Making it memorable
Wedding Whisperer By Stephanie Chai
Sunday June 12, 2011
Create magic by choosing a special place to tie the knot.
DON’T you hate it when you have to invite people you don’t know to your wedding just because Mum told you so?
Thanks to the ingenious concept of destination weddings, you can kiss that predicament goodbye.
But before you decide to skip the fuss of a traditional wedding, it is of utmost importance that you decide on a place that is meaningful to your relationship.
The next step is to look for all destination wedding packages in that area. Compare prices as well as recommendations, ratings and references.
Here are top five venues (from weddingguideasia.com) to consider when tying the knot:
Tibetan ceremony: Stephanie Chai with co-host Pierre Goh in a mock wedding ceremony at Banyan Tree Ringha in Yunnan, China.
Melbourne, Australia
Where: At one of the many cathedrals and churches, or reputable wineries of The Yarra Valley.
Why: A beautiful wedding requires an exquisite venue and this lively place is a city like no other. Surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens and rolling hills, the views of the Yarra Valley will provide a romantic backdrop.
Melbourne is also home to some of the largest and finest examples of Gothic Revival and Lombardic Romanesque architecture such as St Patrick’s Cathedral, St Paul’s Cathedral, St Michael’s Uniting Church and Scots Church.
Best places to stay: Lyall Hotel & Spa, Hilton On The Park Hotel, Windsor Hotel or Chateau Yering.
Ringha, Yunnan Province, China
Why: Two years ago, I was the host of a travel show (titled Luxury China) that saw me travelling across China. One of my favourite experiences was my stay at the Banyan Tree Ringha in Yunnan.
China’s Yunnan province is a mountainous area that has been designated as the official Shangri-La by the Chinese government and is part of Greater Tibet, both historically and culturally.
What makes it extra special is that you can get married there!
The Banyan Tree Ringha provides a Tibetan wedding ceremony service where you and your beloved can say “I do”, the traditional way. Just as I did with my co-host Pierre; of course, ours was a mock ceremony!
What to do: Breathe in fresh air while you horse ride around an enchanting mix of unspoiled golden-roofed Buddhist monasteries.
Best place to stay: Banyan Tree Ringha Hotel. You’ll love staying in its lodges which are actually traditional Tibetan farmhouses.
Watch out for the sign that says “Don’t leave food outside”. Apparently the animals come out to play at night!
Paris, France
Why: Often referred to as the world’s most romantic cliché, the City Of Lights offers winding alleys, majestic palaces, superb cafes and historical landmarks.
What to do: Hop on a boat tour along the River Seine or stroll along the Champs Élysées. The boats that line the River Seine are fully equipped for all your wedding needs.
To complete the Parisian destination wedding experience, take part in a glamorous photo shoot under the well-trimmed trees of the Tuileries Gardens.
Places to stay: L’Hôtel, Hôtel Sezz, Hôtel Costes or the Four Seasons.
Cameron Highlands, Malaysia
Why: The perfect place to hold a stylish Victorian-themed wedding event. It’s not difficult to recreate the bygone 1920s classic era with so many converted colonial houses and buildings. There are also several locations which make for a perfect spot for an English garden wedding.
What to do: While you’re here, immerse yourself in the art of harvesting tea. Don’t forget to make a pit stop at the Lata Iskandar Waterfall for a lovely picnic as newlyweds.
Places to stay: Century Pines Resort or Cameron Highlands Resort.
Bali, Indonesia
Why: A visit to Bali means that you are in the most visitor-friendly island of Indonesia. This exquisite gem of a place is a cocktail of serene beaches. Bali’s a dream for lovers to spend the day being pampered at one of the island’s many spas.
What to do: Make a beeline for Ubud’s many cafes and once you’re done, hail a tuk tuk and make it a point to visit Museum Le Mayeur in Sanur. If you’re an aficionado for all things antique, you’ll love the place.
Places to stay: The Samaya Ubud Hotel, Kamandalu Resort & Spa, The Wolas Villas or Kupu Kupu Barong Villas & Tree Spa Hotel.
Last word
At a typical wedding, you’re in a rush, continually shaking hands and exchanging greetings. How often do you have the chance to spend quality time with dear friends and family? A destination wedding is a fantastic way to enjoy time with the ones you’re closest to.
■ Model-turned-actress and TV host Stephanie Chai can help you arrange the perfect wedding. For more tips and ideas, go to weddingguideasia.com. — The Star
