Time indeed flies very fast. Seems like just yesterday when we all were excited to plan a big, fat wedding with 1000s of guests and the world was truly our oyster while choosing a destination. It’s 2022, and after two years of uncertainty, this year is predicted to be one of the busiest times for weddings in recent history. Not only will calendars be packed with couples who recently got engaged, but many duos have also rescheduled their 2021 and 2020 nuptials. It’ll be magical! It’ll be brighter! And it will be busier! Destination weddings are increasingly popular in 2022 and with couples preferring intimate weddings, locations that offer unique views with privacy top the charts. We spoke with wedding experts around the world to predict the trendiest destinations for 2022 weddings. Here’s the why, when & where according to the pros!
United Arab Emirates
Picture Courtesy: @eventchicdesigns
Why: If you want to go high on opulence, impeccable service, and glamourous views of the city’s skyscrapers, we say UAE is the place to tie the knot. Be it the breathtaking architecture of Abu Dhabi or the natural beauty of Ras Al Khaimah or the glistening lights of Dubai, you will be spoiled for choices. I mean, we all remember the good times we had in DWP Congress 2019 in the ultra-chic Atlantis, The Palm, isn’t it?
Dubai especially has been loved by couples from around the globe. Dubai Tourism revealed that the city received over six million international visitors between January and November 2021, surpassing the 5.5 million tourists who visited Dubai during the entire year of 2020. The city has also bagged the number 1 position on the global list of Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards for Best Global Destination.
DWP Powerlist member from Dubai & Founder of Evenchic Designs- Jardel Silva shares – “With all that has been going around, the only market that has stayed strong and safe is Dubai. The city has taken careful precautions and set guidelines that still allow our clients to have a beautiful destination and local weddings.”
When: November to March.
Where: Zaya Nurai Island, Atlantis The Palm, One & Only Resorts, The Address Hotels & Resorts, St. Regis Dubai, Park Hyatt Dubai, Palazzo Versace, Emirates Palace, Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, Bvlgari Resort Dubai, Dubai Opera, Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection, Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah.
Italy
Photography: @shawnconnell / Planning: @fete.ny
Why- As far as backdrops for your wedding photos go they don’t get much better than the Italian beauty. Lake Como, Amalfi Coast, Sicily, Florence, Venice, Rome, Sardinia, Tuscany; this country boasts an infinite number of evocative sceneries, among which every bride and groom can choose their perfect place.
A celebrity wedding planner & DWP Powerlist member from the USA, Jung Lee, Founder of Fete Events beautifully shares this sentiment- “Emily may be in Paris, but Italy is THE destination. From the Amalfi Coast to Lake Como, there’s nothing that quite encompasses “destination wedding” as much as Italia and its untainted beauty and la dolce vita lifestyle. Guests can only wish to attend a wedding along the Mediterranean.”
When- June to October.
Where- Four Seasons Firenze, Giardini Del Fuenti, Rome Cavalieri, Capri Palace Jumeirah, Verdura Resort, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Costa Smeralda, Castello Di Solfagnano, Monteverdi Tuscany, Castello Odescalchi Di Bracciano, CastaDiva Resort & Spa, Capofaro Malvasia & Resort, Sanclemente Palace Kempinski, JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa, Hilton Molino Stucky Venice, Tenuta di Artimino, Villa Cimbrone Hotel, The Westin Excelsior Florence, The St. Regis Florence, Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa, Il Salviatino, Castel Monastero Tuscan Retreat & SPA, Forte Village Sardinia, Hotel Excelsior Venice Lido Resort, The Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Venice, Hotel Savoy Florence & Villa Corsini.
Greece
Picture Courtesy: @louisgabrielphotography / Florals: @bettyflowerssantorini / Planner: @tietheknotsantorini
Why- Perfectly located between Asia and Europe, this Mediterranean gem offers the best of both worlds, a fusion of classic and exotic — something that is uniquely Greece. Its spot on the map makes it the ideal place to gather your guests from all over the world. Let’s not forget the timeless elegance… the dramatic cliffs tumbling into a sparkling, cerulean sea, the white-washed stone houses dressed in electric blues and fluorescent pops of pinks from the bougainvillea.. remote islands of Greece offering privacy are becoming an increasingly popular choice of couples in 2022 weddings.
Head on to visitgreece.gr to discover Greece’s best sights and travel advice!
DWP Powerlist members including Ali Bahtiar from UAE, Alain Hadife from Lebanon collectively believe that Greece is going to be a trending wedding destination this year.
When- May to October.
Where- Mitsis Alila Resort & Spa, Grand Resort Lagonissi, Erosantorini, Santorini Gem Weddings, Santa Marina Resort & Villas, Ecali Club, KENSHO Mykonos, Le Ciel- Weddings & Events Venue Santorini, Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Porto Heli, Pyrgos Melissourgou, Rocabella Santorini Hotel & Spa & Kalithia Springs.
Mexico
Picture Courtesy: @marcosvaldes / Planner: @penziweddings
Why- Ah! We still can’t get over the amazing vibes we had at DWP Congress 2018 at Los Cabos. DWP Powerlist member Guadalupe Alvarez, CEO, Penzi Weddings from Mexico tells us- “Mexico has the most amazing beaches where you can get married. Mexico is full of color, history tradition music, and love! Wedding planners here are professional and love to learn from you and your culture. We are open-minded and can do any kind of wedding you desire. Our weather is amazing and we can do weddings all year, and because of that we will have your wedding out in the open, full of fresh air.”
When- October to July.
Where- Villa Group, The Haciendas, Zadun, a Ritz Carlton Reserve, Four Seasons Punta Mita, Paradisus by Meliá, NIZUC Resort & Spa, Hilton Los Cabos Beach and Golf Resort, The Resort at Pedregal, Hotel Barcelo Maya Grand Resort, Hotel Xcarte Mexico, Velas Resorts, Solaz, A Luxury Collection Resort, One & Only Palmilla, Grupo Presidente, JW Marriott Los Cabos, St. Regis Punta Mita Resort, Westin Resort & Spa Cancun, Westin Los Cabos Resort Villas & Spa, Questro Resorts, Cabo Azul Resort, Cabo del Sol, Acre.
Maldives
Picture Courtesy: @phaisalphotos / Venue: @thulhagiri
Why- Mohammed Murad, Owner of TanseeQ Event Organisers & DWP Powerlist member from UAE believes that places that offer privacy and breathtaking backdrops like the exotic islands of Maldives will be preferred by couples in 2022. The Maldives is all about luxury and tryst with nature that offers absolute privacy and tranquility to escape the bustles of city life, especially right now, when privacy & safety are the new luxuries. Surrounded by calm, azure-colored lagoons, the island is a tropical haven for lovers of nature. Maldives has a lot of secret gems. DWP highly recommends OV Holidays, a premier award-winning luxury DMC from the Maldives known among celebrities and royalties for everything luxurious in the Maldives.
When- November to April.
Where- Velaa Private Island, Coco Collection, Como Hotels & Resorts, Jumeirah Vittaveli, Gili Lankan Fushi, Shangri-la’s Villingili Resort & Spa, Amilla Maldives Resort & Residences, Finolhu, Four Seasons Resorts Maldives, One & Only Reethi – Rah Maldives & Sun Siyam Resorts, Baglioni Resort Maldives.
Indonesia
Picture Courtesy: @ritzcarltonbali
Why- Speaking about the unique attributes of Indonesia, the official Destination Partner for the 8th annual DWP Congress, Sandiaga Uno, Minister of tourism and creative economy for Indonesia shares- “Indonesia has a lot of potentials. It’s magnificent and natural beauty, unique culture, a variety of exquisite traditional and fusion culinary, professional human resources and services, as well as the hospitality of the local community which can be defined as Wonderful Indonesia. The uniqueness of Bali has always attracted people from all over the world. Bali has become one of the most popular wedding destinations, offers a stunning array of fascinating wedding venue with its distinctive nature and rich cultural inheritance.”
When- April to October.
Where- The Ritz Carlton Bali, AYANA Resort and Spa Bali, Alila Hotels and Resorts Bali, The St. Regis Resort Bali, The Mulia Bali, Bvlgari Resort Bali, Four Seasons Resort Bali At Jimbaran Bay & Four Seasons Resort Bali At Sayan.
United States of America
Picture Courtesy: @samanthadahabi
Why- With privacy topping the charts for 2022 wedding trends, island wedding venues are surely trending like Hawai and Miami in the USA. Many couples flee to find warmth in the winters, and now many have moved down to the Sunshine State full-time. Miami has the climate, bright color palettes and the smoldering atmosphere to accompany a vibrant party. DWP Powerlist member Gideon Hermosa, a renowned designer from the Philippines believes Hawai in the USA will be the top choice for couples. With islands like Oahu, The Big Island, Maui, Kauai; you cannot escape the natural romance of this Aloha state.
When- June, September & October
Where- AMAN, Belmond, Caesars Palace, Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa & Four Seasons Hotel Miami.
Turkey
Picture Courtesy: @weddingpera / Place: @no81turkbuku / Planner: @nilyumweddingbodrum
Why- Kuwait-based luxury wedding planner and DWP Powerlist member Bibi Hayat lists Istanbul as her top choice for destination weddings this year. Turkey is a place that has the best of both worlds from the East to the West. It has unique and remarkable venues that are rare to find in other parts of the world. In Istanbul, the Bosphorus bridge view connects Asia and Europe is a breathtaking view for a wedding, as well as historical palaces from the Ottoman empire that could be used for weddings.
When- July to November.
Where- Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus, Raffles Istanbul, Ciragan Palace Kempinski, Mandarin Oriental Bodrum, Caresse Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Rixos Hotels, Swissotel The Bosphorus, Istanbul & Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet.
Mauritius
Picture Courtesy: @lapiroguemauritius
Why- If you fancy getting married in an Indian Ocean idyll, you can’t go wrong with Mauritius. Perhaps that’s why Adeola Okeshola, DWP Powerlist member & CEO of 2706 Events, Nigeria believes that Mauritius is one of the exotic locations in the world that couples are eying for in 2022. Postcard-perfect beaches fringed by palm trees, inviting turquoise waters, delectable local dishes, and eclectic culture—there are few places to get married as magnificent as Mauritius.
When- May – November
Where- Chateau de Labourdonnais, Constance Hotels & Resorts, Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita, Heritage Resorts Mauritius, Hilton Mauritius Resort & Spa, Shanti Maurice, Starwood Hotels and Resorts Mauritius, Long Beach Mauritius, LUX* Belle Mare, Shangri-La’s Le Touessrok Resort & Spa, Mauritius, Sun Resorts.
India
Picture Courtesy: @hrhhotels
Why- India is one of the few countries that experience four seasons. The diversity of this vast country offers umpteen options whether you’re planning a luxury wedding or a micro one. The country’s rich heritage offers some of the finest palaces for a remarkable wedding. Sanjay Vazirani, Founder of Foodlink F&B Holdings India Pvt. Ltd. from India says- “local destinations within India are being preferred more in general due to the pandemic. Goa, Udaipur, and Jaipur are the forever favorites. Others like Jaiselmer, Alibaug, Mussourie, Shimla, Kochi, etc are also gaining preference.”
When- June to March.
Where- HRH Group of Hotels, Taj Hotels & Resorts, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, Dusit Devarana Hotels & Resorts & Samode Hotels.
Canada
Pictures Courtesy: @amritphotography
Why- Well, Canada is not just about the snow-capped mountains and stunning wilderness. It’s an incredibly large and diversely multicultural country that’s also home to gritty urban landscapes and two stunning coastlines. Whether you’re looking to get married in a hip urban loft, a luxe beach setting in the Pacific Northwest, or a rustic wilderness resort, Canada has plenty of options for every kind of couple.
Corrie Elli, a renowned makeup and hair artist from Canada suggests these places within Canada- “Prince Edward County! Get lost in the picturesque setting of PEC, surrounded by vineyards, artisan features, and cool vibes. Muskoka: Cottage Country at its finest; Escape from the crowds, Muskoka is a perfect setting to host a chill, laid-back wedding! Yellowknife: If domestic travel is in the books, escaping to the NWT is an adventure to remember. Imagine a backdrop of the Aurora borealis for the first dance. Simply perfect.”
When- Between June & September.
Where- The Fairmont Banff Springs, Alberta, Four Seasons Hotel, Toronto, The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto, Shangri-La Hotel, Vancouver, Rosewood Hotel Georgia, Vancouver, Oak Bay Beach Hotel, Victoria, British Columbia, Hotel Le Crystal, Montreal, The Omni King Edward Hotel, Toronto & Nita Lake Lodge, Whistler, British Columbia.
Ireland
Venue: @dunluce_castle_brighton / Picture Courtesy: @priscilavalentina_photography
Why- Ireland has become one of the preferred venues for weddings because of its sublime landscapes, grandiose castles & luxurious country houses. Mexico-based wedding planner Ilse Diamant, Founder of Diamant Events shares “its magical realism is one of the main reasons why Ireland is one of the trending destinations for 2022. Destination weddings in Ireland offer more than cultural myths and legends; they bring extraordinary hospitality, infused with their world-class cuisine and iconic entertainment to the next level. This destination is a one-stop-shop that offers a multitude of unique experiences for destination wedding clients: historic sites, cozy pubs, peculiar music, legends, magical myths, Irish culture, and the jewel of their crown is that Instagram already positions them as the destination with the most picturesque wedding photo backdrops in the world.”
Switzerland
Picture Courtesy: @burgenstockresort
Why- How can we forget the romantic scapes of Switzerland when we talk about weddings. Alisa Scheel, DWP Insider Premium member & Group Sales Executive from Bürgenstock Resort beautifully describes what’s it like to be married in Switzerland. “Before I came to the Bürgenstock Resort in Switzerland, I have seen gorgeous places, but Switzerland offers it all – being untouched, undisturbed, and unforgettable. It is the beauty of the mountains, the glittering lakes, the spectacular heritage, and the excellency of Swiss Hospitality that lavishes you with extraordinary, picture-perfect wedding sceneries all year long. As we say at the Bürgenstock Resort, it is an experience to treasure forever.”
When- June, September, and October
Where- Bürgenstock Resort, Fairmont Le Montreux Palace, Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, Kulum Hotel, Badrutt’s Palace, The Dolder Grand, Hotel President Wilson, Geneva.
Lebanon
Picture Courtesy: @bazevents
Why- With the world taking inspiration from opulent Lebanese weddings, it’s hard to ignore the destination that offers such power-packed stunning weddings. Ellie Azar, CEO of ParAzar Productions from Lebanon believes- “While the resurgence of the pandemic has dampened the mood on destination weddings, we are still observing a growing trend in Mediterranean destination, especially in Lebanon which is famous for its know-how and the wedding industry is now much more affordable due to the financial crisis that has driven its currency value downwards.”
When- From mid-May until early September.
Where- Chateau Rweiss.
France
Picture Courtesy: @valeryvillard / Planner: @muriel_saldalamacchia_official / Location: @chateaudetourreau
Why- “France more than ever is a place for dream weddings. France offers the most beautiful châteaus for destination weddings where gastronomy & wines are Queen & King. But what makes France successful is its variety of landscapes. If you want a beach wedding, go for the French Riviera. France offers venues with multiple options for the ceremony, cocktails, rehearsal dinner, etc – inside, outside; and usually, all the options are absolutely gorgeous. Undoubtedly a country to consider: betting the trend, you’ll embrace elegance forever!” Beautifully shares DWP Powerlist member Muriel Saldalamacchia, Founder, The International Wedding-Planner from France & Italy.
Where- Hôtel du Palais, Château de Santeny, Four Seasons George V, Chateau de Challain, Shangri-La Hotel Paris, Domaine de Chantilly & Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel.
Morocco
Picture Courtesy: @cocoonevents
Why- If you fancy a trend-focused destination wedding, Morocco-based renowned wedding planner Fabrice Orlando, CEO of Cocoon Events & DWP Powerlist member believes Morocco is certainly going to excite you this year for the weddings. “After an extreme level of sanitary protection during pandemic where events were forbidden, Morocco is reopening borders and life on February 7. Since the announcement, we are literally submerged by brides’ requests for 2022 and 2023 large weddings party. Morocco and more specifically Marrakech remains this exotic 1001 nights destination that Americans and Europeans adores. Marrakech still gives you this Donkey & The Mercedes roots experience that you can’t find anywhere else. Donkey during the day for the boho experience and Mercedes for the nightlife.”
When- May and June, September and October
Where- Mandarin Oriental Marrakech, Selman Marrakech, The Oberoi Marrakech & Royal Mansour Marrakech.
South Africa
Location: @bosjes_farm / @molenvliet_vineyards // Planner @weddingconceptssa / Photo @hanrumaraisphotography | Florals: @fleurlecordeur
Why- Christina Holt, DWP Powerlist member & Founder of Wedding Concepts tells us- “locations & venues are trending that are destinations in their own right! Those offering a setting in nature/outdoors, special scenery, and a unique guest experience – such as beautiful private vineyards or ocean-front settings, luxurious boutique estates for exclusive use, and experiential “once-in-a-lifetime” places such as safari lodges. We are lucky in South Africa to have a multitude of these – and it is leaping in the destination wedding market.”
When- March to October.
Where– Sun International & Tintswalo Lodges.
United Kingdom
Picture Courtesy: @annelimphoto / Planner: @louiseperryweddings
Why- With venues to die for, London has an eccentric vibe with the finest English hospitality to have a destination wedding of dreams. Louise Perry, Founder of Louise Perry Weddings from London shares – “The UK is a great place to come and get married. We have one of the most, if not the most amazing city in the world in London. We have so much history, you can get married in a castle, in a manor house, in a field or a hotel if you really want one. The UK is full of wonderful places to get married. It is also a really good central point in the work. If you have guests in the US and then in Asia, the UK is right in the middle. It is perfectly located.”
When- June to September.
Where- Blenheim Palace, Leeds Castle, Corinthia Hotel London, Belmond, Dorchester Collection, Heckfield Place, Parkview Private Collection & Perfect Manors.
Zanzibar
Picture Courtesy: @doubletree_nungwi
Why- Have the magic of the Indian Ocean at your feet. DWP Insider Premium member Shamim Mago, Owner of iCandy Events Ltd. from Uganda points towards this exotic island location an idyllic start to your marriage. Exchange wedding vows barefoot on the warm beach of this beautiful tropical island, surrounded by some of your closest friends and family. This unique place offers a great option to have a safe and private wedding in the island setting and is a perfect fusion between Arab, African, Portuguese, and European cultures. So, if you are going to get married in a cultural style, here is the place where you can feel welcome and where you can create lifetime memories, as you dreamed!
When- July-December.
Where- Melia Zanzibar & DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Zanzibar – Nungwi, Zanzi Resort & The Palms, Zanzibar.
Thailand
Photo @ammataeyes / Planning & Design @theweddingblissthailand / Florals @iamflower.co /Venue @amanpuri
Why- “Sawasdee Ka, Thailand” is what we said when our planes landed for the DWP Congress 2017 in this incredible & lively country. Thailand is a popular destination to get married in due to its breathtaking venues – from serene beaches to rustic mountains and everything in between. Koh Samui, Phuket, Bangkok are some of the popular places. What’s more, the country also has a rich culture and heritage to partake in. It also offers excellent value for money, which you’ll find in the form of wedding ceremony packages by leading hotels.
When- November to March.
Where- Banyan Tree Phuket, Angsana Laguna Phuket, Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas, Conrad Koh Samui, W Koh Samui, Rosewood Phuket, The Racha, Naka Phuket, Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui & Amanpuri.
Croatia
Picture Courtesy: @latophotography
Why- With micro and intimate weddings as the trends for this year’s weddings, Croatia has been a secret gem and a new addition to our list. Glorious weather, historic white stone buildings, azure seas and green mountains make this a wedding destination with multiple backdrops. If you are an adventurous duo, the 1000 miles of mainland coastline along with the 1000+ islands to visit will thrill you. You and your beau can island-hop to castles and fortresses, stroll through enchanted gardens, spelunk through caves, traverse mountains or visit one of the myriad waterfalls.
When– June to October.
Where- Suncani Hvar, Valamar Hotels & Resorts, Maistra.
Seychelles
Picture Courtesy: @fsseychelles
Why- A 115-island archipelago, boasting powder-white beaches and clear, tranquil turquoise waters, Seychelles is a popular destination for beach weddings and honeymoons. This island paradise ambiance makes every event special and fairytale-like so getting married in Seychelles is something you and your partner will never forget. Moreover, marriages in Seychelles are recognized under European Laws and the marriage certificate you receive is valid in other countries.
When- April to October.
Where- Hilton Seychelles representing – LaBriz, Northolme & Allamanda.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed the list! The travel scenario is changing rapidly. Research well about the restrictions and availability of venues at the month of your wedding. We highly recommend hiring a wedding planner who will help you navigate the ins & outs of a particular destination. See you all in the DWP Congress Bali. If you haven’t registered yet, click here to book your slots!
