Antigua and Barbuda: A Canvas for Family & Couple Escapes

The dual-island nation is perfect for families in search of a playful, educational adventure and couples seeking an intimate backdrop for romance. For families, there’s an endless array of beaches and watersports. The calm clear waters are the perfect setting to introduce the little ones to the wonders of snorkeling. Couples will find the sunsets on these islands mesmerizing, setting the stage for beachside strolls and candlelit dinners.

From all-inclusive resorts that cater to your every need to private villas that promise seclusion, the accommodation styles in Antigua and Barbuda cater to every travel style. Family-friendly resorts are designed with activities for all ages, ensuring that parents can relax while children are entertained. For couples, the island’s boutique resorts and private cottages offer privacy and luxury.

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Is a Destination Wedding Right for Us?

Imagine saying your eternal vows against a breathtaking sunset as gentle waves caress the shoreline, surrounded by your loved ones laughing and dancing. This is the allure of destination weddings – a trend that continues to be in popularity among couples seeking a unique and unforgettable way to tie the knot. Let’s explore why destination weddings have become increasingly popular and delve into some of the most captivating destinations for your special day.

Destination weddings bring together romance, adventure, and unique experiences, providing couples with an extraordinary way to start their new chapter. From locations to intimate gatherings, these weddings offer a chance to create unforgettable memories for both the couple and loved ones.

Destination Weddings Offer Unforgettable Experiences!

Destination weddings offer couples and their guests an opportunity to create memories that will last a lifetime. Unlike traditional weddings that tend to follow a familiar script, destination weddings allow you to infuse culture, nature, and adventure into your celebration. You will appreciate the chance to escape your everyday routines and explore a new destination while celebrating your love.

Does an intimate Gathering sound like the perfect destination wedding? Having a wedding in destination can give the couple the opportunity to limit the guest list to close family & friends. But I should say, that is not always the case. Guest lists can be as small or as big as you would like and the great part about that is the resort, and destination, can accommodate. Small and intimate or large and extravagant. What’s your choice?

Stunning Locations and Endless Possibilities for Destination Weddings!

From sandy beaches and islands to lush vineyards and majestic mountains, destination weddings offer an array of breathtaking settings. Imagine exchanging vows on the white sands where turquoise waters and swaying palm trees set a romantic stage. If this sounds like the perfect setting, you have many options. One of the many Caribbean islands may be the perfect choice. Maybe it is one of the islands in the South Pacific or Hawaii. Mexico also has some amazing beach settings.

Want tropical but not necessarily on a beach? No worries! Mountains and lush green landscapes are also in abundance in these locations. Costa Rica and some Central American locations can also be added to the above list.

What about a majestic European Castle for the backdrop for your destination wedding? Feel like royalty as you say “I do” in a historic castle. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the mystical charm of Ireland, these fairy-tale settings make for a magical wedding day. Or, maybe, you are looking for something a little more unique. Asia offers a diverse range of options for a unique celebration.

How does Stress-Free Planning sound for your Destination Wedding?

Contrary to popular belief, planning a destination can be easier and more stress-free than a traditional wedding. Many hotels and resorts offer comprehensive wedding packages, including venue, catering, decor, and even a personal wedding planner. This assistance alleviates the stress of coordinating various vendors and logistics, allowing you to focus on enjoying the journey.

In addition to celebrating your wedding day, destination weddings often turn into a week-long celebration, giving you and your guests an extended period of time to enjoy each other’s company. Exciting activities, leisurely moments, and romantic dinners, your wedding will be more than a day – it will be an unforgettable experience for all.

Destination Weddings with Anytime Travel Agency

The travel planning for something like this may seem daunting, but working with a travel agent who specializes in destination weddings will take all the stress away. They can help you navigate the whole planning process. Here at Anytime Travel Agency, when I work with couples, I help them find the perfect destination, negotiate the group contract with the resort and help the couple get special group amenities and rates. I then build a unique wedding page for my couples with all the booking information. All they need to do is send that link to their guests. From there, the guests fill out their room request and I work directly with them to help them with their travel plans. The bride & groom are left out of that and can focus on the details for their special day.

Whether you choose a paradise beach, a historic castle, or a mountain escape, a destination wedding is sure to be an enchanting celebration that will leave a lasting impression on all who attend. So, begin the journey of a lifetime by saying “yes” to a destination wedding and let Anytime Travel Agency help you make that dream become reality.

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2022 is here and the Destination Wedding demand is high. Start looking at late 2022 and into 2023 and start planning well in advance. The pandemic forced many couples to cancel or postpone their destination wedding plans. Let’s be honest, thousands of honeymoons and anniversary trips were also postponed or cancelled. Now couples are eager and ready to reschedule that destination wedding they have always dreamed of! With that in mind, 2022 is set to be one of the busiest years for destination weddings. I have couples already looking into late 2023, just so they can get their dream location, date & resort venue.

Take a look at a recent article I wrote for tips to consider when planning a 2022 wedding, What You Should Know Before Planning a Destination Wedding in 2022. I recommend considering those tips for weddings beyond 2022 as well.

What to consider when planning a Destination Wedding

Regardless of if you originally planned on having a destination wedding or you were planning on having a local wedding, I think it is going to be extremely beneficial to consider having a destination wedding. Why, you ask? Destination weddings, and the world, were put on hold for almost 2 years. Local wedding venues are going to fill up just as fast, if not faster, than destination wedding venues. I won’t lie, there will be some challenges long the way. Stay positive. One recommendation I make in the article above is, be flexible. Resorts and countries are opening and welcoming couples, and their families & friends, and ready to make their destination wedding dreams come true.

Consider the destination. You need to choose one that makes you and your guests feel comfortable. Check into the protocols the destination has taken so far. Look at the protocols the resort has implemented. The tourism boards are a great place to start. Then check the resort websites. They all have a section now explaining what they have done and the protocols they have put into place to make guests feel welcomed and safe.

Why use a Travel Agent when planning a Destination Wedding?

The planning involved when considering a destination wedding has definitely changed. Sit down with your fiancé and write out all your thoughts/wish-lists & concerns. Contact a travel agent, one who specializes in destination weddings, and talk to them. Go over everything on your list. A travel agent will offer expert advice and knowledge on destinations & resorts and help you choose the perfect location. They will handle all the logistics, like negotiating room contracts and extra group amenities. They handle the bookings for you and your guests. I can assure you; you DO NOT want your family and friends calling and texting you with questions about the destination or their booking. A travel agent will be there for you in case of issues or emergencies. With a travel agent handling all of that AND MORE, it will definately take a large amount of worry & stress off your plate. They’re worth their weight in gold and I am not saying that because I am a travel agent. Before I became a travel agent, I used a travel agent.

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The COVID-19 pandemic has made things difficult for anyone planning a large event, but for many brides and grooms, the struggles have been severe. The arguably most important day of your life is being postponed, canceled or turned into something completely unlike what you imagined. Pandemic or no, it’s heartbreaking not being able to celebrate that milestone with your closest friends and family.

If you planned a destination wedding for this year, you were faced with many difficulties. Travel bans, cancellations from resorts or airlines and then just the fear that you might be endangering your relatives by asking them to travel.

If you’re still holding out hope that you’ll be able to go forward with a 2021 destination wedding, rest assured that it’s entirely possible.

Picking the best destination for a destination wedding is important. Here are five that we recommend.

Is St. Lucia Your Choice for Your Destination Wedding?

St. Lucia is world-recognized as one of the most romantic destinations in the Caribbean. You couldn’t pick a better location for a truly memorable destination wedding. Just imagine the gorgeous wedding photos, with the dramatic Pitons in the background.

Additionally, because St. Lucia is located outside of the Caribbean’s “hurricane belt,” you can plan your trip for nearly any time of year and have spectacular weather.

St. Lucia also offers a wide variety of luxury properties that nearly all host weddings on a regular basis. You can be assured of a fantastic setting and a staff that knows what they’re doing.

Any guest that you invite to this destination wedding would truly be lucky to attend.

St. Lucia is currently open to travel, but you can keep an eye on their traveler restrictions and guidelines, here.

Mexico’s Destination Wedding’s

Many travelers who have booked with Anytime Travel Agency are finding that Mexico is a destination where they feel safe and secure traveling, even in the midst of the pandemic. The country is truly pulling out all the stops when it comes to guidelines and precautions.

For couples who want several options when it comes to wedding locations, Mexico also delivers. There are desirable destinations from shore to shore. One of our favorited luxury resort lines, AM Resorts, offers couples the opportunity to tie the knot at more than 25 different properties across the country, from Isla Mujeres and Riviera Maya to Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta.

Additionally, getting to Mexico for a destination wedding is often convenient for your attendees. No matter what state you are flying from, you’re likely to find affordable and convenient flight options.

Learn more about Mexico’s COVID travel restrictions, here.

How about the Dominican Republic?

If you are interested in traveling to the Dominican Republic, you will be in the heart of the Caribbean. Not only convenient to get to, the Dominican Republic offers one of the largest selections of beachfront and city rooms and venues. It also offers some of the world’s most luxurious all-inclusive resorts.

Along with being known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, it has a rich gastronomy scene, history, music, and a climate as warm as its people. The Dominican Republic offers the perfect backdrop for your special day.

The Dominican Republic, like Mexico, is often very easy to access for most travelers coming from the United States. There are plenty of flight options available. It also is one of the more budget-friendly destination wedding locales in the Caribbean. There are also quite a few properties to pick from when it comes to choosing your venue.

Stay up-to-date on the Dominican Republic’s COVID-related travel restrictions, here.

Hawai’i’s Destination Wedding’s

Hawai’i offers several benefits when it comes to destination weddings.

Firstly, it’s a domestic locale, so any family members or friends who don’t have time to acquire a passport before your wedding would still be able to attend. Even though it’s a U.S. destination, it still offers all the dramatic scenery of a more exotic, tropical setting. Stunning rainforests and unique beaches offer you endless backdrops for your wedding day. It will be amazing.

Additionally, Hawai’i is filled with luxury properties and wedding vendors that can make your big day come together with ease.

Hawai’i is ready to welcome American travelers back to its shores, and you can find more information, here.

Destination Wedding In Aruba?

Aruba is a favorite Caribbean spot for destination weddings and honeymooners alike. Like St. Lucia, it is also outside of the hurricane belt, so you can plan your destination wedding for just about any time of year and be assured of good weather. Aruba is slightly more on the affordable side, compared to St. Lucia, without sacrificing the beautiful scenery or romance factor.

Affordable flights are available from most U.S. air travel hubs, too, making it a convenient destination for your guests.

Learn more about Aruba’s COVID restrictions, here.

A Destination Wedding Alternative

Still not quite sure if a 2021 destination wedding is in the cards for you next year? If you ultimately decide that another wedding option is more appropriate for your needs at this time, you don’t have to give up your dreams of spending a romantic time away with your new spouse. Now’s still a great time to book a honeymoon or one-year anniversary trip, to any of the above romantic destinations.

Let’s Get Started

If you want to hold your destination wedding in 2021, now’s the time to book! Make sure you have an experienced travel agent on your side, to navigate cancellation policies and event contracts, and to ensure you end up with the wedding of your dreams.

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Sandals South Coast is the perfect combination of European civility in an all-beachfront resort. Sandals South Coast brings guests closer than ever to the water with their Over-the-Water Bungalows, overwater bar and Over-the-Water Chapel. Set on a 2-mile stretch of Jamaica’s south coast’s most pristine white-sand beach and nestled within a 500-acre nature preserve, this spectacular seaside oasis features three distinctive European Villages. Relax by one of three pools, including Jamaica’s largest, or dine at the new Sushi on the Sand restaurant. At night, extravagant bonfire areas and fire pits add to the glow of this truly unique destination in the heart of paradise.

Destination Highlights

• 75 Minute transfer ride from Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay (MBJ)
• 372 Rooms and Suites spread over 50 acres
• All rooms and suites face the beach – All beachfront, all ocean view resort
• This Resort features Jamaica’s largest zero-entry pool, framed by a sprawling Italian piazza with romantic fire pit  seating areas, just steps away from the two-mile beach
• 9 Dining Options and 7 Bars are at this resort
• 14,000 square feet of Meeting & Convention space, including a Ballroom and 3-Level Theatre
• 12 Exquisite one of a kind Over-the-Water Butler Honeymoon Bungalow
• Red Lane Spa

Things To Do

• Water Sports: Kayaks, Watershiing, Windserfing, Snorkeling, Sailboats, Tubing, Paddle Boarding, Glass Bottom Boats, Wake Boarding, Knee Boarding.
• Entertainment day & night!
• Land Activities: Table Tennis, Shuffleboard, Lawn Chess, Croquet, Basketball, Beach Volleyball, Day & Night Tennis, Board Games, Pool Tables, Squash, Bocce Ball.
• Endless Island excursions!

See Sandals South Coast Up Close. Get Inspired!

These new Over Water Bungalows are Amazing!

One of the new features at Sandals South Coast are their spectacular over-the-water bungalows. Every bungalow captures the height of luxury with hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, custom crafted king-size beds adorned with soft linens and plush pillows for the ultimate sleep experience. Outside, your private patio is equipped with an extended sun deck, outdoor shower, sun loungers, and a bistro set for two. Couples can also admire the beauty of the ocean from their private outdoor Tranquility Soaking Tub for two or over-water hammocks. Inside, glass floor panels and lit water ensure you can enjoy undersea views any time. These bungalows also have Butler Elite service. They handle every detail of your vacation. Bungalow guests will also receive: Exclusive in-room dining and room service menu – Personal airport greeting – Expedited immigration – Welcome gift, including branded tote and towel set – Molton Brown bathroom amenities.

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Stepping foot on any of Hawaii’s lush islands is romantic in itself. Because of the lush green forests, beautiful waterfalls, stunning beaches, gorgeous sunsets, active volcanoes, endless activities and the cultural heritage, just about anything you do on your Hawaii vacation could be romantic. Hawaii, and all it’s beautiful islands, are a magnet for romance!

Travel Age West recently wrote an article 6 New Romantic Activities in Hawaii stating that “For every couple, there’s a perfect way to celebrate love in Hawaii.” They were right.

Hawaii and Romance go Hand in Hand.

Activities to put on your radar

1. Maui: Are you an early riser? Mount Haleakala (meaning “House of the Sun”) offers some of the most stunning sunrise views in the world. You will head to the summit of the 10,000-foot mountain just before dawn. As the sun rises over the water, the dazzling array of colors you will experience is Awh-Inspiring. Pack a blanket and have a picnic! It’s a perfect place for that.
2. Celebrate the Polynesian culture by taking in an authentic Hawaiian Luau. Besides watching the beautiful dancers perform and celebrate their heritage you’ll be able to take in the music, stories and cuisine. Old Lahaina Luauon Maui is highly recommended along with the Ali’i Luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu.
3. Helicopter rides over the beautiful Hawaiian landscape can be very romantic. View the unreachable places like 1,000-foot tall waterfalls, fiery lava flows or the rugged coastline.
4. Do you like being active? Despite what yo think, fitness and romance can be romantic. Hike to and swim in a waterfall, bike the numerous trails, canoe the quaint rivers. How about a sunrise or sunset yoga class? After some activity, take advantage of some of the spectacular spas on the islands and enjoy a couple massage!
5. Cuisine! Hawaii is a foodie paradise. The Hawaiian Islands are a melting pot of global influences that has happened over generations. Most importantly, each island is different so your taste buds won’t be disappointed. Food & wine festivals throughout the Hawaiian Islands showcase their local food scenes. Schedule a private chef experience or take a small culinary tour. How about a chocolate tour? Intrigued??

Visit “Go Hawaii” for more ideas on what the Hawaiian Islands has to offer.

You won’t be bored in Hawaii, unless you want to be. In that case some of the most relaxing activities are still romantic and the memories will last a lifetime.

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Vow renewals have become very popular. What a great way to celebrate your marriage. The reasons are very personal for each couple. You’ve made it to 2, 5, 10, 25 or 50 years!  You’ve faced challenges and come out on the other side a stronger couple. You want the world to know you’d do it all over again and want those closest to you to share in the joy of having made it.

Your not the same couple you were when you first said “I Do”. Life happens. After a decade or two of marriage the changes and struggles you both have faced and overcome put a new perspective on how you look at each other. Why not celebrate that love, that bond, that commitment.

“You are the source of my joy, the center of my world and the whole of my heart.” – Unknown

A Vow Renewal, When One “I Do” is not Enough.

There is a lot to consider with vow renewal planning. The questions is, are there any rules? The answer… NOPE! It can be as unique as you “the couple” are. What’s your fairytale? Barefoot on the beach, a rooftop in Rome, a balcony in Santorini… Hotels and destinations offer a wide range of options.

Start with this:

• Pick a Place: Just like with a wedding, location is everything.
• Just the two of you or filled with family and friends: For many couples, they tend to reminisce about their first wedding. Was is big? Was is too small? Did you not get the white dress or a fairytale ceremony? A vow renewal is an opportunity to do things differently than you did for your first wedding. Maybe you have children now and you want to show them just how in love you are.
• Ceremony: Traditional? Non-traditional? You will have a chance to do something you couldn’t the the first time. Think out of the box..

A few things will stay the same. Decorations, Menu, photography will all be on the list. My advice… Don’t skip the photography! This is a time to capture “you” as a couple. A couple who has endured. A couple who has grown together. The new “you” could also include kids.

Where to host a Vow Renewal?

The options are endless. Here are some unique ideas, resorts & destinations to consider.

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