Use a wedding web site to stay organized, let every one know what’s going on and share what’s happening with folks who can’t make it to your wedding.
- This is a web site design specifically for destination weddings courtesy of TheKnot.com.
- Make the site your own by adding personal details about how the two of you met, as well as basics on the wedding and at-home reception, if you're holding one.
- There are so many templates to chose from. Pick one that matches your location and/or theme.
- Here's an example of a wedding site done well as as blog.
- The types of services offered at Wedding Window are pretty common.
Wedding web sites are especially great for destination weddings. You can use them to psych folks up about the trip. Let your guests know what to expect. Share travel tips. And give them ideas of fun things to do once you’re there.
There are lots of wedding web sites out there with some great templates to get you started. Some are free (such as through TheKnot.com) and some have a fee attached. Click here to read a comparison of 10 sites http://wedding-websites.no1reviews.com/
We had a range of folks travel with us from veteran world travelers to folks who were nervous about the tropical bugs and had never been out of the country. My husband had never been out of the country either. I gave family members copies of the Insight Belize Travel Guide for Christmas, but I figured not everyone would read it. So, I shared travel tips on our wedding web site. Stuff like:
BE SAFE IN BELIZE
Leave copies of itinerary and passport data page: Make two photocopies of the passport identification page, airline tickets, driver’s license and the credit cards you plan to take. Leave one copy of each with family or friends at home, and pack the other copies separately from the originals. Leave a copy of the serial numbers of your travelers’ checks with a friend or relative at home. Carry your copy with you in a separate place and, as you cash the checks, cross them off the list.
Check your overseas medical insurance coverage: Ask your medical insurance company if your policy applies overseas, and if it covers emergency expenses such as medical evacuation. If it does not, consider supplemental insurance.
Plan for the Unexpected: Take with you items that you will need if your trip is unexpectedly extended. These items may include extra money or medications. See the section on “Additional Fees,” above.
Valuables: Don't bring anything you would hate to lose. Leave at home:
* Valuable or expensive-looking jewelry
* Irreplaceable family objects
* All unnecessary credit cards
* Social Security card, library card, and similar items that may be in your wallet.
FROM MY EXPERIENCE
Pack money in several places
Never put all your money in one place. Pack some in your carry on and some in your check-in bag. You don't want to lose one bag and lose all your money.
Purses are easy targets.
Shoplifters know purses are easy target. Avoid taking one on a trip. Consider buying one of those special money/passport holders that go under your clothes, either by hanging from your neck or around your waist.
Pack swimsuit, change of clothes in carry on.
Just in case your luggage never arrives or is late, pack what you absolutely need in your carry-on, such as medication, swim suit, change of clothes and brush.
Never leave valuables out in your hotel room.
Don’t be stupid and leave stuff out that could tempt the house cleaner. Put it away and avoid running the risk of it disappearing.
I also thought people needed to know the basics of the country, such as the type of currency to use, what the weather was like, what languages were spoken and what entry requirements were. So I created a page for that information. Break the information up into easy-to-read sections and use lots of subheads within it.
HOW DO WE GET THERE?
It’s not a long trip. We’ll take a flight from Minneapolis to either Miami or Houston, and from there fly two hours to Belize City. Then we’ll either hop aboard a 15-minute flight to Ambergris Cay, or take a one-hour water taxi to the island. Once there, we’ll be staying in a hotel along the beach, within 10 minutes of the only town on the island, San Pedro. You’ll be able to either walk or rent a golf cart to get into town to shop, eat or just look around. The major airlines servicing Belize include Continental, American, US Airways and TACA.
LANGUAGE
The official language of Belize is English and is spoken widely in the city of San Pedro on the island of Ambergris Cay. Most locals also speak Spanish.
WEATHER
November through January are the coolest months, with highs around 75º. May through September are the hottest months at 81º. The water temperature averages 82º year-round.
POPULATION
The population of Belize is approximately 280,000 comprising Creoles (African-European), Garinagus (Black Caribs), Mestizos (Spanish-Indian), Maya and Europeans.
TOPOGRAPHY
Belize is an area of only 8,867 square miles. It is situated on the East Coast of Central America on the Caribbean Sea. Mexico borders Belize to the north and Guatemala to the west and south. It possesses the second-largest barrier reef in the world (185 miles long).
GOVERNMENT
Belize is an independent country with a democratically elected parliamentary government and is a British Commonwealth member.
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
911 will connect you to the local police station wherever you are in the country of Belize including on Ambergris Caye. The police will be able to render assistance in almost any circumstance. They will also alert the Fire Department and summon an ambulance if needed.
TIME
Belize operates on Central Standard Time all year. No Daylight Savings Time is observed.
BANKING HOURS
Banks are open for business transactions from 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. from Monday through Thursday. On Friday banks close at 4:30 p.m. Some banks are opened on Saturday morning. Check with your hotel for more information.
BUSINESS HOURS
Most businesses open at 8:00 a.m. close for lunch at 12:00 noon, reopen at 1:00 p.m. and close at 5:00 p.m.
FEES AND TAXES
* Hotel Tax: 9% room tax is added to your hotel bill
* Sales Tax: 9% is added to most goods and services
* Departure Tax:
-US $35.00 when departing the International Airport (US cash only)
-US $18.75 or BZ $37.50 when departing by land (to Mexico or Guatemala)
-US $3.75 or BZ $7.50 when departing by Sea to an International destination
DRIVING
A valid drivers license is required to rent a vehicle (golf carts are considered vehicles). Traffic laws are similar to those in other countries around the world. Driving is done on the right hand side of the road.
WATER SAFETY
Potable water is available in most areas of Belize, but it is advisable to ask, and if in doubt, drink boiled or bottled water.
CELL PHONES
In order to have mobile cellular service in Belize, an unlocked GSM (Global System Mobile Communication) 1900 MHz cellular phone is required. Phones may be activated at any BTL office or Digicell distributor in the country. Prepaid service works using phone cards that can be bought at various stores around the country.
Cellular phones can also be rented for US $5 a day from the Belize Telecommunications (BTL) office at the Phillip Goldson International Airport (PGIA). A deposit of US $150 is required.
ELECTRICITY
Although most of the electricity is provided by Diesel/Generator Sets, the power is stable at 110 Volts A.C., which is the same voltage as in the United States.
TIME ZONE
Time observed year round is GMT-6, which is the same as United States Central Standard Time. Daylight Savings Time is not observed in Belize.
TIPPING
Tip is not expected an rarely added to the bill. However, it is recommended to tip 10-15% at restaurants. There is generally no need to tip hotels, as they tend to add a service charge to the bill. It is not customary to tip taxi drivers.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Ambergris Caye is a part of Belize, therefore you will need to comply with the requirements needed to enter Belize. If you are a U.S. citizen a visa is not required, but all visitors must have a valid passport. Visitors from countries other than the U.S. should check with the Belize Embassy nearest to you for current regulations pertaining to them. You may also want to contact the Belize Tourism Board at 1-800-624-0686. Anyone traveling with an infant must provide proper documentation for the child including a valid passport. In the event a passport is not available, an exception may be made with an original copy of the child's birth certificate, and a visitor's permit may be issued for a fee of $25 USD.
CUSTOMS
Duty free importation is allowed for baggage accompanying passenger, wearing apparel, jewelry, binoculars and cameras. Each person is allowed to import one carton (200 only) of cigarettes and one bottle of alcoholic beverage, duty free.
CURRENCY
The currency exchange in Belize is $2.00 Belize to $1.00 U.S. dollar. All businesses accept U.S. currency. Some smaller places don’t accept credit cards so bring travelers checks or cash.
WHAT TO WEAR
You are in the tropics so bring cool comfortable clothes - preferably cotton. Essentials include bathing suits, sandals and sturdy shoes for walking or hiking. After a day in the sun, the cool Caribbean evening breezes can feel quite chilly so bring a light long-sleeved shirt or jacket just in case. Sunglasses, a hat and tanning lotion are advisable as the sun reflecting off the white sand and clear water can be quite strong. Insect repellant is also recommended as you may get a nibble or two.
PACKING LIST
Belize is a very casual place - often astonishingly so – and travelers should pack accordingly. The heat and year-round humidity dictact lightweight clothing of natural fibers; clothes become camp and crumpled very quickly, so bring plenty of changes.
At the cayes, you can get by in shorts, a t-shirt and sandals most of the time, or just bare feet and a swimsuit, even in restaurants.
However, most of the larger restaurants maintain a trendy profile after dark, so pack a more formal tropical outfit to wear under the thatched roof at dinner. Do not wear bathing suits or skimpy clothing on the streets of Belize City or other towns; it is considered offensive, as are bare feet.
Most of the time, you’ll need to dress for the weather rather than style. Don’t underestimate the power of the tropical sun; it can burn in half an hour or less. If you’re spending the day in the sun or a fishing charter, wear a hat and even long sleeves. Bring twice as much sunscreen as you think you’ll need.
(From Insight Guides: Belize)
Visitors are advised to pack casual clothing in addition to their more relaxed beach and outdoor wear. Below is a sample packing list for a 7-10 day visit which you can adjust accordingly.
Pack according to:
* Mobile or stationary--traveling a lot or staying in one place
* Mode of transportation--bus, flights, biking, etc.
* Activities while in country--camping, diving, fishing, etc.
Keep in mind… rolling suitcases and large bags are difficult to maneuver in sand, in and out of buses, up and down steps and when there is adverse weather (rain, heat).
Clothing:
* 5 to 7 shirts (short sleeve, sleeveless, cool & easy to dry)
* 1 thin long-sleeve shirt (protection from sun & insects)
* 2 pairs shorts
* 2 pairs long pants (jeans or khakis, nylon)
* 2 skirts or dress (not too dressy but cool)
* 1-2 bathing suits
* 5 to 7 underwear
* 1 pair sandals (waterproof is good, but not necessary)
* 1 pair of closed toed shoes (tennis or hiking)
* 2 pairs of thin socks (if hiking, bring more) sleepwear
* nylon windbreaker or long sleeve heavier shirt hat
* **remember, laundry can easily be done here
Toiletries:
* personal toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, shaving stuff, toothpaste, brush, etc.)
* personal medicines (advil, motion sickness, all prescribed medications)
* hand sanitizer or wet wipes (when soap & water is not available to wash hands)
* sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher)
* insect repellant
* after bite lotion
* contact solution (if you wear contacts)
* small first aid kit
Equipment List:
* daypack (small backpack/carry-on)
* multi-purpose tool (leatherman/swiss army knife) watch
* water bottle
* small sewing kit
* polarized sunglasses & eyeglasses (plus a spare pair)
* your favorite snacks (i.e. granola bars, dried fruits)
* a few ziplock bags (large & small)
* camera
* small flashlight or headlamp (with extra bulb and batteries)
* binoculars
* small packable towel
* handkerchiefs or bandanas
* folding umbrella or raincoat
* address list for a few postcards
* activity equipment (depends on your interests-diving, snorkeling, fishing, birding, hiking, caving, camping, biking, photography, etc.)
Documents:
* airline tickets & itinerary
* passport and 1 photocopy of your passport (keep photocopy separate from original)
* insurance information (both travel insurance & home country medical info.)
* money and associated records
* credit card information (keep a separate list of number & phone number if lost or stolen)
* medical letter from your doctor (if you have a specific condition)
* emergency contact information (keep 2 names & numbers with your passport)
* SCUBA certification card and dive log
I wanted to give people an idea of what Belize was all about on our wedding web site, too. So I shared information like this:
PACK YOUR BAGS BUT KEEP IT LIGHT
While Belize offers more than enough to keep you on the move (even if it to just roll over on the beach) you will never have to move far thanks to its diverse and convenient geography. The following is just a small sample of what awaits you in your travels of Belize.
Sun, sea, and sand—need we say more?
* Hike or canoe under the shade of the rainforest canopy in the company of over 500 species of birds.
* Observe stalactites and stalagmites in caves that contain pottery and ceremonial remnants of the ancient Maya.
* Island hop by kayak between the cayes or around one of Belize’s three atolls,
* Witness a sunset from atop a Mayan temple
* Snorkel with the kids and learn about the biology of the barrier reef.
* Take a refreshing dip beneath one of the many waterfalls.
* Exchange vows with the Caribbean Sea lapping at your feet,
* Swap stories back at the resort after a day of wrestling with permit, tarpon and bonefish.
In Belize, opportunities for adventure abound.
See more at www.travelbelize.org
GREAT WEBSITES
www.belizeanjourneys.com/multimedia.html (Pictures, video, etc.)
http://www.goambergriscaye.com/
www.travelbelize.org (not specific)
www.mybelizeadventure.com
www.northernbelize.com
http://sanpedrosun.net/index.html - San Pedro newspaper
WHEN VISITING MAYAN RUINS
• Bring plenty of water
• Wear long sleeves and pants
• Wear sun screen and bug repellant
Some things I lifted from web sites that talked about where we were going, such as our hotel. Don't retype stuff. Pull it from other web sites to save yourself tons of time!
ABOUT THE HOTEL
We're going to Ramon's, a fabulous resort within walking distance of San Pedro on the island of Ambergris Caye!
Lose yourself in the island accommodations at Ramon's Village Resort! An exotic beachside island paradise awaits you! Marvel at our stunning, authentic thatched roof cabanas, tropical lagoon-style pool, fabulous restaurant and the world-famous Purple Parrot all the while being pampered by our renowned staff..
Our accommodations include sixty-one thatched roof cabanas hidden beneath coconut palms and lush tropical foliage. Seaside and Gardenview rooms.... air conditioned and fan-cooled for idyllic comfort.
Located on the picturesque island of Ambergris Caye, you'll step back in time to the Caribbean of yesteryear.
You will be greeted by your legendary host, Mr. Ramon Nunez. Ramon was born in San Pedro and is one of the neatest guys you'll ever want to meet. If you really get to know him during your stay, there'll be tears shed when you have to leave.
Splash in the cerulean waters of the Western Caribbean from our sparkling white sand beach and view the second largest barrier reef on earth just 400 yards from our resort. Experience the bountiful hospitality of the people of Belize and see why so many guests return year after year to stay at Ramon's Village Resort. You'll be ready to come back too!
Dive two rare and breathtaking atolls, plus Jacques Cousteau's famous Blue Hole, aboard our Pro 42 dive boat The Miss Gina. Enjoy snorkeling with nurse sharks and stingrays at Shark Ray Alley, explore the ancient Mayan ruins, discover the amazing beauty of the jungle while navigating a stunning river or choose an afternoon of fly fishing for tarpon or deep sea fishing for marlin or sailfish.
Refresh yourself in our eighty foot lagoon-style pool surrounded by the gorgeous flora and fauna native to Belize.
Savor a delicious beach barbeque or join in the entertainment at the world famous Purple Parrot. Enjoy a romantic dinner at the Restaurant at Ramon's as the gentle breezes mingled with the perfume of tropical flowers whirl you into savoring calm.
Tranquil waters, calm breezes, gently rolling surf whirl you into savoring calm, eliminating the complexities of daily life. Intoxicated with the perfume of tropical flowers mingled with refreshing sea air, your senses will be rejuvenated like never before. Come to appreciate perfection. Discover paradise... Discover relaxation...
We also had a Q&A section talking about why we made the choice we did to get married in Belize.
WHY BELIZE?
Jesse: “Because that’s where Tesha wants to go.”
Tesha: “Because I’m obsessed with Belize. It’s the perfect country: Mayan ruins (think Tomb Raider), rainforests (think Jaguars) and Carribean beaches. Really, could you ask for more in a place? I can’t think of anywhere better.”
WHY NOT JUST GET MARRIED AT HOME, LIKE NORMAL PEOPLE?
Jesse: “I didn’t want to have the traditional $10-$15,000 wedding plus honeymoon costs.
Tesha: “And I’ll take any excuse to travel.”
Jesse: “A destination wedding will be less BS overall.”
Tesha: “What he means to say is that it will be an adventure. Plus, we’ll be able to spend more time with our guests, making memories over a week, instead of just one day. We’ll be able to go deep sea fishing together, maybe cavetubing, maybe exploring Mayan ruins, or just lazing around on the beach drinking pina coladas. It won’t just be a wedding - It’ll be a vacation for everyone. Hopefully it’ll be one they’ll never forget.
WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO MOST ABOUT BELIZE?
Jesse: “Not working. And being with my sweetheart, family and friends.
Tesha: “Being in paradise. And, of course, being with my Jesse.”
WHO SHOULD I TALK TO ABOUT THIS VACATION?
Tesha: “Not Jesse.”
Jesse: “Tesha.”
Tesha: “651-248-8972 or islandinthemist@yahoo.com. Or, click on the “leave a comment” page.
WHAT FUN STUFF CAN WE DO IN BELIZE?
Jesse: “Drink. Sleep in.”
Tesha: “Snorkle. Kayak. Cave tube (yeah, like in huge caves!). See waterfalls. Drink island-made rum. Visit a winery. See jaguars and other native animals in their native habitat at one of the coolest zoos in the world. Go on a zip-line in the jungle. Have a romantic dinner. Dangle your legs off the dock.
Jesse: “There’s fishing, too.”
Tesha: “Yeah, and if you scuba dive, the country is known for its dive sites. Oh, I forgot the coolest part - WE CAN GO SEE MAYAN RUINS! There’s tons of stuff to do in Belize, if you’re interested in that stuff. If you’re not, feel free to just lay on the beach. After all, it’s your vacation.”
- Consider doing something fun with your Save The Date notices, an essential with destination weddings. Guests need time to save up money, take off work and prepare for the vacation.
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