Destination Weddings: Malta
Destination weddings are increasingly popular with modern couples, and nowhere more deservedly so than Malta. Although most people think of Malta holidays for all year round sunshine, Malta also offers some of the worlds most romantic wedding venues and excellent value for money. This article explains how to plan your wedding and honeymoon in Malta and gives you just a taste of the many unforgettable experiences to look forward to.
Since English is the official second language there is no paperwork to translate and Malta weddings are legally recognised in the UK. For a civil ceremony, the paperwork is straightforward and your solicitor needs to send five routine documents to Malta ten weeks or more in advance:
1. Standard original application forms (‘RZ1’)
2. Birth certificates
3. Passport copies
4. ‘Certificate of No Impediment’ or ‘Free Status Declaration for Citizens’ from your local registrar
5. Photocopies of two witnesses’ passports
There are a small number of additional documents if this is not your first wedding but again these are very straightforward. For religious ceremonies there are routine documents your local parish can supply and you should begin preparations 6 months in advance. You needn’t feel daunted, as the better tour operators provide a dedicated wedding co-ordinator to guide you through all the necessary steps. They can even arrange witnesses should you wish for a truly private ceremony. With the formalities covered, its time to move onto venues.
You might choose Castello Zamitello, a 300 year old castle set within carefully maintained landscaped gardens. It provides a truly breathtaking backdrop for photographs and has everything you would expect in a modern wedding venue, such as ample car parking and luxury banqueting facilities. You might choose the Palazzo Parisio, a palace often described as a miniature Versailles, with sumptuously decorated ceilings, murals and frescoes and stunning antique decor. The Ballroom is gilded with 24 carat gold and the baroque walled garden makes for stunning the countryside, noted for its blend of the antique and modern plus an award winning wine list. You could equally be won over Villa Arrigo, with wonderfully lit gardens, a gentle sound of fountains, and terraces with glorious views.
They can also arrange witnesses should you wish to plan a truly private ceremony for just the two of you. Malta also offers incredibly good value for money. The better wedding co-ordinators offer all-inclusive services taking care of the essentials for you. Expect a luxurious transfer to present your documents; bridal transport to the venue; the ceremony and certificate; the wedding cake, bouquets and button holes; professional photographs and even a wedding gift each. Then there are further options to choose from including additional photography and filming; bridal hair and make-up; the flowers; a violinist or bag-piper; and you can also choose which classic car you would like for you and your guests.
Malta holidays of course also make the ideal honeymoon destination, with romantic accommodation, unspoilt scenery and a timeless charm for an unforgettable honeymoon. Malta flights now leave from all major UK airports and the help of expert wedding co-ordinator from a long established tour operator will allow you to enjoy planning, the day itself and an unforgettable honeymoon.
Author Bio: Richard Gamber works for Malta Direct, who have years of experience providing destination weddings, honeymoons and renewals of vows in beautiful Malta and Gozo. As the leading dedicated tour operator, they also help thousands of people realise their dream Malta holidays every year.
Category: Travel
Keywords: Malta, Malta holidays