Taking the plunge in blissful Bali

Bali is internationally renowned for its stunning, natural landscapes, dazzling sunsets, the charm of its people and fascinating culture. All have drawn curious people from around the world for centuries.

Those enticing qualities made it a cherished spot for honeymooners. In recent years, it also has emerged as a favored place for couples to tie the knot, even before Elizabeth Gilbert came on her successful search for love.

For public relations and marketing executive Kora Amalwati, its lush landscapes alone make ideal backdrops for
weddings.

“Bali is an exotic island with many breathtaking outdoor places. One does not have to add much decoration and equipment to create a magnificent wedding view. It will look good naturally in wedding photos,” says the longtime Bali resident.

The burgeoning wedding business has naturally spawned many businesses catering to the needs of couples. Especially important are wedding organizers, who are essential for ensuring hassle-free nuptials and that the start of a couple’s life together is perfect.

Kora notes that the flourishing wedding-related services provide many more options to the betrothed than in the past. They can choose the nature of their wedding, from a traditional ceremony to a more modern affair, a big bash or a quieter and more intimate exchange of vows.

“For the last three or four years, the wedding industry in Bali has been developing rapidly. There are more wedding organizers — excellent ones – hotels’ wedding packages and even wedding magazines to look for inspiration. Wedding villas are also springing up everywhere, from small ones to the biggest of all that can accommodate more than 1,000 people,” Kora said. Other factors, including affordable air travel and increased flight schedules, have made the attractions of the island more accessible to travelers from abroad as well as Indonesia.

“It was magical, I think it was more because of the location,” says jewelry designer Tasha Darsono Martigny. “We live in Hong Kong, family and friends are in Jakarta and Paris, so we wanted to offer convenience for the Indonesians and a magical experience for the French.”

Actress-writer Happy Salma married Balinese prince Tjokorda Bagus on the island in October 2010, and has experienced for herself its exceptional attractions. She also sees that Bali today is no longer a paradise too far for couples planning their big day.

“The borders between Jakarta, Bali and other cities are more easily accessible now. There are a lot of flights, it also has adequate facilities and it has become one of the most highly coveted ‘dream’ places to get married in the world,” she said.

“Bali’s culture is also among its biggest attractions. Its people’s way of thinking and culture appear to have been uncontaminated, not only from outside but also other parts of Indonesia, which makes it outstandingly attractive.”

Kora emphasizes that couples are spoiled for choice when it comes wedding locales on the island. “Most weddings in Bali are held outdoors because of its glorious nature. People can choose the scenery they like the best. We have Uluwatu and Jimbaran for cliff weddings, Bedugul for mountain weddings as well as Nusa Dua, Sanur and other places for beach weddings.”

And there is another big plus to getting married in Bali.

“One of the big advantages of Bali is that you can have your honeymoon right after the wedding ceremony,” Kora quipped.