Dream Destinations for Your Wedding Abroad

“Why don’t we just elope?” It’s a phrase one of you will more than likely utter at some point during your initial wedding research. And yep, it’s a tempting option. But if you’ve got your heart set on a big celebration and want to inject some sunshine into it too, then a destination wedding could be just the ticket. Perhaps you’ve got a location in mind already, or maybe you have no idea where to start. In that case, allow us to whet your appetite as we countdown some dream destinations for your wedding abroad.

If spending your big day in a rustic chateau, surrounded by lavender fields and your nearest and dearest sounds like your idea of perfection, then the South of France might just be the location for you. Here you’ll find charming coastal towns, beachfront villas and rolling vineyards. Oh, and this being France, you’re pretty much guaranteed a spectacular wedding feast. Plus, the balmy weather means an outdoor wedding is totally doable here too. If you’re concerned about the language barrier, there are plenty of companies based in France that specialise in doing the legwork for you to ensure your day runs smoothly.

The Algarve, Portugal

With a flight time of around three hours and an almost guaranteed warm summer, it’s no wonder Portugal is a favourite for destination weddings. If you’ve always dreamed of a sunny beach wedding, then this is where you can make it happen. Here you’ll find stretches of sandy beaches as far as the eye can see. Portugal also offers excellent value for money and very often the cost of drinks is included in the meal. With activities like cruises and cliff walks on your doorstep, there’s no shortage of pre-wedding activities to keep you and your guests occupied.

If your goal is to make your guest’s jaws drop, then consider Santorini. Known as the supermodel of the Greek Islands, the iconic white and blue architecture of this unique location will not only match your dress, it can be your something blue too. Hotels on the beautiful caldera of the island are on the steep side budget-wise, but as the sun goes down on your wedding, you and your guests will get to witness one of the most romantic - and Instagrammed - sunsets in the world.

This 50-kilometre stretch of Italian coastline is famous for its dramatic cliffs, colourful fishing villages, olive groves and beaches that will sweep you off your feet. Do you picture your wedding dinner taking place on an outdoor terrace overlooking a breath-taking sea view? Then this is the place for you. If you’re keeping your guest list small, there are plenty of villas you can rent – many with pools. And if you’re hosting a big event, then the coastline is dotted with beautiful five-star hotels that can cater to your every whim.

It may have a reputation as a package holiday destination, but there is so much more to Mallorca than high rise homogeny. From its quaint mountain villages to beautiful beaches, this jewel in the Med has loads to offer as a wedding venue. Here you’ll find venues to suit every budget and taste - from cliff-top estates with panoramic views to smaller villas with pools and olive groves. It’s also convenient, with direct flights from both Dublin and Cork. And with summer temperatures averaging 28° C in June,

An AIB wedding loan can help.  AIB offer wedding loans from €1,000 approved within three hours*. You can apply online through AIB Internet Banking and the AIB Mobile App. You can also book a branch appointment or or phone 0818 724 725 if you’d like to speak to someone in person.

Use our handy loan calculator to find out how much you can borrow today.

*3 hour loan decision applies to fully completed new personal loan applications processed within 3 hours 9am-5pm, Mon-Fri excl. bank holidays. Loans from €1,000-€30,000. Excludes applications: to restructure or clear existing AIB credit facilities; received through Branch and referred to a lender for review, from customers in financial difficulty; for Student and First loans; applications through Business Centres; or where total borrowings exceed €100,000 (excluding Home Loan debt up to €600,000[SA1] ).

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