If you are in the LGBT community it can be hard to choose a destination for a wedding abroad. Long haul destinations can be particularly daunting, as there are so many different laws, views and religions. However, with Aruba there is no worry at all. This wonderful little Caribbean island is the perfect wedding destination for same-sex couples as it is safe and the locals will make you feel welcome.
Known as ‘One Happy Island’, Aruba offers many opportunities to experience local culture, food and music. It is also renowned for the local hospitality, with the friendly, welcoming people making Aruba such a home away from home location.
With a local community that’s a mix of over 90 nationalities, Aruba is a diverse country that welcomes all races and religions. The locals are open-minded and have a cosmopolitan world view, so you can walk around with your loved one without the worry of being judged, or even prosecuted, for just being in love.
The Travel Alternative Group (TAG) approve many of the hotels on the island, so they accept diversity and also employ members of the LGBT community.
Say ‘I Do’ in Paradise
This all makes Aruba the perfect destination abroad to tie the knot! Same-sex couples can declare their love to one another and say ‘I Do’ in paradise, enjoying a symbolic blessing on an idyllic powder white beach surrounded by turquoise Caribbean waters.
The island has some of the best wedding planners in the world, who will work closely with you to ensure your wedding ceremony is as perfect as you imagined. Specialised in same-sex weddings, you can rest assured that your big day is in good hands.
All of Aruba’s beaches are stunning, but here are a few beautiful spots that are perfect for a wedding…
- Rodgers Beach: Officially known as Nanki, this small beach near Baby Beach is perfect for a quieter, more intimate wedding.
- Marrying under a Divi Tree: This is a really iconic symbol of Aruba, and perfect for a sunset wedding with amazing photo opportunities.
- California Lighthouse: The most unique spot to marry, right by the sea under a magnificent lighthouse.
If you are looking to have a small wedding with fewer than 15 guests, a simple beach ceremony is the perfect option for you. ‘No frills’ wedding packages start from £1,199, and include all your essentials such as wedding coordination, photography and flowers.
For larger wedding parties an all-inclusive package is the best option as it will include everything you will need for your ceremony and reception, plus all the extras. These start from £5,599 for 20+ people.
Guest post by Melissa Lowe of PerfectWeddingsAbroad.co.uk
Images from PerfectWeddingsAbroad.co.uk
