 15°c. Inside the tepee, the glamping experience is surprisingly luxurious and includes comfortable beds, fine linens and traditional Scandinavian design.

It’s the perfect adventure for honeymooners looking to embrace the great outdoors!

Book it!

While all Off the Map Travel holidays are tailor-made to suit guests’ requirements, a two-night, three-day glamping experience between June and August starts from £1,499 per person FB based on two adults sharing. This includes two nights of glam-camping, a Trollfjord and wildlife cruise, a visit to goat farm and Lofotr Viking Museum, kayaking and a fjords hike. www.offthemap.travel

www.BridesAbroad.com 9

African Safari by vintage train Arrive in the unique style of yesteryear on your African safari honeymoon, aboard the Stimela Star, a private vintage-style sleeper train with a modern diesel engine and beautifully restored carriages dating back to the 1950s. Sleeping up to 24 passengers in twin and single compartments, the train features an elegant dining car and a lounge car with fully-serviced bar. Departing at 7pm from Victoria Falls train station, welcome drinks are served, followed by dinner and liqueurs, and a historic talk on the railways in Zimbabwe.

Guests can retire to their cabins for the night as the train takes them towards Hwange National Park. Breakfast is then served before passengers disembark for their safari adventure.

Book it!

Expert Africa is offering a 10-day Yellow Billed Hornbill Safari, beginning with a few days at Gorges Lodge, where you can visit Victoria Falls, followed by a night aboard Stimela Star train to Hwange National Park, transferring to the opensided Elephant Express for wildlife viewing as you head south of the park for a 4-day safari.

Price £4,596 pp including return flights, FB accommodation, drinks, safari and transfers including Stimela Star and the elephant Express. www.expertafrica.com

Safari glamping Ol Seki Hemingways Mara in Kenya – affectionately known as ‘Ol Sexy’ – is the perfect camp for a wild honeymoon safari.

The camp comprises 10 stylish tents, all with luxuries that make them perfect for honeymooners, and offers newlyweds completely private, safari-chic sleeping under the stars. Each tent has its own vantage point offering a 270 degree views of the wonderful Naboisho Conservancy – an area the size of Manhattan Island, which can only be accessed by the six camps within its boundaries – this ensures that a maximum of 150 visitors can look for game at any one time – a truly exclusive experience! Newlyweds can either relax by their tent, or watch the animals’ graze or head out on a game drive across the plains to spot some unforgettable wildlife – from elephant and hippo to the exclusive leopard.

They can then head back to enjoy a sundowner on the fire deck overlooking the watering hole, and a romantic candle-lit dinner.

Book it!

Honeymoon stays at Ol Seki Hemingways start from £505 per room, per night. This includes full board accommodation; two shared Day Game Drives; 1 shared Night Game Drive; 1 Bush Breakfast; return transfers to Ol Seki airstrip; All drinks except premium drinks and champagne. www.hemingways-collection.com 10 www.BridesAbroad.com

Marfa Road, Cirkewwa, MLH 9068, Malta T. (+356) 2152 1166 F. (+356) 2152 1153 E. events@paradise-bay.com

www.paradise-bay.com

Maldiveshoneymoon–yourstyle!

Why simply Honeymoon when you can Supermoon, Pampermoon, Foodiemoon or Adventuremoon? Mirihi Island in the Maldives is a gorgeous boutique resort and romantic honeymoon haven with just 37 private villas. It has now given honeymooners the chance to choose a honeymoon package, which will best suit their individual taste and style. The 7-night honeymoon packages offer perfect treats for newlyweds and include: The Supermoon (from £4,016 per couple) ¬– the most indulgent package, where bride and groom stay in one of the resort’s best Water Villas and enjoy a private boat trip including Champagne breakfast aboard a traditional Maldivian Dhoni plus a picnic lunch on a private island; a Full Moon Magic spa treatment, a ‘Dolphins at Sunset’ yacht cruise and a private beach cinema experience. The Pampermoon (from £3,932 per couple) includes a week of pure relaxation – private yoga session; two spa treatments including: Full Moon Magic total body ritual

(134 minutes) and the Honeymoon Indulgence Couples Ritual; The Elemental Spa & Dine dinner menu; A private Champagne dinner on the beach. The Foodiemoon (£3,376 per couple) includes a private sunrise fishing trip aboard a Dhoni, then on return their catch of the day will be served for their private candlelit dinner on the beach; Maldivian Cookery Class; Wine or rum and chocolate tasting session. The Adventuremoon (from £3,831 per couple) is for thrill-seeking couples and includes day-and-night snorkeling and diving, A Whale Shark Safari aboard a pine wood yacht, with chance to swim with whale sharks and dolphins plus a trip to a nearby inhabited island to experience authentic Maldivian life; A Dolphins at Sunset cruise allows the couple to toast married life with a glass of bubbly.

Book it!

www.mirihi.com

Romance is in the air

Singapore Airlines is offering treats and extra touches for honeymooners that are bound to heighten the feeling of love. The Singapore Airlines honeymoon offering starts as soon as they begin their flight and includes: A honeymoon cake, which can be preordered to be enjoyed on board in any cabin class. The meal you want – Loved up couples flying Premium Economy or Business Class can take advantage of ‘Book the Cook’ menus, and pre-order their own meals from a comprehensive menu up to 24hrs before they fly. A fizzy flight – Those lucky couples flying Premium Economy or above, gets Champagne served for the whole flight. Cosy up in the air - If honeymooners are travelling on Singapore Airlines’ new A380s, they 12 www.BridesAbroad.com

can experience the new Suites with moveable partitions that allow for double beds and the ability to snuggle together behind closed doors. Even if the budget doesn’t stretch to Suites, double beds can also be created in Business Class! Free vouchers - For those couples transiting through Singapore’s Changi airport and flying Singapore Airlines, a Changi Reward Voucher scheme is available that offers S$40 per couple to spend in the airport, regardless of cabin booked.

It can also be redeemed for two-hour access to the Ambassador Lounge at Changi Airport. Singapore Airlines and its sister airline SilkAir fly to 100 destinations in 35 countries. www.singaporeair.com

Room with a view

Do something awesome on your honeymoon and stay in a spectacular glass pod hotel room that boasts breathtaking views across a beautiful area of New Zealand! Specialist tour operator New Zealand In Depth is pleased to announce the opening of the new, all glass, Pohue PurePod hotel guest room, which gives uninterrupted views in every possible direction over the Banks Peninsular. It’s the fifth PurePod room to be opened across New Zealand’s South Island in a new concept that is proving to be very popular. Its fully glazed, see-through walls, roof and floor make guests feel like they are floating in the landscape, as they look out over the tussock covered hillside across rolling hills to the historic Port Levy Bay. PurePod is tucked into the hillside in a top secret, isolated spot, making it one of the most intimate and romantic honeymoon havens on the planet. The cabin has under

floor heating, so whatever the weather or time of year you visit, the luxurious PurePod delivers an experience that brings you closer to nature. To top it off, the 5-star Pohue PurePod eco-cabin runs on solar power and uses filtered rainwater, so it’s about as off-grid as you can get!

Book it!

A one-night stay through New Zealand In Depth at the Pohue PurePod costs from £225 per person sharing, including a dinner and breakfast hamper. It’s recommend that you stay at PurePod as part of a 12-day travel itinerary covering both the North Island and South Island, Price from £2,300 per person, including transfers, car hire but not flights. www.newzealand-indepth.co.uk

Caribbean meets Indian Ocean

The Indian Ocean has been famous for its beautiful bungalows on stilts above picturesque lagoons. Well now you can enjoy the Indian Ocean experience over turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. You can now stay in a gorgeous over-water villa on the stunning island of Nevis – one of the favourite Caribbean Islands of celebrities and royalty. Paradise Beach Resort in Nevis is debuting five Beach Houses this year, raised on stilts above the sea, these will sit alongside the resort’s existing seven beach villas on its own private beach. On Nevis visitors can enjoy natural, luxurious experiences such as: Climbing volcanic Nevis Peak for a 360 degree view of the six by eight mile island; ‘Rainforest Bathing’ in freshwater pools and volcanic hot springs; Taking advantage of the resort’s private sunrise and sunset beach yoga, personal training sessions, and privately guided hikes; Visiting Alexander Hamilton’s birthplace or the Nevis Philatelic Bureau’s world-famous stamp collection; Sailing across the 2-mile channel to St. Kitts or swimming with the guidance of a Paradise Beach guide;

Book it!

Private flights direct from San Juan to Nevis are available on Tradewind Aviation; Nevis has no commercial airport. Rates for the new Beach Houses will start at £1,160 per night. https://paradisebeachnevis.com

14 www.BridesAbroad.com

Romance by

Lake Como Italy’s Lake Como is truly stunning! There can be few places in the world with more wow factor for dream weddings and honeymoons

With its sparkling ink blue waters and beautiful lush mountain backdrop, no wonder Lake Como is Italy’s number one destination for romantic honeymoons and is the perfect place to say “I do”. The lake, and its surrounding towns and villages, offer some of Italy’s most dreamy settings for weddings in magical venues to suit all tastes and styles!

Set in Northern Italy’s Lombardy region, within easy reach of Milan and its international airport, Lake Como is Italy’s third largest lake and is shaped like an upside down Y, with three slender branches that meet at the resort town of Bellagio. The city of Como can be found at the bottom of the

16 www.BridesAbroad.com

southwest branch, it lends its name to the lake and is home to Renaissance architecture.

Set against the foothills of the Alps, Lake Como is worldrenowned for its wonderful landscapes and pretty lakeside towns and villages that are linked by a regular passenger ferry service as well as a road that winds along the lakeside, offering lovely views. The most popular tourist spots are Bellagio, Menaggio, Tremezzo and Varenna – notorious for their picturesque beauty, and their impressive villas, historical hotels and gorgeous Mediterranean gardens with colourful flowers in abundance.

Glamorous location

The upscale Lake Como area oozes sophistication, elegance and glamour, as it has done through the years gone by – historically aristocrats from noble families of the northern part of Italy spent, and still spend their free time in their own splendid lakeside mansions that grace the shores of the lake. No wonder Hollywood legend George Clooney and his wife Amal have made this area their second home and regularly entertain famous friends at their luxury villa overlooking the lake.

Star quality

Talking of Hollywood, many famous movies have been filmed in and around Lake Como, including Ocean’s Twelve with George Clooney and Brad Pitt, which was shot in Cernobbio and at George Clooney’s own property, Villa Oleandra in Laglio Town. The romantic scene of Anakin Skywalker and Padme’s wedding in Star Wars Episode II was shot at Villa del Balbianello, which was also the movie set for James Bond’s Casino Royale.

A number of celebrities have chosen to say; “I do” in this stunning Italian setting, including Chrissie Taigen and John Legend and Emily Blunt and John Krasinski.

The area boasts an idyllic climate for most of the year – so weddings and honeymoons can take place between March and November – after which the surrounding mountains hold their own form of magic, when the winter sports season kicks in. The glitzy town of St Moritz is one of the popular ski resorts, which are within easy reach.

Weddings at Lake Como Over the last few years, Lake Como has

rapidly gained popularity as one of the world’s favourite wedding destinations, and with a choice of breathtaking wedding and reception venues, it’s easy to see why. It is also an easy and short trip for wedding parties to reach from all UK airports, so your guests will appreciate its accessibility.

Villa del Balbianello, Villa Carlotta and Villa D’Este (chosen by Forbes Traveler as best hotel of the world!) are amongst the most desired venues on and around the Lake.

The food and drink offering in the area is also second to none, with many high-end restaurants to choose from around the lake. There are several Michelin-starred restaurants and reputed chefs as Luciano Parolari works at Villa D’Este and Ettore Bocchia is Villa Serbelloni’s chef in Bellagio.

Wedding planning

For the Italian law, all non-resident couples can get married in Italy as long as they follow the correct paperwork procedure. It is a good idea to use the services of a wedding planning service that specializes in Lake Como weddings.

They can hold your hand every step of the way, from ensuring that all legal paperwork requirements are in place to finding you the perfect venue and excellent suppliers at the best possible prices. Alessandra Fabi is the Italian Lakes Wedding’s coordinator for lake Como area. She specializes in weddings which are refined, sophisticated and with a special attention to details (www. italianweddingcompany.com).

Villa Carlotta

You can marry in this stunning historical Villa and museum located in Tremezzo. Its fabulous gardens and terraces are famous all over the world. The Villa is open to public visitors everyday though a stunning private terrace can be rented for exclusive use by the wedding party. Cocktails can be served, but then the party must move to a different venue for the wedding breakfast.

Catholic ceremonies

On Lake Como there are three Churches available to host legally-binding Catholic ceremonies for non-resident couples, Two are located in Varenna and include San Giorgio Church in the main square of the lovely village of Varenna and San Martino Church in Perledo is located up on Varenna hills, offering magnificent views across the lake; San Abbondio Church in Tremezzo is situated near the picturesque lakeside town of Tremezzo.

Civil ceremonies

The general rule is that legally binding Civil ceremonies have to be performed inside any of the Town Halls of Lake Como. However there are a few exceptions, which include some absolutely beautiful venues outdoors in villas overlooking the lake or in splendid gardens – Villa Balbianello, Villa Cipressi and Villa Carlotta.

Villa del Balbianello

This spectacular yet intimate villa is reached by boat and located on Lenno’s promontory. Your ceremony can be performed in its grounds and followed by a delightful reception dinner and party in the gardens, under the Loggia or under the marquee.

Villa Cipressi

Ceremonies can take place in this small 32-room hotel in the picture-perfect village of Varenna in the pretty gardens, followed by lunch or dinner at the hotel.

Gorgeous views, reasonable prices and the opportunity to keep the whole group together staying at the same venue make this a popular and unique choice.

Symbolic blessings

The easiest choice when marrying at Lake Como is to opt for a Symbolic blessing – you can have your legally binding ceremony in the UK and just repeat the ceremony on Lake Como. This avoids having to worry about international paperwork, and the service can be performed at any private villa or hotel on Lake Como. Couples have the advantage of spending their entire wedding day at the same venue, thus saving the cost of guest transportation from one venue to another.

Reception venues

Lake Como style means you can choose to host your reception at a private villa for an outdoor cocktail, dinner and dancing or a luxury hotel such as the gorgeous Villa D’Este or Villa Serbelloni. Or you could simply choose a pretty lakeside restaurant with beautiful views of the lake.

Whatever you choose, your guests will thank you if you keep the wedding and reception venues within easy reach of each other.

www.BridesAbroad.com 17

REAL WEDDINGS

Love Vows by

Lake Como

/EXI ERH -P]E W FIEYXMJYP [IHHMRK MR XLI -XEPMER PEOIW 18 www.BridesAbroad.com

Love had been brewing for a while in the London bank where Russians Kate Efremona and Ilya Petrov worked together. However, it took three long years before the couple shared their first date. After that things moved quickly and they sealed their love in a delightful ceremony by Lake Como, one of Italy’s most romantic destinations

Finding ‘the one’ We met while working in a bank together. It wasn’t really ‘love at first sight’ – we knew each other for about three years before we started dating. However, when we went on our first date, it was very clear for both of us that we are meant for each other.

The proposal Ilya proposed only about six months after we started dating and completely took me by surprise. The actual proposal was not planned out, but rather simple and just part of a conversation. I only got a ring about six months after we got engaged! I thought he was joking when he said it, so he got down on one knee and asked me properly, to which I of course said: “Yes!”

Location location

The weather in the UK is completely unpredictable and we really wanted it to be sunny and warm on our wedding day.

Even in Italy though, the weather is not guaranteed. It rained really heavily just the day before our wedding. However, on the wedding day we got very lucky and the weather was perfect. We spent several weekends travelling to different locations in Europe, including France and Italy.

We researched all possible locations, including hotels, villas, castles, etc.

There was one place, which we felt was absolutely perfect for us – Villa D’Este on Lake Como.

The planning

We did all travel arrangements ourselves,

including our families, photographers, videographers, hairdresser and even our priest! The guests, however, made their own arrangments for flights and hotels.

We were very particular about how we wanted our wedding day to be, so we planned it all minute by minute. It took us a whole year of planning, but it was definitely worth it – it really was the best day of our lives!

The guests

We had about 60 guests. Close family stayed with us at Villa D’Este hotel, but all others made their own arrangements.

Most people were very happy to travel. We also picked a bank holiday weekend for our wedding, which meant people could travel for the wedding and then spend an extra day relaxing and enjoying Lake Como. www.BridesAbroad.com 19

REAL WEDDINGS

Getting the look

My wedding dress was from Caroline Castigliano. It was one of the first ones I tried on and I absolutely fell in love with it. The skirt was made from organza and was very light and flowy. Shoes were from Christian Laboutin in white satin, which matched the dress perfectly. Belt and veil were the same brand as the dress – Caroline Castigliano. The veil had sparkling beads sewn around the edges, which looked stunning in the sunshine.

I did my own make up, however, I had a hairdresser who did my hair. We had a couple of hair trials beforehand and that ensured my hair was flawless on the day.

Something old, something new?

Something Old – platinum and diamond bracelet I had for years and wore almost every day; Something New – the shoes, dress, veil and wedding underwear; Something Borrowed – my mothers diamond earrings and matching necklace; Something Blue – blue ribbon on the garter.

Groom & bridesmaids

Ilya and his ushers wore black tie suit and white shirt. I had three bridemaids, who wore the same dresses. It took us a while to decide which dresses they should wear, and whether they should be tailor-made.

In the end we found perfect ones in a high street shop in a peach colour.

20 www.BridesAbroad.com

The details There was no particular theme to the wedding. It was quite traditional, but also had some Russia-specific moments, as both our families originally come from Russia.

I chose pastel coloured flowers for my wedding – light pink, white, peach, etc.

The brides’ bouquet had only roses – white, peach and pink. Bridesmaids had just white roses, and the centrepieces at the tables had a range of different flowers, including roses, hydrangers and lisianthus.

The church was only decorated in white flowers.

For our cake, we had a traditional Italian cake – it was made by the hotel and was beautifully decorated with flowers. It had three flavours – chocolate, black forest with cherries and vanilla.

The ceremony The ceremony took place in a Catholic church called San Vincenzo in a small village Cernobbio, not far from the hotel where we had reception and dinner. The service lasted around an hour and we were married by a priest from our local church in London, as the one in Italy could only speak Italian and we could not communicate without a translator.

My father gave me away. We then had an Italian opera singer, who sang a gorgeous Ave Maria after the ceremony.

The reception

After the service our reception was held at Villa D’Este hotel. We chose a purple dimmed lighting for the room, which worked very nicely. Although we didn’t go for a particular theme for our wedding we had beautiful floral centrepieces at each table and also candles and smaller flowers around the table. Our menu included: Courgette blossom filled with vegetable and truffle sauce; Crepe mille feuille with vegetable and buffalo’s Mozzarella cheese; Risotto with Champagne, duck liver and balsamic reduction; Angus beef fillet with tomato tartare, capers and black olive; Warm chocolate tart with Cognac heart and Malaga ice cream.

First Dance

We decided not to do a First Dance, but we did have two entertainers laid on – one speaking Russian and another one English and they complemented each other nicely, so none of our guests felt left out.

Photographic memories

We had photography done by Kate Hopewell-Smith, which were absolutely brilliant and created most beautiful memories for us to treasure. We also had a video, done by Magnolia, which was also superb. One of my favourite photographs was taken on the boat just after the ceremony. We went to have a 40-minute cruise around Lake Como while the guests were walking back to the hotel from the church where drinks were served while

they waited for us to return. It really was the most special moment as we were alone to toast each other right after being married, and enjoy the beautiful view before returning to our guests.

Magic moments

The whole day was very special – it would be impossible to chose just one moment.

It was filled with lots of fun and laughter at dinner, thanks to our guests and entertainers.

The honeymoon

After our wedding we travelled on to several countries for our honeymoon. We spent one week relaxing on the beach and another week travelling around Europe.

On budget?

I cant remember exactly how much our wedding cost in total, but not cheap!

Further information WEDDING PLANNER IN ITALY Silvia Anzani at Villa D’Este VENUE Villa D’Este PHOTOGRAPHER Kate Hopewell-Smith by Lumiere

www.BridesAbroad.com 21

Magical Malta

If you want so much more than simply sun, sea and sand then Malta, with its glorious heritage, offers an incredible choice of wedding venues and an abundance of historical buildings, picturesque piazzas and dramatic landscapes to keep honeymooners enthralled 22 www.BridesAbroad.com

The beautiful islands of Malta and its neighbouring Gozo and Comino, form a tiny archipelago nestling at the heart of the Mediterranean, which have a rich blend of cultures – from Moorish to Italian, and British too – as a consequence of frequent past invasions by those nations who have tried to make Malta their own.

With sunshine throughout the year, ease of communication (because everyone speaks English as their second language) and a wealth of historical architecture that will make a glorious backdrop to your photographs, a wedding or honeymoon, or both, in Malta could be the perfect choice.

With such a history, Malta offers a wide choice of venues and settings for weddings – from grand palazzo and villas to quiet beaches and gardens.

Top 5 Things To Do 1 2

Historical Malta There is plenty for you and your guests to see and do – film fans can visit the locations where Gladiator and Troy were filmed, foodies will be impressed with local wines and seafood and sun worshippers will love to simply stretch out on a beach with a good book or swim in the inky blue Mediterranean sea.

Valletta, the islands’ capital, is a glorious city of golden stone, flanked on either side by magnificent natural harbours. Within this fortress the Renaissance streets unfold in an elegant grid, lined with princely palaces and dominated by the spectacular Co-Cathedral of St John. It is a place to learn about the fascinating history of the island and the Knight of the order of St John, followed by quiet reflection over a coffee or lazy lunches whilst people watching. It’s also a good place to browse the shops and markets – you can find amazing bargains here, such as stylish and fashionable jeans for just £5!

Culture vultures will love the Hagar Qim and Mnandra temples, built on the coast of the Mediterranean over a thousand years before Stone Henge. Older family members could be

3 4 5

Stroll through the Silent City Get a taste of traditional Malta in Mdina, situated on a hill at the centre of Malta. Meander through the charming, narrow cobbled streets within the medieval walled city – nicknamed Silent City because no cars are allowed – though wedding cars are one of the exceptions!

Explore the underground temple This UNESCO World Heritage site of Hal Saflieni Hypogeum is the only pre-historic underground temple in the world. This historical burial ground is packed with statues, tombs, rock carvings, chambers and passages carved out of the rock.

Don’t forget to visit the Oracle Room where a woman’s voice won’t echo, but spookily, a man’s will!

Party in Paceville Visit Paceville after dark – it’s a must for those looking for nightlife.

Whether you’re up for a pint at the pub or a night of letting loose on the dance floor, you will not be disappointed. Paceville, the nightlife district, offers everything from bars to restaurants and nightclubs.

Discover the Blue Lagoon TTake a ferry day trip to the car-free island of Comino, between Malta and Gozo that is virtually uninhabited with just one hotel. Most people come to admire the Blue Lagoon, which is a sheltered inlet of water, popular with sun worshippers and snorkelers.

Be pampered at the spa Treat yourselves to a sensuous Shirodhara Indian head massage at the famous Kempinski Gozo Ayurvedic Spa. Relax as warm oil is drizzled over your forehead and massaged into your hair – the sensation is sublime! awww. kempinski.com

intrigued by the wealth of Second World War history on the island, which was an incredibly important strategic port. Vera Lynn songs are still played at the pretty Upper Barrakka Gardens, looking out across the stunning harbour. Or visit the pretty fishing village of Marsaxlokk, about 35 minutes from Valetta on the south east corner of Malta and see the pretty painted boats bobbing about in the bay.

Don’t forget to take your camera!

Gorgeous Gozo Gozo, Malta’s charming sister island, accessed by ferry or seaplane, provides a tranquil haven for a tempo and scene change from Mainland Malta. Gozo is greener, more rural and smaller with fishing and agriculture as its main industries and Baroque churches and old stone farmhouses dotting the countryside.

Take the opportunity to explore Gozo’s rugged landscape and spectacular coastline, which boasts some of the Mediterranean’s best dive sites. The island also comes complete with historical sites, forts and amazing panoramas, as well as one of the archipelago’s bestpreserved prehistoric temples, gantija. At the western tip are wild and wave battered cliffs with dramatic rock formations known as Dwejra, some of the island’s natural landmarks can be found there including the stunning Blue Hole – a romantic locations for memorable wedding photographs

Best time to visit For mild, warm weather, when the island is lush and green, go from mid February to midMay. For sunshine, and a more North African desert feel, go mid-May, June, September or October. Avoid July and August, when it’s 40 degrees and humid and can get crowded with families and cruise ships.

Further information www.visitmalta.com www.visitgozo.com

www.BridesAbroad.com 23

REAL WEDDINGS

Vows of love in

Malta

+ISVKMRE ERH 1MGLEIP W KSVKISYW GIVIQSR] MR LMWXSVMG 1EPXE 24 www.BridesAbroad.com

When school friends Georgina Hyatt and Michael James Sharp from Chertsey, Surrey, met in their Sixth Form Common Room, sparks began to fly. Little did they imagine that years later they would be flying their friends and family out to the stunning island of Malta for their wedding ceremony in the Mediterranean sunshine!

Finding ‘the one’ We met at school. I began my first year of Sixth Form and Michael was in the year above me.

Michael says it was love at first sight! I studied Fine Art and Photography and he says he remembers me walking into the common room with my big folder of course work and bumping into everyone!

I was 16 and he was 17. He passed his driving test a month after meeting me and he used to drop me and my younger brother home, despite him only living round the corner from the school!

The proposal He proposed at home. I always told him that I wanted his proposal to be private and minimum fuss. After he “popped the question” we went down to our local pub that evening where he had arranged for all of our family and friends to get together to celebrate! He proposed in March and had taken the afternoon off work without me knowing. He travelled over to my parents’ home to ask their permission for my hand in marriage - they were apparently gob-smacked and in tears! I came home from work that evening and he had cooked a lovely Shepherd’s Pie (Michael never cooks, so I knew something was up!) We finished our main-course and he then served ‘dessert’. A bowl was sitting upside down on top of another bowl.

As he placed it on the table, he asked me to remove the top bowl to reveal my dessert. (I was so nervous by this point as I started to realise what was about to happen!) I removed the bowl and a ring box was sitting in the centre of the bowl.

He grabbed it, got down on one knee and asked me to marry him! After almost nineyears together, Michael proposed! My younger sister, Eleanor, was at university in London at the time and he met with her in Hatton Garden to help choose the ring!

I had no idea he had gone to so much effort!

Location, location I suppose the weather is one of the main

reasons for choosing to get married abroad. Originally we were looking at venues in the Cotswolds. As beautiful as the venues were, you just can’t guarantee the weather in the UK. In fact it was Michael’s idea to get married abroad and eventually he got me on-board with his idea. Malta is my grandmother Monica’s, birthplace and growing up, my grandparents used to take their eight grandchildren to Malta for a week during the May half term - they’re crazy I know!

Every year we would explore more and more of the island, visiting markets, cathedrals and swimming in the gorgeous waters! We discovered that Malta is a hidden gem, so rich in culture! I thought this was the perfect opportunity to showcase Malta to our friends and family, and most of all, share the biggest day of our lives at such an unforgettable location!

The planning

An old school friend of mine married in Malta two years prior to our wedding. I reached out to her via social media in the hope of gaining some recommendations and advice about her own wedding planning experience. She recommended her wedding planner, Sarah Young, who she spoke very highly of. I emailed Sarah with our requirements and in no time she responded with lots of information, including available venues and services they could offer. It was a lot to take in, but very informative and I immediately felt at ease, knowing I had contacted somebody with such great knowledge and portfolio.

We communcated with Sarah over email for a few weeks exchanging ideas. We organised our flights ourselves. Just like booking any holiday, we booked via Air Malta’s website as this airline had the best flight times!

We chose Villa Bologna from the list of venues Sarah offered, and Michael and I arranged to fly over to Malta for the weekend in December, to meet with Sarah and the team and to see the beautiful venue in real life – this is not vital, but highly recommended! Our planner drove us to and from the venue from our hotel and it was a great opportunity to get to know each other in person. From this

point, everything else was taken care of via email to ensure that when we landed in Malta for our wedding almost everything, including flowers, music, cake and menu, had been arranged and agreed. Even items that were not on the ‘list’ they were more than willing to help with, including a specific song, which wasn’t on the string quartets repertoire – we provided them with the sound sheets and they made this happen for us.

The guests We invited around 100 people and 84 guests were able to come to Malta with us. We were extremely grateful and thankful for our friends and family for making the trip - it wouldn’t have been the same without a single one of them! Michael and I, and the majority of our guests stayed at the 5* Corinthia St George’s Bay in St Julian’s – it’s a gorgeous hotel with beautiful grounds and pool areas located amidst the lively restaurants and bars of St Julian’s – perfect as most guests were in their 20’s - 30’s. The hotel also hosted an event for us the night before the wedding in the hotel grounds with music, drinks and an incredible buffet of Mediterranean food.

Most of our guests were thrilled that the wedding would be abroad. As our wedding was in October, the majority of them spent three nights, if not longer, exploring and sunning themselves before winter in the UK kicked in!

Getting the look My wedding gown was from Halfpenny, a British bridal brand. They have a small boutique located by St Pancreas Station showcasing their famous bridal two pieces. It was 100% silk, very glamourous yet simple and elegant. It had a long open back and a flattering halter neck, which tied in a loose bow. We had a fairly relaxed theme; I didn’t want anything to be too over-the-top. I wanted everything to look and feel effortlessly gorgeous.

Our florist (organised by our wedding planner) put together the most stunning floral headpieces for both me and my www.BridesAbroad.com 25

REAL WEDDINGS

bridesmaid. My bridesmaid had a huge floral headband and I had an arrangement on a comb that was nestled into a messy bun at the back of my head. They contained lots of greenery with Orchids and Peonies. Other than that, I wore very little accessories. I wanted to keep things simple – Bohemian glamour! I had no other jewellery apart from my engagement and wedding ring on the day. I had a high neckline and so no other jewellery was necessary.

Sarah Young recommended a make-up artist for me. I had the opportunity to have a trial when we visited in December and loved her work. I booked for two stylists from the hotel salon to visit my room the morning of the wedding - they did my Mother’s, bridesmaid and my hair beautifully.

Groom & bridesmaids Michael and I went shopping for his suit in Westfields, London as I saw it as my job to ensure that the bridal party tied in with the venue decor. He went for an off-beige two-piece suit with a faint blue check. He teamed it with a classic white shirt, brown monk strap loafers, floral blue tie and a fun addition of brown leather braces.

I had one bridesmaid, who was my younger sister, Eleanor. She wore a dusky pink jersey wrap-around maxi dress from Twobirds, which can be worn in 15 ways.

We visited their showroom in Covent Garden where the stylist demonstrated all the different ways in which the dress could be styled. Definitely a great idea if you have a group of bridesmaids of different heights and shapes! The pink tied in lovely with the best man and ushers’ accessories and, of course, our beautiful floral headpieces.

The details We didn’t have a fixed theme for the wedding, we wanted it to feel quite relaxed and let the venue do the talking.

Our entire wedding day was outside and the majority of the additional decor consisted of flower arrangements in pink hues, which added to the naturally beautiful surroundings.

My bridesmaid and I each had a bouquet, which I asked to be quite large and natural looking. I didn’t want a neat nor perfectly shaped arrangement. I had a lot of greenery, including eucalyptus randomly spraying out with gorgeous large roses and peonies in different varieties of pink nestled in between.

26 www.BridesAbroad.com

Which had a ‘naked’ wedding cake consisting of three layers of rich gooey chocolate cake, sandwiched with white chocolate butter cream and salted caramel dripping from each tier - all complete with real flowers at random intervals. The cake was iced so that the sponge was exposed on the odd occasion. We sent images of how we wanted our cake to look via our wedding planner and the pastry chef for the venue did a fantastic job! The next morning over breakfast we visited our guests’ tables offering them a slice, so none went to waste - it tasted so delicious!

The ceremony My father, Douglas, gave me away - I think he was more nervous than me! We travelled in a beautiful Beauford winding through the old Capital until we reached the venue. My sister was in the front seat and my dad and I were in the back. This was such a lovely moment, having some father and daughter time to settle our nerves.

The ceremony took place at a villa in the centre of the island. It was a charming, elegant and welcoming 18th century Maltese country house, set amidst Mediterranean gardens. I walked down the aisle surrounded by majestic fountains, citrus orchards with our guests sitting on chairs laid out on the impeccably kept lawn. The whole ceremony took place outdoors, the sun was shining, our string quartet was playing and it was absolutely stunning.

28 www.BridesAbroad.com

Although it felt like a lifetime, our ceremony lasted only around 15/20 minutes. I found this part of the day the most nerve-wracking; I don’t like attention and so wanted the shortest ceremony possible. We had two readings, read by Michael’s two cousins, our witnesses were also called up, we exchanged rings, said our vows and with that we walked hand-in-hand back down the aisle to the sound of our string quartet and our guests throwing confetti!

aged balsamic reduction. Dessert was mango cake, dark chocolate & almond paste served with pear ice cream. It was perfectly timed and beautifully organised by our planners. We had time to get up between courses to mingle with our guests.

We opted for a slightly unconventional table set up – with just Michael and I sitting at our top table. It was nice for us to use this time to chat to one another without interruptions as we looked out over our guests. The table decorations included a large candle in a clear vase with flowers. We had gorgeous wedding stationary made up by a calligrapher, Gemma Milly, including individual menus, name tags and table names, which were all hand painted, decorated with pink flowers, all in water colour.

We were married by a registrar whose contact details had been provided to us

by Sarah Young – she had used her for many clients’ weddings in the past. We contacted her via email as soon as we had booked our wedding date and we met two days before the wedding in Malta.

Sarah drove us to the Malta registry office where we had to show our passports, birth certificates and briefly rehearse the way in which the ceremony would go. We also had to complete a list of paperwork enabling our wedding to be legal on the day.

Throughout the ceremony and over dinner, the string quartet played an amazing repertoire - the list was endless. They were set up under the tress in the shade and sounded so beautiful.

The reception

First Dance

We were served the most delicious Mediterranean three-course wedding breakfast just as the sun set over the gorgeous Villa. The starter was goats cheese & walnut ravioletti, aubergine caviar, caramelised courgettes & chive cream. The main course consisted of seared sea bream, black olive dauphinoise, braised fennel, caper &

Our courtyard dance floor was set beneath two large trees dressed with four large suspended chandeliers. We danced to a Lana Del Ray track called ‘Young and Beautiful’. Our guests said the song was so fitting with the venue, dramatic and romantic. After the wedding breakfast, we had a DJ who played until midnight as we danced under the chandelier-lit trees.

for sale SMALL NATION WITH GREAT POTENTIAL 316km2 of surface area 365 churches 300 days of sunshine a year 10s of outdoor and sea view venues 5 islands in total 2 official languages including english 1 award winning DESTINATION wedding planner

MALTA & GOZO www.idoknot.com

|weddings@idoknot.com

Photographic memories We flew our photographer and his assistant across from the UK, Adam Nicholas Films. He had previously photographed Liam’s (Michael’s older brother) wedding and we knew he was good. He visited the venue the day before our wedding, as we wanted shots of the scenic Villa Bologna without guests as well as with. He used this opportunity to fly his drone over the venue and got a beautiful clip of Villa Bologna from a bird’s eye view - he used this clip in our wedding video.

I love the fact our wedding was outdoors; photographs always look so much better in the daylight as opposed to indoors.

Adam did the most stunning job with all photographs and the video.

Magic moments I can’t pinpoint my favourite moment of the wedding day, as it really was all so special. For us I think the whole experience of getting married abroad was the highlight – it was a whole weekend of fun. We felt privileged to have friends and family with us, not just for our special day, but also for an extended weekend with us. The day after our wedding was so much fun for us. Our hotel was right by the sea with a little diving spot. We spent the day in the sun with a big group 30 www.BridesAbroad.com

of family and friends, old and young – such a great mix and everyone getting along, mingling and having fun!

On budget?

The overall cost of the wedding was around £25,000. This included our planners services, marriage registrar, marriage documents, venue hire & set up, wedding cake, toast reception with canapés, wedding breakfast, transport, flowers & decoration, string quartet & DJ. We arranged the photography and video separately, which was around £3,000. It was slightly over budget, but it was our wedding day and we have no regrets!

Further information WEDDING PLANNER Sarah Young Luxury Event and Wedding Planner Email sarah@sarahyoungevents.com Tel: +356 9925 3265 www.sarahyoungevents.com VENUE Villa Bologna in Attard www.villabologna.com PHOTOGRAPHER Adam McNicholas

An idyllic location by the Ocean is just one good reason to choose our Resort as the venue for your Wedding.

Located by the ocean and close to a nature reserve, the Vidamar Resort Hotel Algarve offers different outstanding venues for your ceremony and an array of facilities and services to spoil your in-house invitees before the main event.

Let yourself get involved by the charm of the resort hotel, the choice of facilities, the service excellency and allow your dream to come true.

B ki Bookings: ((+351) 351) 289 038 003 Email: events@algarve.vdm.pt Herdade dos Salgados, Rua Boca da Alagoa, Lote 1, Fase 2, 8200-424 Guia- Alfufeira

GPS GPS: Latitude: 37.090497/37º 5’ 25.78” Longitude: -8.324525/ -8º 19’ 28.28”

www.vidamarresorts.com

VOWS IN THE

ALGARVE

If you want a bright, warm, sunshine destination that’s just a short hop away from the UK, then Portugal’s Algarve is a perfect choice 32 www.BridesAbroad.com

However, we recommend you use the services of a dedicated wedding planner who can assist with ideas, venues, suppliers and all the necessary documentation.

Blue skies, white villages and golden sandy beaches framed by jagged limestone cliffs await visitors to the Algarve, making it idyllic for destination weddings and honeymoons.

From pretty sheltered coves to wide stretches of pristine sand, not forgetting its pretty towns and villages and world-class golf courses, The Algarve has it all! However this region of Portugal has so much more to offer than simply sun, sea and sand.

Situated at the southern tip of Portugal, the 200-kilometre Algarve coastline blends a rich mixture of year-round warm sunshine, beautiful scenery, history, culture, lush golf courses, and an extensive choice of luxury hotels and villas that are ideal venues to host your ‘big day’ or honeymoon – or both.

For golfers, there couldn’t be a better destination to marry or honeymoon.

The Algarve boasts over 30 challenging golf courses, in fact some of the luxury golf resort hotels in the Algarve cater for destination weddings, which is especially ideal for golf-loving couples and guests.

There’s also an abundance of watersports available, plus tennis and cycling along coastal paths. The lesser-known wild, western Algarve embraces the power of the Atlantic – it’s ideal for surfers as well as spotting dolphins, bird watching and nature trails.

The Algarve’s whitewashed villages beg to be explored, with their enchanting narrow streets and winding alleys. Shop for locally hand-crafted souvenirs and sample the regions delicious wines and cuisine, prepared with fresh local ingredients. The pretty town churches make a beautiful alternative to the beach for a more traditional wedding. As night falls you can stroll along the marinas and sample the Algarve’s lively nightlife in bars, discos and casinos.

Whichever part of the Algarve you choose, it will most definitely have all the ingredients for an unforgettable wedding or honeymoon – from the warm welcome you will receive and stunning scenery to excellent local wines – at superb prices – and delicious food, The Algarve has got it all!

Civil Ceremony Couples no longer need to have a 30-day residency requirement, making it easier for non-residents to have a legally binding Civil Ceremony in Portugal. Civil weddings can take place at many venues, from a Registry Office to a beach ceremony.

Legals

Catholic Ceremony

For your Civil Ceremony you will need:

Catholic wedding ceremonies are always celebrated in churches rather than hotel and beach venues, and because Portugal is a very religious country it has an abundance of beautiful churches – from small and simple to grand and richly decorated in religious iconography. There are also plenty of English-speaking priests in the Algarve.

• • • •

Identification documents Birth Certificates A Certificate of No Impediment Additionally you may need divorce certificates or death certificates of former partners or previous marriage certificates.

• All documents must be translated into Portuguese and notarized locally, and you will need a translator for the civil ceremony.

For Catholic Ceremonies you will also need: • Documentation from your parish priest granting permission for the ceremony • Documentation for the Bishop of your parish • Documentation regarding baptism, first communion and confirmation

Marry in the Algarve Whether on a sandy beach, a cliff top, a hotel garden, golf resort, local church or private marquee or villa, you can choose from a host of gorgeous venues to tie the knot in the Algarve to suit your individual taste, style and budget. Select the style of ceremony of your dreams – from a legally binding civil wedding ceremony to a bespoke blessing performed by a Celebrant or a religious Catholic or Protestant ceremony.

If you are marrying at one of the hotels, there are usually wedding co-ordinators on hand to help you every step of the way.

Church of England Ceremony If you want a C of E ceremony in Portugal, there are several English-speaking Vicars in the Algarve who are able to perform ceremonies in the Catholic churches, with prior permission from the Catholic Priest.

They can personalize the ceremony to your requirements and are also able to perform weddings at other selected locations.

Blessings Like a Civil Wedding, a Blessing Ceremony can take place at any location in the Algarve. This ceremony is ideal for couples wanting to renew their vows. However, a blessing ceremony does not form a legal marriage contract and is purely symbolic, so if you want to become legally married you will also need a Civil ceremony at your local Registry Office in the UK.

Wedding Planners www.algarvedreamweddings.com www.algarveweddingplanners.com www.weddingplannersalgarve.com

www.BridesAbroad.com 33

REAL WEDDINGS

Disney Magic in the Algarve

+EFVMIPE ERH 6YFIR W (MWRI] XLIQIH RYTXMEPW 34 www.BridesAbroad.com

A dream job aboard a Disney-themed cruise ship soon led to meeting the man of her dreams for Gabriela Yamauti, from Brazil. But it was on a stopover at the port of Lisbon in his native Portugal that Ruben Garcia plucked up the courage to propose to her, and the couple sealed their love in a romantic ceremony, which featured more than a sprinkling of Mickey and Minnie style magic Finding ‘the one’ We first met while I was part of the entertainment team at Disney Cruiseline, and Ruben was the ship’s food and beverage manager. Was it love at first sight? For sure! It happened when we met at my first crew party in the first week on-board.

The Proposal He asked me to marry him in a beautiful place called Terreiro do Paço in Lisbon.

We were very excited to be at this port, because Ruben was born in Portugal, and it meant that he could show me around his beautiful country and let me sample its delightful food! We had started on a tour going through some tourist spots like Castelo de São Jorge”, churches and Rua do Comércio.

On the way back to the ship, he asked me if we could stay a while longer in Terreiro do Paço, at a spot with a beautiful view of Ponte 25 de Abril”. We’ve sat on the stairs close to the river enjoying the view and the sun. I was a little worried about the time, because I had to go back to work, but I thought he was homesick, so I tried to be more patient. We sat there in silence for a few minutes, so I began to realise that he was nervous, and I had no idea why. Then he asked me if I loved him enough to spend the rest of my life by his side and said that he had never felt so sure about something in his life, He then took out a gorgeous ring from his pocket and asked if I would marry him! It was totally unexpected and, of course, I said “Yes!”

Location location I am from Brazil and was living out there at the time. I have now moved to

Portugal to be with him. We decided to marry in Portugal firstly because I knew that Algarve is an amazing location for a wedding. Then I started searching on the Internet for all the hotels in Algarve, then I chose a few that I liked. After that I travelled to Portugal to decide which hotel would be our chosen wedding venue.

We visited all of them and decided that Vidamar was perfect for us!

The planning I had a wedding planner’s help with the arrangements. They were very helpful with every aspect of our wedding. We began planning everything about 10 months before our big day.

The guests We had 96 guests at the wedding. They were very excited to travel and explore Portugal. Our guests from Brazil stayed at VIdamar Hotel where the wedding was being held.

Getting the look My wedding dress was long, white and had about 50 thousand Swarovski crystals, the stylist is from Brazil, his name is Irasel Valentin. We decided on the Disney theme to style our wedding.

I had in my hair decorated in the same crystals as my dress and wore a veil with some hidden Mickeys. My earrings were a silver Swarovski crystal and my ring was a Mickey head also made with Swarovski.

My shoes were white with very high heels.

I chose a classic and romantic bouquet with roses and also Mickey crystals. www.BridesAbroad.com 35

REAL WEDDINGS

Something Old, Something New… I had the dress as new and my underwear as blue

Groom & bridesmaids The men wore black tuxedos with gold cravats and a rose boutonnière My bridesmaids wore gold dresses and white corsages.

The details Working for Disney was my dream since I was a little kid, so when I finally got the job aboard the Disney Cruiseline and I met the love of my life in the first week of work, it seemed an obvious choice that we should have a Disney theme to our wedding! Our wedding flowers were Lilium, hortensia and roses, and the wedding cake was white with three tiers. In the middle tier were the words “happily ever after”, the other tiers had gold Mickeys. Each tier had a flavour, the biggest was chocolate, the middle almond (traditional in the Algarve) and the top was red velvet. Our cake topper was Mickey and Minnie.

The ceremony The wedding ceremony took place on an ocean facing deck in the grounds of the hotel. It lasted around 45 minutes and was a Civil marriage service. I was given away by my father.

The reception We held the Wedding Breakfast at Le Palmeraie, with a delicious menu that included cod fish, scallops, chateaubriand and tiramisu. For our table decorations, each table represented a Disney movie.

We had 12 tables (main table was Mickey and Minnie, the other tables were - Frozen, Rapunzel, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Ariel, Cinderella, Pocahontas, Hercules, Mulan, Snow White and Sleeping Beauty) Each table had a high centerpiece with flowers, the Disney Couple silhouette made with MDF, an object related to the movie, gold hand mirrors with the menu inside and napkins holders with our initials.

36 www.BridesAbroad.com

REAL WEDDINGS

First Dance I choreographed with Tale As Old As Time from Beauty and the Beast for our First Dance. Then we had a live band and a DJ.

Photographic memories Our wedding photographer was Marco Torre, he is outstanding! We had a wedding video filmed with Algarve Wedding Films, which was incredible!

Magic moments The most wonderful memories were the fireworks and my dad’s speech.

The funniest memory was the ‘surprise dance’ for the guests - my parents, all bridesmaids and groomsmen, flower girls and us - we danced 24K Magic by Bruno Mars.

On budget?

The wedding cost around 25,000 euros, which was over budget – but worth it!

Further information WEDDING PLANNER Sonho a Dois www.sonhoadois.com VENUE Vidamar Resort Algarve www.vidamarresorts.com/resortalgarve PHOTOGRAPHY Marco Torre

www.BridesAbroad.com 37

Algarve

Wedding Planners

If you are thinking of saying: “I do” in Portugal’s spectacular Algarve, then be sure your day is beautifully styled and planned to perfection with the help of Algarve Wedding Planners, the region’s most experienced professional wedding planning team

The sun rises, the countdown begins. It’s here! It’s the time, it’s the big day: the most important day of your lives! And Algarve Wedding Planners (AWP) are delighted to help organise it for you and your guests. With vast experience in weddings, AWP are able to advise couples of the best and most professional options available.

Algarve Wedding Planners was established in 2006 by Paula Grade and Karina Sousa. They are both passionate about weddings and events and have gained a wide reputation of being the biggest and most successful wedding planners on the Algarve.

Due to their increasing success, Paula and Karina have now decided to expand their company to work with an international team of specialists to insure that couples are given the highest level of service and personal attention, from the smallest details to the major arrangements on their special day.

38 www.BridesAbroad.com

Together with their professional team, Algarve Wedding Planners will ensure that you have a wedding day that you will remember for the rest of your lives. Everything will be discussed in detail and arranged according to your wishes. As soon as you give Algarve Wedding Planners the honor of orchestrating your day, you will be able to sit back and enjoy the preparations.

From the beginning…

The company originated after Paula and Karina were working together in a travel company, they had met a bride-to-be called Niamh, from Ireland, who wanted to marry in Portugal. They helped to organize Niamh’s big day in 2007, and the wedding was such a success that the bride spread the word about Paula and Karina’s wedding planning services. By 2008 they had 37 weddings to organize, and since then, the company has continued to grow and make dreams come true for many couples marrying in the Algarve.

Testimonials

Paula says: “We chose to work with a special team of suppliers, as we know they will provide the best services on the Algarve”. Karina adds: “We provide a completely tailor-made service to best suit each couple’s dream and vision, and design the most perfect wedding experience”

The wedding package

Algarve Wedding Planners can offer a full wedding service to couples planning to say “I do” in Portugal. Their individually designed wedding packages can include: ceremony; wedding venue; catering; Wedding Cake; bouquets and buttonholes; decoration and flowers; stationery; music and entertainment; photography and video; hair; make-up; spa treatments; bridal & guests transportation; fireworks; Wedding Favors; leisure activities for you and your guests; special ideas for children; Pre/Post Wedding Events.

Sinead & Kevin

Dear Paula & Karina It was a quick turnaround between our engagement and wedding, which wouldn’t have been possible without Algarve Wedding Planners. We were very impressed that Paula had singled out our dream wedding venue, the Tavira, without even having met us. You are so professional, fun, caring and an absolute joy to work with!

Sinead & Kevin Dear Paula & Karina Our dreams of marrying in Portugal came true thanks to Algarve Wedding Planners and everyone involved in our day. You have all been amazing – from the catering team and Anne our lovely celebrant to Sally for letting us use her gorgeous villa.

Aaron & Amy Dear Paula & Karina We had never been to a wedding abroad, and were anxious about how it would all work out but, thanks to Algarve Wedding Planners, the entire day ran smoothly and was completely stress free. All the suppliers were amazing!

Brian & Klara

Planning service – what’s included

Paula and Karina will continue to work with the wedding couple right up to and including their wedding day. They will: recommend, negotiate contracts with and coordinate all wedding suppliers; Assist you in all appointments; Create a wedding budget; Plan wedding parties (engagement, showers, etc.); Help create the wedding theme and style; Provide ongoing telephone and email support; Be there on the wedding day; On-site management of all weddings vendors; Coordinate a detailed wedding day production schedule; Coordinate your wedding rehearsal; Coordinate décor, props and gifts; Direction of the bridal party throughout the wedding day; Sort out deposits, final payment and tip distribution; Coordination of the guests transfers; Orchestrating special moments, like cutting of the wedding cake, bouquet throwing, etc; Help to create personal wedding website, Personal wedding Blog, Guest List, table planning and much more.

Further information Tel: 00 351 965 623 091 Email: info@algaraveweddingplanners.com www.algarveweddingplanners.com

Sinead & Connor

Dear Paula & Karina, Where do I even begin to say thank you to the team at AWP? It was an absolute pleasure working with you to turn our dream into a reality.The only word to describe our big day was perfect! Everything ran so smoothly and our guests where amazed at how stunning every part of the wedding was.

Sinead & Connor www.BridesAbroad.com 39

Advertising Feature

Exceptional Weddings

So you have found the special one that makes you smile when you wake up, and makes you feel warm inside when you think of them before you fall asleep. Now you´ve also found the perfect setting to celebrate your union and start a new life together - the Pine Cliffs, a Luxury Collection Resort.

40 www.BridesAbroad.com

Imagine – an inspiring setting, breathless views over the Atlantic Ocean, the sound of waves slowly breaking along the Algarve coastline, walking down the aisle shaded by lush pine trees, saying “I do“ with your loved one and savouring that unforgettable moment. You don’t have to imagine it any longer! You can make it a reality at the Pine Cliffs, a Luxury Collection Resort!

Pine Cliffs is set amidst 72 hectares of lush gardens and pine trees. It boasts a stunning location on a row of breathtaking cliff formations with unrivalled views over the Atlantic Ocean, which melts into the captivating blue sky in the distance. The Algarvian influence of the hotel’s design transmits true romance and elegance as do the well-kept garden areas, which are amongst the many beautiful settings available for a memorable wedding ceremony.

Your guests are equally important and the hotel offers a vast amount of activities to delight them during their stay. Golf lovers have access to a 9-hole course, families can take advantage of the children´s village and energetic guests will enjoy the range of water sports on offer. For those who want to spend their holiday relaxing in a state of utter bliss there are four outdoor pools and a health club, which offers an indoor pool and a variety of wellness and spa treatments in the new Serenity, The Art of Well Being Spa.

Further information Call: +351 289 500 100 e-mail: info@pinecliffs.com www.pinecliffs.com www.BridesAbroad.com 41

CYPRUS - the love island

Who wouldn’t want to get married on the island known as the ‘island of love’? No wonder couples flock to Cyprus to tie the knot in the Mediterranean sunshine 42 www.BridesAbroad.com

Couples looking for the perfect wedding destination are drawn to Cyprus, said to be the birthplace of Aphrodite, the Goddess of love, with high expectations of finding some of the Mediterranean’s most romantic wedding venues – and they won’t be disappointed with this beautiful island.

Nature has blessed Cyprus with beautiful beaches, rolling mountains, fragrant forests and rugged headlands. Add its rich culture, perfect climate and the warm hospitality of the islanders to the mix and Cyprus has all the ingredients for idyllic destination weddings and honeymoons.

The fantastic year-round climate of dry summers and mild winters, allows for honeymoon activities and pursuits, from walking and cycling to swimming and diving, and of course relaxing all year-round, whilst the areas of stunning natural beauty – from coast to forest – are soothing to all of the senses.

Situated at the crossroads of three continents – Europe, Asia and Africa – Cyprus is a small island with a long history and a rich culture that spans 10,000 years, making it one of the oldest civilizations in the Mediterranean - as evidenced by the many fascinating cultural sights, museums, monuments and galleries. The island’s unique geographic position has played an important part in its turbulent past and now Cyprus is an open-air museum of prehistoric settlements, classical Greek temples, Roman theatres and villas. The old ways of life, customs and traditions are still beautifully preserved in the rural villages,

Life’s a beach From secluded bays to lively resorts and from sandy beaches to rocky coves, the island’s expansive coastline offers a variety beaches. Beach life is very important in Cyprus and offers a myriad of experiences; from weddings under floral gazebos to honeymoons spent sunbathing with drink in hand or enjoying the challenge of trying a new water sport. Beneath the waves an underwater world invites you to discover a diver’s paradise of world-ranking wrecks and diverse marine life.

Healthy cuisine

Top 5 Things To Do

1 2 3 4 5

Take a brewery tour Guided tours round the modern KEO brewery and winery in Limassol take around 30-minutes and end with a tasting session of the island’s favourite lager and a good range of wines. www.keogroup.com Visit the beautiful waterfall Stroll in the Troodos Mountains to view the Caladonia Falls – this stunning waterfall is even more spectacular in the spring.

Party your socks off Head to Agia Napa and join in the lively nightlife – the town attracts the party crowd at night, but during the day the old fishing port is a focal point for tourists and it has one of the best beaches in Cyprus.

Tour the tombs Take a trip back to Roman times at the ancient Makronissos Tombs, near Agia Napa and see the unique site where the Romans cut out 20 chambers into the limestone rock.

Sample the local Moussaka Cyprus is known for its delicious, fresh produce and traditional fayre, so be sure to visit a tavern and enjoy Moussaka or a ‘meze’ washed down with a delicious bottle of chilled local wine.

For those looking for a healthy honeymoon, Cyprus ticks all the boxes. The island is known for its abundance of spas and wellness as well as the quality of its delicious cuisine. The health attributes of the Mediterranean diet are widely recognized, thanks to its abundance of heart-healthy olive oil, pulses, lean meat, and freshly grown herbs, fruit and vegetables, and eating well is a pleasure that comes easy in Cyprus where the traditional dishes range from Moussaka and specialty cheeses, such as Halloumi to ‘meze’ – a variety of small dishes that combine to create a feast.

Marry in Cyprus Cyprus is one of Europe’s leading destinations for weddings, blessings and honeymoons because of its beautiful scenery, numerous options for venues, ceremonies and celebrations and its easy access from the UK. There are many reasons why Cyprus wins the heart of couples planning to marry abroad including its short flying time from UK airports; significantly lower costs of weddings; simple marriage formalities which are legal worldwide; wedding certificate given at the ceremony on the same day; English widely spoken and of course a stunning variety of wedding venues to choose from, including beaches, yachts, castles, museums, wineries and rustic villages, where weddings can follow all the traditional local customs.

Of course the beautiful climate throughout the year has great appeal for UK couples, and, to top it all, Cyprus offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all budgets – from 5-star resorts to self-catering apartments – which means that family and friends can combine your wedding with their own family holiday.

Religious Weddings All towns and cities in Cyprus have their own Municipal Offices where you can acquire your Marriage License and, if you are planning a civil ceremony, get married.

For religious ceremonies, you must first apply for your Marriage License at the Municipal Offices, and then arrange your ceremony at the church or chapel of your choice.

www.BridesAbroad.com 43

REAL WEDDINGS

Classmates to Soulmates

2MGSPE ERH ,EQMWL I\GLERKI ZS[W MR ']TVYW 44 www.BridesAbroad.com

Nicola Rodman and Hamish Goodall, from Horsham, West Sussex, discovered they had much more in common than having been classmates when, on leaving school, they finally started dating. However, the road to married life took many twists and turns before they finally tied the knot in the Cyprus sunshine, with friends and family to cheer them on!

Finding ‘the one’

We met at school during our A-levels when we were 17 and 18! We laugh at the thought that we could have married much sooner, as we’ve known each other throughout our school life. We had weekend jobs at the same store, so we started socialising out of work.

We started dating but it became difficult when we went to separate universities and we decided to stay friends.

However, they say if it’s meant to be it will be, and we reunited unexpectedly three years later. We went for a few drinks and spoke for hours like we hadn’t been apart. Now five years on we are happily married and the rest is history!

The proposal

Hamish popped the question whilst we were celebrating my birthday in Paris.

On the day of our engagement we took an evening dinner cruise along the river Seine. It was magical. The boat stopped by the Eiffel Tower so everyone could take photos. I wanted to join everyone on deck but Hamish stalled me by asking the photographer to take a photo of us. He then persuaded me to go after everyone had returned so that we could have an intimate moment together. As we admired the beautiful view Hamish popped back to get his jacket. I turned and saw him shivering and down on one knee to pop the question. It was incredible! He said a beautiful speech,

and I giggled. Even though we had talked about getting married one day, it was still very unexpected and a wonderful surprise! Luckily the photographer on the boat had noticed him proposing, and captured the perfect photo, which we cherish to this day!

Location, location We love holidays, so it felt like a no brainer to go away and have a destination wedding in the sun. Neither of us had been to a wedding abroad and an informal destination wedding seemed fun and preferable to the more traditional route. We did deliberate for a while before we confirmed arrangements, as we didn’t want to exclude guests who might be unable to attend due to health issues, work, family or financial commitments. To overcome that problem we hosted a big engagement party with family and friends. We decided on a summer holiday-style wedding with our nearest and dearest as opposed to a big affair, in order to have quality time with everyone and a chilled vibe.

We chose Cyprus, as we had holidayed there during the planning stages, shortly after a turbulent time when two very dear people close to us passed away. It had been such a sad time, so Cyprus felt like our safe haven where we were able to retreat, unwind and relax.

The planning

During our Cyprus holiday we spoke to other couples that had married there and we made enquiries with Angelos, the wedding planner at the Grecian Park Hotel where we stayed. Once back in the UK we confirmed the date and booked our holiday with Thomas Cook. We saw Angelos again at the National Wedding Show to ask more about the details, including options for the ceremony, menus and timings on the day. Everything was organised prior to us going away, so that when we arrived we were able to relax and enjoy the time with our guests.

The guests

There were 44 of us in total, including three children. We were very lucky as most of our family and friends joined us and made it their summer holiday!

We even had friends attending who live and work in China. The majority stayed at the Grecian Park Hotel with us, so it felt like something out of Mamma Mia with everyone getting in the wedding mode! Other guests stayed locally in apartments, hotels or villas, which worked well as we could meet them socially for nights out, meals, excursions or pool days. Unfortunately, we did have friends and family who were unable to attend but they were incredibly supportive about our decision to marry abroad, and we have celebrated with them since our return. So the wedding partying just continued for months after! www.BridesAbroad.com 45

REAL WEDDINGS

Getting the look

I visited a bridal store in the Lake District, and tried on a few dresses, but nothing felt ‘perfect’. Then, when my mum came to visit and we were out in Cheshire we went to a bridal show and I ended up trying on five dresses.

The last one was the one I chose – it was a fishtail gown embellished with Swarovski crystals and pearls and it felt right straightaway. The sales assistant was so lovely and was crying so it made us all shed a tear and it felt like a sign! I wanted to add something bespoke so wore a vintage waist belt and had some lace petal straps added to provide a really unique look. I finished off my look with Jenny Packham shoes, a shoulder length veil with lace flowers on the hem and a beautiful tiara, which my auntie bought for me as my something new.

I was also very honoured to wear my Nana’s wedding band, which I felt would be incredibly lucky as she had such a wonderful marriage. I also wore a beautiful pearl bracelet, which was part of a jewellery set that my in laws bought me. I had my hair and makeup done at a local salon in Protaras with the very talented Mary and Liz who also styled the bridesmaids.

Something Old, Something New

I was very spoilt when it came to this tradition as I had a few for each – it was lovely to incorporate all the gifts. For my Something New, I wore my aunt’s tiara.

My other aunt gave me a lucky sixpence.

My Something Old and Borrowed were my Nana’s wedding band. My Something Blue was my engagement ring – it’s Tanzanite, so that felt perfect! Also, my god daughter gave me a lovely silver and blue ‘Joma’ keepsake bracelet which I tied around my bouquet and one of my patients had given me a blue angel which I fastened onto the bracelet.

Groom and bridesmaids

The bridesmaids all looked stunning and wore blush Grecian style multi-way dresses to suit all of their figures. They all loved the dress and I wanted them to feel special but reflect their individuality. I also bought Jenny Packham vintage hair bands and small Ted Baker heart studs as gifts to accessorise them. My niece, who was my flower girl, wore a beautiful rose coloured dress from Monsoon and a pretty butterfly hairpiece. The Groom and Best Man wore three-piece Ted Baker suits from Moss Bros with blush cravats and handkerchiefs. Hamish also had Eiffel Tower cuff links, which were a present and his granddad’s ring, which was very special to him. The grooms men and ushers wore white shirts and shorts.

46 www.BridesAbroad.com

REAL WEDDINGS

the day back on our anniversary or, eventually show the next generation and the guests who couldn’t be there.

Magic moments I have special memories of the girly wedding morning, when we were getting ready, having a drink and giggle! My maid of honour created a ‘letters to the bride’ book, which was so thoughtful, and all my friends and family had written letters so we reminisced about the funny times. The girls were my wing women and kept me so calm and happy.

Also, as I walked down the aisle and greeted Hamish at the end – he looked so emotional! One lovely moment was when a little girl ran over to me as we passed the pool on my way to the aisle, and shouted “Mummy look, a Princess!”

It brought home to me the fairy tale of the day and how it really was a dream come true.

The honeymoon We stayed for another week after the wedding, which was bliss. We also had a belated mini-moon later on in the year on a city highlights cruise with Royal Caribbean.

The details

We selected sparkly ivory and blush passport themed invites and boarding pass RSVP’s, which were quirky and set the tone for our relaxed, holiday-style big day. On our wedding day it was over 40 degrees, and guests kept cool with the ‘fan’ favours we provided and vintage ice cream tricycle we hired. We provided entertainment in the form of garden games, such as ‘hoopla’ and ‘beat the buzzer’ – this was a massive hit with all ages! The theme was a hint of vintage shabby chic with rose gold and blush, sequins and sparkle, which looked stunning in the sun! We had chair sashes in blush pink with pretty pearl brooches to match the bridesmaids dresses and candles and beautiful birdcages filled with peonies, roses and other pink florals for the table centrepieces and aisle arch decoration. It was all very pretty and pink!

The ceremony

We held the ceremony on a cliff overlooking the sea and enjoyed music performed by a saxophonist and live singer, Cecilia. The ceremony was short but sweet. My dad gave me away and we had two readings, one from my dad and my maid of honour read a poem. Hamish’s brother Marc was his Best Man and also a witness alongside my brother David.

The reception

Our guests enjoyed fizz, cocktails, ice creams and nibbles at the cliff bar, accompanied by the saxophonist. Then later in the day we had the wedding breakfast in a marquee, which consisted of seafood BBQ platter with plenty of traditional Cypriot salads, as well as desserts and sorbets for sweets. The speeches commenced after dinner and brought lots of laughs! Then we all celebrated until the early hours in the hotel club where guests enjoyed more cocktails, dancing and a disco.

First Dance

We couldn’t decide on a song for ages as we both had different ideas, so ended up having two songs – Ed Sheeran’s Perfect which we chose because it’s about childhood sweethearts and the lyrics were so meaningful to us, and a really upbeat feel good song by Kygo, Here For You as it instantly puts us in a good mood. We got everyone up for a dance and partied the night away!

Photographic memories We chose Costa Photo Studio to capture and create our wedding album. In addition, we opted for cinematography, which comprised of a highlights clip and full footage film. This was one of the best things we did as it’s meant we can watch

On budget?

We didn’t have a budget as such but were sensible with our money and saved hard. We were also fortunate that our parents contributed towards our wedding, which was lovely and very generous. I did a lot of shopping around as I like a good bargain and we prioritised on what we wanted to spend the money on, for example we selected a simple cake and splurged more on ice creams and music entertainment. I also chose silk flower bouquets, which wouldn’t wilt in the heat like fresh flowers and were a little cheaper. We probably spent more than we anticipated, but our wedding was just priceless. It exceeded all expectations!

Further information WEDDING PLANNER IN CYPRUS Angelos VENUE Grecian Park Hotel, Ayia Napa, Cyprus grecianpark.com PHOTOGRAPHER Costa Photo Studio Costastudio.com

www.BridesAbroad.com 47

Wedding bliss in

FLORIDA

Barefoot on a Florida beach, the sun shining on shimmering waters and the person you love standing next to you – life can’t get any better than that on your Big Day!

Whether you want to tie the knot on a pictureperfect white sandy beach or exchange your vows Disney style in an Orlando theme park, a wedding in Florida is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience. Few destinations can offer as much as Florida for wonderful civil ceremonies, vow renewals and glorious honeymoons!

48 www.BridesAbroad.com

Marry in Florida

Your wedding can be arranged on the beach, in lush gardens and in wedding chapels for as many guests as you wish – and for something very different, how about a wedding with Mickey Mouse as a guest?

At Walt Disney World the bride can even arrive in Cinderella’s coach. Or you could get wed in a helicopter or hot air balloon and even exchange rings under water!

A license can be applied for in person at a courthouse. Both the bride and groom must appear in person, or apply by mail before arriving in Florida. The cost is around £60. The license is valid for 60 days from the date of issue. Courthouses are open from Monday to Friday only so make sure you leave time when making travel arrangements.

Florida honeymoons

Orlando’s theme parks ¬– Disney, Universal and SeaWorld – are extremely popular with honeymoon couples – spend the day on thrill rides and then head out to party at Downtown Disney or Universal City Walk.

Cocoa Beach on the Atlantic Coast is great for walkers and cyclists and Miami for ‘beautiful people’ who want a touch of the glamorous side of Florida. The gulf coast of Florida offers stunning white sandy beaches, natural islands and wildlife.

Florida Keys

Florida where the Gulf of Mexico laps uninhabited islands which provide sanctuary to wildlife. Fort Myers is the area’s urban anchor, with shopping, restaurants and nightlife, whereas Sanibel and Captiva represent some of the best beaches with stunning natural beauty, sugar white sand and teal waters. Reached by a long causeway, the islands offer a welcoming village-esque sense of hospitality.

Miami

St Petersburg & Clearwater The area is made up of 26 distinct communities, each with its own flavor.

St Pete/Clearwater is famous for awardwinning beaches, including St Pete Beach, Caladesi Island State Park, Clearwater Beach and Fort De Soto Park. Outdoor recreation and natural attractions, from boating to biking to wildlife viewing are abundant throughout the year. The area also offers shopping, dining and entertainment.

Miami is one of the world’s most popular vacation spots, which is not surprising as this vibrant city has plenty to offer – from the trendy nightlife of South Beach, the bustle of Calle Ocho and the high energy of Little Havana to the plush hotels of Miami Beach and its long stretch of white sand, and the historic hideaways of Coral Gables.

There are plenty of shopping opportunities in modern, sprawling malls in contrast with the family-owned shops of Coconut Grove.

Miami is also the world’s biggest cruise port.

Orlando The city of Orlando remains the theme park capital of the world. It offers attractive parks, lakes, world-renowned gardens as well as those beloved theme parks – Disney World, Universal Studios Florida, Sea World and many others including the famous Hard Rock Cafe. But Orlando also offers world-class hotels, shopping opportunities for every budget, year-round golf courses and some of the most enticing dining opportunities on the planet.

The Florida Keys is a 113-mile long chain of islands linked by Highway 1, which takes you on a sensory overload journey over the ocean through the Keys. It begins at the southernmost tip of the Florida’s mainland and travels first to Key Largo and ends at charming and historical Key West. The Florida Keys offer natural beauty and some of the finest fishing and diving in the world – they are home of the only living Coral Reef in the USA.

Fort Myers, Sanibel & Captiva White beaches, blue skies, Spanish architecture, lush greenery and world-class shelling are in abundance in southwest

The Everglades The Everglades National Park is a rare and beautiful place. It’s a beautiful wilderness with rugged, subtropical landscape experienced by a relatively few adventurous souls each year. The best way to see the Everglades is on a guided tour by Airboat, when you can get up close to the spectacular wildlife. The Florida Everglades is the only place in the world where alligators and crocodiles exist side by side, however, the symbol of this vast ecosystem is the Florida panther.

5 Things to do 1. Hire a car And have a honeymoon on the road, driving from one beautiful beach resort to another as you discover all that Florida has to offer 2. Go skydiving Over the amazing Kennedy Space Centre on the Space Coast and see the shuttle launch pads as you parachute to the ground from 18,000 ft.

3. Celebrate the sunset Spend a romantic evening watching the sun go down from Pier 60 during nightly celebrations at Clearwater Beach 4. Drink margaritas From the giant exploding volcano at Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville at Universal City Walk, Orlando 5. Pick Sea shells On Sanibel Island – known as one of the Shell Islands because of the perfect seashells. www.BridesAbroad.com 49

REAL WEDDINGS

How deep is your love?

AnaMaria and John's amazing underwater vows 50 www.BridesAbroad.com

It’s not just British couples that want unique weddings in exotic locations.

Sometimes the locals can show us a thing or two about marrying in style! John Paul Martin and his fiancé AnaMaria Verdugo from Seminole, Florida, decided to exchange their vows in a truly wow-factor ceremony – by saying “I do” underwater in their native Florida! Their underwater ceremony is the perfect way for diving enthusiasts of all nationalities to declare their love for each other Finding ‘the one’ We met on an online dating site. It wasn’t quite ‘love at first sight’ – but once we got to know each other it blossomed fast.

The proposal John Paul chose a romantic moment to pop the question whilst walking along the beach at Ft. Desoto Park. He just simply asked the question “Will you marry me?” and took me completely by surprise.

Location, location John has been a volunteer diver at Clearwater Marine Aquarium in Tampa, Florida for nine years and he regularly dives in with the inhabitants of the Aquarium.

So it seemed natural that we should celebrate our love amidst the marine life.

The planning The Special Events Coordinator at Clearwater Marine Aquarium organised the wedding and did all of the wedding planning, ensuring that every detail was taken care of. www.BridesAbroad.com 51

REAL WEDDINGS

The guests We had a total of 25 guests on our wedding day.

Getting the look I knew that the wedding dress was going to get very wet during our underwater ceremony, so there was no point in investing in an expensive one! I bought the dress from a Thrift store so it wouldn’t matter about wearing it underwater! John wore a tuxedo t-shirt over a wetsuit. The other divers wore valentine’s heart t-shirts over wetsuits.

The details The cake was made by Maddison McCafferty (madis.cakesco@gmail.com), and was themed with scuba divers and coral.

The ceremony The amazing wedding service took place underwater in Mavis’ Rescue Hideaway – a rescued sea turtle habitat at Clearwater Marine Aquarium. It took around five minutes and was carried out by Brian Mahardy, a personal friend and dive supervisor.

52 www.BridesAbroad.com

REAL WEDDINGS

The reception After the ceremony the guests joined us for our wedding reception at The Clearwater Marine Aquarium theatre.

The menu included delicious Hors d’oeuvres from The Stuffed Mushroom catering company. The entire theatre was transformed by Amazingly Creative Events, WeddingInvy, Over The Top Rental Linens, and First Class Rentals of Tampa Bay. It looked beautiful. We hired a DJ – Nick Potts from Tampa Bay (www.djnickpotts.com) and our First Dance was to From this Moment (Shania Twain).

Photographic memories Fintastic Photo from Clearwater Marine Aquarium did a sunset photo shoot for our engagement photos and captured the entire wedding – Obviously a lot of the photography was underwater, so we needed an expert! My favourite photo was of us swimming off holding hands after saying “I Do”.

Magic moments The funniest memory of the day is of our guests’ reactions when we held up the “I Do” signs during our ceremony!

Further information WEDDING PLANNER Ashley Karpuch 727-441-1790 x328 email: events@cmaquarium.org VENUE Clearwater Marine Aquarium Tampa Bay, Florida www.seewinter.com/visit/host-anevent/ PHOTOGRAPHY Fintastic photo at Clearwater Marine Aquarium

www.BridesAbroad.com 53

THAI THE KNOT

Say “I do” in some of the world’s most spectacular beach settings and have a sublime honeymoon in exotic Thailand

Beautiful, vibrant Thailand is rapidly becoming one of the world’s number one destinations for overseas weddings, as well as honeymoons in paradise. Thailand boasts friendly, hospitable people, exotic culture, delicious cuisine, stunning beaches, verdant forests and mountains and colourful nightlife. What more could a bride and groom possibly want?

There can be few more stunning countries with so many romantic honeymoon options as Thailand, and 54 www.BridesAbroad.com

even fewer offering such amazing value for money, with an endless supply of hotels and resorts to suit all pockets. From traditional Thai beach love nests to boutique chic and grand scale resorts offering an abundance of facilities, the choice of accommodation is excellent. And if you don’t simply want to laze on a sundrenched beach for your entire honeymoon, you can easily combine a multi-centre holiday to enjoy the beach culture and a city centre adventure for shopping, culture and nightlife.

Cha Am

Only 25km from Hua Hin’s nightlife, Cha Am is loved for its relaxed, laidback vibe, stunning beach and Thai atmosphere. This romantic resort is a perfect hideaway for honeymooners.

Phuket

Bangkok

This exciting city combines wonderful sights, shopping and sumptuous hotel retreats to plunge you into modern Thai culture. Get into the Thai spirit at the awe-inspiring Grand Palace with golden temples and the Emerald Buddha, dazzling in gold leaf. If you love haggling, then shop till you drop at the numerous markets and shopping centres. At night, the rooftop bars and restaurants are buzzing, however, a romantic night-time boat trip gives you a sparkling view of the city from the river.

Hua Hin

Take in the bustling nightlife of Hua Hin, the royal resort just three hours drive from Bangkok, where you can ride horses on the beach and drink fresh coconut juice, and look out for beautiful local handicrafts.

Chiang Mai

In its northern setting, Chiang Mai offers another side of Thailand. From here you can take in the glorious temples, find silk scarves, jewellery and Buddha carvings galore at the famous night market and wash and feed rescued elephants at the wonderful Elephant Nature Park.

The holiday island of Phuket has buzzing nightlife, beaches and ladyboy shows.

Throw yourselves into the clubbers’ paradise or find a more secluded base and enjoy the nightlife only if you want to.

Koh Yao Noi

A short boat trip away from Phuket, Koh Yao No is a picturesque Muslim island which is in a different time zone. Listen to the call to prayer as you watch the sun go down.

Koh Samui

Famous for its white beaches, tropical gardens and coco palms, this is an island packed with opportunities for activities, from walking in the jungle to exploring waterfalls, temples and a butterfly garden, as well as enjoying watersport and the vibrant night life.

Marry in Thailand Brides and grooms getting hitched in Thailand can choose from a colourful traditional Thai wedding, a Christian wedding or a blend of the two which can be done simultaneously. You can also have a fabulous Muslim wedding or a ceremonious Chinese one. For wow-factor wedding locations, choose from stunning white sandy beaches and lush, tropical resort gardens to mountain peaks, vibrant cities and even underwater ceremonies! Some resorts offer extra touches to make your big day more special – from elephant blessings to traditional Thai dancers and the release of lucky lanterns at sunset for the ultimate in romance.

As long as your wedding is properly registered in the Local Registration Office, your marriage in Thailand is recognised

back home. Your marriage certificate will be in Thai, so it is recommended to commission a ‘sworn translation of the certificate for legal use in the UK.

Documentation

The documentation to be produced is at the discretion of each individual Registrar, however as a guide you will need: 1. Proof of identity.

2. Bride and groom to be over 18 years of age.

3. Both bride and groom to be single.

4. Relevant original paperwork if either party is widowed or divorced.

5. Passports valid for at least six months from date of entry to Thailand.

Insider tips ● Cover up your shoulders and arms, and take off your shoes if you visit a temple site or someone’s home. ● Make an effort to return the local politeness with the Sawadee greeting. ● Don’t accept the offers from friendly Bangkok touts who say they’ll give you a tour of the city – you are likely to end up at a shop being pressurised into spending money. ● Be aware that the Royal Family is revered here: any insults can land you in trouble.

● Check whether you will need vaccinations for the area of Thailand you visit – and make sure you take a good insect repellent with you! ● Avoid the roads for long journeys as they are notoriously busy; use the trains or take internal flights instead.

Further information Contact details here?

Web address here?

www.BridesAbroad.com 55

REAL WEDDINGS

Lesson in LOVE

Kate and Edward Thai the knot 56 www.BridesAbroad.com

Kate O’Gorman and classmate Edward Glenn didn’t immediately become sweethearts when they studied together at high school in their hometown of Horsham, West Sussex.

However, romance blossomed, love finally found a way, and the lovedup couple invited family and friends to join them in Thailand when they tied the knot in a romantic beach ceremony Finding ‘the one’ We met at Secondary School, in Haywards Heath, and it definitely wasn’t love at first sight!

The proposal He asked me to marry him in Hua Hin, Thailand. He got down on one knee by a pond that was shrouded in fairy lights to look like a starry night. It was completely unexpected.

Location, location Thailand was special to us, and we couldn’t find a venue in the UK where we could imagine ourselves getting married. We love Thailand; it was the country that tested our relationship at the beginning and the country where he proposed, so it felt right to get married there as well.

The planning We used the hotel wedding planner, who was amazing and made the entire process so easy, it was a joy to plan. My husband, Ed, planned the whole trip for us and many of our guests. He organised everything including; flights, hotel stays, transfers and even a day trip. We planned the whole trip before leaving. I like to know where I’m going and staying before I step onto the plane.

The guests We took 38 guests in total, including three children. All our guests stayed on Samui, in a mix of different hotels and villas. Travelling abroad to a wedding put off a few, but we were happy with the number of people that accepted our invitation and came out to support us. The wedding party was not too big, not too small. www.BridesAbroad.com 57

REAL WEDDINGS

Getting the look I had no idea what I wanted in a dress as I had never worn one before and I didn’t know what would suit me. I was willing to try on everything and anything. I finally bought my dream dress from Mathilda’s Bridal, a lovely boutique in Lindfield, West Sussex. Nicola, the boutique’s creative director, was actually the one who picked the dress out for me. It was a Sottero Midgley, Dominique style. I loved it from the minute I put it on. I accessorised with a beaded hair piece (which I panic bought at the last minute). The dress didn’t need many accessories because it was so intricately designed and I didn’t want too much going on.

As a wedding present, and because I am terrible at doing my own make-up, my sister, Maddy, organised for my hair and make up to be done professionally. She found a wonderful lady called Polina, who is based on the Island. She did an amazing job, I couldn’t have been happier with it! Even my husband said (very cheekily) I looked better than he had expected!

Something old, something new One of my friends, Phoebe, sent me a little gift box to open on the morning of my wedding, which included Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed and Something Blue – and more! It was so touching. For Something Old and Something Borrowed, I also wore my Grandma’s engagement ring, which tells the story of my family - it was so important to me to have this on my wedding day; it’s filled with sentimental meaning for me.

Groom & bridesmaids The groom wore red wine colour chinos and a gorgeous light linen shirt; he even managed to match his bow tie to the colour of the trousers. As for the bridesmaids, I was really keen that everyone would be comfortable, especially in the heat, so I went with a light grey multi-way dress made of a very light, floaty material. They all looked gorgeous.

The details We didn’t theme our wedding as such although, as we were getting married in Thailand, we did have all Thai food, 58 www.BridesAbroad.com

drinks, favours, table names etc. For our flowers, we went with a beautiful array of Thai Orchids, in a mix of different colours; orange, purple, pink, white and sourced by the hotel. They were so vibrant. As for the wedding cake, again we went with one with a Thai flavour – with lime and coconut.

To this day the guests are still saying how good the cake tasted!

The ceremony Our wedding ceremony took place on a private beach at Rocky’s Boutique Resort on the island of Koh Samui; it was beautifully set up and was the perfect size for our wedding. It lasted approximately 30 minutes, and we were married by Reverend Rambo, who was incredible. We had written the vows that we wanted and he made them come to life. It was the perfect mix of being serious, intense, upbeat and light-hearted. I’m lucky that my family were able to come to Thailand with us, which enabled my father, Paul, to give me away. I don’t think I could have got married abroad if they weren’t there. We had the option of also having a Buddhist ceremony, but as neither of us is religious we didn’t opt to have that traditional side of the ceremony.

The reception The wedding reception was also held at Rocky’s Boutique Resort. We went for traditional Thai cuisine and ordered a fourcourse Thai Kantoke dinner, which featured 60 www.BridesAbroad.com

a mixed starter, soup, a kantoke dinner (a large dish with five small portions of curries and stir fries to sample) and traditional Thai desserts. All the tables were decorated with Thai-themed flowers, and we went to a local market prior to our wedding and purchased a mix of local items to give people as favours.

First Dance Our first dance was a song called ‘Lucky’

by Jason Mraz. We also opted for a Thai Fire Show on the beach after our wedding breakfast. It was a great way to break up the evening ahead of our disco and we also provided sparklers for our guests to use, which made for some great photos.

Photographic memories Our photographer was Narz Studios. He was one of a number of photographers the hotel recommended and we really loved his style. Not sure we could pick just one favourite photo, given the beautiful location and our brilliant photographer.

Magic moments Perhaps one of the most special memories of our day was during the ceremony, where Reverend Rambo spoke over our vows. He was great and added a level of intensity that we both really felt and appreciated.

Funniest memories? After the evening disco, we ended up with around 10 friends

and family back at our beachfront room.

After clearing out the minibar a lot of us ended up in the sea at around 4 am having an amazing time (luckily we didn’t disturb any of the other hotel guests!)

The honeymoon Some people left within a couple of days of the end of the festivities. We however spent around a week travelling around Thailand with some friends, before they headed home. We then had a week to ourselves.

On budget?

Including our welcome party and post wedding BBQ, our wedding probably cost around £15,000. Adding in travel, accommodation and dress etc., then it cost around £22,000. We budgeted for various scenarios depending on how many guests accepted our invitation, and were probably just within our highest budget. It was well worth it!

Further information WEDDING PLANNER Ann McGeorge ann@rockyresort.com VENUE Rocky’s Boutique Resort Koh Samui, Thailand PHOTOGRAPHY Quanchai Ridhiwanna (NARZ) narzphotography@gmail.com

Fashion & Beauty

64 Pure & simple

Ditch the glitz and steal Megan Markle’s classical style with cool, understated elegance

66 Get the look beach bride

Beach brides can celebrate the freedom of nature with owers, shells and driftwood

67 Get the look city style

Look hot in the city with stylish glamour and a touch of sparkle

68 Tresses on trend

Celebrity stylist Kieron Fowles, of Regis salons, gives his expert advice on the latest hairstyles for brides-to-be

www.BridesAbroad.com 63

Pure & Simple When Megan Markle glided down the aisle this summer to marry her Prince, the crowd were blown away by the understated sophistication of her gorgeous wedding gown. No glitz and gimmics for Megan, just pure movie-star class! Now you can recreate Megan’s elegant chic on your own special day

Dress by Allure www.allurebrid Bridals als.com

Dress by Lilly www.lilly.eu

Dress by Donna Salado www.marklesley.co.uk

Dress by Rita Vi www.ritavinierisnieris .com 64 www.BridesAbroad.com

e of Mooshki Dress by Hous shki.com www.houseofmoo Dress by Eternity Bridal

www.elizajanehowell.com www.eternitybridal.co.uk

Dress by Donna www.marklesle Salado y.co.uk

u hristina W k .u o Dress by C c l. a d ri ityb www.etern

Dress by Art Couture www.eternitybridal.co.uk

Dress by Lilly www.lilly.eu

Dress by Romantica of Devon www.romanticaofdevon.co.uk

Dress by Casablanca www.casablancabridal.com www.BridesAbroad.com 65

Beach Babe

Driftwood hair comb

by Chupi, £259 www.chupi.com

Celebrate the freedom of nature at your beach wedding with sand between your toes, and just a hint of flowers, shells and driftwood to complete the look Driftwood Bangle by Chupi, £199 www.chupi.com Pearl shell earrings, £250 www.clogau.co.uk

Floral necklace, £17 www.accessorize.com

Sunglasses, £12 www.accessorize.com

Pearl shell pendant, £560 www.clogau.co.uk

Flower bag, £37 www.accessorize.com Silk Magnolia bouquet, £54.95 www.sarahsflowers.co.uk

White floral sandals, £99 www.dunelondon.com

Dress by Wilderly www.wilderlybride.com 66 www.BridesAbroad.com

Hot in the City

Silver leaf hair comb, £195 www.chupi.com

Look cool, sophisticated and beautiful at your city wedding with chic styles and a touch of glitz

Fascinator, £35 www.accessorize.com Earrings, £125 www.follifollie.com

Sunglasses, £60 www.follifollie.com

Ring, £65 www.follifollie.com

Silk mixed tulip bouquet, £37.50 www.sarahsflowers.co.uk Bracelet, £70 www.follifollie.com

Shoes, £95 www.dunelondon.com Dress by Eternity Bridal www.eternitybridal.co.uk www.BridesAbroad.com 67

Tresses on Trend

When it comes to looking your best on your wedding day, the way you wear your hair is your second most important decision after your wedding dress.

Should you follow fashion or select a classic look? Celebrity stylist Kieron Fowles of Regis salons gives his expert advice for brides-to-be Its not just the style of your hair that is important. It is also vital that it will stand the test of time throughout your big day.

A quick touch up part way through the day may be expected, but no bride wants to be rushing to their stylist every time they take a turn on the dance floor. Longevity is the key.

Keeping in the spirit of Megan Markle, the current trend for wedding hair is definitely to keep it simple, with some very soft styles being the most favoured.

Kieron Fowles, Creative Director at salon chain REGIS says: “After years in this industry I have helped many a bride look their very best on their wedding day, as have REGIS stylists across the country. There are, of course a number of important considerations – from having a trial session before your wedding, to ensuring a style will last throughout the day and night!”

Here are Kieron’s top tips for brides-to-be:

Preparation

A few basic tips I would give brides are firstly to plan ahead as much as possible. It is always so helpful for a stylist to know what they are working with in advance, so if you will be wearing a veil or tiara, it is beneficial to have these with you for your trial. Not only is this useful for the stylist, but it also gives the bride the chance to see what the style will look like with an accessories.

To help ensure longevity, it is also a great idea to wash your hair the night before. Your hair will still be clean and fresh but will be easier to manage and style.

This also makes the hairstyle more likely to last longer and less prone to dropping.

I would also advise to have treatments in the months running up to big day. This will make sure your hair is in the best condition and will have a lovely shine in all your photos.

The latest styles

68

www.BridesAbroad.com

The styles that are currently the most fashionable are very romantic and soft bridal looks. Accessories are also very important, but remain understated, with people opting for not only traditional veils and headbands but also smaller pieces such as real flowers.

Let it loose

Create a soft, owing look with loose curls for brides that want a natural look. This is a straightforward style, but be sure that your hair is prepped correctly and you have the right product to ensure longevity to your style. If your hair is very thin it may be that you require more product to maintain the style, which can impact on the look.

In the middle

Half up and down hairstyles continue to be very popular this year. They provide brides a great option when it comes to the up versus down debate and are extremely attractive to boot. In keeping with the current natural, soft trend go for a soft wave all over. Leave the majority of the hair down but select sections from the front, which can be twisted, or even use a large plait to separate and pin up. Again these styles will be complemented with some simple accessories to really enhance the overall look.

Up dos

If you’re opting for a traditional up do there is no reason for this to be too tight or harsh. To keep with a modern twist to the style. incorporate understated accessories. Work hair loose and keep the curls very large and soft to complement the romantic feeling in the air. Keep things natural and delicate, leaving a few bits of hair loose to frame the face, which will prevent a harsh appearance. www.BridesAbroad.com 69

Planning Guide

72 Weather permitting

Don’t let your wedding day be a washout – check our worldwide weather guide for the sunniest beaches, snowiest peaks and perfect temperatures

76 Pop the Question

Expert wedding planners answer your most frequently asked questions.

78 Wedding Countdown

Your 18-month wedding abroad planner!

80 Ask the planners!

Lisa Burton of the Bridal Consultant professional wedding planning service shares her wisdom and experience with brides-to-be.

82 To tip or not to tip

When the porter hovers with your luggage, expecting a generous tip for handling your baggage, how much should you tip him? Or perhaps it would be insulting to offer anything at all. We investigate.

www.BridesAbroad.com 71

January

February

Caribbean, Australia, Dubai, Hawaii, Maldives, SriMalaysia, Lanka, Malaysia Mexico, Mexico, Thailand,Thailand, Sri Lanka, Canary Islands

Caribbean, Australia, Dubai, Hawaii, Maldives, SriMalaysia, Lanka, Malaysia Mexico, Mexico, Thailand,Thailand, Sri Lanka, Canary Islands

Hot spots

Cool and chilled

Hot spots

Cool and chilled

European Alps, Iceland, Scandinavia, Colorado USA, Canadian Rockies, Quebec

European Alps, Iceland, Scandinavia, Canadian Rockies, Quebec, Colorado USA

Argentina, Egypt, Hong Kong, Morocco, New Zealand, Vietnam, Abu Dhabi

Argentina, Egypt, Hong Kong, Morocco, New Zealand, Vietnam

Something different Jungle & Safari

South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Costa Rica

Avoid

Something different Jungle & Safari

South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Costa Rica

Avoid

Bali and Indonesia, India, French Polynesia, Fiji

Bali and Indonesia, India, Seychelles, Mauritius, French Polynesia, Fiji

March

April

Hot spots

Caribbean, Australia, Dubai, Hawaii, Maldives, Caribbean, Australia, Dubai, Hawaii, Maldives, Mexico, Thailand,Sri SriLanka, Lanka,Malaysia, Malaysia Canary Islands Mexico, Thailand,

Cool and chilled

Hot spots

Caribbean, Australia, Dubai, Hawaii, Maldives, Mexico, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Bali

Cool and chilled

European Alps, Iceland, Scandinavia, Canadian Rockies, Quebec, Colorado USA

European Alps, Iceland, Scandinavia, Canadian Rockies, Quebec, Colorado USA

Argentina, Egypt, Hong Kong, Morocco, New Zealand, Vietnam

Argentina, Egypt, Hong Kong, Morocco, New Zealand, Vietnam, Abu Dhabi

Belize, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Costa Rica

Belize, South Africa, Zambia, Botswana, Borneo

Something different Jungle & Safari Avoid

Bali and Indonesia, Seychelles, Mauritius, French Polynesia, Fiji

Something different Jungle & Safari Avoid

India, Mauritius, Zanzibar, French Polynesia, Fiji

rg e h t ttin a Weermi p

May

Hot spots

June

Hot spots

Europe, Dubai, USA, Hawaii, Mauritius, Mexico, Seychelles, Bali

Europe, Bali, Mauritius, Seychelles, Zanzibar, French Polynesia, Malaysia, Hawaii, Fiji

Cool and chilled

Cool and chilled

Alaska, Iceland, Chile

Something different

Egypt, Hong Kong, India, Morocco, Brazil

Jungle & Safari

Belize, Borneo, Botswana, South Africa, Zambia

Avoid

Argentina, Chile, New Zealand

Something different

Scandinavia, Peru, Hong Kong, Scotland, Ireland

Jungle & Safari

Borneo, Botswana, Tanzania, Zambia

Avoid

Maldives, Sri Lanka, Zanzibar, Kenya, Vietnam, French Polynesia

Maldives, Thailand, Dubai, Egypt, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Australia

July

August

Europe, USA, Bali, Mauritius, Seychelles, Zanzibar, French Polynesia, Malaysia, Hawaii, Fiji

Europe, USA, Bali, Mauritius, Seychelles, Zanzibar, French Polynesia, Hawaii, Fiji

Cool and chilled

Cool and chilled

Hot spots

Argentina, Chile, New Zealand

Something different

Hot spots

Argentina, Chile, New Zealand

Something different

Peru, Scandinavia, Japan, Ireland, Russia

Peru, Scandinavia, Japan, Ireland, Russia

Jungle & Safari

Jungle & Safari

Borneo, Botswana, Tanzania, Zambia

Borneo, Botswana, Tanzania, Zambia

Avoid

Avoid

Maldives, Thailand, Dubai, Egypt, Vietnam, South Africa, Australia, Sri Lanka, Morocco

Caribbean, Maldives, Thailand, Dubai, Egypt, Morocco, Vietnam, Australia, Sri Lanka, South Africa

September

October

Europe, USA, Bali, Mauritius, Seychelles, Zanzibar, Hawaii, Fiji, French Polynesia

Europe, USA, Bali, Mauritius, Seychelles, Zanzibar, Maldives, Fiji, Dubai

Argentina, Chile, New Zealand

Canada, Scandinavia

Hot spots

Hot spots

Cool and chilled

Cool and chilled

Something different

Something different

Jungle & Safari

Jungle & Safari

Japan, Morocco, Egypt, India

Borneo, Botswana, Tanzania, Zambia

Avoid

Caribbean, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Vietnam

Japan, Egypt, Morocco

Belize, Borneo, Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, South Africa

Avoid

Caribbean, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, French Polynesia

November

December

Caribbean, Australia, Brazil, Hawaii, Maldives, Thailand, Florida USA, Dubai

Caribbean, Australia, Brazil, Hawaii, Maldives, SriFlorida Lanka,USA, Florida USA,Canary Dubai Islands Thailand,Thailand, Sri Lanka, Dubai,

Hot spots

Cool and chilled

Hot spots

Cool and chilled

European Alps, Canadian Rockies, Colorado USA, Scandinavia, Iceland

European Alps, Canadian Rockies, Colorado USA, Scandinavia, Iceland

Japan, Egypt, Morocco, Vietnam

Japan, Egypt, Morocco, Vietnam

Something different Jungle & Safari

Belize, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Costa Rica

Avoid

Seychelles, Mauritius, Zanzibar, Fiji, French Polynesia, Bali, Borneo, India, Sri Lanka

Something different Jungle & Safari

Belize, Costa Rica, Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa

Avoid

Seychelles, Mauritius, Zanzibar, Fiji, Bali, Borneo, India, French Polynesia

When will I receive my Marriage Certificate?

It will either be handed to you at the resort or sent via registered post to your home address. Don't panic if it takes a while to arrive – this is normal, especially if you marry in Jamaica where it can take up to 12 months! If you get married in certain countries, like Mexico and the Dominican Republic it will need to be translated, which will cause extra delay. For more information visit direct.gov.uk and search under passports.

The ceremony…

Can we invite guests to our wedding?

Of course! Some hotels even offer reduced rate weddings for more than four guests. Remember to order extras for your guests, such as more wine, a larger wedding cake or extra buttonholes. If the wedding couple is staying at an All Inclusive resort, they will need to buy oneday passes for guests staying at other hotels, and in adults-only resorts you will need to ask special permission for children to attend the wedding on a day pass. All this can be organised at the resort by your wedding planner.

When do I meet the resort's wedding planner?

One to three days after your arrival at your resort. Your wedding planner will sort out the fine details of your wedding, from Champagne to the icing on your cake, and check your documentation so that you can relax as the arrangements are done on your behalf. Once the local registrar is happy your paperwork is in order, your wedding planner will give you a date and time for the ceremony and send out invitations to your guests.

Where will our ceremony take place?

The hotel wedding planner will show you the locations to choose from – usually in the gardens of your hotel, or in a decorated wedding pavilion. If you are marrying in Europe you may choose to exchange vows in the local church or town hall, or in Las Vegas, a wedding chapel. The hotel wedding co-ordinator will show you the locations to choose from. It's unusual to have a ceremony on the beach, but many couples take beach photographs after the ceremony.

Who will be at the ceremony?

Most overseas weddings are civil ceremonies, in the style of registry office services, unless a religious ceremony has

been pre-arranged. The ceremony will be conducted by a Judge, Celebrant, Minister or Registrar. You will need two to four witnesses, who could be anyone from your wedding guests to people you have met on the beach the previous day. Your wedding planner will be there too, to ensure your day goes without a hitch.

The important bits…

How should I transport my wedding dress?

We recommend wedding outfits should be packed in a hard suitcase or strong box, as they will be placed in the hold of the plane. It might be an idea to contact your airline for more information. Generally, there is no extra baggage allowance for wedding outfits. You can also take out extra insurance to cover the transportation of your dress.

Can I choose my flowers?

Absolutely! At the resort, your wedding planner will show you photos of bouquets for you to make a selection. Your wedding bouquet and his buttonhole are included in your wedding package, but extra flowers and buttonholes can be ordered for guests and bridesmaids.

What about the music?

You can request whatever music you prefer and it will be arranged for you – from a DJ playing your favourite songs to calypso bands. If you prefer you can pack a CD with your chosen musical selection, which can be played at your wedding.

Will I have a cake?

A wedding cake is included in wedding packages; this is usually a sponge cake with white icing. You can add your own decorations, and even arrange for an upgraded cake. Sandals Resorts offer a

choice of themed weddings, which feature colour-co-ordinated cakes to match the chosen wedding palette.

Who will take care of my hair and makeup?

Every bride wants to look her best and fortunately many hotels have hair and beauty services with makeup artists on hand. Even if they don't, your wedding planner can arrange for experts to come to the hotel.

Can I arrange for a good wedding photographer?

At your pre-wedding meeting, your wedding planner will show you examples of local photographers work so that you can choose the style that suits you best.

Your video can also be arranged when you get to the resort. Photographer and DVD are usually at extra cost; they are rarely included in your wedding package.

What about the wedding dinner?

If you have a group of guests at your wedding, a gala dinner is usually arranged as part of your wedding package. If it's just the two of you, your wedding planner will arrange a candle-lit dinner for two in a romantic location.

We want friends and family at the ceremony but can we be alone for our honeymoon?

Absolutely. Simply ask your guests to stay at a different hotel close by, or transfer to another hotel after the ceremony.

And finally…

How can I find out more?

Speak to Brides Abroad’s Wedding Planning Team on 0800 211 8255.

W edding Countdown

Pic courtesy of Sandals

Don’t be caught out! Set your diary for our month-by-month wedding checklist

12 MONTHS • • • • •

Decide on a budget Fix a date and time Decide on guest numbers Research to find your perfect venue!

Check world weather

11 MONTHS

• Send out save the day cards • Take out wedding insurance and include your wedding dress • Make appointments to try out wedding dresses • Start downloading music if planning a CD for reception • Check availability at resorts and get prices

10 MONTHS

• Book your hotel and wedding package • Order invitations and envelopes as well as place cards • Inform guests of travel plans and give them your tour operator details so they can work out their own arrangements • Set up a honeymoon gift list

92 www.BridesAbroad.tv

• Pick your bridesmaids, ushers and best man • Decide on your dress – allow at least four months for a made-to-measure gown to be delivered

9 MONTHS

• Start thinking about a theme for your wedding • Choose and order your bridesmaids outfits • Discuss with your wedding planners what documents you need • Check your passport is up to date • Arrange your travel insurance

8 MONTHS

• If you are having a religious ceremony, discuss readings and choose music for your service • Check whether readings and music permitted for a civil ceremony

7 MONTHS

• Choose and order favours • Shop for table decorations, confetti and trimmings

are

• Choose shoes and accessories for you and your bridesmaids

6 MONTHS

• Remind your fiancé to get his and the ushers’ outfits • Choose gifts for your attendants, best man, mum and helpers • Chase up any guests who haven’t responded

5 MONTHS

• Book a consultation with your hairstylist • Start your course of Restylane fillers, permanent hair removal, cosmetic tweaks and slimming treatments

4 MONTHS

• Go shopping for honeymoon clothes • Check whether you need visas or inoculations • Start arrangements for your stag and hen party • Start your diet and fitness campaign

3 MONTHS

• Check that you have received all the

Honeymoon checklist 6 MONTHS

• Do your research • Health and safety – check for travel advice and updates at the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (fco.gov.org) • Set the honeymoon budget

5 MONTHS

• Make your choice early as airline prices can soar for late bookings • Check on visas • Check your passport is up to date

4 MONTHS

• Have your jabs • Start health and fitness plan

3 MONTHS

• •

• • •

correct documentation, including travel tickets. Check the details carefully for correct names, dates and times of flights Inform the tour operator of guests who are staying at different hotels – day passes need to be arranged for them Book a make-up session at a department store and choose your wedding make-up. Make sure it is heat -and-water-resistant if you are going to hot climes Choose your ‘special wedding perfume’ Book your pre-wedding hair appointment for cut and colour Choose a company for a gift list and make your selection

2 MONTHS

• Check that your fiancé has the rings and his wedding clothes • Collect your wedding dress • Book your beauty treatments, including nails, facial, fake tan, waxing, eyebrow shape, false lashes

1 MONTH

• Double check that you have all the original documentation for your wedding • Make sure you have a suitable luggage carrier for your wedding dress for transportation in the hold of the plane • Buy your sun protection, travel-sized products etc • Boost and fine tune your diet and fitness plan • Work out the seating plan for your reception • Discuss final checklist with your wedding planner • Check that your passport, visas, inoculations and insurance are in place

TWO WEEKS

• Have your final hair appointment and ask for tips and products. Take photographs to show hairdressers at your destination

• Two days prior to departure have beauty treatments including nails, facial, fake tan, waxing, eyebrow shape, false lashes etc • Order your travel cheques and currency • Have your stag and hen party

• Choose your honeymoon wardrobe • Book appointments for fillers, permanent hair removal etc.

On arrival at your resort

1 MONTH

• Meet the resort’s wedding co-ordinator to check all documentation and set a day, time and location for the ceremony • Choose your flowers, cake and witnesses • Order add-ons such as larger cake, more wine, extra buttonholes, photographer, music and transport to the ceremony • Check that day passes and special permissions for children have been arranged for guests staying at other hotels • Arrange hairstylist, beauty appointments and spa treatments

2 WEEKS

The day before your wedding • You will have a wedding rehearsal with your wedding co-ordinator • Have a spa massage to relax you for your big day • Have a top-up spray tan if needed

The big day • Have your hair and make-up done at the hotel • Your wedding co-ordinator will check everything else is in place • Once the Marriage Officer arrives you will receive a call to let you know it’s time to say ‘I Do’

2 MONTHS

• Buy your luggage • Confirm bookings • Choose your perfume and water and heatproof holiday make-up • Order travellers cheques and currency • Check your holiday insurance carefully

1 WEEK

• Book a pedicure, have a spray tan and leg and bikini wax.

• Check in online • Check airport transfers

Check your documents!

You will need originals – or copies certified by a notary or solicitor of the following. But do check with your wedding tour operator and/or wedding planner.

• 10 year passport, valid for at least six months • Birth certificates • If you are divorced, a decree absolute • If widowed, a death certificate and previous marriage certificate • An affidavit signed by a solicitor stating no legal objection to the marriage • If you have changed your name by deed poll, ensure it is proof stamped and signed by a solicitor.

Visit fco.gov.uk for further details, and do check with your tour operator and wedding planner before you leave for your destination.

www.BridesAbroad.tv 93

Ask the planners!

We asked Lisa Burton of The Bridal Consultant wedding planning service to answer your burning questions on planning a wedding abroad.

Venue Dilemma

Help! My mother in law is making my wedding planning experience very stressful for me.

We’re at the very early stages of planning our 2019 wedding, but my groom’s mother already wants to attend every meeting with our wedding planner and is trying to make decisions on my behalf. My fiancé is an only child and I understand this is a special occasion for her too, however it’s my wedding day and we are paying for it with no help from either family. I should be able to make my own decisions. How do I ask her to take a step back without causing any offence?

Sally, Essex

Hi Sally

First of all, don’t panic! As you have already mentioned this is a special occasion for her as well – her only son is tying the knot!

However there are boundaries and, if you do feel that your mother in law is becoming too involved in your wedding planning and making your decisions for you, it is better that you deal with this sooner rather than later. Is your partner aware of how you feel? Perhaps ask him to speak with his mother and politely let her know how you are feeling. It may be best if it comes from him. It is, however, important that she still feels that you want her to be involved in the planning, so what I would suggest is giving her particular tasks, like chasing RSVP’s and menu decisions and helping with things like the table plan – all very necessary, but very time consuming. This could actually save you loads of time and will keep her busy, making her feel like she’s involved without overstepping the mark. Good luck!

My wedding is so far away

I’ve just booked my wedding in Croatia for September 2019 and it feels so far away. I’m so excited and there are so many decisions I want to start making now, however, I’m scared that if I make these decisions too soon I will change my mind at a later date.

Do you have any advice on what I could do now to help me prepare for my wedding?

Belinda, Swansea

Hi Belinda

Congratulations on booking your wedding! The most important thing is done – you have booked your dream wedding venue and the date is set! The first thing I would advise to do from here is start researching and collecting ideas for your wedding (Pinterest is the perfect social media platform for gathering wedding ideas), this will help determine what sort of wedding you do and more importantly don’t want. The next thing, if you haven’t already done so, is to send out ‘save the dates’ and start getting a good idea of your guest numbers. My final piece of advice would be to enjoy it! Enjoy the run up to your wedding planning and your time being engaged, as it is likely that, when September comes, every spare moment will be spent doing something wedding related. So use the time you have now to relax, ready for when the date finally arrives! The last few weeks before your wedding will absolutely fly by!

Contact Lisa:

Do you have any questions for Lisa Burton, The Bridal Consultant?

Email your questions to: lisa@thebridalconsultants.com The Bridal Consultant is a full wedding planning service that specialises in exclusive destination weddings in Santorini and Zakynthos (Greece), Italy, Croatia and Ibiza. www.thebridalconsultant.co.uk 80 www.BridesAbroad.com

Guest list drop off I’m starting to get increasingly frustrated with guests cancelling. I’ve had so many friends and family who said they’d come when we sent the invites out 12 months ago, but now with 5 months to go until the wedding they have failed to book flights and accommodation and have told me they can’t make it. Do I have the right to be upset and slightly hurt by this?

Rebecca, Dorset

Hi Rebecca

Of course you have every right to be upset if guests that you wanted to attend your special day aren’t going to make it after all, this is a completely normal reaction. However what you need to remember is that attending a wedding abroad is very different to attending a wedding at home. If you sent the invitations out 12 months ago they probably accepted with the full intention of coming. Have you considered that their personal circumstances may have changed? It could be costs, work or childcare for example, this is a common occurrence in many wedding parties and, although it is a difficult situation, it’s something you have no control over.

If these guests are important to you and you want to celebrate your wedding with them – perhaps consider having a party back home for those who can’t make it abroad.

Advertising Feature

The Wedding of Your Dreams In The Hotel of Your Dreams

Celebrate your wedding on Crete at the St. Nicolas Bay Hotel on the terrace of the hotel’s beach side chapel. Say ‘I do’ in this dreamy location with the blue waters of the Cretan Sea glinting in the background.

The sumptuous Honeymoon Suite is sheer elegance with an exceptional personal service and attention to detail. The spacious terrace next to the pool, the intimate atmosphere and the luxury all combine to create memories of your Crete honeymoon that will stay with you forever.

Celebrations are tailor-made, whether a couple is planning a romantic wedding or a festive family celebration. St. Nicolas

Bay Resort Hotel has at your disposal the guest service team dedicated to providing couples with personalized attention to meet any special requests.

The St Nicolas Bay offers a number of fascinating outdoor venues for the wedding of your dreams for just the two of you or for your friends and relatives. Culinary options alongside your choice of music, the services of a professional photographer and even a fireworks display can also be arranged on request. Flowers for all occasions and wedding table decorations are created by the hotel’s expert florist to be tailor-made particular requirements.

Life is a collection of experiences – Let us be your guide Further information St Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas Aghios Nikolaos, Crete 72100, Greece T: +30.28410.90200 Email: reservations@stnicolasbay.gr www.stnicolasbay.gr www.thalassavillas.gr

The Art of Tipping We’ve all been there. The hotel porter is hovering in the room with our bags, waiting for the moment we cross his palm with silver – but how much money are we expected to tip?

Or should we even tip at all?

Research has revealed that just a third of Brits tip whilst abroad and half are confused by local tipping customs. Many people confess to not knowing what is etiquette in different countries. In light of this, Travel Money Club has put together the ultimate guide to tipping while abroad.

Tipping overseas can be a minefield, no matter what your personal opinions on rewarding stellar service, too low or too high can get you into hot water. An act of generosity can even turn sour if done in the wrong manner whilst aboard.

Don Clark, Founder of Travel Money Club, says: “It is often unclear whether you should tip or not whilst abroad, it is an unspoken rule and part of local customs and so no one actually tells you what is acceptable in each country.

Tipping too much or in a situation where it is not expected or necessary can also mean you end up spending more than anticipated on holiday.”

It is always best to tip in cash rather than add to a card payment, as that way you know the member of staff that served you will most likely receive it. If paying by card, always opt to pay in the local currency rather than Pounds Sterling as the bank rate that is applied can vary and in most cases the exchange rate is poor.

Different rules apply in different countries, and it’s not just the amount but the manner in which you give the reward. Here is a guide to what you should tip and where so you have one less thing to think about when travelling aboard.

Travel Money Club guarantees members the best exchange rates on foreign currency or their money back. The online service allows travellers to order currencies which cover 75% of worldwide destinations, via its website or app, with currencies delivered directly to members doors via a fullyinsured, guaranteed next day delivery service. For more information please visit www.travelmoneyclub.co.uk

82 www.BridesAbroad.com

USA - 20% tip

Famous for its tipping culture, when travelling to the United States a substantial tip is expected and there will be trouble if you don’t. Restaurant waiting staff, housekeepers, taxis and tour guides will expect a 10%-20% tip in addition to the normal price. Make sure you account for this when accepting a taxi journey, drink or meal out.

SPAIN – 5% tip

As one of the most popular travel destinations for Brits, you’ll be pleased to know that Spain doesn’t have a strong tipping culture, however tips are accepted and it is becoming more commonplace. A small gesture of 1% to 5% would be kindly received by waiting staff and tour guides.

France – 10-15% tip

Service compris or service charge is included by law in France, so tipping is not always expected. Where it isn’t included, a tip of 10-15% is adequate for restaurant staff and a smaller tip of 1 to 5% is ok when taking a taxi or paying for drinks. As a general rule taxi drivers would expect in the region of 10% of the fare.

Japan – 0% tip

Tipping in Japan is frowned upon, in fact it can be insulting, even if you feel that the level of service deserves a bonus the staff will rarely accept it.

Good service is considered part of the job so rewarding it can cause offence.

However, there is an exception, tour guides often rely on tips to contribute to their wage. It is often best to discuss this discretely with the tour guide to establish a preference. Sometimes a

tour guide will accept tips as ‘flower money’ so they can choose their own flowers for their home. This may sound unlikely to the western traveller but actually it is completely genuine.

China – 20% tip

In China, tipping is very much expected.

The rise of domestic tourism and the affluent middle class means that tour guides and drivers and other tourist staff have come to expect to be generously tipped.

Germany – 10% tip

Customs differ in Germany, the tip should be given directly to the member of staff not left behind. A service charge is not included in the final restaurant bill so it is up to you to reward good service, typically 10% of the final bill.

India – 10-15% tip

Tipping in India is very much part of the culture and everyone expects to be tipped. For the western traveller there is a dizzying number of people needing to be tipped, and a set hierarchy of tipping amounts, which can be overwhelming, even though the actual amounts are very small. If you’re travelling with a local guide it may be helpful to discuss it with them and agree how to approach rewarding each person.

Australia/ New Zealand – 5% tip

Tipping down under is discretionary, there are no rules and it is not expected as waiting staff get paid a relatively higher wage than those in other countries. Rounding up the bill at the bar or in a taxi is common and will be a popular and polite gesture.

Honeymoons

84 Honeymoon health

Don’t let medical emergencies ruin your honeymoon, be prepared with our top eight tips for staying on top form ¬ from vaccinations to sun safely.

90 Cruise French Polynesia

Float away to paradise aboard the luxury liner Paul Gauguin on your honeymoon of a lifetime in the South Pacific. Beginning in Tahiti you will sail to the sparkling islands of French Polynesia, including Bora Bora.

98 La La Land

Honeymoon like a star in Los Angeles, the film capital of the world and discover the delights of Hollywood, Santa Monica, Venice Beach.

104 European honeymoon on track

If you don’t like flying, then take to the train to the iconic hotspots of Europe – from romantic Paris to historic Rome, and from ancient Pompeii to thriving Zurich.

112 Twice as nice

Why settle for one beautiful honeymoon destination when you can visit two islands in the Indian Ocean – enjoy a cultural adventure in Sri Lanka then head to the magnificent Maldives.

120 North Island, New Zealand

New Zealand’s North Island may be a long way from British shores, but well worth the journey to see the beautiful work of Mother Nature! www.BridesAbroad.com 83

8

ways to Honeymoon Health

The last thing you want is for your honeymoon to go badly wrong because of a medical issue, so Dr Riccardo Di Cuffa, Director and GP at Your Doctor (www.your-doctor.co.uk) has compiled eight travel health tips to help ensure your honeymoon runs as smoothly as possible.

1

Vaccinations

2

Sun safety

Seek advice from your GP at least eight weeks prior to your trip to ensure you know what you need and what the risks are at your holiday destination, so that you can make an appointment in advance and the vaccinations have time to work. For general travel information try www. fitfortravel.nhs.uk/home.aspx. The following travel vaccinations are usually available free on the NHS – Diphtheria, polio and tetanus (combined vaccine and usually booster as all children will had this as part of primary immunisation programme in UK), typhoid and sometimes hepatitis A as it is a combined vaccine. Cholera is also available. You are likely to have to pay for other vacations privately.

Taking precautions in the sun is incredibly important. In hot climates try and be in the shade particularly between 11am and 3pm and make sure you never burn by covering up, wear a wide brimmed hat and use at least factor 15 sunscreen.

Remember to reapply after being in water, also to reapply frequently during time exposed. Even not having proper eye protection can cause a temporary but painful burn to the surface of the eye, similar to sunburn. If you do get burnt, try having a light shower with cool water and apply after-sun or calamine lotion.

Ibuprofen could help reduce inflammation caused by sunburn. Seek medical help if you feel unwell. Extra care should be taken if you have paler skin, freckles, red or fair hair, have many moles, or if there is a family history of skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in Australia. Skin can burn in just 15 minutes in the summer sun – take extra care.

84 www.BridesAbroad.com

3 4 5 6 7 8 Anti-malarial medication

Malaria is an important factor when travelling to certain popular honeymoon destinations.

However, anti-malaria medication varies in how long you should take them for and how far in advance you should take them. Anti-malarial pills are also not 100 per cent effective and there is increasing resistance to them, so always try to take precautions to stop yourself being bitten. Mosquitoes carrying the disease often bite after sunset and so it is a good idea to wear strong repellent and long sleeve clothes after sunset. The Advisory Committee for Malaria Prevention (ACMP) strongly recommends DEET-based insect repellents. There are also diseases spread through mosquitos that bite during the day (such as Dengue fever) so keep your insect repellent spray handy during the day as well as at night.

Travel Diarrhoea

In areas where it is difficult to maintain good hygiene and sanitation, travellers are advised to take precautions with food to ensure it is uncontaminated and cooked thoroughly and that all water has been purified. Always carry sanitising gel or hand wipes. Ensure that clean dishes, cups and utensils are used; use alcohol wipes to clean them if necessary. Where possible choose food that is freshly cooked to a high temperature and served immediately whilst still hot. Be especially cautious with street vendors selling cheese, ice cream, fish and shellfish, salads and fresh herbs (inc in drinks) and fruit. Boiled and bottled water (with intact seal) are usually safe, as are hot tea and coffee, beer and wine. Do not use ice in drinks unless in an established hotel chain. There is an effective antibiotic used for severe cases of travellers’ diarrhoea called Ciprofloxacin. Most cases of traveller diarrhoea are not, in fact, due to infection but due to the change in mineral content of the water.

Deep Vein Thrombosis

If either of you are at risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), seek advice from your GP. Long haul passengers should regularly walk around and stretch their legs on long flights, drink water and preferably avoid alcohol. Wear loose comfortable clothing and anti-DVT special socks. If you have a family history of thrombosis or have had a DVT previously, always consult your doctor before travel. Seek medical advice if planning to travel within a month of abdominal or leg surgery

Travel Insurance

Make sure you have sufficient travel insurance to cover medical emergencies quickly and efficiently. Take the relevant forms with you.

Jetlag

There is no magic solution to avoid jetlag but ensure that you adjust your time to local time and try to keep active until bedtime. You can use an antihistamine such as Piriton, as it has mild sedative properties. For some it could take a day per hour difference to adjust to time changes.

First aid kit

Always take a travel first aid kit with you. This may include paracetamol, antiinflammatories, thermometer, plasters, antiseptic cream, dressings, antihistamines if you are prone to allergies. If you are planning a sea journey or long car trip, be sure to pack travel sickness pills. You may not be able to purchase them once on board cruise ships and car ferries and they are a must if you are prone to motion sickness.

Further information www.your-doctor.co.uk

www.BridesAbroad.com 85

Advertising Feature

Timeless Elegance at

St Regis Mauritius

Weddings at St Regis are celebrations ‘Beyond Expectation’.

Every detail is attended to with care; every moment is a cherished memory in the making – Imagine exchanging vows in an elegant ballroom setting or delighting in a first dance on a private beach lit only by the stars!

Weddings and Renewal of Wedding Wows at the St Regis Mauritius are always the talk of the town; elegant affairs distinguished by the finest wines, most exquisite cuisine and personal attention that St Regis promises.

From personalised menus and exquisitely appointed venues to impeccable service with a seasoned St. Regis specialist standing by ready to ensure your most precious day is also your most memorable, you are guaranteed that your wedding day will be absolutely perfect.

There is no address like the St Regis Mauritius Resort. Reclining on white sands of Le Morne Beach and a turquoise lagoon,

the 5-star luxury resort boasts a magical setting, located on the south-west peninsula of the island known as the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’. It offers lavishly appointed accommodation in 172 guest rooms and suites with breathtaking views over the Indian Ocean.

Wining and dining Newlyweds can enjoy a delicious choice of superb restaurants offering a myriad of gastronomic influences – from Frenchinspired and traditional Mauritian cuisine, to the exotic dishes of South-East Asia and fine Japanese selections. Le Manoir Dining

Room reflects the decor and service of a stately home, serving delicious Mauritian and French cuisine; The Boathouse Grill is an elegant beachside gourmet experience where you can eat with your feet in the sand and dance into the sunset; The Floating Market is an East Asian inspired restaurant offering Thai, Malay, Vietnamese, Indonesian and Singaporean cuisine; Atsuko restaurant presents the hallmark of the Far East in a haven of calm; Simply India is a signature restaurant that features traditional Indian cuisine with aromatic Tandoori specialties.

As night falls, The 1904 Bar, a quiet haven of relaxation by day, becomes the social

hub of the resort. Beginning at dusk with light background jazz artists and residential pianist, night follows with full-flavoured cocktails – from rum cocktails to Mauritian ‘teasers’ – snacks and live entertainment.

The date 1904 coincides with the building of New York City – the hallmark of the St Regis brand today.

Sports and activities For honeymooners seeking action and adventure there’s plenty to keep them occupied – from kite surfing, windsurfing, snorkeling and water skiing to SUP (stand up paddling), kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving and glass bottom boat trips. Couples will find an abundance of complementary activities available at the Watersports Centre on the beach. Or they can take to

the sea on organized Catamaran cruises and Big Game fishing trips. However, no honeymooner should miss the opportunity to go out to sea on a sunny morning excursion to swim with wild dolphins!

Human fascination with these intelligent creatures is as old as humanity itself, and all those who have experienced a close encounter with wild dolphins will carry these wonderful memories for a lifetime.

Spa and Wellness Couples seeking tranquility and relaxation will find a sensory heaven in the St Regis Mauritius Resort’s Iridium Spa. Guests will enter on a journey that takes them through half-an-hour to half-a-day of pampering and indulgence in the spa. The Iridium Spa nestles at the heart of the property

in a colonial style building overlooking the Indian Ocean, where it offers treatments in 12 luxurious treatment rooms; a hair and beauty salon; jacuzzi, sauna; steam room and Fitness Centre where you can book personal training, fitness classes and keep in good shape in the state-of-the-art Techno Gym.

Further Information St Regis Mauritius Resort & Spa Le Morne Peninsula Mauritius Le Morne Mauritius Call: +230 403 9000 Visit: www.stregismauritius.com

Advertising Feature

Reethi Faru

For a magical Maldivian wedding blessing or a blissful honeymoon haven, Reethi Faru is paradise found!

Reethi Faru, a luxury escape, on the secluded, private island of Filaidhoo, is a gorgeous, one of a kind, tropical island, where the glistening, crystal clear ocean meets endless white coral sand and tropical foliage making this a truly magical destination – the perfect choice for wedding blessings and honeymoons in the Maldives.

Take a scenic seaplane flight from Mali International Airport for a stunning aerial view of the Atolls en-route and you’ll arrive at this luxury resort just 45-minutes later.

Alternatively, take a 20-minute domestic flight to Dharavandhoo and a short speedboat journey to give your senses a shot.

On arrival, Prepare to fall in love with this breathtaking island paradise, which measures just 600m by 350m and has guardianship of all that nature has created on a tiny island in Raa Atoll.

Luxury accommodation

Underwater magic

Unwind in one of one the resort’s 150 traditional, luxurious Maldivian villas. You can choose from a number of detached or semi-detached options: complete with Jacuzzi; nestled in tropical gardens; beachside; on stilts over the turquoise water. All villas have wi-fi, satellite TV and all mod cons and have been built with conservation in mind, using eco-friendly and locally sourced materials.

The vibrant house reef, teeming with marine life, lies just a step off the shore and Reethi Faru’s commitment to minimising the impact on the thriving eco system has led to the development of a series of artificial coral nurseries, alongside numerous conservation initiatives, in order to maintain the natural landscape of this bio luxury resort.

Wining and dining The resort’s six restaurants and six bars offer the most delectable dishes, alongside mouth-watering cocktails, fresh fruit smoothies and exquisite fine wines, to tempt your taste buds in a cosy ambience or stunning location. There’s something to suit all tastes, from wood-fired pizzas to traditional Maldivian cuisine and fine dining

To appreciate the mysteries of the Indian Ocean and living reef, the Dive Centre is equipped to show you the most awe inspiring underwater world of submerged islands, underwater walls and sea caves.

You can also go dolphin spotting and desert island hopping and enjoy an extensive range of watersports.

Wellness Relax in the soothing therapy rooms and massage huts at the Coconut wellness

spa, and choose from an extensive list of indulgent spa treatments – or maintain/ begin a new fitness regime in the fullyequipped sports complex, with its range of facilities, including an air conditioned gym, two indoor and two outdoor courts for playing badminton, tennis and squash and a dance studio with yoga, pilates and dance classes. You may simply want to take a dip in the 25-meter infinity pool that overlooks the lagoon, or join in the pool activities, which include water polo and aqua aerobics.

Wedding packages For wedding blessings with the ‘wow’ factor, the resort offers a choice of three wedding packages. All packages include

the services of the resort’s wedding coordinator; fruit basket, t-shirts and wine in the room on arrival; wedding ceremony and sparkling wine reception; wedding cake; vow renewal certificate; planting of a wedding palm tree and BBQ dinner on the beach. Wedding packages 1 and 2 include the Reethi Faru Honeymoon Package and a romantic Candle Light Dinner on the day before the wedding. They also include Bodu Beru drums. Package 2 (price $1,050) includes canapés at sunset whilst Package 1 (price $1,700); also includes in-room breakfast with sparkling wine on your wedding day; a sunset Dhoni cruise with canapés; brunch in room the day after the wedding and two traditional Balinese Massages. Package 3 offers a ceremony

which takes place at sunset. (price $625).

Photographer, flower bouquet and extra guests are at extra cost.

Further Information Call: +960 400 4000 Email: inquiry@reethifaru.com Visit: www.reethifaru.com

Cruising French Polynesia 2S LSRI]QSSR GSYPH TSWWMFP] LEZI QSVI ;3; JEGXSV XLER E 7SYXL 4EGMJMG GVYMWI SJ *VIRGL 4SP]RIWME EFSEVH XLI PY\YV] GVYMWI WLMT Q W 4EYP +EYKYMR XEOMRK MR WXYRRMRK MWPERHW MRGPYHMRK 8ELMXM ERH &SVE &SVE 90 www.BridesAbroad.com

The world-class honeymoon experience begins in the port of Papeete, Tahiti in French Polynesia, where your luxury liner awaits to float you across the shimmering blue waters of the South Pacific to some of the most breathtaking islands on the planet On the down side, Tahiti is a long way from British shores, on the upside, it’s a long way from the usual well trodden honeymoon path, so you can be sure of a truly unique experience if you are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon escape.

The m/s Paul Gauguin is a luxurious cruise ship which offers something distinctly more personal and intimate than the usual supersized ships that cruise passengers have come to expect – the ones where you are just one of thousands of passengers vying for privacy and space. With just 332 passengers being served by 217 attentive crew (one of the highest guest/crew ratios of any luxury cruise ship), an all-inclusive cruise aboard the Paul Gauguin makes you feel like a guest aboard a Billionaire’s private yacht.

Passengers embark in Tahiti, to the sounds of the ukulele, accompanied by traditional Polynesian dancers – a sight which

becomes increasingly familiar during the seven-day cruise of the Leeward Group of Society Islands. Guests are shown to their spacious suites and staterooms, then go through the emergency drills, book excursions and sample delicious cuisine in a choice of three restaurants before the ship pulls away from its moorings at around midnight en-route to Huahine, the first stop-over.

Facilities onboard include the excellent dining offering – A La Carte in the main restaurant and reservation dining in La Veranda, featuring French Cuisine from chef Jean-Pierre Vigato from the world-renowned Michelin-starred Apicius in Paris, and Le Grill, for a casual dining experience with a hint of Asia. There’s also a piano, pool and La Palette bar; theatre; casino; Fitness Centre; spa, marina, plus a pool deck for simply chilling. www.BridesAbroad.com 91

(%= ,9%,-2)

The day begins bright and early for most passengers, many from the USA, who have travelled west and are still getting used to the jet lag factor of being at least five hours behind. The stunning sight of French Polynesia that beholds them starts the day on a high, and represents the taste of things to come. Turquoise sea and white powder sand become familiar sights on this cruise, and Huahine is the first of these gorgeous Society Islands. Once the home of Tahitian royalty, Huahine is the oldest settlement in the group of 14 islands that make up French Polynesia and is a lush tropical jungle thriving with coconut plantations, vanilla orchards and banana groves. It is also a culturally preserved sanctuary with sacred temples hidden throughout dense vegetation.

;LEX XS HS WII

The ship’s excursions take passengers in an open-air tram to view the restored temples, the stone fish traps and ancient villages of Maeva, an archaeological site. Surfing, diving and snorkeling are also offered on the offshore coral reefs. Visit a vanilla plantation or take a Jeep ride into the interior, taking in a visit to watch the feeding of the sacred blue-eyed eels in a freshwater lake.

&VMHIW %FVSEH XMT

Alternatively, we suggest you did as our editor did and take the traditional mode of transport, Le Truck – a shuttle bus to the beaches, and spend the day relaxing in the sunshine by a palm-fringed beach.

(%=

8%,% % 1389 1%,%2% Enclosed in a lagoon and accessible only by boat, Taha’a is the only island in the Society Islands that can be completely circled by ship inside the protected lagoon. With its many deep bays and small deserted islets on the reef, Taha’a is an ideal island to escape the 21st century. Motu Mahana, one of the islets neighboring Taha’a, is Paul Gauguin Cruises’ own private island, featuring white sand beaches, swaying palm trees, crystal-clear waters and gentle breezes – once you land on this islet you really will think you have been wafted to paradise!

;LEX XS HS WII

In Taha’a you can explore the reef and discover the beauty of its multicolored lagoon or ride a four-wheel-drive in the mountains and through the vanilla plantations. Alternatively you can spend the day at the ultimate beach BBQ! As an exclusive event during Paul Gauguin’s Tahiti voyages, passengers can take the ship’s tender service throughout the day to Motu Mahana island, crossing waters so turquoise that the sight will take your breath away. You will disembark on the jetty whilst being serenaded by Polynesian musicians and dancers, then spend a full day partying, or chilling and relaxing under the palms with a delicious BBQ feast served all day along with cooling cocktails from the floating bar.

&VMHIW %FVSEH XMT

Take our editor’s advice at Paul Gauguin’s island BBQ, and stand in the warm, crystal clear ocean and chatter with ‘new friends’ whilst sipping a chilling glass of bubbly, that’s how to enjoy the world’s best beach party!

92 www.BridesAbroad.com

(%=

&36% &36%

If you have seen the movie Couples Retreat, starring Vince Vaughn, you will know to expect paradise in Bora Bora. And you won’t be disappointed!

This island truly is incredible. So lovely that the ship stays in mooring here for two days to give everyone a chance to be immersed in the Bora Bora experience. Surrounded by sand-fringed motus (islets) and a turquoise lagoon protected by a coral reef, it’s known for its scuba diving. It’s also a popular luxury resort destination – you will see a number of gorgeous hotels, where some guest bungalows are perched, Maldives-style, over the water on stilts. At the island’s centre rises the landmark Mt. Otemanu, a 727m dormant volcano. The sight of this gives Bora Bora its distinctive identity.

;LEX XS HS WII

Most tourists wander the shops, sun on snow-white beaches or swim in the crystalline waters. The best way to see Bora Bora is by renting a jeep, moped or bicycle and traveling the single road that circles the island. Other options include spending the day at the Bora Bora Lagoon Resort or the Hotel Bora Bora, where snorkeling is offered. You can even go shark and ray watching by Glass Bottom Boat, or take a sunset cruise on an Outrigger Canoe. Be sure to shop for the local souvenirs, including gloriously colourful tie-dye wraps and black pearl jewellery. If you get the chance, visit Bloody Mary’s restaurant – this famous restaurant lives off the name of a character in the movie South Pacific and offers stunning views. The ‘celebrities wall of fame’ is one of the main attractions at the entrance of the restaurant.

&VMHIW %FVSEH XMT

Two days gave our editor the opportunity to hire a taxi with another couple and spend the first day sightseeing and the next day simply doing nothing but soaking up the sun on an exquisite beach. www.BridesAbroad.com 93

(%=

1336)%

The last island stop-over is Moorea, where the ship anchors for two days in the bay, giving passengers plenty of time to explore this beautiful tropical island that rises magically out of the ocean, just eleven miles from Tahiti.

Moorea is known for its jagged volcanic mountains as well as its sandy beaches.

;LEX XS HS WII

A scenic drive around the island passes through pineapple ďŹ elds and coconut palms to a lookout that reveals magniďŹ cent views of Cook’s Bay and Papetoai Bay. The island is a popular diving destination because of the frequent shark sightings during dives. Other options include a visit to a brandy distillery, Moorea Juice Factory or a cruise around the spectacular bay aboard a yacht. You could also hike Magic Mountain – this loop-hike can be steep, but the pay off of 360 degree views of the island’s blue waters and dramatic mountain peaks is worth the trip.

&VMHIW %FVSEH XMT On the ďŹ rst day in Moorea, our editor decided to explore the island by private taxi, with the enthusiastic taxi driver acting as tour guide, taking in the stunning sights of the island, including the incredible view point. Sadly, plans to ďŹ nd ďŹ nd a beach and sunbathe on the second day were rained off – ďŹ ďŹ rst rst rain in a week! This resulted in a day relaxing onboard the Paul Gauguin and enjoying its luxurious facilities before heading back to the port of Tahiti. A good chance to reect on the wonderful cruise around French Polynesia – and plan a return visit!

&PIWWMRKW %FVSEH

During each cruise aboard m/s Paul Gauguin couples are invited to take part in a traditional sunset Wedding Blessing ceremony aboard ship. The truly romantic ceremony is open to a number of couples, that are either on honeymoon, or taking wedding anniversary cruises aboard. The blessing ceremony begins with a Polynesian dancing display, then a poem is read out.

0SZI )XIVREP

I have carved your name on a leaf But the wind blew it away I have carved your name on a tree But a man cut it down I have carved your name on the beach But the sand erased it So I have carved your name in my heart Where it will stay forever Love arises from a glance And blossoms in a kiss The blessing ceremony ends with the couple being taken on deck and having traditional ower garlands placed in their hair, then wrapped together in a special ‘love blanket’ whilst photos are taken as the sun sets behind them. There can be few more romantic moments for a couple to share!

&SSO MX Paul Gauguin cruise line offers a luxury cruise experience uniquely tailored to the wonders of the South PaciďŹ PaciďŹ c. c. The 5 ½ star Paul Gauguin was christened after the Post-impressionist French painter who ďŹ rst arrived in Tahiti in 1891. Purpose-built for these waters, it sails year-round from Papeete and offers 7- to 14-day itineraries in the Society Islands, Cook Islands, Marquesas and Tuomotus. A handful of sailings venture out to New Zealand or Fiji. Speak to a Paul Gauguin Cruise Specialist on 0800-021-1739 or visit website: www.paulgauguincruiseline.com 94 www.BridesAbroad.com

PARTY AT SEA Celebrate your special occasion at sea Enjoy a 2-night mini cruise to Amsterdam, with up to 5 hours exploring this wonderful city from just £94pp.

It’s a unique party experience for groups of 10+. Includes: • Glass of champagne & personalised cake • Buffet breakfast both mornings • Buffet dinner & ½ bottle of wine on one crossing Find out more at dfds.co.uk/party

NEWCASTLE-AMSTERDAM NDFDS.CO.UK/PARTY Price is subject to availability & based on 4 sharing sea view cabin. Credit card charges apply. T&Cs apply.

Advertising Feature

The Verandah Resort & Spa

Nestling on the lush agricultural northeast coast of Antigua, The Verandah Resort & Spa offers wedding and honeymoon packages in a spacious oasis of luxury and tranquillity, just a 5-minute drive from the spectacular Devil’s Bridge National Park. Set in 30 beautiful beachfront acres, it boasts pretty white sandy coves with calm turquoise waters and luxurious accommodation in suites and villas within manicured gardens – each boasting its own signature ‘verandah’ to enjoy the tropical and sea views. The resort has gorgeous settings for weddings with 5 wedding gazebo options including a wedding gazebo overlooking the bay. An expansive swimming pool is the resort’s centrepiece, there’s also an adult-only pool for quiet relaxation. With three restaurants and four bars, guests have a choice of dining options followed by live evening entertainment. The Tranquility Body & Soul Spa is an elegant hideaway for pampering and relaxation.

THE GRENADINES Palm Island Resort

For perfect Caribbean weddings and honeymoons, the Palm Island Resort in the Grenadines is a magical escape. Completely secluded on its own 135-acre private island fringed with coconut palms, soft white sand and turquoise sea, it is an idyllic place to relax and unwind.

The resort has been built to blend in with its natural surroundings, with many of its rooms, suites and villas located on the beach.

Here honeymooners can hike, swim, enjoy non-motorised water sports and explore the island at their leisure. Palm Island offers relaxation with five white sand beaches, a swimming pool with waterfall, fitness centre and Spa Treatment Room. The beachfront restaurants take advantage of locally grown vegetables and fresh seafood, and romance seekers can enjoy private beach dining at the romantic heart-shaped tree (additional charge).

ST LUCIA

St James’s Club Morgan Bay

BARBADOS

The Club Barbados Resort & Spa

Set in a beautiful location, just a 10 minute drive from Rodney Bay Marina, and offering plenty of Caribbean charm, this fun-filled beachfront resort has an abundance of first-class facilities to keep honeymooners relaxed and entertained in the St Lucia sunshine. The all-inclusive resort is the perfect place to say: “I do” with a choice of inclusive wedding and honeymoon packages. Rooms are set in pink blocks around the resort with garden, pool or ocean views. There are six delightful dining options and four swimming pools, including a large main pool area with swim-up bar and separate kids and adultonly options. The Hilltop Spa offers luxurious couples treatments whilst active rest is offered with a range of activities including water sports, tennis courts, fully-equipped gym, pilates and spin classes and fantastic live evening entertainment.

In a gorgeous setting on the west coast of Barbados, known as the ‘Gold Coast’, The Club Barbados Resort & Spa nestles amid lush tropical gardens and is a haven of blissful relaxation. The adults-only, all-inclusive resort is a 30 minute drive away from Bridgetown with its vibrant nightlife. The hotel has a small beach with its own extensive list of water sports, including water-skiing. A short stroll in the warm sunshine takes you to one of the beautiful beaches on either side of the resort, or relax on a lounger by the hotel’s split-level pool, or in the spa where you can be indulged with luxurious treatments including couples massage and aromatherapy. The hotel offers mouth-watering cuisine in a choice of two restaurants and the Rum Shop Bar is a true Bajan rum shop and a great place to round off another day in paradise.

Book it!

www.eliteislandresorts.co.uk or though your local travel agent

La La Land Live like a film star on your honeymoon in Los Angeles, the city where dreams are made!

There’s something very familiar about LA! That’s because we have seen it so often in the movies. So if you want to feel like a star on your own film set, then head to California for the honeymoon of a lifetime and enjoy the glamour and charm of the city of Los Angeles.

98 www.BridesAbroad.com

LA is a sprawling Southern California city and the center of the nation’s film and television industry. With its mild weather, beautiful people, stylish shopping centers and, of course, Hollywood, it is easy to understand its appeal.

Filmography If you can’t get enough of movie stars and film studios and are hoping you might possibly rub shoulders with the rich and famous, then immerse yourself in the world as seen through the camera lens. Near the iconic Hollywood sign, studios such as Paramount Pictures, Universal and Warner Brothers offer behind-the-scenes tours. On Hollywood Boulevard, TCL Chinese Theatre displays celebrities’ hand and footprints, the Walk of Fame honors thousands of the most famous celebrities through the ages with pavement stars, and vendors sell maps to stars’ homes – you can even go on a guided tour of homes of Hollywood celebrities. Walk in the trail of stardust left by real stars as you head down to see the sights of Hollywood.

Beach society Did we mention the beach? A world-class white sandy beach stretches along the coastline of Los Angeles, taking in the areas from Malibu (the famous backdrop of Two and a Half Men) and Santa Monica, through Venice Beach (the trendy home of artists, musicians and poets) to Marina del Ray and the airport beyond. Stroll, jog, or better still, cycle with the locals, along the vast beach promenade and take in all the sights and sounds. Beach life is very much a part of the Los Angeles culture. Spot the beach babes working up a tan by Santa Monica Pier, better still, join them and relax in the warm sunshine – or watch the rippling muscles of sporty types, honing their bodies and working up a sweat on Muscle Beach. Alternatively stroll along the promenade, taking in the shops and buying souvenirs – baseball caps, T-shirts, arts and crafts. Santa Monica pier is well worth a visit for its arty stores and cafes, but be warned, Brides Abroad’s editor is still recovering from paying the equivalent to £50 for a Marilyn Monroe motive souvenir vest. Daylight robbery! www.BridesAbroad.com 99

Shopping spree!

For the best place to people watch and get a feel for the Bohemian side of Los Angeles stroll down to Venice Beach and its famous boardwalk. A popular hang-out of artists and musicians, you will be surprised and intrigued by the shops and inhabitants of this area – from stores selling cannabis products to old hippies playing impressive piano concertos in the street.

You will find some stunning fashions in the shops of LA, but be warned, you may need deep pockets! However, even windowshopping is a wonderful, inspiring experience in this city where style, glamour and creativity prevail. For high-end designer stores, head to Rodeo Drive (following in the footsteps of Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman), and the shopping district known as Golden Triangle, bounded by Santa Monica and Wilshire boulevards – but be warned, don’t let your credit card run away with you. For more realistic high-street shopping LA style, head to The Grove, in West Hollywood (WeHo), a one-stop destination for fashions with shops, Nordstrom department store and ever-changing pop-up shops. Also in WeHo, Melrose Avenue has become synonymous with trendiness with a mixture of indie boutiques and vintage shops, and across the street from The Grove, the original Farmers Market, in W Third St is home to over 100 artisan grocers, eclectic shops and eateries.

Down in Santa Monica, Montana Avenue offers plenty of fashionable boutiques between 6th and 17th streets.

100 www.BridesAbroad.com

Culture vulture

From its hilltop campus, the Getty Center boasts impressive art works from its rich collection, including pieces by Monet, Renoir and Van Gogh.

If architecture is your forte, take a walking tour of the city’s top sights to see anything from beautiful Art Deco buildings to the historic theaters in Downtown LA. For a truly grand welcome, view Chris Burden’s Urban Lights installation, which stands at the entrance to the vast 20-acre complex that makes up the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. In the area, you will also find the Craft and Folk Art Museum and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

Pic courtesy of Shutterstock

Nightlife

Pic courtesy of Shutterstock

After dark in West Hollywood, the iconic Sunset Strip between Doheny Drive and Crescent Heights Boulevard becomes one of the hottest stretches of asphalt in LA. The club scene here rocks with legendary establishments like Roxy, the Whisky a Go Go and the Viper Room. Newer nightclubs include Rock & Reilly’s and 1 Oak. In Hollywood, a lively bar and club scene permeates the district. On and around Hollywood Boulevard you can party under the guise of literary advancement at library-themed The Study Hollywood, and drink and dine at Houston Hospitality hot spot no Vacancy and attempt to get past the velvet ropes at nightclubs like Playhouse. www.BridesAbroad.com 101

Dining out $ - Kitchen 24

Strolling along Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood on a balmy evening, you will be attracted to Kitchen 24 by the warm flames of the glowing heaters on the restaurant’s terrace as guests tuck into American-style cuisine served al-fresco. Tasty dishes are served up all day at this hip, bustling restaurant – from delicious breakfasts to creative dinner, with great vegetarian options, all at reasonable prices. 8575 Santa Monica Boulevard. www.kitchen24.info

$$ - Matteo’s Restaurant

Frequented in its early days by celebs including Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack, Matteo’s restaurant has redefined its look and cuisine whilst maintaining its status at the epitome of classic cool.

Now in its 50th year, Matteo’s continutes to offer seasonal Italian fare in a homely and hip setting. 2321 Westwood Blvd. www.matteosla.com

$$$ - The Blvd at Beverly Wilshire

For a taste of the high life, The Blvd at Beverly Wilshire offers Californian-style culinary delights with Mediterranean influences in a casually sophisticated ambience. This bistro-style all-day dining spot is located on the ground floor of the Beverly Wilshire Hotel - made famous in the film Pretty Woman – and offers fabulous people-watching opportunities from its world-famous patio at the end of Rodeo Drive. Yes it’s pricey, but yes, it’s worth it! 9500 Wilshire Blvd. www.theblvdrestaurant.com

Stay in style

$ - Ramada Plaza by Wyndham

Offering a fitness centre and an outdoor swimming pool, Ramada Plaza by Wyndham West Hollywood is perfectly situated for shopping and sightseeing in and around the area. Guests can also enjoy the adjacent restaurant, Kitchen24 for all-day dining. The hotel has air-conditioned rooms, plus 24-hour reception.

Book it! 8585 Santa Monica Boulevard. West Hollywood. www.ramadaweho.com

$$ - Hotel MdR

Marina Del Ray – a Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Located within easy reach of LAX airport, MdR Doubletree by Hilton Hotel is situated in the upscale area around Marina del Ray, just a 5-minute drive to Venice Beach. The hotel offers a heated outdoor swimming pool and hot tub plus a fitness centre The 102 www.BridesAbroad.com

Panini Grill and Bar serves California cuisine throughout the day.

Book it! 13480 Maxella Avenue, Marina del Ray. www.doubletree3.hilton.com

$$$ - Beverly Wilshire

Get the celebrity treatment at Beverly Wilshire (a Four Seasons Hotel), which enjoys a prestigious position at the junction of Rodeo Drive and Wilshire Blvd. The hotel features a Mediterranean-style pool and hot tub with private cabanas; luxury spa; fitness centre and fabulous dining options including the Michelin-starred CUT lounge with a menu created by world-famous chef Wolfgang Puck and the bistro-style The Blvd restaurant.

Book it! 9500 Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills. www.fourseasons.com

Star style at

BeverlyWilshire

Treat yourself to a couple’s spa treatment at the famous Beverly Wilshire hotel and you will most definitely leave feeling like a ‘Pretty Woman’

At the exclusive heart of Beverly Hills, at the intersection of Rodeo Drive and Wilshire Boulevard you will see a sight that will be more than familiar – if you have seen the movie Pretty Woman starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere! The iconic 5-star Beverly Wilshire hotel was the film location for this famous blockbuster, and is a fabulous place to stay for honeymooners interested in designer shopping, fine dining and the glamour of the Hollywood film industry.

Since opening in 1928, the Beverly Wilshire (a Four Seasons Hotel) has been a favourite of celebrities, royalty and the international elite – and it’s easy to see why. It is situated in the enviable heart of Beverly Hills with postcard-worthy views of Rodeo Drive right on the doorstep.

Wining & dining

Choose from a number of dining experiences to suit your mood – the CUT Lounge, a Michelin star-rated steakhouse in a Mediterranean setting, will tempt your taste buds with a superb menu offering seafood and steakhouse staples created by Wolfgang Puck, accompanied by rare wines and spirits.

The Blvd, is a brasserie-style restaurant offering indoor and outdoor seating

overlooking Rodeo Drive. The Pool Bar and Café offers casual poolside refreshments.

Plush accommodation

Luxurious rooms offer a flat-screen cable TV. Free WiFi, a DVD player and an iPod docking station. Most rooms boast views of Rodeo Drive or the Hollywood Hills. Accommodation is available in a choice of rooms and suites – from the Rodeo View Studio and Signature Balcony Rooms to the plush Penthouse Suite – a three-bedroom suite, with wraparound terrace and its own kitchen and dinner table for 10, where you can host private dinner parties or even an intimate wedding reception.

Sublime Spa

Head to the hotel’s spa for some serious relaxation and pampering, Hollywood style.

You can choose to have massages, facials, and organic treatments and couples rituals, which are perfect for honeymooners. Try the Rodeo Drive Exclusive Spa Ritual and begin your luxurious day with a glass of Prosecco, a facial and 90-minute deep tissue or Swedish massage before getting head-to-toe ready to shop along the famed street. Alternatively indulge in the Beverly Wilshire Signature Body Treatment, exclusive to The Spa at Beverly

Wilshire. This treatment combines resultsdriven products and cutting-edge technology to transform skin and revive energy.

‘Pretty Woman’ for a day Become the star of your own love story with the hotel’s expertly crafted and contemporary take on the film, with two nights in one of the most sought after Specialty Suites, a behindthe-scenes tour of Rodeo Drive’s famous fashion houses with your own personal stylist, a couple’s massage at the Spa and dinner at The Blvd.

A night with the stars Glittering views of the Hollywood Hills aren’t your typical camping backdrop, so if you fancy a little urban-glamping during your stay in LA, then spend the night in a tent for two under the Californian stars. The entire, 10th-floor terrace of the Beverly Wilshire will become your personal playground when you book A Night with the Stars at this luxury hotel. We reckon it’s definitely the most romantic thing you can do in Beverly Hills!

Book it!

9500 Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90212 Tel: +1 310-275-5200 www.fourseasons.com

EUROPEAN HONEYMOON ON TRACK

%JXIV E VSQERXMG [IHHMRK EX ,E^IP[SSH 'EWXPI RIEV =SVO 0EYVIRGI ERH 6YXL 8EWOIV HVIEQIH SJ ER I\GMXMRK LSRI]QSSR XLEX [SYPH RSX SRP] XEOI MR )YVSTI W QSWX JEQSYW WMKLXW FYX [SYPH FI XLI YPXMQEXI LSRI]QSSR EHZIRXYVI XLI] GSYPH WLEVI [MXLSYX JP]MRK The couple met the Brides Abroad’s editorial team at a Wedding Show in York, where they chatted to Brides Abroad’s honeymoon consultant, Martin CodyOwen, about their honeymoon aspirations. Ruth and Lawrence both revealed that neither were too keen on flying! Martin came up with the inspired idea of a European honeymoon by train, which the couple agreed would be their perfect honeymoon.

104 www.BridesAbroad.com

“We thought a train adventure would be exciting and much less stressful than hiring a car and driving,” says Ruth. “Martin put together the travel itinerary for us and was able to offer advice and suggested some honeymoon hotspots to visit during our trip, based on his own European travel experiences.

Advertising Feature

.SYVRI] XMQI 2hrs 20 mins

032(32 4%6-7

0E[VIRGI 6YXL WE] “A couple of days after our wedding we began our honeymoon journey by travelling from London to Paris on the Eurostar. We’ve been to Paris a few times before, so it was really just a stop-over.”.

4EVMW JSV PSZIVW Paris is one of Europe’s most romantic cities, as well as being a global centre for art, fashion, gastronomy and culture. Its 19th-century cityscape is criss-crossed by wide boulevards and the River Seine.

1YWX WIIW Visit Paris’s iconic landmarks, including Eiffel Tower, Louvre art gallery and the Gothic Notre-Dame cathedral, Arc de Triomph and Champs Elysees.

Paris is known for its cafe culture and designer boutiques along the Rue du Faubourg SaintHonoré including the famous department store Gallery Lafayette

8ST XMTW Be sure to take a sightseeing cruise along the Seine, or better still, a romantic River Dinner Cruise.

7XE] MR WX]PI Le Coq Hotel Paris www.coqhotelparis.com

.SYVRI] XMQI

4%6-7 1-0%2

7 hours

0EYVIRGI 6YXL WE] “Next day we boarded a train to Milan staying in a 1st class sleeper cabin. The journey took us through absolutely beautiful Alpine scenery en-route. In Milan we visited Piazzi del Duomo and the Cathedral. Also we walked to the Sforza Castle, which has a stunning fountain in the entrance. Then we took the opportunity to browse around the shops.”

*EWLMSREFPI 1MPER Milan, in Italy’s northern Lombardy region, is a global capital of fashion and design. Home to the national stock exchange, it’s a wealthy financial hub also known for its high-end restaurants and shops.

1YWX WIIW Visit the Gothic Duomo di Milano Cathedral and the Santa Maria delle Grazie Convent, housing Leonardo da Vinci’s mural ‘The Last Supper’. Be sure to shop in Galleria Vittorio for high-end shopping in an ornate arcade dating back to 1800.

8ST XMT Ruth says; “One of our favourite things to do in Milan is just to sit at the Piazzi and watch the world go by.”

7XE] MR WX]PI The Hilton, Via Luigi Galvani, Milan www3.hilton.com

www.BridesAbroad.com 105

.SYVRI] XMQI 48 mins (each way)

1-0%2 0%/) '313 1-0%2

0EYVIRGI 6YXL WE] “From Milan we took the train up to Lake Como, then a ferry to Menaggio, the beautiful village on the banks of the lake. We were scheduled to stay for just one night, though on hindsight we wished we had stayed in Lake Como a little longer, it was so beautiful.”

4MGXYVI TIVJIGX 0EOI 'SQS Lake Como, in Northern Italy’s Lombardy region, is set against the foothills of the Alps and offers a spectacular backdrop of scenery. The lake is shaped like an upside-down Y, with three slender branches that meet at the resort town of Bellagio.

At the bottom of the southwest branch lies the city of Como, whilst around the lake are a number of beautiful towns and villages, best reached by ferry.

1YWX WIIW

Take the ferry and explore to Lake Como’s most beautiful towns of Menaggio, Varenna, Tremezzo and Bellagio and Como, as well as some of the smaller, less well-known villages.

8ST XMT We found the best Pizza house in the whole of Italy (Pizzeria Lugano, Via Como. +39 0344 31664)

7XE] MR WX]PI Grand Hotel Menaggio, Lake Como www.grandhotelmenaggio.com

.SYVRI] XMQI

1-0%2 :)2-')

2hrs 10 mins

0EYVIRGI 6YXL WE] “We boarded the train from Como to Milan then another train to Venice. We then took the waterbus to our hotel. We both found Venice fascinating, and very romantic, especially the way everything was done by boat.

&IEYXMJYP :IRMGI Venice is built on more than 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. It has no roads, just canals – including the Grand Canal thoroughfare – lined with Renaissance and Gothic palaces.

1YWX WIIW The central square, Piazza San Marco, contains St. Mark’s Basilica, which is tiled with Byzantine mosaics, and the Campanile bell tower offers views of the city’s red roofs. Be sure to take a magical ride on a gondola.

8ST XMT Head to Piazza San Marco and enjoy a meal at Café Florian (www.caffeflorian.com/en/), whilst being serenaded by a live band.

7XE] MR WX]PI San Clementine Palace Kempinski, Venice www.kempinski.com

106 www.BridesAbroad.com

.SYVRI] XMQI 2hrs

:)2-') *036)2')

0EYVIRGI 6YXL WE] “From Venice we took the train to Florence and yes, it is as beautiful as everyone says – from the cobbled streets to the famous Jewellery Bridge.”

*PSVIRGI GVEHPI SJ XLI 6IREMWWERGI Known as the ‘cradle of the Renaissance’ for its monuments, churches, and buildings, Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is home to many masterpieces of Renaissance art and architecture.

1YWX WIIW Don’t miss the many sights of Florence, including the domed cathedral Santa Maria del Fiore; Ponte Veccchio, Santa Croce, Campanile di Giotto, Palazzo Vecchio, Battistero and Loggia dei Lanzi.

The Galleria dell’Accademia displays Michelangelo’s ‘David’ sculpture. The Uffizi Gallery exhibits Botticelli’s ‘The Birth of Venus’ and da Vinci’s ‘Annunciation’

8ST XMT Ruth says: “We had a fantastic meal at I’Tuscani 2, which had a variety of Grappas to finish off the meal!” http://ituscani2.com

7XE] MR WX]PI Hotel Tornabuoni Beacci, Florence www.tornabuonihotels.com

.SYVRI] XMQI

*036)2') 7366)283

5hrs 50 mins

0EYVIRGI 6YXL WE] We took the train down from Florence to Naples and stayed for 7 nights at Hotel Mediterraneo, which was exceptional, with stunning pool area, excellent rooftop bar and fantastic restaurant. What more could you ask for? We enjoyed walking into Sorrento and exploring all it had to offer.

7TIGXEGYPEV 7SVVIRXS Sorrento is a stunning resort in southwestern Italy, facing the Bay of Naples. Perched atop cliffs that separate the town from its busy marinas, it’s known for sweeping panoramic ocean vistas.

1YWX WIIW The historic centre is a warren of narrow alleys, here you will find Chiesa di San Francesco, a 14th-century church with a tranquil cloister and Piazza Tasso, a pretty, café-lined square. Be sure to visit Pompeii, the old Roman city, which is close to Sorrento and was buried under a volcano. These fascinating ruins give an incredible insight into the Romans’ city life in ancient times.

8ST XMT Ruth says: “We went shopping and discovered café Fauno Piazza Torquato Tasso (+39 081 878 1135), where you can have a coffee and relax. The Foreigners Club, Via Luigi de Maio (+39 081 877 3263) is a very good restaurant too, with stunning views over the bay.”

7XE] MR WX]PI Hotel Mediterraneo, Sorrento www.mediterraneosorrento.com www.BridesAbroad.com 107

.SYVRI] XMQI Approx. 2 ½ hours

0EYVIRGI 6YXL WE]

7366)283 631)

It’s easy enough to get from Sorrento to Rome by train via the Circumvesuviana train from Sorrento to Naples. Then train from Naples to Rome. Our first impression of Rome is that it was hot, historical and touristy! We walked everywhere and absolutely loved the architecture and beautiful sculptures.

,MWXSVMGEP 6SQI Rome, Italy’s capital has nearly 3,000 years of globally influential art, architecture and culture on display.

1YWX WIIW Ancient ruins such as the Forum and the Colosseum evoke the power of the Roman Empire. Vatican City, headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church, has St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums, housing Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel frescoes.

8ST XMT

Rome wasn’t built in a day, but if you plan to see it in three, you might want to consider getting a City Pass (from £101.55). Rome passes include a travelcard for public transport, plus free entry to many of Rome’s leading attractions, including the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, the Roman Forum, and the Colosseum. You’ll also get fast-track entry to many museums and monuments. www.getyourguide.com

7XE] MR WX]PI The K Boutique Hotel, Rome www.thekhotel.it

631) 0% 74)>-%

.SYVRI] XMQI 4hrs 20 minutes

0EYVIRGI 6YXL WE] On our homeward bound journey, we stayed in La Spezia, on the Northwest coast of Italy, where we toured the city, seeing the naval base and castle and we sat in the sun admiring fantastic boats in the Marina.

8LI TSVX SJ 0E 7TI^ME La Spezia is a Mediterranean port in Liguria.

Its 19th century maritime arsenal and the Technical Naval Museum, with ship models and navigational instruments, are a testament to the city’s seafaring heritage.

1YWX WIIW The hilltop St. George’s Castle houses an archaeological museum with artifacts from prehistory to the Middle Ages. The nearby Amedeo Lia Museum exhibits paintings, bronze sculptures and illuminated miniatures.

8ST XMT Be sure to take a boat trip from the port and cruise along the breathtaking coastline of the Ligurian Riviera, where you will have stunning views of the colorful Cinque Terre villages from the water

7XE] MR 7X]PI Atmosfere Guest House, La Spezia www.affittacamereatmosfere.it/ 108 www.BridesAbroad.com

0% 74)>-% >96-',

.SYVRI] XMQI 7hrs and 30 mins

0EYVIRGI 6YXL WE] We stopped off at Zurich, Switzerland en-route home. We did lots of sightseeing here, visiting the old town and strolling along the lake. Unfortunately, as it was hot, we couldn’t bring any Swiss chocolate back!

>YVMGL [SVPH JMRERGMEP LYF The city of Zurich is a global center for banking and finance at the north end of Lake Zurich in northern Switzerland. The picturesque

streets of the central Altstadt (Old Town), on either side of the Limmat River, reflect its pre-medieval history.

1YWX WIIW Stroll along the waterfront promenades like the Limmatquai, which follow the river toward the 17th-century Rathaus (town hall) and see the mechanical sculpture Heureka by Tinguely.

7XE] MR WX]PI Romantik Hotel Europe, Zurich www.europehotel.ch

>96-', 4%6-7 ,31) .SYVRI] XMQI Zurich-Paris 4hrs. Paris-London 2hrs 20 mins.

0E[VIRGI 6YXL WE] It was amazing what we managed to accomplish in the short space of time! The most exciting thing about the trip was waking up in one city and going to bed in another city/country! We would definitely recommend this trip for honeymooners, and it’s a fantastic way to see European cities for couples, like us, who prefer not to fly!

=SYV XMGOIX XS )YVSTI To obtain a European Train Pass, simply choose your duration and plan your ideal journey with Eurail: www.eurail.com

TWICE AS NICE ;L] WXE] MR SRI LSRI]QSSR HIWXMREXMSR [LIR ]SY GER IRNS] LSRI]QSSR FPMWW MR X[S JEFYPSYW XSXEPP] GSRXVEWXMRK PSGEXMSRW#

James Hyett and Rosie Kelly married in a traditional ceremony at a beautiful church in their home town of Ripley, North Yorkshire. However, for our honeymoon they wanted somewhere very special and romantic, where neither of them had been before.

When it came to choosing the honeymoon, James surprised Rosie with the honeymoon of her dreams! James had booked it all through Brides Abroad magazine’s Honeymoon Consultant, Martin Cody-Owen, who suggested combining a relaxing and pampering trip to the Maldives with a stop-over in Sri Lanka, exploring its jungles, tea plantations, nature trails and Elephant Sanctuary en-route.

The honeymoon turned out to be the perfect combination for James and Rosie, who could enjoy an adventure in stunning Sri Lanka before indulging in tropical island luxury in the Maldives.

112 www.BridesAbroad.com

76- 0%2/% 6SWMI WE]W

“The island of Sri Lanka was extremely lush, green and totally unspoiled and the people were very friendly, which was lovely. There were many highlights to our stay in Sri Lanka. We climbed a mountain and enjoyed the spectacular views. We fed baby elephants at an elephant sanctuary and we also released baby turtles into the Indian Ocean. It’s hard to pinpoint one particular moment that was the most special - the whole time in Sri Lanka felt special and romantic - it was our honeymoon and we got to spend lots of quality time together. We relaxed a lot by the pool and went for romantic walks on the beach – there were huge great waves which James loved. However, I think that James’s favourite moment was releasing the baby turtles, which was such an amaxing thing to do!

“We stayed at three hotels in Sri Lanka, Avani Bentota Resort & Spa; The Fortress Resort & Spa and Amaya Hunas Falls, which were all fantastic. We found the staff couldn’t do enough to help us – the service was excellent. At most of the hotels we had champagne in the room on arrival and baskets of fruit. There were always flowers laid out on the bed saying ‘happy honeymoon’”.

7VM 0EROE 8SYV

Rosie and James chose to hire a private car with a guide to help them make the most of their time in Sri Lanka. Their tour was organised through one of the country’s leading tour operators, Hayleys Tours Plc. Whose driver met them at Columbo Airport and remained at their disposal for the duration of their stay in Sri Lanka. From the airport the couple were driven south for 50 miles along the coast to the beach resort of Bentota, where they stayed at the Avani Bentota Resort & Spa. The couple then headed to the south coast to the historic town of Galle and the stunning The Fortress Resort and Spa for one night before beginning their tour of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. They then headed to Nuwara Eliya, via the dramatic Horton Plains National Park before arriving at their destination – the Amaya Hunas Falls Hotel, one of the most scenic honeymoon hotels in Sri Lanka. From here they explored the ancient town of Dambulla and Sigiriya, famous for the iconic ancient rock temples in the heart of the Cultural Triangle. They also enjoyed feeding the baby elephants at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage before returning for a few blissful days at The Fortress Resort. www.hayleystours.com

7XE] MR WX]PI %ZERM &IRXSXE 6IWSVX

7TE

Designed by famous architect Geoffrey Bawa in the theme of an 18th century Dutch village, Avani Bentota Resort & Spa is on the golden shores of Bentota, one of the most beautiful stretches of beach in Sri Lanka. It offers contemporary style rooms with ocean views plus two restaurants, two swimming pools and a spa. www.minorhotels.com

%QE]E ,YREW *EPPW

Get the celebrity treatment with world-class service at Amaya Hunas Falls hotel, which overlooks the beautiful Humas Falls, close to the city of Kandy. It features an outdoor pool, six-hole golf course, and the Lake View Restaurant. The hotel has a spa, tennis courts and a tour desk where you can arrange nature trails, mountain treks and trips to Wasgamuwa National Park. www.amayaresorts.com

8LI *SVXVIWW 6IWSVX

7TE

A world of luxury and new discoveries await you at The Fortress Resort & Spa. Set against the backdrop of Galle Beach, on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, the hotel offers world-class service, indulgent comforts, and eco experiences. The hotel has an excellent choice of restaurants, luxury spa and wedding packages. www.fortressresortandspa.com

www.BridesAbroad.com 113

8,) 1%0(-:)7

6SWMI WE]W

“Our first impression when arriving in the Maldives was – Wow! It looks as idyllic as it does in the pictures you see! We stayed at Anantara Veli Maldives resort, which was absolutely beautiful - it was perfect in every way. We were given a bottle of champagne in our villa on arrival and chocolates. The resort comprised three separate islands and we could hop between the three. The food was great, the staff friendly and we enjoyed wall to wall beautiful views. We felt very spoilt waking up there every day. We stayed in an overwater bungalow, which had a decking area and steps down into the shallow water - it was crystal clear and swimming in it was like getting into a warm bath, the only difference being all of the sea life, which was just amazing to see! The villa was light and spacious, modern and had everything we could possibly need.

“We went to swim with wild dolphins too – that was a huge highlight! We saw so many it was unbelievable. We island hopped by speedboat, which chauffeured guests between the islands every few minutes. We went snorkeling every day and did yoga at the Pavilion which looked straight out onto the Indian Ocean - pretty cool! We also managed to find time for sunbathing, reading, sleeping and drinking!

“The over-water spa was in an amazing location above the lagoon with an outdoor steam room, sauna and plunge pool from where the views were incredible - very relaxing! Probably our most romantic moments were the walks along the beach at night looking at the stars, or in the outdoor spa above the Indian ocean watching the sunset with a glass of champagne. We also had a private dinner for the two of us on beach, which was very romantic.”

114 www.BridesAbroad.com

7XE] MR WX]PI %RERXEVE :IPM 1EPHMZIW 6IWSVX

Escape to a hideaway island fringed by a turquoise lagoon. Laze in your over water bungalow and watch baby reef sharks swimming in crystal-clear waters below; Relax and be totally pampered with Ayurvedic spa treatments in the thatched treatment rooms at Balance Wellness by Anantara, join in a yoga or meditation class and let the resident fitness gurus and chefs guide you on a journey of renewal; Cruise into the sunset on a luxury Dhoni; Dine under the stars with sand between your toes. Does this sound like total bliss? It is!

Anantara Veli Maldives caters exclusively to adults in its 67 over water and ocean bungalows and offers a first-class choice of romantic dining options and delicious cuisine – from local Maldivian dishes to Thai, Japanese and international delights – you can even explore the dining options offered at sister resorts Anantara Dhigu and Naladhu.

The resort also offers wedding blessing ceremonies – exchange your vows with a white wedding or traditional Maldivian ceremony under a floral arch at sunset facing the lagoon or say “I do” on Gulhifushi Private Island on a deck extending over the crystal clear water at sunset. www.anantara.com

Advertising Feature

Amaya Hunas Falls Escape to paradise at Amaya Hunas Falls resort and be wowed by the most scenic honeymoon hotel in Sri Lanka.

At Amaya Hunas Falls resort, you will be welcomed by the hypnotic hum of birds singing under the shaded leaves of towering trees and the tranquil babbling of the nearby Hunas Falls as you celebrate your love in one of the world’s most romantic destinations.

Just a short drive from the city of Kandy, Amaya Hunas Falls hotel offers a getaway amidst natural beauty, in its breathtaking location overlooking the beautiful Hunas Falls at the foot of the glorious Hunasgiriya Mountain. The hotel boasts captivating views at every turn and is the perfect retreat for romantic getaways and honeymoons.

It features an outdoor pool with sun loungers where you can relax and read under the shade of a parasol while working on your tan.

The hotel also boasts a six-hole golf course, tennis courts and a small business centre. There’s also a luxury spa where you can indulge in pampering spa treatments, plus a library for quiet reading.

Amaya Hunas Falls is ideally situated for visiting some of the region’s most popular tourist attractions, whether it’s exploring the Shaheen Mountain or treking up the Simspon Trail or a visit to the iconic Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy. The tour desk can arrange excursions, nature walks, mountain treks and trips to Wasgamuwa National Park.

Dining Breakfast is a delightful experience at the terrace restaurant, Lake View, as you gaze at the great mountains basking in the glory of the morning sun and breathe in the fresh breeze as you take a sip of your morning cup of the local Ceylon tea. Romantic dinners offer a chance to relax and indulge in a choice of local and Western dishes. You can also order room service.

Rooms with a view Surrender to comfort in one of the 31 well-appointed rooms, complete with modern amenities, including free WiFi and 24-hour room service. Rooms are designed to offer you peace and relaxation with sitting areas, coffee makers, and thoughtful touches such as bathrobes and slippers.

BOOK IT!

Amaya Hunas Falls, Kandy Tel : +94 81 4 940320 www.amayaresorts.com

www.BridesAbroad.com 115

Advertising Feature

The

Fortress Resort & Spa Sri Lanka

Chic, luxurious and in a gorgeous beachfront location, The Fortress Resort & Spa blends timeless elegance and colonial style against a stunning tropical backdrop. It’s the perfect coastal escape for honeymoon adventure and for couples to say “I do’ in the Sri Lankan sunshine

A world of luxury and new discoveries await you at The Fortress Resort & Spa. On the shores of Galle Beach, on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, the hotel offers world-class service, indulgent comforts, and eco experiences.

This tranquil resort is right on the beach and just a short stroll from Koggala Lefts, a notable surf spot. It is also just 2 km from the 13th-century Kathaluwa Old Temple, a must see for culture lovers.

In a fusion of modern and colonial styles, The Fortress Resort & Spa offers plush accommodation in this idyllic honeymoon haven, close to the fortified city of Galle, The hotel echoes the city’s charming architecture with impressive gates, white-washed walls, lush gardens and an extensive courtyard, the focal point of the resort.

Stay in style

The spacious guest rooms are furnished in a contemporary style, with hardwood floors and marble bathrooms. They offer free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV and air-conditioning. All rooms have private patios or balconies. For the most amazing views, opt for an Ocean Room or a Beach Room on the ground floor with direct access to the pool and beach. The Beach Splash Rooms are also located on the ground floor and feature an indoor plunge pool overlooking the resort’s gardens and beach.

Delightful cuisine

Dining is a culinary delight at The Fortress, which offers authentic Sri Lankan specialties and Mediterranean dishes in a choice of restaurants, including Salty Snapper, where you can dine on the terrace overlooking the pool and beach and enjoy fresh seafood and wood fired pizzas; a pan-Asian show kitchen where you can watch the chefs in action and enjoy dishes with a touch of Asian flair, and Duo, a romantic fine dining restaurant, which has floor-to-ceiling wine racks. There are also two lounges, T Lounge, where you can watch a tea making ceremony and enjoy a choice of 30 local teas and the Sea Lounge, which serves delicious cocktails - try a tea infused cocktail for something different but delicious!

Spa & fitness

For total pampering head to the Ayurvedic Lounge and enjoy massages and spa treatments. The spa is known for its wide range of Ayurvedic rituals as well as offering international spa treatments. Ayurvedic remedies are the spa’s specialty, as they are believed to work holistically to align the mind, body and soul. You can also relax in the sauna, steam room, vitality showers and hot tub or find your ‘inner self’ by joining a class in the Yoga Pavilion. The hotel also has a fitness centre with fully equipped gym for those seeking active rest!

Saying “I do”

There can be few destinations in Sri Lanka more romantic than The Fortress to hold your wedding ceremony. The resort’s attentive staff has had years of experience coordinating weddings and offer a number of wedding choices. You can exchange vows at sunset on the beautiful beach or walk up an aisle carpeted in pretty flowers against a backdrop of blossoming gardens. For a ceremony with the traditional flavour of Sri Lanka you can include a procession of traditional drummers and dancers. The Fortress Resort & Spa offers a choice of wedding packages, including Moonstone Wedding Package (£1,235) and Star Sapphire Wedding Package (£1,979).

For a luxurious start to your honeymoon, a decadent Champagne breakfast will be set up on your balcony the morning after your special day. As a special honeymoon treat you can upgrade to a Beach Splash Room with a private indoor plunge pool and complementary 30-minute spa treatment per day.

Memories are made of this!

For the most wonderful moment you will treasure for the rest of your life, you can release two baby turtles from the hotel’s hatchery and into the ocean on your wedding day – and watch them begin their new journey as you begin your own journey as husband and wife.

BOOK IT!

The Fortress Resort & Spa Koggala, Habaraduwa, Galle 80000, Sri Lanka Tel: +94 914 389 400 www.fortressresortandspa.com

Lakaz Chamarel

If you are looking for a honeymoon retreat in Mauritius which embraces the island’s natural charm and stunning scenery, then look no further than Lakaz Chamarel Exclusive Lodge, a magical boutique hotel tucked away in lush mountains overlooking the Indian Ocean Step away from the well-trodden tourist hotspots and you will discover authentic Mauritius in all its glory. In an area blessed by nature, the 4-star Lakaz Chamarel Exclusive Lodge is an eco-friendly hotel, which embraces this stunning environment. Located in tropical gardens, it combines refinement with green tourism to offer the perfect setting for unforgettable destination weddings and luxury honeymoons.

Set in the south west of the island, at an altitude of 400m, the hotel is close to Chamarel, a small, friendly village surrounded by the natural park of the Black River gorges – a protected natural heritage site where the World Wild Life Society saved a number of species from extinction, including the kestrel, pink pigeon, and green parrot. It is also close to

the most beautiful beaches on the island including the Morne and Baie du Cap and the small coastal villages of Black River and La Gaulette.

Wining & dining Lakaz Chamarel includes a main building with its reception, lounges, TV room and library, bar and the dining room and its terraces where meals are served. The kitchen is open and welcomes the guests who want to learn delicious recipes from the resort’s Chef, Nicolas Eddy, who is passionate about his profession. With his team and his sous chef, he offers a delicious selection of Mauritian cuisine to suit all tastes and dietary requirements.

The Lodges

Accommodation is in a choice of 20 rooms and suites, including three LaKaz Standard, four Kaz Superior, eight Garden Pool Suites, four Seaview Pool Suites and one Exclusive Pool Suite, which is a perfect treat for honeymooners. Each room and suite is individually decorated to reflect the different cultures on the Island in its furnishing and decoration – China, Africa, India, or simply tropical. The wood, the slate, the beams, the terracotta, the shades of ochre, beige and rust all illustrate its Mauritian charm. The terraces and open-air bathrooms allow guests to appreciate the nature that surrounds them.

All rooms and suites are equipped with ceiling fan, robes and slippers, mosquito nets, pillow menu, mini bar, hairdryer, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, safe, iPod dock and free WIFI. Garden Rooms have private pools and open-air bathroom.

Simply relax…

Choose, as your mood dictates, between the calm by the swimming pool, a good session of sauna, reflexology or massage with essential oils, or simply give to yourself a moment to do nothing at all and enjoy it!

Wellbeing experience

The ‘Sauna and Wellness Cabin’ area is situated in the middle of the estate where guests can experience a good massage session rocked by the song of the birds. The ‘Wellness Experience’ menu offers a choice of luxurious massages, plus use of the sauna and yoga sessions to keep you fit in mind, body and spirit.

Beyond the hotel

You can explore the mountain peaks, valleys and waterfalls, walk along paths, discover flora and fauna and the natural parks of Chamarel and Black River Gorges (with or without a guide).

Be sure to visit the neighbouring village of Chamarel to see the coloured earth and waterfall going through the village, the Rum Distillery and the Wood Museum. The hotel can organise your sporting and cultural activities, including golf on local courses and boat trips. Bicycles can be hired free and a selection of books, music and films are available from reception.

If you want to visit Port Louis, the capital city of Mauritius with its bustling shops and famous market, it takes about an hour by car. You are also approximately 10 to 15 minutes by car from some of the most beautiful beaches on the island and from the small coastal towns of Black River and La Gaulette. The hotel can organize car hire. The beaches are also within easy reach by bicycle and the hotel offers a shuttle service to the beach on request.

Wedding Packages Lakaz Chamarel offers a Special Wedding Package for 7 nights which includes: • A breakfast on the terrace of your room on the morning of the wedding.

• Choice of location for the ceremony • Table and decoration (1 center piece /bouquet for the table) • Canapés served after the ceremony, soft drinks and one bottle of champagne.

• Guitarist or violinist during the ceremony • The bride bouquet + the button hole • A 6-course special dinner menu including Lobster Menu and/or prawns • Wedding cake • Preparation of the bridal room with flower petals.

• 1 hour invigorating and relaxing massage for bride and groom.

• Make-up for the bride

With supplement & on request: • Hairdresser • Photographer (including photo album and CD)

Further information Lakaz Chamarel Exclusive Lodge (4-star) Piton Canot, Chamarel, Mauritius Tel: +230 483 4240 Email: info@lakazchamarel.com http://www.lakazchamarel.com

North Island

New Zealand New Zealand is a long, long way from British shores, but well worth the journey for the romantic honeymoon of a lifetime – after all, New Zealand is one of the most photogenic countries in the world with stunning landscapes that will blow you away!

120 www.BridesAbroad.com

Whether you are heading straight to New Zealand, or including this amazing country in a longer honeymoon itinerary taking in other regions of Australasia, New Zealand is, without a doubt, a fantastic honeymoon destination. This compact country covers just 1,000 miles from the tip of the North Island to the toe of the South Island, and only 280 miles at its widest point – it’s a small place in a spectacular package.

NORTH ISLAND New Zealand’s North Island offers everything that newlyweds could possibly want in a dream honeymoon. Blessed by Mother Nature, North Island’s appeal is its incredible natural beauty that inspires romance – take a lakeside walk, or stroll along a secluded beach, hike through the rolling countryside and gasp at awesome panoramic vistas or enjoy an abundance of activities including watersports and swimming with dolphins. Visit quaint country towns and thriving cities. Enjoy delicious food from based Kiwi fruit to sharing Rates arehome-produced from £520 per person per-night, on two New Zealand lamb and be sure to toast your trip and including thee meals daily, teas and coffees, two safari with crispper New wines, produced fromAirport. the dayZealand activities and transfers to and from Kasane www.andBeyond.com country’s world-renowned vineyards.

Book it

North Island is home to the vibrant cities of Auckland and Wellington, and boasts vast areas of lush grazing land; rolling hills; native forests including Waipoua Forest; beautiful beaches that are perfect for relaxing and swimming; mud pools; geysers and ancient volcanoes offering walking and hiking trails. Discover the rich history and culture of North Island and its Maori influences. And be sure to find time to simply relax in the warm sunshine!

www.BridesAbroad.com 121

Advertising Feature

AUCKLAND For art and culture, head to the cosmopolitan city of Auckland, which is surrounded by ocean and beautiful rolling countryside. This trendy city is the largest in New Zealand and has an upbeat atmosphere, modern architecture and a thriving port. Shopping opportunities are available on every corner, from high-end boutiques and shopping malls to street markets..

Be sure to take a trip up the iconic Sky Tower, which dominates the cityscape and has stood tall at 328 meters for 20 years. It’s an exciting hub of adrenaline activities, superb dining and 360-degree panoramic views in every direction, taking in the key landmarks within the Auckland area. At the base of the Sky Tower, the SKYCITY is home to two world-class hotels, Auckland’s premier dining precinct with over 20 bars and restaurants, a theatre and a Casino.

Auckland is affectionately known as the ‘City of Sails’ because of its love of the water that surrounds the city. For a relaxing way to enjoy the waves, hop on a scenic boat cruise and take in the sights of the harbor. Energetic honeymooners can go snorkeling, windsurfing, kite surfing or swim with dolphins, you can even have a diving with sharks experience. The harbor is also home to some of Auckland’s finest restaurants.

Excursions close to Auckland Waiheke Island

Just a short ferry ride from Auckland, Waiheke Island is known for its excellent wineries and beaches. Visit famous vineyards and sample and purchase award-winning wines or simply enjoy a delicious lunch looking out over the vineyards. Te Whau Vineyard has a fabulous restaurant with 360-degree views.

Waitakere Ranges

The Waitakere Ranges, a chain of hills in the Auckland region, are just a short drive out of the city. This area is home to lush wilderness forests and rare native flora and fauna.

It’s walking trails range from the simple 45 minute Kitekite track, where you’ll see natural waterfalls and streams, to the self-guided four-day Hilary track, where experienced hikers can visit the depths of the rainforests.

122 www.BridesAbroad.com

STAY IN STYLE Grand Mercure Auckland

A great place to stay in Auckland is the Grand Mercure Auckland. Located in the heart of the waterfront district, overlooking the harbor and surrounded by designer boutiques and restaurants, Grand Mercure Auckland offers luxury accommodation in 207 newly refurbished guest rooms with complimentary WIFI. There’s also a dedicated conference and event floor, a cosy library, which has been richly decorated and a Wellness Room, where guests can enjoy a morning yoga class. Vue Restaurant serves delicious breakfasts and dinner, specializing in international cuisine and harbour views. Attica Bar serves a range of drinks until late. www.accorhotels.com

BAY OF ISLANDS A trip to New Zealand is not complete without visiting the Bay of Islands, not just for its warm, sheltered water, white sand beaches and abundant marine life, but also its fascinating history. Much of the Bay of Islands extensive coastline remains untouched.

Start your journey by hiring a car in Auckland – the Brides Abroad team hired a Toyota Camry from Avis (www.avis.co.uk) and from the centre of Auckland we drive north to this famous and remarkable island archipelago with 144 beautiful islands and countless pretty sandy bays and coves.

En-route to the Bay of Islands, drive along the west coast to experience the Forests of Waipoua with their majestic kauri trees.

The road meanders through the dense forest and you can stop the car at a viewing point and stand in awe of the biggest kauri tree in existence, the magnificent Tane Mahuta. Then continue your journey north to Hokianga Harbour and Ninety Mile Beach where you can experience the laid-back beach communities in the area and will be amazed by the white sand dunes, especially the magnificent dune in the town of Opononi. Once you get closer to your destination in the Bay of Islands, visit Waitangi, the seat of Maori culture, where New Zealand’s founding document, the Treaty of Waitangi was signed.

Paihia & Russell

The towns of Paihia and Russell are the main seaside resorts in the beautiful Bay of Islands. The two destinations are very different in architecture and style. Russell is a quaint and colonial-style town with historical buildings, small boutiques and galleries, pretty accommodation and an excellent range of top-class restaurants. Although Russell is part of the mainland, its position on a narrow, isolated peninsula gives it the feel of an island. At the turn of the 19th century Russell was the first permanent European settlement and served as a shore station for whalers. Paihia is a bustling port town, which is known as a gateway to the dive sites and sandy beaches of the Bay of Islands. Dotted with yachts, boats and ferries, a pretty jetty is busy with people taking boat excursions out to the islands. Ticket booths, gift shops, cafes and restaurants are in abundance around the waterfront. Its also a popular spot for backpackers, with a number hostels as well as upscale hotels along the seafront.

Hole in the Rock Cruise

Take an exciting boat excursion and see The Bay of Islands at its best – from a boat. You may also catch sight of a family of dolphins splashing around in the warm waters.

Tickets for boat trips are easily available and boats come in a choice of sizes and speeds. We recommend that you enjoy a wonderful half-day trip around the Bay on a Dolphin Cruise to the Hole in the Rock. Step on board the black and yellow power catamaran and set off in search of dolphins, whales and other marine life with a commentary from the local skippers, chances are very high that you will be treated to a magnificent display of dolphin activity that will stay with you forever. Cruise past unspoiled islands, see the historic Cape Brett Lighthouse and gasp in awe as the boat passes through the majestic Hole in the Rock, then round off the day with a tasty lunch at Otehei Bay, a beautiful island paradise. www.exploregroup.co.nz

STAY IN STYLE Scenic Hotel, Paihia

Just a short walk from Paihia’s village centre, the Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands is a 4-star hotel offering a peaceful and relaxing haven in four acres of attractive gardens, with friendly staff and free parking. There is an outdoor swimming pool and a wide range of accommodation

available as well as a fully licensed restaurant offering either buffet or à la carte dining for breakfast and dinner. It’s the perfect base from which to explore the local shops and restaurants, or take a boat trip around the Bay of Islands. The surrounding countryside is also perfect for bush and coastal walks. www.scenichotelgroup.co.nz www.BridesAbroad.com 123

SOUTH OF AUCKLAND Explore Maori culture

If you are honeymooning in North Island, then take the once in a lifetime opportunity to discover New Zealand’s fascinating Maori culture in the area of Rotorua. You can visit many museums, which house hundreds of ancient artefacts, revealing the interesting history of the country. For a truly traditional experience, book a Hangi feast, a unique social occasion where you interact with the Maori culture – this not only means sampling food cooked underground on hot stones in the traditional Maori way, but seeing fascinating shows, full of traditional songs, dances and of course, the infamous Haka – a traditional war cry and posture war dance performed by a group, with vigorous movements and stamping of the feet with rhythmically shouted accompaniment.

Lake Taupo

From Auckland, watersports fans can drive down to Lake Taupo, where you can dive into a range of watersports; those seeking further adventure can enjoy white water rafting or kayaking, although if you’d prefer something more relaxing, hop on a scenic cruise across the water.

Hawkes Bay

On the east coast of North Island, Hawke’s Bay is a must-visit corner of New Zealand that is becoming increasingly famous for its marvellous wine. But beyond the vines there’s plenty for the arty and the sporty, the food lover and history buff. Hastings is the largest town with a population of 60,000 but Napier – an art deco gem of a town

– should be your base as you explore this stunning area. Rent a car and drive around to discover views of lush green rolling hills, the ink blue Pacific ocean, vineyards and tall palm trees, and the pastel pinks, yellows and oranges of Napier’s architecture.

BOOK IT! Austravel offers a 19-night holiday to New Zealand’s North Island from £2,689 per person. Beginning with three nights at the 4-star Copthorne Hotel Oriental Bay, where you can visit Tarakena Bay to see the little blue penguins. The tour continues with two nights at the 4-star Crown Hotel, Napier, two nights at the 4-star Beechtree Suites, Taupo, two nights at the 4-star Novotel Rotorua Lakeside, two nights at the 3-star Waihi Beach Lodge, one night at the 4-star Rydges

124 www.BridesAbroad.com

Hotel Auckland, two nights at the 4-star Copthorne Hotel, Hokianga and three nights at the 4-star Copthorne Hotel, Bay of Islands.

The holiday also includes a Hole in the Rock Cruise and a Wine on Waiheke Tour before concluding with two nights back at Rydges Hotel. The offer includes 16-days car hire and return internal flights from London Heathrow with Emerates and Quantas. www.austravel.com www.scenichotelgroup.co.nz

Advertising Feature

W Singapore Sentosa Cove

Wherever in the world you visit, if you book into a luxurious W hotel, you can be sure it will be totally unique, and an oasis of modern luxury On Singapore’s island resort of Sentosa, in a lively setting overlooking a marina, the state-of-the-art W Singapore enjoys a privileged location at the heart of this thriving island. Singapore is one of Asia’s most cosmopolitan cities, and the uber stylish W Singapore sits beautifully into its high-end hotel offering. The Sentosa Cove setting more than compliments the W’s fun and funky outlook on life.

from the hotel lobby, W Singapore is within easy reach of Palawan Beach, Universal Studios, Adventure Cove Waterpark, the Marina Bay Financial Centre and the shopping malls and tourist attractions of Singapore. This makes the hotel an ideal choice for sophisticated globetrotters, business travellers, families and honeymooners looking for a unique stay in the city.

Linked to the city of Singapore by road, cable car, pedestrian boardwalk, monorail, and a regular shuttlebus service directly

Bask in the seamless 5-star service and facilities and enjoy the buzz of W Singapore, with its signature quirky design that guests

have come to expect from W Hotels around the globe. If you are looking for a hotel experience that dares to be different, then W Singapore ticks all the boxes.

The hotel features two excellent restaurants; a marina; AWAY spa; WET – one of Singapore’s largest outdoor pool areas with underwater speakers, sea views and private cabanas, plus FIT 24-hour health club. All guests also enjoy free access to Sentosa Island and can use the hotel’s ticketing service to all the island’s main attractions.

Plush accommodation All 240 rooms have trendy orchid-inspired décor, large beds with oh-so-comfortable 350-thread linen, free WiFi and 24-hour room service. Rooms have floor to ceiling windows offering either full or partial views of the pool or ocean, many also boast a spacious balcony. They are equipped with iPod docking station, a 40-inch LED TV and Bose sound system. En suite bathrooms include a deep soaking bathtub and separate rain shower and Bliss Spa products.

Wining & dining Four dining experience await guests including The Kitchen Table, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and offering an international gourmet menu; SKIRT, which opens for dinner and features a variety of seafood and meat grills; WOOBAR and WETBAR serve a selection of cocktails and snacks; 24-hour room service is also available.

Pampering and fitness AWAY Spa is the perfect place to relax and unwind and offers luxury therapies and treatments using ILA-Spa products as well as spa baths, showers, sauna and steam room. However if you want active rest, then head to FIT, the hotel’s 24-hour fitness centre where pilates, kickboxing and many more fitness classes are available as well as a fully-equipped gym.

BOOK IT! W Singapore 21 Ocean Way, Singapore 098374 Tel: +65 6808 7288 www.starwoodhotels.com

Heaven or Paradise?

You choose!

For the ultimate wedding and honeymoon in Mauritius, these are the only addresses you need to know!

THE WESTIN TURTLE BAY RESORT & SPA MAURITIUS

Call: (230) 204 1400 www.westinturtlebaymauritius.com

Call: (230) 403 9000 www.stregismauritius.com

Call: (230) 204 3333 www.lemeridien-mauritius.com