Taking your wedding ceremonies to a gorgeous overseas location has a tempting charm. Pick from these international hotels that ace the Indian wedding game and simplify the entire destination-wedding-planning process. By Anushka Goel & Bayar Jain
Atlantis, The Palm Dubai
With a massive inventory of 1,549 rooms and suites on offer—including seven signature suites— Atlantis, The Palm is ideal for lavish celebrations just as much for intimate ones. Choose from any of their 13 dedicated indoor-event spaces. The spectacular Atlantis Ballroom (with direct access to the Royal Terrace) and the glittering Asateer Marquee, for instance, can accommodate up to 2,500 guests, while the Silk Ballroom and the Spice Ballroom—complete with a private terrace overlooking the twinkling skyline—can individually house 300 people. Alternatively, consider a poolside luncheon at The Zero Entry Pool that offers the ideal backdrop for up 2,000 guests, the 17-hectare Aquaventure Waterpark for a fun-filled after-party, or The Royal Beach for beachside elegance and intimate receptions. For a truly unique wedding, host a show-stopping event surrounded by 65,000 marine animals, with a tailor-made function for up to 150 guests at The Lost Chambers Aquarium.
Irrespective of venue, trust their in-house, dedicated wedding specialist to curate a memorable event. The services also include a customised multi-tiered wedding cake; a one- or two-night stay at an Imperial Club Room, with honeymoon facilities and in-room breakfast; preferential room rates for wedding bookings; in-house florists; and access to Signature Suites for ceremonies.
Kulm Hotel St. Moritz, Switzerland
The Kulm Hotel St. Moritz has a long-standing history in hospitality, dating back to 1856. The hotel has served as the wedding venue for several high-profile celebrations from across the world. The views here are paradisiacal—the hotel is surrounded by pristine mountain forests, quiet Alpine meadows, rushing mountain streams and lakes, and centuries-old culture, making it one of the most attractive wedding destinations in the Alps.
A member of Virtuoso and The Leading Hotels of the World, the hotel boasts exquisitely designed rooms, six world-class restaurants, various event rooms, an extensive spa, and exclusive treatments by the Swiss luxury brand Valmont.
Adding to its charm is the hotel’s partnership with Tehiya Narvel Events, who are not only experts in curating Indian weddings, but also offer professional hospitality for the Indian bride and groom.
Paradise Island Resort & Spa Maldives
A 20-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Resort, Paradise Island Resort & Spa brings all islandic wedding dreams to life. From spacious bungalows with direct access to the pristine beach, to luxury villas with private hot tubs and beach-pool villas with a contemporary nautical design, each room here is heavenly. The dining options—ranging from traditional Japanese, Italian, and Maldivian—are all desirable.
However, it’s the idyllic setting that steals the spotlight for all to-be weds. Imagine a secluded island with white-sand beaches, a lagoon awash in deep blues and aquamarines, and soaring coconut palms swaying in the breeze gracing the wedding album.
Celebrations here are effortless and tailor- made, courtesy of a dedicated coordinator attending to every detail. While a professional team caters to everything from planning to the execution, the couple can soak in panoramic Maldivian views at the infinity pool, floating effortlessly towards a dreamy wedding.
Royal Saray Resort Managed by Accor, Bahrain
Inspired by the traditions of a Royal Bahraini summer house, Royal Saray Resort Managed by Accor paints a magnificent scenery for all kinds of nuptials. Set on a private beach at Manama’s Seef District—just 15 minutes away from Bahrain International Airport—with views of the Arabian Sea, this regal abode comes complete with cascading fountains, vaulted halls, and abundant greenery. Their lavish three- or four-bedroom royal villas, rooms, and suites are adorned in neutral palettes with gold accents, allowing every wedding ensemble to pop with glamorous ease.
When here, al fresco ceremonies come to life at the heavenly garden or poolside, under a blanket of glimmering stars dotting the skies. The Al Sarra Ballroom fuses Arabian hospitality and luxury to bring forth a contemporary set up—making it a timeless choice for indoor events.
Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort
The luxury Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort is located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, which loosely translated means the ‘River of Kings’. Set amidst 11 acres of lush tropical gardens, the gorgeous property offers a plethora of idyllic wedding settings to choose from—ranging from a grandiose ballroom with regal Thai décor, to an al fresco terrace shrouded in orchids at the water’s edge.
The resort’s ‘Reet At The Riverside’ wedding package is curated to seamlessly accommodate multi-day celebrations for up to 250 guests. This includes accommodation in 125 rooms for three nights; a welcome dinner with soft drinks at the Riverside Terrace restaurant, offering stunning views of the river; an after-party for 100 guests at various in-house venues that the couple can choose from; a mehendi lunch with soft drinks at the tropical-garden, restaurant terrace of Trader Vic’s; a sangeet dinner and soft drinks at the grand Chaophraya Ballroom; puja ceremony rooms for the bride and groom; a wedding lunch at the elegant Garden Room; preparations for the baraat to arrive via boats; high tea at the beautiful Grand Sala terrace overlooking the river; and a wedding reception dinner with soft drinks in the very elegant Lunar and Moon event rooms.
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives
Nestled amongst azure waters and lush vegetation, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, offers a variety of settings to suit the type of celebrations couples may desire—from private beach coves to water villas. The resort’s lush, tropical foliage, azure sea, and white-sand beaches offer a picturesque backdrop for pre- and post- wedding ceremonies, honeymoons, and renewal of vows. Scenic villas, romantic gardens, and secluded beaches transform into magical spaces that are customisable for the perfect wedding. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands offers Ocean Pool Villas starting from 150 square metres, along with multiple outdoor venues, as well as private dining venues.
The couple and their guests can also indulge in the resort’s culinary offerings, ranging from robust Italian pastas to Oriental tapas-style fare. Each of the seven restaurants and bars here craft a journey of the senses. Consider toasting the sunset with a glass of chilled rosé, enjoying a local version of traditional afternoon tea, dining under the stars, or opting for a Japanese barbecue. The uninterrupted sunrise and sunset views are ideal for creating lasting memories of special celebrations. What’s more—the resort’s curated team is experienced in organising Indian weddings, ensuring every detail is looked after and every moment captured for eternity.
SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences
Few places in Dubai boast of a 360o view of the city—SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences is one such address. Located in Downtown Dubai, the hotel features 254 expertly designed rooms, as well as 321 hotel apartments. Make the most of its towering, 75-storeyed height by taking a dip in any of the two rooftop infinity pools, which offer enviable views of the majestic Burj Khalifa and Dubai Creek. Or unwind at Privilege, their rooftop nightlife venue with a chilled-out ambience.
The resort’s world-class culinary venues include Fi’ila, an authentic Italian restaurant; Carna by Dario Cecchini, a contemporary steakhouse; S Bar, a lobby-level mixology lounge; EllaMia, a sophisticated café; and the 12 Chairs Caviar Bar, a 12-guest, caviar-dedicated dining space. Adding to these luxuries is the Ciel Spa, a seven-treatment room that entices with its dedicated thermal areas with steam rooms and experience showers, plunge pools, and relaxation rooms; two outdoor terraces add to the charm.
When tying the knot here, expect to enjoy all these offerings, with a bright-red cherry on top in the form of impeccable service, curated décor, and alluring entertainment. Six meeting rooms, with over 260 square meters of space, can accommodate groups of varying sizes, from an intimate gathering of 10 to a lavish party of 260.
The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal
Opulence lies at the heart of The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal. The beachfront location brings together the Orient’s centuries-old traditions and culture to create seamless destination weddings for discerning couples. To begin, the luxury hotel is just 20 minutes away from Abu Dhabi International Airport, making it easier for guests to fly in. Next, wedding planners specialising in high-end destination weddings are available at every beck and call. From taking care of the logistics, to accommodating and coordinating the flow of events for over 1,000 guests, the team facilitates everything for the couple every step of the way.
The gorgeous venues make the entire experience even more appealing. From the stunning Roma Ballroom, with its private elevator and direct access to the exclusive Bridal Suite, to the intimate Olive Garden and tranquil Grand Canal Beach, and from the striking Pool Garden to the many indoor and outdoor venues, the luxurious property offers a range of romantic locations ideally suited to wedding celebrations of almost any size. Breathtaking views of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Grand Canal across sprawling, landscaped lawns add to the glamour.
Raffles Seychelles
With the expertise of Raffles Seychelles’ dedicated wedding team, couples can bring their wedding dreams to reality. From a specialised-menu creation, to dining experiences and venue set-up by the resort’s culinary and banquet teams, the resort helps create lifelong memories.
With unrivalled beaches, a pristine waterfront, the property’s resort beach— Anse Takamaka—offers soft-powdered, white-sandy shores for the perfect beachside wedding. Add to it spectacular views of the Indian Ocean and Curieuse Island, the original home of the Coco De Mer Palm Tree.
Continue the celebrations post the marriage ceremony with exceptional wedding-themed packages. Choose from a romantic sundowner, a family barbecue on the beach, a sunset cruise on a luxury boat, or a symbolic ceremony at the resort. To commemorate the special day, all weddings here end with a ‘Tree of Love’ ceremony, where the couple plants a tree in the gardens to symbolise a growing relationship and their binding love for each other.
Capella Bangkok
Nestled on the east bank of the Chao Phraya River on Charoenkrung Road, Capella Bangkok invites couples to write their love story for a once- in-a-lifetime celebration with an elegant waterfront wedding. Couples can exchange vows at a stunning riverside setting, with dedicated support from the resort’s Wedding Whisperers, a team that has years of experience in designing bespoke ceremonies and celebrations.
The Ballroom offers 747 square metres of space with floor-to-ceiling windows, while the foyer here can accommodate up to 850 guests. Intimate events can be hosted in the Atelier, which can accommodate up to 110 guests and boasts panoramic views of the river. To-be weds can unwind and prepare in the privacy of the Salon, located close to the Ballroom. The resort’s Courtyard, an impressive al fresco garden overlooking the river, is perfect for an outdoor wedding of up to 200 guests. More intimate ceremonies, hosting up to 80 people, can be held on the deck of a riverboat cruising along the river.
Guests are treated to exceptional cuisine and exquisite dishes at the Michelin star chef restaurant, Côte by Mauro Colagreco. Working with culinary experts, professional photographers, the finest florists, and other premium partners, Capella Bangkok crafts memorable weddings.
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