According to UK-based company Condor Ferries, destination weddings are on the rise. Currently, about 25% of marriages are being performed overseas. There’s really no question as to why they’re so popular. Destination weddings are often intimate yet luxurious, and they can turn a simple ceremony into a multi-day event.
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Unfortunately, there is still uncertainty around the globe thanks to variants of COVID-19 wreaking havoc. If you don’t want to have to cancel your destination wedding because of the ongoing pandemic, it’s important to put practices in place to protect yourself. Having a plan to keep your guests safe is just as crucial.
So, what can you do to stay safe while travelling for your destination wedding? How can you protect yourself and others while still enjoying this milestone event? Let’s cover a few practical tips that can make a big difference for your health and safety.
Unfortunately, we’re still living in uncertain times. Although the COVID vaccine rollout continues and we’re seeing upward trends in how many are being administered again, variants have put a wrench in things. Numbers are changing every day, and some parts of the country/world are worse than others.
Not only is it important to pay attention to those numbers and trends, but it’s a good idea to listen to epidemiologists when deciding how to keep yourself and others safe. Epidemiologists are there to keep people well-informed about current case statistics and what they can do to prevent the spread of viruses. When you listen to their recommendations, you can make some of your own to keep guests safe, including:
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Make sure you’re getting accurate information about this and other viruses. Don’t rely on one news source for all of your statistics and updates. Instead, do your research and listen to the experts, so you’re as prepared as possible for people to stay safe while travelling.
Obviously, a destination wedding should be in a desirable location. That looks different for everyone. Maybe you’re in love with the idea of getting married on an island, or maybe you want a waterfall or the mountains as a backdrop.
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There are countless options to choose from for a destination wedding, but some are currently safer than others. Even in the U.S., there are some “hot spots” where COVID cases are running rampant. For example, Florida is often a top choice for weddings, but they’re dealing with a massive COVID surge at the moment.
If you’re planning a wedding, consider working with a travel advisor. They’ll have the latest information on which countries around the world are “open” and accepting travellers and which ones should be avoided. You can even do your own research on states that are experiencing high case numbers, and places you should avoid.
In researching different locations, don’t forget to look at current airline policies. If family members and friends have to travel from out of town, they’ll need to be informed about what airlines are doing to keep everyone safe, so they can be prepared for things like wearing a mask or even having to take a COVID test before travelling somewhere different. The more your guests feel like they’re prepared, the less likely they are to feel uneasy about the entire trip.
Just because you want to travel somewhere to get married doesn’t mean you have to bring hundreds of people. While it’s understandable to want your family and friends involved, these uncertain times can require alternative options. One of those options is eloping. Many people who elope end up travelling to a different part of the world. It’s fun, exciting, and romantic.
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You can bring along a friend or a few family members as witnesses. But, elopements are designed to be small and intimate. Before you decide whether it’s right for you, consider some of the pros and cons, including:
Even if you decide to go off on your own to get married, you can include family members and friends by going virtual. Virtual weddings have been on the rise throughout the pandemic. One study found that in 2020, 5% of couples had virtual ceremonies and 43% added a streaming option for those who weren’t comfortable attending in-person.
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As you can see, there are plenty of things you can do to keep yourself and others safe while travelling for a destination wedding. From the travel getting there to the event itself, these precautions will help everyone feel more at ease so they can enjoy the celebration without worrying about their health.