'85% of Indians Choose Destination Weddings': Top Locations for Your Big Day

The wedding landscape in India is undergoing a dramatic shift, with an overwhelming majority of couples opting for destination weddings. This trend has been revealed in a recent survey titled "Destination 'I Do'" conducted by Skyscanner, a leading global travel app. The survey findings paint a vivid picture of how Indians are reimagining their nuptials, with a strong inclination towards celebrating their special day in picturesque locations away from home.

A New Generation of Wedding Dreams

The survey reveals that a staggering 85% of Indians have either already had a destination wedding or are planning one. This trend is particularly pronounced among Gen Z, with nearly half (49%) considering tying the knot at a stunning destination, compared to 33% of Millennials.

The Ambani Effect: Opulence in Pre-Wedding Celebrations

High-profile weddings, such as the Ambani wedding, have left an indelible mark on the Indian wedding psyche. The survey indicates that 66% of respondents in India are eager to host lavish pre-wedding festivities, mirroring the grandeur associated with these high-profile celebrations.

When it comes to dream pre-wedding events, 33% of couples favour a weekend getaway with family and friends, while 32% fantasise about partying on a cruise. An Italian-style soiree appeals to 29% of respondents, and 26% would love to attend gigs with their squad for the ultimate pre-wedding celebration.

Mohit Joshi, Skyscanner Travel Trends and Destination Expert commented on these findings, "Destination weddings are sweeping Indian couples off their feet, turning travel dreams into spectacular celebrations! Recent high-profile weddings have inspired more Indians to mark their wedding milestones with memorable celebrations such as destination weddings. Our research found that couples are prioritising unique experiences and are willing to invest more to create celebrations that truly reflect their aspirations. But it's not just about splurging—they're thoughtfully planning every detail, balancing grand gestures with savvy choices."

Top Destination Wedding Choices

Asia emerges as the top choice for Indian couples planning destination weddings, with 48% of respondents eyeing locations like Thailand, Japan, and the Maldives. These destinations offer a perfect blend of breathtaking backdrops, proximity to home, and budget-friendly options. Europe's romantic allure captivates 31% of couples, with the UK, Spain, France, and Italy being popular choices.

Among specific locations, Goa, Dubai, Bali, and Bangkok top the list. Goa's sun-kissed beaches and vibrant atmosphere make it a perennial favourite. Dubai's glamorous skyline and opulent venues appeal to those seeking a touch of luxury. Bali and Bangkok offer tropical paradise settings with rich cultural backdrops.

WeddingWire India, a leading wedding technology platform, reports that 56% of couples prioritise the type or style of venue when choosing their wedding destination. This has led to the increased popularity of locations like Udaipur, Goa, and Dehradun, which offer a perfect blend of bespoke services and stunning settings.

To avoid overcrowded and overpriced locations, 83% of Indian respondents are open to exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations. Hidden gems like Gokarna or Kalimpong are gaining traction, as are lesser-known spots like Mahabalipuram in Chennai and Kukas village in Jaipur, Rajasthan.

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Planning Makes Perfect

Indians are meticulous in their wedding planning, with 62% starting to organise their destination weddings up to 12 months in advance. While 40% rely on professional wedding planners, 36% trust recommendations from friends and family.

Anam Zubair, Director Consumer Marketing at WeddingWire India, notes a 13% year-over-year increase in couples opting for destination weddings. She adds, "As per WeddingWire India's recent consumer survey 50% of the respondents are seeking wedding planning information, advice, and tools from wedding technology websites & blogs like WeddingWire. Our website offers over 73K+ venues and vendors to choose from along with free planning tools and blogs, ensuring our couples have an easy and stress-free wedding planning experience."

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