The Rusty Pelican - Tampa

Here at the Rusty Pelican we have nearly 20 years of experience making every party an event to remember. From the moment you sit down and talk with one of our professional wedding consultants to the last guest leaving, every detail will be planned to perfection.

We offer private rooms that can accommodate from 20 to 400 guests! From that intimate dinner party to a large social cocktail party! Four of our rooms have breathtaking panoramic sunset views of Tampa Bay. Choose from our extensive menu list or have our Executive Chef create a menu especially designed for your unforgettable day.

The Rusty Pelican looks forward to extending our warm hospitality and ideal atmosphere for your future event. Like a great love story, the Rusty Pelican has stood the test of time and will always be here whenever you want to add a new chapter to your own love story. Knowing that you can return to the Rusty Pelican from this day forward promises that your beautiful wedding memories will last a lifetime.

Bald Head Island Resort

From the taste of salt on your lips after a morning swim, to the wonder of a night sky undiluted by city lights, Bald Head Island offers a wedding experience you just couldn't have anywhere else. Charming wedding cottages are located in a variety of delightful settings. And all are, at most, just minutes from the beach.








~ Ceremony

Across the island are many lovely settings for weddings, including:
Bald Head Island Chapel
Old Baldy Lighthouse Grounds
Atlantic Ocean beaches
The Common at Cape Fear Station
Harbourside PavilionShoals Club Presentation Deck

Jamaica Wedding Destination Guide

Just about every Caribbean island offers the natural lure of sun-filled days on white-sand beaches gently lapped by an azure sea. But for travellers in search of a rich cultural experience in a setting of extraordinary beauty, Jamaica presents a fascinating diversity of options.
Much of Jamaica's land rises more than 1,000 feet above sea level. The celebrated Blue Mountains, famed for their fine coffee, are actually made up of two ranges, the Central Range, in the northern section, and the Port Royal Mountains that rise above the Liguanea Plain, just north of Kingston. Forests are rich in flora and fauna, and a remarkable number of imaginatively landscaped gardens offer colourful relaxation spots for a restful break.

Water sports run the gamut from sailing and yachting to deep-sea fishing. The island's reefs are home to several sunken ships which have become home to huge families of tropical fish and favourite locations for scuba divers. Coral caves, tunnels and steep canyons overlook waters rich in all variety of tropical fish. The land is punctuated by cascading waterways and fast-flowing rivers, with several mineral springs of therapeutic value. River rafting is especially good on the Martha Brae and the Rio Grande. At Dolphin Cove, visitors can swim with a family of bottle-nose dolphins or visit with rays, eels and sharks.

Wedding Reception Planning: Finding a Location

What should you look for in your reception site, aside from that sense of rightness you know you'll have the moment you see the perfect spot? Shopping for a site is a lot like finding a mate, a test you've obviously aced. You should be looking for the same sorts of things -- charm, personality, depth, more than just a pretty face (although looks do count!). Take along this list of what to look for -- in your head or on paper -- when you're ready to go scouting.

Roomy Fit
First, make sure the room is large enough to accommodate the number of people on your guest list. The space may look enormous when it's empty, but wedding essentials -- tables, chairs, a buffet, a bar, the band or DJ setup, the dance floor -- can take up a lot of space. Not to mention your guests, who'll need some elbow room. Even if you choose an outdoor site, you'll need ample room on the lawn, in the arboretum, or poolside. The best way to assess the size of a site? Ask to check out the place when another wedding is being set up. Of course, if you decide you must have your wedding at your favorite bar (the one with one bathroom, two booths, and three feet of floor space), you can always work backward and tailor your guest list to match.

Eating, Drinking & Partying Areas
There should be logical places within the space where guests can eat, drink, talk, and dance. See if you can envision where each activity would happen (especially if your ceremony will be there, too). If a room is too small to separate into sections accordingly, you may feel cramped. If it's shaped like an S or some other oddball figure, that could compromise your party's flow, as well. Also, note the locations of columns or other obstructions in the room -- will they block people's views?

Privacy, Please!
Privacy varies widely from place to place, as does the importance couples place on it. If you're having a daytime event in a public spot, such as a park or botanical garden, be prepared for strangers to trek past your party. They may even smile, wave, and come by to offer their good wishes. If this is okay with you (the more the merrier!), go for the park. If not, opt for a lovely lawn on a private estate. Or hold the reception at a restaurant or gallery that will post a CLOSED FOR PRIVATE PARTY sign. Be sure to inquire about available security at your site to keep gate-crashers at bay.

In addition, don't think that just because you're indoors, you're safe from uninvited guests. Banquet halls and hotels often hold more than one affair at a time. If there'll be other events going on simultaneously in rooms close to yours, you may hear karaoke-loving guests singing their hearts out to the sounds of Madonna through the walls or meet them over the hot-air dryers in the bathroom. If this bothers you, try to schedule your wedding when there won't be another one next door. If this is impossible, visit the site on a dual-party night and see how the sound carries and whether there really are any major people problems -- before you make a decision.

The site doesn't have to be done in the exact colors as your planned decorations, but it shouldn't clash or conflict with your party's mood or theme.

Seeing the Light
Light can make -- or break -- the mood. If you're marrying during the day, make sure your hall has plenty of windows. Who wants to spend six hours in a dark room when the sun is shining? If it's an evening affair, make sure the room's not too dim -- or that the lighting can be controlled for the big entrance, dinner, and dancing. If you're marrying outdoors, say, at dusk, will you be able to set up candles if necessary?

Try to visit the site at the same time of day that you've chosen for your wedding. Even if the space looks swell by candlelight, you may be surprised by the sight of that 20-year-old carpet during the day. You'll also miss a chance to see how sunlight streaming through floor-to-ceiling windows completely transforms the room, if you check it out only in the evening.

A Great View
What will your guests look at (when they're not gazing at you or smiling for the videographer)? Whether it's your city skyline, a stunning vista of rolling mountains beyond the windows, or the crashing sea on the sand behind you, exceptional locations are always a feast for the eyes. If there's no view per se, look to a place's decor or architectural details: Picasso prints on the walls, fine Persian rugs on the floors, period furniture in the corners, or an amazing crystal chandelier as the room's centerpiece all give your reception site that something extra.

The Right Color
If you're considering a certain theme and color palette for your party -- say, a Victorian tea done in pink, green, and gold -- that brown shag carpet is really going to wreck the effect. The site doesn't have to be done in the exact colors as your planned decorations, but the walls, carpets, chairs, and curtains shouldn't clash or conflict with your party's mood or theme. If you want a spring wedding brunch, look for a space that's done in light (perhaps pastel) colors or florals; black walls and red leather booths just don't say "spring." But they'll look great if you're going medieval (or 1980s, for that matter). For classic elegance, consider a room done in neutrals or black and white.

Ample Outlets
Be sure to take a thorough cruise around the room to see if it has lots of places to plug things in -- especially if you're partying in a place that's not a regular spot for hosting weddings. Your main user of outlets will be the entertainment crew. Take note of where the outlets are; if their location will force your DJ to spin records in the bathroom, make sure she or he has plenty of extension cords.

Good Vibrations
If the place is too echoey, it could give some weird reverb to the band, not to mention make it difficult for guests to hear one another talking. A tile or wood floor, for example, will amplify sounds, while a thick carpet will tend to muffle them. Check out the room's sound quality during an event. And tailor your music to the acoustic conditions. A jazz combo will sound better at an intimate art gallery than a 14-piece orchestra would (not to mention the fact that it takes up less floor space).

A Place to Park
Make sure the site is near a good parking lot, garage, or big, empty (safe) street where it's legal to park. If parking is a problem, look for other ways to get everyone to the party. Can a shuttle bus or vans take guests from the ceremony to the reception? Inadequate parking isn't necessarily a deal breaker, but it may mean spending more time and money to figure out a viable vehicular alternative.

source by : www.wedding.theknot.com

Sydney Romance at the Sofitel Wentworth

Sydney Romance at the Sofitel Wentworth

Priced from: $1999 per person

Location: Sofitel Wentworth, Sydney

» 3 nights Hotel Sofitel Wentworth Sydney
» Chocolate Dip Strawberries and Champagne on Arrival
» Full Buffet Breakfasts Daily
» Cocktails for Two in the Sofitel Lounge
» Sydney Sunset Dinner Cruise
» Return Airport Transfers in private Chauffered Car
» + BONUS, Stas 4 nights for the price of 3 from 1st May - 31st Ausust 08

Sydney´s time-honoured five-star hotel in the heart of the shopping and business district has a solid reputation for impeccable service and incomparable elegance. The recent renovations artfully combine the latest in modern convenience with the old-worldcharm that has made it an architectural icon. The hotel boasts premier conference facilities, a fabulous health club and complete day spa. Experience haute cuisine at the restaurant or slip into the lounge for an afternoon tea or an intimate night cap.








Choose Sofitel, Sofitel Superior or Club Sofitel Room
All 436 guest rooms are elegantly finished in rich, contemporary yet classic tones and feature the exclusive MyBed, state-of-the-art equipment and sumptuous marble bathrooms. Many of the 46 luxury suites overlook the central garden courtyard. Enjoy a bottle of Domaine Chandon and Chocolate Dip Strawberries on arrival!

Sumptuous Buffet Breakfast Daily
Enjoy a scrumptious start to your day with a buffet breakfast including a choice of cereals, croissants, eggs, bacon, grilled tomatoes, hash browns, omelettes with a choice of fillings, pancakes, Eggs Benedict or Florentine and French toast. Accompany this delightful spread with a smoothie or a selection of freshly squeezed fruit juices.








Cocktails for Two in the Sofitel Lounge

Sydney Sunset Dinner Cruise
Cruise the harbour aboard Sydney’s most prestigious cruise ship MV Sydney 2000 with a special seasonal flavour through spring twilight, summer evenings, winter city lights or autumn sunsets. Your Sunset Dinner cruise includes Canapes on arrival, 2 course meal of Contemporary Australian cuisine, Sparkling & still wines included and of course, fantastic sunsets!








Private Chauffered Car Transfers to/from Sydney Airport
Your Sydney Honeymoon Romance at the Sofitel Wentworth Sydney also includes private chauffered car transfers to and from Sydney International and Domestic Terminals.

source by : http://www.easyweddings.com.au

Tanjung Rhu Resort – Langkawi, Malaysia

Tanjung Rhu Resort – Langkawi, Malaysia

Tanjung Rhu Resort is located in Tanjung Rhu on the north eastern tip of Langkawi´s main island.

Surrounded by 1,100 acres of lush tropical greenery, the resort enjoys a breathtaking varied landscape of mangroves, waterways, limestone crags and sandy beaches. It is 30 minutes from both the main town, Kuah, and the airport.

Includes:
» Return economy airfare
» Twin share accommodation in a Damai Room
» FREE breakfast daily
» FREE return airport transfers
» FREE Eco Experience, Mangrove Tour or 30 minute facial massage (minimum 5 nights, valid 01 May-31 Oct 08)
» Extra nights are available at an additional cost

Valid for travel: 25 April - 26 June, 25 July - 18 September, 10 October - 15 November 2008
Valid for sale: 30 April 2008







Conditions:
Per person price includes return economy class airfare, twin share accommodation. Extra nights are available and may be required to connect with flights. Prices are valid for the most direct services. Seasonal surcharges and blackout periods may apply. Prices, taxes/levies and product are subject to change without notice. Additional local taxes may apply. Offer valid until SOLD OUT. Subject to availability. Conditions apply.









Malaysia Airlines "H" class ex East Coast "M" class ex Perth.

Tax is additional and below prices are reflective of all taxes/levies and charges paid on the ticket as of 05 MAR 08:

source by easywedding.com.au

Honeymoon in Rydges, Australia

Cairns Reef, Rydges Tradewinds
Location: Rydges, Cairns

» 5 Nights Rydges Tradewinds Cairns Superior Accommodation
» Full buffet Breakfasts daily
» 1 Two course dinner including a bottle of Australian wine at stylish Latitude 137 Restaurant
» 1 Dinner at Home - Two course room service dinner including a bottle of Australian house wine
» 2 Great Lunches at the Rydges E Bar
» Reef Magic Outer Barrier Reef Cruise
» Dinner or Lunch at the Reef Casino Pacific Flavours
» Chocolates and small bottle of liqueur in the room on arrival
» Return Airport Transfers from the Domestic or International Terminal

5 Nights Rydges Tradewinds Cairns Superior Accommodation
Rydges Tradewinds Cairns is a 4.5 Star Hotel for reef and rainforest discovery, ideally located on the Cairns Esplanade overlooking the Coral Sea. Rydges Tradewinds is just a few minutes walk along the Esplanade Boardwalk to the Cairns lagoon precinct, City Centre, Restaurants, shopping and departure points for the Great Barrier Reef. The hotel is just 6kms from the Cairns Domestic and International Airport. The hotel offers a range of accommodation options to suit everyone, from the corporate traveller to families. Dine inside or poolside in the tropical ambience of Latitude 137 Restaurant & Bar. Enjoy a cool drink on the deck of E Bar whilst watching the birdlife and sunset over the Esplanade waterfront.

Chocolates and small bottle of liqueur in the room on arrival 5 nights accommodation in a Superior Water View Room or Ocean Front Room

The Hotel features a resort style walk-in pool with spa and waterfall set amongst tropical landscaped gardens furnished with sun lounges, 24hr reception, Internet lounge, wireless Internet hot spots, porter service, laundry and dry cleaning service, poolside service, tour desk, complimentary pool towels for use at hotel pool, and secure valet undercover parking for only $7 per day.

Resort Facilities

• Pool	• Laundry Service	• Parking	• Bike Hire
• Conference Facilities	• Courtesy Bus	• Airport Shuttle	• In-room Modem Access
• Internet Facilities	• Money Exchange	• Room Service	• Non-smoking rooms
• 24-Hour Reception	• Disabled Facilities	• Spa Ensuite Rooms

Full buffet Breakfasts daily
The great Continental and Full Buffet Breakfasts served up daily by the pool at the Rydges Tradewinds Cairns make for a great start to every day of your holiday!

1 Two course dinner including a bottle of Australian wine at stylish Latitude 137 Restaurant
Latitude 137 Restaurant is renowned for delivering you a most enjoyable dining experience set in a tropical and stylish ambience. Your Romance package includes a delicious two course dinner as well as a bottle of Australian Wine. We really have though of everything!

You will be served by our very friendly and informative restaurant team.

1 Dinner at Home - Two course room service dinner including a bottle of Australian house wine.
Your Cairns Tradewinds Romance at Rydges also includes a mouth watering 2 course Dinner at Home evening.
Enjoy an evening of intimate dining in your own room. Room service will deliver a two course dinner of your choice. Just sit out on the balcony in the balmy tropical night, sip your chilled wine and enjoy!

2 Great Lunches at the Rydges E Bar
The E Bar offers a relaxed atmosphere nestled beside lush tropical gardens where you can sit back, relax and take in the views around the resort style pool and across the Esplanade Boardwalk towards the Coral Sea.
Sit back and relax and watch the world go by on the Cairns Esplanade Boardwalk whilst sipping on a Cocktail or boutique beer. The perfect alfresco dining spot for a light dinner, a quick bite or afternoon refreshment.

Reef Magic Outer Barrier Reef Cruise
The Reef Magic Cruises experience is fully catered for including a licensed bar on the vessel and a range of snacks available throughout the day.

Guests aboard Reef Magic II receive a full 5 hours of privileged access to the purpose built Marine World activity platform, located on a private outer reef location of the highest standard.

Activities suit all ages and swimming abilities from the non-swimmer or beginner snorkeller to the most experienced certified diver.










Dinner or Lunch at the Reef Casino Pacific Flavours
This distinctive and stylish restaurant provides contemporary buffet cuisine in a relaxed environment. You´ll be spoilt for choice! - The Reef Casino´s outstanding Pacific Flavours Brasserie features a spectacular buffet with fresh salads, soup, pastas, carvery, hot dishes and an array of tempting Desserts.
This is a dining experience of culinary abundance and variety to please every taste.

Return Airport Transfers from the Domestic or International Terminal
Your Cairns Tradewinds Romance includes return transfers to and from Cairns International Airport.

source by:http://www.easyweddings.com.au

Romantic Honeymoon

Romantic Weekend Getaways in the USA and Canada

What couple hasn't dreamed of stealing away for a romantic weekend to a place that's peaceful, pretty, and private? A getaway where dining is a sensual delight... and where the two of you can chill out, kick back, and explore places locals journey to when they're in love.

To clue you in on the best places for a weekend escape, we've spanned North America for favorite getaway spots for lodging, dining, and smooching.

Every couple needs private time together in a stress-free setting. Using the links provided, choose a place (they're all wonderful), make a reservation, and go! Your better half will thank you for it.

Romantic Weekend City Escape Guides
Great Getaways from Major U.S. Cities

Romantic Weekend Getaways by State

The Southeast:

• Florida
• Georgia
• Virginia

The Northeast

• New York
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island

The Midwest

• Illinois
• Michigan
• Wisconsin

The West & Hawaii

• Arizona
• California
• Hawaii

The Best Places for Lovers in Canada:

• Quebec
• Montreal
• Niagara Falls

See Before You Go: Take a Virtual Vacation

More of This Feature

The SouthMid-AtlanticMidwest

More of This Feature

The West and HawaiiCanadaMajor US City Getaway Guides

Suggested Reading

USA for CouplesInexpensive GetawaysVacation Ideas

source by :http://honeymoons.about.com

Greek Weddings

The History of Marriage

These types of marriages were either commonly practiced (or recently made obsolete) around the fifth century. To understand fifth century practices, it is necessary to take a step back and review the history of marriage in Greece, for Sappho, who flourished in the seventh century B.C., drew on patterns of marriage that were as much mythological as sociological, or legal, and for whom marriage as an institution triggered personal responses.

Pandora was the first bride,⁹ as well as the first woman. Didomi, the word meaning to give, from which Pandora's name is derived, reflects that the bride was originally a free gift that came to the groom's home bearing gifts. Leduc explains the importance of the bride-gift:

The free gift was, I believe, the organizing principle of the Hellenic system of legitimate reproduction. From the eighth to the fourth century B.C. a woman was always given (didomi) to her husband by another man, and this man always gave other riches (epididomi) along with her.10

In keeping with the notion of a bride as a gift, the Homeric bride brought gifts to her new oikos.11 This arrangement is a daughter-in-law marriage.12 During the "betrothal," the son-in-law and father-in-law became etai, allies, by exchanging gifts in preparation for the bride transfer. The dora, gifts, were a tangible sign of the alliance between the two households. This exchange also indicated that the bride's family was not just selling or rejecting her. The bridewealth generated by the passive bride, on the other hand, was called hedna and it usually manifested itself in cattle. This gift exchange formalized the legitimacy of a marriage and legitimized the children of the union.
In Homeric epic, a man could also "marry" a girl by winning her in a competition or by stealing her as booty. The Greek heroes left Troy with Trojan women as their "prizes." There was no "polygamy"; instead, a husband might have a wife and concubine, as seen frequently in ancient works about the Homeric heroes. If the wife gave her consent, the children of the concubine could be appointed as heirs. Yet, society demanded that a woman be faithful to her husband, begetting legitimate children.

One compelling motivation for marriage was the political alliance between noble families that the marriage would establish. Gradually, however, money replaced birth as a conduit to political influence, and marriages were consequently not as necessary for establishing political alliances.
Occasionally, sexual attraction would be a reason for marriage, but it was still only the attraction of the man, leaving the woman's feelings unaccounted for. Achilles' anger when Briseis was taken away from him indicates the deep feelings of a man for a woman who was worth fighting for. Helen acts on her own lust, but her actions are considered unique and improper by her peers.13
The daily lives of women during the dom of movement, they were not expected to mix freely with men. Women out of the house were usually in the company of other women.14 Women's activities consisted mainly of ensuring the smooth running of the household, bathing and anointing their husbands, raising their children, and participating in religious festivals. Women also contributed economically to their households through textile production. Vases often depict women weaving, as seen on this Berlin tondo:
The woman seated on a chair on the left has one bare foot propped on a special foot-support. Her chiton and mantle are pulled up above her knees, so that she can twist the loose wool around her leg prepatory to spinning it. She holds a thick strand of red wool in her hands. A basket stands near her ready for the finished yarn ... On the far right, a second wool basket stands on a cushioned stool.15

The women were solely responsible for producing the textiles used by all the household members.

During the era of colonization and unsettled times which followed, many of the characteristics of and motives for marriage, such as political and economic motives, were inherited from the Homeric age. Sentimentality and love prevailed too.16 Convenience was a predominant motive; colonists commonly "married" native women. There was also a movement from bridewealth marriages, in which the groom paid the bride's father, towards dotal marriages, in which dowries went to the groom's family. This gave the father of the bride a personal stake in the marriage: he might be more discriminating in whom he would select as his daughter's groom since he would, in effect, be paying this man to take care of her. If the kyrios picked a whimsical man, the groom might waste the dowry money. The policy of returning the dowry in the event of divorce also deterred the husband from divorcing the woman frivolously. Meanwhile it also set a certain standard of living for the bride in her new household since her father could initiate a divorce and thereby reclaim the dowry if he was unhappy with her arrangement.

Marriage in seventh century Sparta deserves a mention in this context.17 The role of a woman as reproductive mother was equally as important as the role of reproductive father and marriage was viewed simply as a basis for procreation. But procreation was not limited to married couples. Wife-sharing and selective breeding were common practices in the Spartans' quest for the production of strong warriors. Spartan society placed a very high value on physical strength and bred children for strength. So if a man was not physically strong, he would most likely not procreate with his wife and instead would allow a stronger man to impregnate her. If a man did not father boys or did not have the desired Spartan qualities himself, the woman was encouraged to seek another man to impregnate her. Spartan women enjoyed more power and freedom than other Greek women, as their men were often away training for military service and responsibilities both within and outside the household fell to them. Spartan women were allowed out of the house and were encouraged to exercise and stay strong. This is in contrast to other Greek communities which limited women's activities to the domestic sphere only.

Because data from the Homeric Age and Age of Colonization are sparse, many of the details about marriage and the status of women discussed in this study are based on Athenian practices of the fifth and fourth centuries. The formal guardianship of women, the ages of the couple at wedding time, the economic and political motivations for marriage, and the goals of marriage and motherhood for women are just some of the features we recognize from Athenian marriages. The development of the Athenian polis from the seventh century onwards, however, did qualify the role of women. To ensure the stability, strength, and identity of the developing polis, the role of child-producing woman rose in importance.18

Footnotes:
9. For a full explanation of Pandora as the first bride and of marriage in the Homeric age, see Leduc, Claudine. 1992. "Marriage in Ancient Greece" in Pauline Schmitt (ed) A History of Women in the West: Volume I: From Ancient Goddesses to Christian Saints. Translated by Arthur Goldhammer. Cambridge, MA: 233-295. Leduc discusses the relevance of offering gifts with the bride in Homeric times and explores why this ritual was practiced differently by later societies.

10. ibid., 235-36.
11. For a full explanation of marriage in Homeric times (eighth century B.C.), supra n. 9.
12. Examples of daughter-in-law marriages abound. Penelope represents a wife who gave up her own family in order to be incorporated into her husband¹s family. Nausicaa¹s situation, on the other hand, if Odysseus had accepted her hand in marriage, would have resulted in a son-in-law marriage since the husband would have been incorporated into the household of the bride¹s father.

13. There are other women who act on their own desires as well (Medea, Clytemnestra), yet they too are viewed as improper.
14. Nausicaa, for instance, accidentally met Odysseus while waiting at a well, but she did not feel comfortable alone with an unrelated man. She tells her girl servants "Stay with me!" (Hom. Od. 6.213) Her biggest fear, though, is being seen entering the city with an unrelated man by the villagers and makes him follow after her.

15. Berlin F2289, vase description, Perseus 2.0, 1996. New Haven.
16. Periander, tyrant of Corinth in the seventh century B.C., is said to have fallen in love at the sight of his soon-to-be wife Melissa (Athenaeus 13, 589F).
17. Marriage and the status of women in Gortyn have also been examined as a parallel comparison to Sparta, since Dorian women in general shared a freedom other Greek women lacked. Leduc, supra n. 9, also outlines marriage in these two communities.
18. Male babies were needed to maintain the existing number of families, especially during the Peloponnesian War.

source by : by Jennifer Goodall Powers, SUNY Albany

Destination Weddings in Italy

How You Can Plan a Destination Wedding in Italy from Abroad

Italy is one of the most romantic countries in the world. With its unequaled cities, art, wine, food, and beautiful landscapes, it’s not surprising that many couples choose to have a destination wedding in Italy.

Planning a destination wedding in Italy from abroad is a little tricky but not as hard as you might think. There are a few things that you should know to help you plan in advance, and get vital paperwork together. If even one document is missing, the entire ceremony will be delayed, even while your guests are waiting. To avoid this, many couples use the services of a wedding planner. Others, who either speak Italian well, or find an English-speaking Town Clerk manage to arrange things themselves with the help of their local Italian Consulate in the US.

Where to Have a Wedding in Italy

Italy is full of magical places, including historic churches, beautiful castles, and romantic villas. Some of the most popular regions to marry in are:

• Amalfi Coast Just south of Naples, the Amalfi Coast boasts breathtaking ccean views across rocky cliffs, good and inexpensive wines, and amazing food.
  
  
  
• Florence Located within Tuscany, Florence was the seat of the Italian Renaissance. It has legendary museums and is the place to see the most important Italian art, including Michelangelo’s David. It’s also a romantic city of piazzas and beautiful architecture. Furthermore, because of local laws, foreigners may find it easier to have a religious wedding ceremony here than in other parts of Italy.
  
  
  
• Tuscany The beautiful countryside of Tuscany is rich with rolling hills, fine wines, and grand Italian villas. Home not only to Florence, but also to the popular towns of Siena and Cortona.
  
  
  
• Umbria For those who want to get away from fellow tourists, Umbria might be the perfect solution. This central region has similar landscape to Tuscany with rolling hills, lush river valleys, and quaint small towns. Birthplace of St. Benedict and St. Francis, Umbria has many historic churches.
  
  
  
• Venice Known as the floating city, Venice is one of the most romantic places in the world. Travel by gondola to the Palazzo Cavalli, a palace owned by the city of Venice, where you can get married by the mayor and take pictures in front of the Rialto Bridge and Grand Canal.
  
  
  
• Verona Located in the north of Italy, between Milan and Venice, Verona is primarily known to westerners as the land of Romeo and Juliet. Tourists flock to the supposed homes of the star-crossed lovers, and you can have your wedding ceremony in Guarienti hall, near Juliet’s Tomb.

Map of Italy

The Basics of a Wedding in Italy

You, along with two witnesses, must appear before the Town Clerk and declare your intention to get married, with all of the appropriate documents in hand. If either of you is an Italian resident, then your marriage announcement (banns) must be posted for two consecutive Sundays. Fortunately, posting banns is not required for non-residents. It’s recommended that you arrive in Italy three to four days before your wedding, so that the Town Clerk has time to process all of your paperwork.

Here’s what you’ll need to have for a civil wedding ceremony in Italy:

• Passport or Armed Forces identification card
  
  
• Certified birth certificate, plus a certified “Apostille” Italian translation
  
  
• If applicable, divorce decree, annulment or death certificate, certified “Apostille”
  
  
• Atto Notorio – a sworn declaration in front of the Italian Consulate in the US, with two witnesses.
  
  
• Nulla Osta – a sworn declaration in front of the US Consulate in Italy

There are small fees for both the Atto Notorio and the Nulla Osta. You’ll also need to pay a fee for the rental of the marriage hall, approximately 150 to 300 Euros.

A Religious Wedding in Italy

Couples who want to have a Protestant wedding in Italy will find that the minister will usually ask them to have a civil ceremony first, in order to ensure that all legal requirements have been met. It can be pretty difficult to find a Roman Catholic priest to marry non-Italians. If you can, and have certificates of Catholic baptism, confirmation, and completion of Pre-Cana requirements, then an additional civil ceremony is not necessary.

Please note: Marriage license laws often change. The above information is provided for helpful guidance only and is not legal advice. Please consult your US Consulate and other advisors before making any wedding or travel plans

Italian Wedding Planners

There are many companies able to help you plan a destination wedding in Italy. Look for a knowledgeable wedding planner based in Italy, so that they can help you file paperwork in advance, and smooth things over with local officials.

These companies deal with many cities and regions across Italy. If you already know the city you want to get married in, there are also smaller companies that specialize in certain regions.

source :

By Nina Callaway

Marriage in Singapore

Marriage in Singapore

DISLAIMER: THE INFORMATION IN THIS CIRCULAR RELATING TO THE LEGAL REQUIREMENTS OF SPECIFIC FOREIGN COUNTRIES IS PROVIDED FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY AND MAY NOT BE TOTALLY ACCURATE IN A PARTICULAR CASE. QUESTIONS INVOLVING INTERPRETATIONS OF SPECIFIC FOREIGN LAWS SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO FOREIGN ATTORNEYS OR FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS.

SUMMARY: All persons, including American citizens, who desire to marry in Singapore must do so according to Singapore law. Marriages in Singapore can be either civil or religious. In both instances a license has to be obtained from the Registrar of Marriages. Persons intending marriage, whether Singaporeans or foreigners, are required to produce passports and evidence of the termination of any previous marriages, if any, i.e. divorce decrees or death certificates.

A 15-day continuous residence in Singapore is required of one of the parties to the proposed marriage. At the end of this period, either party must file a notice of intention to marry with the Registrar of Marriages. After the notice has been filed, there is a 21-day waiting period while the banns are published. The 15-day residency period can be waived, and/or the 21-day waiting period can be shortened for "good cause." Parties to the proposed marriage need not be present in Singapore during the 21-day waiting period while the banns are published.

Anyone under 18 years of age is required to obtain a license from the Ministry of Community Development, before the marriage can take place. The couple has to apply for this license through the Registry of Marriage, Canning Rise, Singapore 0617.

If either party is between 18 and 21 years (i.e., a minor), a written consent of the parents or guardians has to be finalized personally at the Registry of Marriages, witnessed by two adults, or a Court Order permitting their marriage has to be obtained.

The marriage license is valid for 90 days. The fee is Singapore dollars 24.00 (approximately $12.00 in U.S. funds.) A blood test is not required.

Detailed information can be obtained from the receptionist at the Registry of Marriages, Canning Rise, Singapore 0617. Telephone: (65) 33-5339.

VISA FOR THE SPOUSE:

The U.S. citizens must file a petition with the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services in the Department of Homeland Security for an Immigrant Visa on behalf of the foreign spouse. If you do not normally reside in Singapore, the Petition for Immigrant Visa (I-30) must be filed for your spouse through the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services in the Department of Homeland Security office in the United States closest to your residence.

The visa process may take from three to six months or more from the date of filing to the date of final adjudication. Any questions about filing an immigrant visa petition to bring the spouse to the United States should be directed to the nearest office of the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services in the Department of Homeland Security (check the U.S. Government listings in your phone book), the State Department Visa Office (202) 663-1225 or, while in Singapore, to the American Embassy Singapore.

AFFIDAVIT OF ELIGIBILITY/FREEDOM TO MARRY:

Generally, American who wish to marry abroad execute a sworn statement regarding their civil status in the form of a "Affidavit of Eligibility/Freedom to Marry" before any Coordination Council for North American Affairs office in the U.S. or at the American Embassy in Singapore. In the absence of a state or national certificate of no impediment to marry, this sworn statement seems to satisfy foreign local requirements.

Looking to get married, come to Hawaii

Looking to get married, come to Hawaii

If you are looking to get married, then there is not a better place for it, other than Hawaii. Whether you plan your marriage before coming here or the plan is made after you reach here. You will get the perfect facilities for your marriage whatever your budget is.

After marriage, what else can a person dream of if he is already on a honeymoon spot. In fact, getting the visitors to marry here has turned into a very profitable business. The percentage of visitors getting married here is very high. Many of these weddings here are of the visitors which come here for having the best fun with traveling experience but, due to the always romantic environment and pleasant weather at the island, fall in love with someone and decide to start their married life from this place.

Arranging a marriage in Hawaii is not a big problem. Even if there is no one to assist you to arrange for the marriage and honeymoon plan, you can take the help from the coordinators of the resorts where you are staying. Most of the hotels and resorts have made a separate department for arrangement of the weddings and honeymoon plans of the visitors coming to their hotels. You will have to tell them the budget and they will organize it accordingly. Although gay and lesbian couples are allowed in Hawaii for any kind of activity, but as far as the marriage between the same sexes is concerned, it is not allowed. The only restriction in getting the marriage license, for opposite sexes, is that both people should be over 15 years of age and should have a proof of it.

The only thing you have to do is to contact the Marriage License office located in your area. An agent will be assigned to you who will guide you for the paper work. Instead of depending upon the hotel management to plan your marriage, if you want to organize it your way, then the agent from the Marriage License Office is a good source of information for the best places for marriage and honeymoons. They will tell you the best places according to your budget and requirement whether it should be on a resort, hotel, near a water fall or a beach.

Almost fifty plus companies have been working here for planning the visitors long stay at the Hawaiian Islands. ALOHA WEDDING PLANNERS, AFFORDABLE WEDDINGS OF HAWAII and TRADE WIND CHARTERS are some of the best planners for marriages. Hawaii Marriage Project is also a good source of information for marriages at the Hawaiian Islands. The Kula Cottage, in Kula(Maui) is a very romantic, ideal place for honeymoon for its privacy. It has a full kitchen, gas barbeque, tables, chairs and umbrella, with a row of papaya and banana tree outside the cottage. The most important of all is that it is a 30 minute drive away from the beach.

The Grand Wailea Resort Hotel (Maui) is also a popular spot for the honeymooner. At a small distance from the beach, Wai Ola Vacation Paradise is a residential development in Maui. You can choose whether to spend your honeymoon in one bedroom, honeymoon cottage or a small studio. Other facilities here are free wireless internet, barbeque, tennis courts and above all, beach. Kauai is also a fabulous place for honeymoons. This place has been shot in more than 50 Hollywood films. The importance of this island as a honeymoon spot can be considered by knowing the fact that the movie “Honeymoon in Vegas” (1992), featuring James Caan, Nicolas Cage, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Pat Morita , was also shot at the very place.

Marriage License Extended Hours for Monday to Thursday Effective October 13 - December 5, 2008

Closed on Friday

(See Below)

Information on marriage licenses may be obtained via the telephone system, any day or any time, by calling (808) 586-4545 or

you may call during regular business hours at the marriage license office at (808) 586-4544.

About Marriage Licenses

Hawaii is a beautiful place and a marriage here is an ideal way for a couple to start life together. You may be a visitor to the Islands, drawn to our year-round warm and sunny weather, or you may be a resident wishing to celebrate a most cherished moment in a place that you call home. Whoever you are, we welcome you and hope that we can make your wedding day as free from worry as possible. Aloha and best wishes!

For any person to lawfully marry in the State of Hawaii, a license for that purpose must be obtained from an authorized agent (HRS §572-1.7). Once the license has been issued, there is no waiting period before the marriage can take place.

• Who is eligible to apply for a marriage license?
• How to apply for a marriage license.

A marriage license and marriage certificate are different documents. The marriage license permits a marriage to take place. The marriage certificate indicates that a legal marriage has been performed.

The marriage certificate is prepared and filed by your licensed marriage officiant or performer with the Department of Health. A newly married couple receives one (1) certified copy of the marriage certificate at no extra charge, upon payment of the marriage license fee, which will be sent to the couple by mail (60-120 days) after the marriage has been performed. If a marriage certificate is needed sooner than this, you can apply for one or more additional certified copies.

• How to obtain additional copies of the marriage certificate.

Marriage performers must be duly licensed by and in the State of Hawaii to perform the marriage ceremony. If desired, you may request the marriage performer to present his/her license for your inspection. For further information about obtaining a marriage performer, you can visit The Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau website or call them at (808) 924-0266.

Getting Marriage License Information by Telephone

Information on marriage licenses may be obtained via the telephone system, any day or any time, by calling (808) 586-4545 or you may call during regular business hours at the marriage license office at (808) 586-4544.

Contacting this Office by E-mail

To send an e-mail message, click on vr-info@doh.hawaii.gov now.

Who is Eligible to Apply for a Marriage License?

• There are no state residence or U.S. citizenship requirements.
• Blood tests are not required.
• The legal age to marry is 18 years for both males and females.
• Males or females of 16 or 17 years of age who wish to marry require the written consent of both parents, legal guardian, or the family court. The parents or legal guardian do not have to be residents of the state. Consent forms may be obtained from a marriage license agent.
• Males or females of 15 years of age who wish to marry require the written consent of both parents or legal guardian, and the written approval of a judge of the family court. The parents or legal guardian do not have to be residents of the state. Consent forms may be obtained from a marriage license agent.
• Proof of age is required. A certified copy of a birth certificate must be presented for anyone 18 years of age or under. A valid I.D. or driver’s license may be presented for anyone 19 years of age or over.
• If previously married, proof of original divorce decree or death certificate needs to be presented to the marriage agent by the applicant if the divorce or death was final within 30 days of applying for a marriage license. NO FAXES ARE ACCEPTED.
• Cousins may marry. However, the blood relationship between the prospective bride and groom cannot be closer than first cousins.

How to Apply for a Marriage License

• The prospective bride and groom must appear together in person before a marriage license agent to apply for a marriage license. Proxies are not allowed.
• The prospective bride and groom should be prepared to provide the necessary proof of age and present any required written consents and approvals. All of the necessary documents should be obtained prior to applying for a marriage license.
• The prospective bride and groom must prepare an official application and file the application in person with the marriage license agent. Applications are provided by the marriage license agent or may be downloaded from this site (see below). The application will not be accepted if sent by either postal mail or e-mail.
• Upon approval, a marriage license is issued at the time the application is made.
• The marriage license costs $60.00, payable in cash at the time the application is made.
• The marriage license is good only in, but is valid throughout, the State of Hawaii.
• The marriage license expires 30 days from and including the date of issuance, after which it automatically becomes null and void.
• If you do not get married within the 30 days, return the unused license in the pre-addressed envelope provided to you for invalidation.

Where to Apply for a Marriage License

• In Honolulu - Room 101 (1st floor) of the Health Department Building, 1250 Punchbowl St. (corner of Beretania and Punchbowl Streets) - office telephone number (808) 586-4544.
  
  Office Hours Effective October 13 to December 5, 2008: Monday through Thursday (excluding holidays), 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Please call (Hawaii Standard Time) the following agents on Oahu to schedule an appointment when the Marriage License Office is closed on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays & Holidays:

Name	Area	Phone Number	Availability
Sherilynn Luning	Honolulu	(808) 523-1880	By Appointment Only
Fusako Miyamoto	Pearl City	(808) 455-1186	By Appointment Only



• For the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of marriage agents on the neighbor islands - call the local office of the Department of Health:
  
  

  Hawaii (Big Island)	-	(808) 974-6008
  Kauai	-	(808) 241-3498
  Maui	-	(808) 984-8210
  Molokai	-	(808) 553-3663
  Lanai	-	(808) 565-6411

Beach Weddings on the Emerald Coast of Florida

Beach Weddings on the Emerald Coast of Florida

Welcome to the Emerald Coast of Florida. If you would love to have a beach wedding, you've come to the right place. With the sugar white sands and the clear blue-green water, it's the perfect place to walk across the sand to the love of your life. Some of the beaches include Destin, Pensacola Beach, Navarre Beach and Perdido Key. There are different assets each beach has. It really depends on what you are looking for. Some have more to do than others, while some are great for really getting away from hectic lifestyles.

When it comes to bridal gowns and men's attire, it's better to keep it simple. Most brides wear gowns that are strapless or small thin straps. Grooms tend to wear white button down shirts with khaki slacks. Remember it's tropical in the summer and you don't want to melt in the heat.

As far as your makeup goes, go waterproof with a good sunscreen underneath. Even if you have a base tan you still need to protect your skin from the sun. Make sure your face makeup is waterproof as well as your mascara. Lipstick that doesn't kiss off helps also.

What about your bouquet and boutonniere? Some flowers do better in the heat, wind and humidity than others. Stargazer lilies hold up well but calla lilies tend to bruise easily. Roses are also a good choice. Did you know that some grocery stores with floral departments can make bouquets? If you're trying to save money it's a great tip.

To cater or not to cater. Once again remember the heat. Have your cake inside and then the rest of the reception outside or at a restaurant. If you choose to have your reception outside, get a beachhouse. It'll make it easier for you and your guests especially when it comes to having a bathroom handy. Also a DJ can set on the patio and it can serve as a dancefloor as well.

Weather is the next issue. The spring months are generally pleasant. In the summer months it generally rains from about 2pm to 4pm but your wedding will be at sunset so by then the rain is gone. As far as hurricanes go, they mostly fall in September. I can't predict the weather but am just going from experience.

Any beach you choose you can't go wrong on the Emerald Coast. It's a great place to have your beach wedding. There's a place on the sand for you.
by:Karen Qualls

Connecticut: A Great Place To Have Your Wedding

Connecticut: A Great Place To Have Your Wedding

With historic sites such as Mystic Seaport, Old Saybrook, and Yale University within its borders, the state of Connecticut has so much to offer visitors, particularly those seeking a colonial flavor or a New England touch with the luxury and long tradition of towns like: Greenwich, Westport , New Canaan, and Darien to name a few. Indeed, if you are planning a Connecticut wedding your choices for wedding venues are enormous and range from colonial era Congregational churches to 21st century state-of-the-art reception sites; as well as fabulous weddings on the water. Yes, the state's rich combination of modern highways and old post roads allows for visitors to go from historic site to modern setting within minutes, a perfect combination for couples seeking to blend city style with country grace.


Getting Started

When planning a Connecticut wedding, it can seem somewhat overwhelming as to where to get started. Thanks to the internet, you have a world of helpful resources at your fingertips, information that can help you plan everything from finding a local floral designer, hiring a photographer, locating a church, and so much more. Indeed, you can save yourself plenty of time and money by doing much of the groundwork right online. Connecticut is also home to some of the countries top wedding planners so if you find you are short on time and long in the to-do list rest assured that they can guide you in the right direction without wasting your time or resources.

Laying the Foundation

If you live outside of the state, but want to take advantage of all that Connecticut has to offer, consider researching the various bed and breakfast inns scattered across the state. A bed and breakfast inn can be a charming and comfortable place for your guests to stay and, in many situations an inn can host a wedding right on their grounds. Your guests could enjoy the wonder of staying in a Georgian revival home or silk baron mansion while attending a ceremony held on an expansive lawn or inside of a formal English garden.

If you are planning a larger wedding your guests could still stay in one of Connecticut's many historic inns while your ceremony is held underneath the majestic spire of an 18th century countryside church. Indeed, if it is a vintage feeling that you want, you could arrange to have a horse drawn carriage bring you and your espoused to the church and then onto the nearby mansion, castle or yacht club offering all of the modern amenities you desire. What a great way to enjoyably combine the best of the old with the finest of the new!

Finalizing Plans

Many couples are utilizing the internet well beyond simply searching for information. Indeed, savvy couples are creating complete web sites to help guests in so many ways. Your site, which can be hosted through companies who specialize in wedding planning, could include the following helpful information:

* Directions to the wedding and receptions venues with detailed maps included.

* Detailed Information about accommodations. If you strike a deal with an inn purveyor, you can instruct people to mention the "Smith party" in order to secure the best price. Your out of town guests may be delighted to stay an extra night or two in a historic bed and breakfast inn, especially if you made basic arrangements with the owner ahead of time to reserve rooms for your wedding guests.

* Links to gift or bridal registries. You can make it easy on your guests by setting up detailed bridal directories at your favorite stores. Consider providing links on your web site to each store's online directory to make buying a gift as easy as a couple of clicks of the mouse.

* Links to local sites. On your wedding site you could include several links to key local sites of interest. Share information about museums, parks, shopping, restaurants, entertainment and the arts, etc.

* Say it with pictures. Yes, you can update your site after your honeymoon by including wedding and reception photographs, honeymoon pictures, and more.

A Life Together

Truly, your Connecticut wedding can easily combine New England elegance, colonial history, and modern conveniences together to form a rich and memorable tapestry. Take advantage of all that the Constitution state has to offer to you and your espoused by planning an event filled with all of the wonder that historic Connecticut has to offer.
(sourceby: Michael Brito)

Choosing A Non-Traditional Venue For Your Wedding Ceremony

Choosing A Non-Traditional Venue For Your Wedding Ceremony

Nothing is nicer than having an outdoor wedding, if the weather cooperates. This is never a guarantee, however, and people planning to have an outdoor wedding should have a backup facility in case of nasty weather. Very clear directions need to be given on the invitation to guide guests to the ceremony, and these directions should be tested prior to sending out the invitations by someone unfamiliar with the area or someone who is not told where the ceremony will actually be, and instead follows the directions without the destination in mind. There should also be information on where the ceremony will be held in the event that the ceremony needs to be moved indoors due to weather.

An outdoor ceremony should take place in an area where there is abundant shade. The wedding party will be standing up for the entire emotional proceedings, and heat will take its toll. Too much heat will also be detrimental to any older guests attending the ceremony. Remember as well that you will have to arrange for a seating, a sound system, and decorations to be provided at the outdoor location, so a dry run will be important to determine needs as far as electrical cords and seat placement.

Large houses can be an ideal place for a non-traditional wedding ceremony, so long as you are ensured of adequate space. Courtroom weddings are rarely affairs in which a large number of guests will take part, but you will want to ensure that there is available seating for those who do wish to attend.

Location weddings are a great and memorable way to hold your special day, if they fit within your budget. Location weddings can also offer some opportunities in terms of convenience as they offer the opportunity to be held right at the location of your honeymoon. They can also be a very special part of the occasion, as most of the time you will not be able to spend time with the friends and family who attend your wedding. A location wedding allows for the entire party to be together over a period of several days, with lots of time to visit. Remember that you may have to make an additional trip to have final approval over the ceremony venue. You will also want to make sure there are very clear directions to the venue's location on the invitations.

by Porche Reingold

Most Romantic Wedding Locations

Wondering where to plan your special day? From an intimate inn in upstate New York, to a chateau in France, and a museum in San Francisco, here are my picks the most romantic wedding destinations in the world. If you're considering a destination wedding, these spots are breathtakingly beautiful.
1. Legion of Honor, San Francisco, CA
With breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the city of San Francisco, and the Bay, as well as remarkable art and architecture, the Palace of the Legion of Honor is an amazing place to get married. Every time I am here, whether for a wedding or just contemplation, I am dumbfounded by the natural beauty around me.
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2. Central Park, New York, NY
Beautiful in any season, New York's Central Park is filled with flowers, fountains, formal gardens, and intimate grottos, all in the heart of a bustling city.
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3. Columbia Gorge Hotel, Hood River, OR
Situated in Oregon between the Hood and Columbia Rivers atop a 208 foot waterfall, this country hotel features amazing scenery, excellent food, comfortable accommodations and charming hospitality.
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4. Longfellow's Wayside Inn, Sudbury, MA
For an intimate wedding, this historic inn is an idyllic spot. With a charming clapboard chapel, antique furniture, gourmet food, and charm to spare, this is a beautiful spot for you to tie the knot.
Top Picks
5. Chicago Botanic Gardens, Chicago, IL
Considered to be among the top botanical gardens in the country, Chicago's botanic gardens have many options for a romantic wedding. The spot that launches this one into my top ten is the Rose Terrace. As your guests enjoy themselves on this intimate outside terrace, the fragrance of the flowers will waft up from the adjacent gardens.
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6. Le Château d'Esclimont, France
This charming estate is located just 45 minutes outside of Paris and not far from Versailles. The château is set on a enchanted lake, amid a 150 acre estate where your guests can fish, hike, ride horses, and more.
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7. Wave Hill, New York, NY
This historic estate has breathtaking views of the Hudson River and the Palisades. Have your wedding in the gardens, then move to cocktails on the terrace, and dinner and dancing in the Armor Room with its vaulted ceiling and cathedral windows.
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8. Inverlochy Castle, Fort William, Scotland
There's a reason that celebrities such as Madonna, Paul McCartney, and Pierce Brosnan have gotten married in castles- you can't help but feel like a princess. This is my favorite of the Scottish castles. When she spent a week at Inverlochy in 1873, Queen Victoria wrote "I never saw a lovelier or more romantic spot." Situated on the glens and lochs of West Highland Scotland, enjoy period decor, gourmet cuisine, and more.
9. A white sand beach on Mauritius, Indian Ocean
Imagine getting married on a white sand beach on an island in the middle of the Indian Ocean. You'll spend your wedding night in an air-conditioned private bungalow with five-star luxury service. Sounds like heaven? It's Mauritius.
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10. Marriage Island
San Antonio's Riverwalk is renowned for picturesque colonial architecture, beautiful trees and lovely scenery. It's especially romantic in December, when the trees are decorated with over 100,000 twinkling lights. This island in the middle of the river is a favorite spot for weddings, and has been affectionately dubbed "Marriage Island." After your wedding, enjoy a boat ride down the river.
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source =By Nina Callaway, About.com