More Uk Couples To Get Married Abroad In 2012, Says Abta

The number of British couples who are heading overseas to tie the knot is expected to increase this year according to research carried out by Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA). With average cost of a UK wedding costing nearly 20,000, many engaged couples are planning weddings abroad to save money.

Destinations such as the Caribbean and the Maldives offer a selection of tailor-made wedding packages that include a wedding planner, photographer, accommodation for the couple and guests, the reception, officiate, beach weddings, and even a free honeymoon for the newlyweds.

Recent surveys have revealed that 26 per cent of couples in the UK have chosen romantic weddings abroad in the last five years, compared to 20 per cent during the 1990's. ABTA says that with one in five couples currently getting married abroad, savings of 12,500 can be made by choosing foreign locations over traditional ceremonies in the UK.

The research also showed that budget and luxury travel markets look set to be strong in 2012 and reductions in household spending will affect the mid-market. Travellers are expected to visit countries including France, Spain and the USA for their holidays this year, and nations such as Colombia, Jordan and Poland are expected to attract more curious culture-seeking tourists.

Another advantage to choosing destination weddings is that brides and grooms can limit their guest list to close family members and a just few friends. The celebrations can then continue for the wedding party and guests can go on to enjoy an extended holiday after the big day.

The chief executive officer of ABTA, Mark Tanzer, explained: "2011 has been a challenging year but the British public showed resilience when it came to their holidays and we expect a similar picture in 2012. The squeeze on household spending looks set to continue and this is likely to see holidaymakers become more discerning about where they spend their money and what they get for it."

He added: "This presents a good opportunity for travel companies to offer tailored, specialist and authentic experiences, as well as all-inclusive packages for the budget conscious that provide great value for money."