Travel smart for destination weddings



That's how you do smart. Pic credit: Chris Stickley via flickr

How often have you heard about destination weddings? Your answer – almost every alternate week. Either you read about it in the news, courtesy some celebrity who is trying to avoid prying eyes, or you get an invitation from a friend inviting you to their beach wedding – just because they want to make their special day even more special. Sounds grand and exciting? Ah well, it isn’t always as lavish as the word ‘destination wedding’ might sound – you might be surprised to read that even during the recession of 2009, destination weddings continued to see growth compared to traditional weddings, as the typically smaller size of such weddings results in lower costs.

Whatever be the reason, destination weddings have become a fad and it has people selecting vacation-like setting, ranging from a beach ceremony in the tropics, a lavish event in a metropolitan resort, a simple ceremony at the countryside or an all indulgent maharaja-style wedding in an exotic Indian location, for their big day.

Now, if you are thinking that this is yet another article on wallet-happy destinations for wedding, then you are mistaken. While ample stuff has been written on where to go and how to organise a destination wedding, what about the guests attending these weddings? They are usually a forgotten lot when it comes to tips and tricks. So, here’s something focusing on those who come to attend destination weddings – the baraatis. After all happy guests make for happy weddings.
In this how-to guide, we tell you how to pack smart for a destination wedding, so that you are ready to jet, set and go. Read on:

Pack smart and travel light

Now, while you are packing your stuff for the wedding, you need to bear in mind that you absolutely cannot pack anything and everything. Leave aside things like soaps, shower gels, lotions, etc. Hotel bathrooms are generally equipped with these items. Things like tongs, straightening irons and perfumes etc. can be shared, so have a chat with your friends and relatives before leaving so that you can divide the products and cut down on your luggage load.
Carry mostly artificial jewellery so that your mind is free of any worry. Pack shoes that can be paired with multiple outfits - a pair each of nude heels, shoes and comfy slip-ons would suffice. This way you will be able to make more space for your dresses for different occasions.
As far as gifting the couple is concerned, it is better to hand over your gift before departing so that your mind is free from the thoughts of taking care of something precious.

Relax and rejuvenate

Since destination weddings have a tight schedule, back-to-back functions can be tiring. It is best to spend time within the hotel itself in between events to unwind and recharge. Visiting the spa, pool and gymnasium inside the hotel to relax before the next party or function will be less tiring and will also help you save on travel time.

Jet, set and go. Pic credit: Amber B McN via flickr

Join in the celebrations

One of the best things about destination weddings is togetherness. With a host of activities lined up by the organisers, this is the best way to enjoy some quality time with family and friends. Participate in the group activities such as games by the hotel poolside, brunches, etc. to maximise your fun quotient and make your trip memorable.

Mini-vacation at leisure

There are chances that the wedding rigmarole leaves you with no time to look around and explore the destination. Make up for that by giving yourself a post-wedding mini-vacation. Spend a few more days at the place - sightseeing or simply relaxing – once you are through with the celebrations. The easiest is to approach the hotel's travel desk for recommendations on local sightseeing tours.