If you’re looking for an alternative to the average traditional wedding, consider having a destination wedding.  They’ve become increasingly popular in recent years because couples have caught on to the potential benefits.  Not only would you be having your ceremony at an exotic location of your choice, you might also save money.  Your guest list would likely be cut down, and you’ll also be killing two birds with one stone: an all-in-one ceremony and honeymoon.  But choosing the right location that best suits your needs is key.

Here are 10 of the top destination wedding locations:

Mexico

From Cancun to Puerto Vallarta, couples flock to Mexico for the exotic beaches, sizzling weather, and captivating nightlife.  Your bridal party will thank you for whisking them to this fun filled corner of the earth.

Maui

Maui has so much to offer: lush greenery, gorgeous white sandy beaches, luaus, and helicopter rides overlooking beautiful hills, valleys, and waterfalls.  The Honokalani Black Sand Beach is also a wondrous draw to the plush island.  Maui is a convenient choice for a destination wedding since you won’t need a passport to jet set to this beautiful domestic get-away.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Imagine exchanging vows overlooking a crystal clear lagoon.  Then retiring to a glass bottom bungalow that sits directly on top of the Pacific Ocean.  Bora Bora is paradise at its finest. Many say it’s a once in a lifetime trip.  Why not make it the destination for one of the most important days in your life?

South Africa

Wild life safaris, vineyards, beautiful beach sunsets, and bustling city life are all a part of the lure of South Africa.  If you want to incorporate a bit of history into your post-wedding vacation schedule, Cape Town is your best bet. Robben Island—where Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in prison—is just a ferry ride away.

Jamaica

Jamaica is arguably the most accessible dream destination—especially if you live on the East Coast. With gorgeous waterfalls, plush greenery, beautiful beaches, and great food, this Caribbean hot spot has all the features that rival the most exotic far-away islands.  Consider Ocho Rios, Montego Bay, or Negril for your big day.

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic has something for everyone.  If you’re looking for busy South Beach style nightlife, Puerto Plata is the place to consider.  If you want a peaceful romantic hideaway surrounded by untouched beauty, Punta Cana has the perfect ambience for what should be the most romantic day in your life.  It’s no wonder tourism in the Caribbean country increased significantly in recent years.

Cruise

Why not cruise to your wedding destination?  Or let the actual ship be your venue?  Some cruise lines have chapels on board where you could get married while at sea.  You can also opt to have your ceremony at the port of destinations like The Virgin Islands or Greece.

Europe

If you’ve always wanted a fairytale wedding, consider the United Kingdom as the place to tie the knot. The country has countless old world castles, forts, and buildings fit for your grand occasion.  Afterwards, you can honeymoon in London or hop on a train to Paris or Rome.

Key West

This tropical domestic destination has become famous for offering beautiful sunset beach weddings. Afterwards you and your guests can enjoy activities such as sports fishing and diving.

Martha’s Vineyard

Martha’s Vineyard is one of the most popular wedding destinations in the United States.  The island located south of Cape Cod in Massachusetts is known for its comfy colonial charm.  Whether exchanging I Dos on the beach, in a cottage, or a colonial style mansion, your wedding will have the all-American feel you’ve dreamt of.

Abi Ishola is a multimedia journalist based in New York City.  Visit www.aishola.com to learn more about Abi’s work.  Follow her on Twitter: @aishola