Dream Wedding Spot
Weddings are once-in-a-lifetime events and should be unforgettable. With the country’s more than 7,000 islands, which includes the “Best Islands in the World” by travel publications like Condé Nast Traveler and Travel+ Leisure, one is sure to find the perfect venue for getting wed. And with the Filipinos knack for romance, there is no doubt that the celebration will be surrounded by a happy and teary crowd as the newly-weds emerge from the church doors. From beach venues to rustic cityscapes, here are a variety of settings to excite any bride, groom, or wedding-planner.
BORACAY Rated as the world’s best island by no less than Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure magazines, Boracay is a tropical paradise. With a tour-kilometer stretch of powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, anything goes on this island. Already one of the most popular wedding and honeymoon destinations in the country, Boracay offers a variety of options for one’s nuptials.
Exchange vows barefooted on the beach or dive underwater with scuba gear, be surrounded by the island’s mermaids, or wear your finest amid one of Boracay’s award-winning resorts-the possibilities are endless. After the ceremony, hit white Beach, which has about 150 restaurants and bars and expect a lot of toasts coming your way. The island also has quiet beaches it you want to escape the crowds and the parties. The best island in the world offers this and more.
PALAWAN It is voted best island in the world by readers of esteemed publications like Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure tor a reason. Take a pick from one beautiful island atter another with emerald lagoons, coves, caves, magnificent karst limestone formations, sun- kissed white sand beaches with emerald waters. Palawan is perfect for a nature wedding setting. Imagine exchanging vows on a hidden cove overlooking Palawan’s crystal-clear waters and reveling the night away in your own private island beneath a canopy of stars-it’s the ultimate fantasy beach wedding.
BAGUIO This highland city s the summer and honeymoon capital of the Philippines. Sitting in an elevation of 5,000 feet a Dove Sea level, Baguio has Spring weather with an average temperature or 20-degree museums, artsy café’s acoustic bars, and on weekends, a thriving Tea market. One of the most popular spots on the outskirts of the city is Camp John Hay. A former American t development site has the biggest pine forest stands in the horse trails, heritage spots, and a golf course.
The favorite place for open air receptions is the garden of the award- winning Manor Hotel that overlooks a valley tinged with the scent of pine trees and flowers.
TAGAYTAY City, which lies 58 kilometers southwest of Manila, is known for its spectacular view of Taal Lake and volcano, which makes it a such a romantic backdrop for a wedding. With an elevation of 6oo meters above sea level, the City’s average temperature is a pleasant 23 degrees Celsius.
Whether grand or simple, Tagaytay has something for any budget and taste. For stopovers, along the lakeside road are flower and fruit stands, themed restaurants and coffee shops, rustic resorts and inns, and even the highest Ferris wheel in the country. There are even boat, horse-riding, and trekking tours around the volcano, which make for excellent pre- or post-wedding activities.
INTRAMUROS After 400 years, this historic enclave that was once the center of Spanish colonial rule has cobblestone streets that lead to plazas, museums, ancient forts, and nooks and crannies each with a story to tell.
For Catholics, the Manila Cathedral, where Pope Francis celebrated mass, or the San Agustin church-a UNESCO World Heritage Site-are popular options.
After the ceremony, treat the entourage with a tour on a kalesa (horse-drawn carriage) or a ride on bamboo bikes. For the reception, there are several quaint restaurants within Intramuros. A few kilometers away is Roxas Boulevard, which offers fine hotel options. This b1oulevard strip is also the best spot to experience the famous sunset of Manila Bay. Timing is key to treat wedding guests to a view of the Manila Bay sunset.
No-Fuss Ceremony Located just 1.9 kilometers from Intramuros, the Manila City Hall is your go-to for a quick civil ceremony
446: Number of years the Manila Cathedral has been standing Having survived World War I|, it was destroyed many times, and its last reconstruction was in 1958.
1571: The year the San Agustin Church in Manila was first completed. It is now almost 450 years old.