Courtesy: weddingwire.com
After a long and emotional 2020, engaged couples are planning destination weddings more than ever. They’re planning smaller, more intimate ceremonies and finding ways to save money—like skipping lavish décor and other non-essentials. But with a number of travel bans in place, especially for Americans, the options are definitely more limited for a destination wedding.
So where can you get married in 2021 and is it safe to do so? There are a number of factors to consider and couples are encouraged to check their state and county’s limitations and restrictions on travel, plus the rules and regulations for the country they plan to get married in. Here’s a list of the safest destinations for your 2021 wedding.
Mexico
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Mexico boasts romance and history with amazing weather year-round. It’s the perfect location for a beach wedding or for couples that crave cultural backdrops and accents. April and May are slower months for tourists and families and the weather is hot but not humid.
The land border between the U.S. and Mexico was just lifted at the end of December. Travelers are required to provide a copy of their birth certificate, proof of nationality, and a translated tourist visa. A few areas have reopened for tourism, and most hotels and restaurants have opened to 50% capacity.
Bermuda
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Wanting to go somewhere a little more private? The British island territory of Bermuda is perfect for couples wanting a little bit of space and a whole lot of ocean views! The country is charming and unique and has plenty of pink-sand beaches. You’ll have a number of diverse venues and hotels to choose from for your nuptials and plenty of things for your guests to enjoy. If you’re looking for more tropical weather, plan your wedding date between May through September.
As of January 2021, the country had less than 100 active cases, making it a super-safe travel destination for Americans. You are required to provide a negative COVID-19 test prior to entry and must wear a traveler’s wristband. If you test positive while in Bermuda, you must self-quarantine for 14 days. While there are no restrictions to travel between cities, there is a curfew set from 12am to 5am.
Turks & Caicos
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Part of the Caribbean, the beautiful island of Turks & Caicos reopened to travelers last summer. The British territory has more than 40 small islands and amazing beaches to explore. A handful of celebrities have visited the island since opening and is considered relatively low risk in terms of the pandemic.
U.S citizens are allowed to enter, and all travelers are required to obtain a travel authorization and provide a negative COVID-19 test five days prior to arrival. Children under 10 are exempt from the testing requirement. Couples and their guests must also purchase COVID-19 insurance to cover any medical costs, prescriptions and doctors’ visits. There are no current curfews in place or requirements to quarantine unless you are showing symptoms or receive a positive test. Wearing a mask or face covering in public is mandatory.
The Bahamas
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Can’t get enough of the beach? The Bahamas is perfect for a sunny summer wedding. With over 700 islands to choose from, you’re sure to find something you and your guests will love. The Grand Bahama Island and Nassau are considered the most visited places, so just be mindful that these areas may be filled with tourists.
Masks are not required around the island but must be visible in possession and easily accessible. You must wear a mask while entering and leaving the beach but not required on the beach. Everyone must keep a government-issued ID with them at all times. A travel health visa is required for each traveler along with a negative COVID-19 test. Visitors must also opt-in to mandatory COVID-19 health insurance.
Costa Rica
Courtesy: nearlynewlywed.com
Considered one of the world’s happiest countries, Costa Rica is a great place for both nature lovers and adrenaline junkies alike. This Central American country started welcoming U.S. citizens in November and provides a safe and inviting atmosphere for couples ready to say, “I do”!
Travelers are not required to provide a negative COVID-19 test, but they must complete an online health pass form within 48 hours of boarding their flight. Visitors also need proof of travel insurance to cover medical and accommodation expenses in case they have to quarantine. Face coverings are required in all public spaces except while eating. There are no restrictions on intercity travel or curfews.
United States
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Of course, one of the safest options for a destination wedding is to choose a location within the U.S. The options are endless—whether you’re looking for a city, farmhouse or seaside wedding. Some of the more popular options for 2021 include Hawaii, Colorado, Wyoming and Maine. Be sure to avoid hurricane season in the coastal regions and have a backup plan for rain!
The Center for Disease Control recently announced that all air passengers, including U.S. citizens and permanent residents, must show proof of a negative COVID-19 test before boarding their flight. Travelers who previously had COVID-19 and have recovered must show a doctor’s note indicating they are clear to travel.
Wherever you plan your destination wedding, be mindful that the travel advisories and restrictions are changing almost daily. Hiring a wedding planner can be super helpful; they can help monitor the country’s latest updates and assist with any translation issues between you and your vendors. If you want more specific travel and health information for your destination, you can search by country on travel.state.gov.
