Destination Weddings in the PhilippinesPhilippino weddings, take place in a country which is composed of more than 7000 islands, are a unique blend of traditional and modern influences. The people of this, the only Christian country in Asia, are exceptionally friendly and their culture is a combination of Tribal, Spanish, Islamic and American influences.
A wedding gown for the bride and a suit for the groom is now the norm at weddings in the Philippines, although the groom may choose to wear the traditional dress of the barong tagalog - a thin embroidered ecru shirt. During the wedding ceremony, a coin bearer will carry 15 coins down the aisle. Known as arrhae, these are symbolic of wealth. A loop, made of flowers, a rope or a string of coins, will be placed around the couple, signifying their bond.
The reception is traditionally an elaborate feast of several courses for you and your guests. There will often be a money dance, where men pin money to the bride's dress in exchange for the privilege of dancing with her.
There are innumerable wonderful sights scattered across the Philippines. The two main islands are Luzon and Mindano. The former is home to the capital, Manila, a metropolis of 12 million people where you will find some interesting colonial ruins, lively nightlife and great restaurants. In the north of the island is Banaue, where rice terraces dating back over two millennia reach 1,500 meters up to the sky. Often labeled as 'the 8th wonder of the world', they are an incredible sight.
The islands of Boracay, Mindoro and Puraran are all home to some superb idyllic beaches. The interiors of the isles are volcanic and forested, with breathtaking landscapes to explore.
A wedding in the Philippines is the perfect opportunity to uncover the beauty and the romance of this fascinating country |