Cahal Pech is one of the Mayan temples where wedding ceremonies can be held.
For a destination wedding in a natural, tropical setting, we think it is hard to find a place with more variety than Belize. There are the beaches and the rainforest, of course, and the possibilities created by the world’s second longest barrier reef. (Underwater wedding anyone?) Or for something even more unique, get married against the backdrop of a Mayan temple, which should insure, based on their calendar, that your love will last forever.
Rent all four acres of Cayo Espanto private island for the ultimate beach wedding.
Beach Luxe
The first thought almost everyone has with a tropical wedding is a ceremony on the beach. Put a luxury spin on it at Cayo Espanto, a four-acre private island only a few miles from San Pedro on Ambergris Caye. Rent the entire island and plan the ultimate wedding, complete with a reception conceived by Chef Patrick Houghton, named Belize’s Chef of the Year. The resort features an intimate spa, perfect for some pre-wedding primping. Private snorkeling and diving tours can be arranged, as can picnics to neighboring deserted islands.
The San Ignacio is a modern hotel in the rainforest.
Jungle Fever
If you’re looking for a lush, jungle setting in which to say, “I do” the San Ignacio Resort Hotel is the place. The hotel, the most modern in the Cayo District, on the western side of Belize, has access to over 300 acres that can be transformed into a perfect wedding venue. Marry in The Crested Caracara Private Reserve, a protected area of lowland forest and open grassland that is alive with bird life. Or there’s a large covered deck atop a hill where the San Ignacio Hotel chefs can cater a reception. Another favorite is poolside in the evening, with the jungle as a backdrop. Whatever venue you choose, end your day by retiring to the large master suite; the only room on the second story of the hotel.
Ramons on the beach in Belize
Take the Plunge
If you are scuba divers you will already know that Belize, with the longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere, offers world class diving. But imagine saying your vows while kneeling on a sandy bottom or in the solitude of the deep surrounded by marine life at the Hol Chan Marine Park, the most popular dive spot on the reef. You and your guests must be certified divers, but to share your unique event with the rest of the world, underwater photography and video are available. Underwater wedding can be arranged by a number of hotels, including Ramon’s Village on Ambergris Caye, or through Belize Weddings.
The Mayans may have loved the Chaa Creek Pool
Mayan Marriage
Once the heart of Mayan civilization, Belize has many historical ruins, including several where you can exchange your vows. Work with the Lodge at Chaa Creek to create a unique ceremony at the Mayan ceremonial sites of Cahal Pech or Xunantunich, or in the privacy of Chaa Creek’s own unexcavated Mayan Temple, Tunchilen. Whichever location you choose, the backdrop for you wedding photos will be stunning. — Dena Roche
