Information On Getting Married Abroad
O’ Callaghan Travel have been providing customers with first class holidays to a wide variety of destinations for over 25 years. Over recent years Weddings abroad have become increasing more popular. Together with our trusted handling agents O’Callaghan Travel have organised weddings in places like Lanzarote, Italy Cyprus, Caribbean and Hawaii…. To name a few!
Here we have put together some tips and general information to help you pick the best place for your special day and indeed the extra special Honeymoon.
Where do I start?
The first thing to do is decide whether you want to have a religious ceremony or a civil ceremony. The second step is to decide on destination and date. Then ring or call into O Callaghan Travel and speak to one of our wedding specialists you will help you do the rest.
Legal requirements
Most countries have certain legal requirements, which our wedding specialists will be able to help with at the time of booking. There are a few important points:
Most destinations will require that you are in the country between 1-5 days before the Wedding.
You will need to contact the Department of foreign affairs to obtain a civil letter of freedom.
If you are having a religious ceremony you will need to contact your local priest to obtain the correct documents.
Where to go?
We have put together some information on the top Wedding destinations at the minute….These are only a sample of what we can offer if you have anywhere else in mind please don’t hesitate to contact one of our wedding specialists.
Italy
Italy has long been a favourite in the Irish Market for that special day.
Rome was the traditional favourite and still one of the top destinations. The eternal city has loads to offer from the Colosseum to having your photo taken at the Spanish steps or making a wish at the Trevi Fountain.
The Cliffside resort of Sorrento is synonymous with romance, with its enchanting architecture, gourmet cuisine and breath taking views. Sorrento offers civil weddings, if you wish to have a church wedding why not consider the Amalfi coast. Only a short drive from Sorrento, the resorts of Positano, Amalfi and Ravello all offer church ceremonies.
Lake Garda is the largest of the Italian Lakes, it lies between the Alps and the Dolomites. Dozens of picturesque towns and villages are dotted along the shoreline. Why not choose the quaint town of Malcesine with its winding cobbled streets leading to a pebbly beach and unspoilt harbour.
Sicily is an island where the mountains meet the sea. With an abundance of glorious beaches, quaint medieval towns and the awe-inspiring presence of Mount Etna, Sicily is easily one of the world’s most romantic islands. Church weddings and civil ceremonies are available on the Island.
And the honeymoon…..
There are so many choices for combining your wedding and honeymoon here….. Rome & Sorrento, Lake Garda and Venice, Rome, Venice and Florence are but a few….
Caribbean
Imagine the sound of the surf rolling on the beach and a warm breeze blowing through the palms. This could be your dream wedding. There are so many islands to choose from all offering something different…. Different languages, culture and ambience.
Civil ceremonies are available on all islands in various locations from hotel gardens to the beach or even an old plantation house. Catholic weddings are currently available on the following islands: Antigua, Barbados, Curacao, St Kitts & Nevis and St Lucia.
And the honeymoon…..
Want to sample a bit of island hopping….. Curacao and Aruba, Grenada and Barbados or why not even charter your own fully crewed yacht from either the British Virgin Islands or the Grenadines.
Cyprus
With the warm Cypriot sunshine, quality hotels with excellent facilities and sun-kissed beaches on the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean no wonder Cyprus is one of Europe’s top wedding destinations. Cyprus offers Anglican Church, Catholic Church and Civil ceremonies and in many cases these can conveniently take place within your hotel.
Paphos is one of the most popular resorts for Wedding couples, situated on the south west coast of the island it is steeped in history. With a wealth of ancient sites including The Tombs of the Kings and the nearby Rock of Aphrodite, Paphos has managed to retain its charm despite its popularity.
Protaras is famous for its long stretches of sandy beaches and crystal clear water. Its beaches include the famous Fig Tree Bay, whilst nearby Cape Greco offers snorkelling and scuba diving.
And the honeymoon…….
Simply sit back and relax in your resort and maybe take a short 2 night cruise to Egypt.
Mauritius
Mauritius lies in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean approximately 3,000 kilometres off the east coast of Africa. Here you can enjoy the sunny climate nearly year round, with the hottest time from November to April. Enjoy the soft white sandy beaches or the wonderful diving or just sit back and relax in one of the many fine resort hotels. Both Catholic and civil ceremonies can be carried out in Mauritius.
And the honeymoon……
All chilled out? Why not head to South Africa where you can check out the beautiful Cape Town, the Garden Route or of course the world famous Game Reserves.
Lanzarote
Definitely a favourite with the Irish, Lanzarote with its year round sunshine is becoming more popular as a wedding destination. Located off the north coast of Africa, this sun drenched island offers long stretches of beaches and resorts to suit everyone. Puerto Del Carmen is the main resort made up of the old town with its cobbled streets bursting with traditional tavernas to the busy new town.
For something quieter why not try Puerto Calero. Originally a fishing village, Puerto Calero has kept its original charm while turning into a chic resort.
Both Catholic ceremonies and civil ceremonies can be carried out in Lanzarote.
And the honeymoon……
Just relax after the big day and enjoy all that Lanzarote has to offer.
For free impartial advice on planning your wedding or honeymoon, contact us today.