D-Brief Edition 24 - Weddings & Honeymoon

D-Brief

Edition 24

Weddings & Honeymoon

D-Brief Bangkok, 30 August 2012

Dear Partners, With its idyllic white sand beaches, tropical climate and romantic luxurious hotel rooms, Asia is the perfect spot for a dream wedding, often at a fraction of the cost at home. Let others take the stress of making all the arrangements allowing you time to relax before the important day and enjoy the hallmark Asian massages and beauty treatments.

We have chosen our picks for the four best hotels in each destination, which truly capture the spirit of romance; the ones which really do specialize in arranging wedding ceremonies, allowing you to have full confidence that the day will be as romantic and as special as you imagine. The hotel choices additionally include many that are well suited to entertaining friends and family, who may wish to accompany you on the memorable journey.

After all the excitement of the wedding, your honeymoon should be the most magical vacation of your life, giving you time to unwind and simply enjoy each other's company.

No need to repack or fly long distances, you have already arrived in the perfect honeymoon destination – simply extend your stay.

Sincerely,

Your Diethelm Travel Team

Weddings & Honeymoon Sri Lanka Thailand Maldives Malaysia For any country, here are our top tips:

• Talk to the experts - our wedding planners.

• Research location – find out what is available at the hotel for friends and family to keep them occupied, whilst the couple relaxes and prepares for the big day.

• Check your Embassy regulations and requirements if you plan a legal wedding, where it is permissible, as these can be complex.

• If possible, plan an inspection visit to the hotel to fine-tune the all-important details.

• Keep it relatively simple and therefore elegant, using nature as the backdrop.

• Keep the guest list small; 80 – 100 people is ideal. Spend time with those you love.

• Plan well ahead to allow guests time to book flights, plan their vacation and take time off work.

• Ensure you arrive a few days early to relax and enjoy the spa beforehand.

• Make the most of the talented hair stylists, florists, photographers who come at a lower price tag than back home.

• You are already in a romantic spot for your wedding and so why not avoid the extra packing and travelling time to make the destination your honeymoon.

• Enjoy the most memorable day of your life.

Sri Lanka – Weddings & Honeymoon Known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Surrounded by miles of soft golden sand, the island also possesses a rich culture and is regarded by many as the perfect wedding and honeymoon destination. Sri Lanka has a myriad of options for a dream wedding and exchanging “I do‟s” against the backdrop of a setting sun and the Indian Ocean.

Our four prime hotel choices for a wedding venue and / or a start to a honeymoon are revealed over the next pages.

Clichéd though it may sound, Sri Lanka really does offer everything a honeymoon couple could possibly want, be it relaxing on tranquil beaches while sipping cocktails, immersing oneself in the historical and cultural wonders of the country or enjoying its fabulous nature and wildlife.

Sri Lanka has all the elements needed for couples to experience an unforgettable honeymoon and so please do ask our office for more of our special ideas.

The Fortress The Fortress Resort & Spa, located on the beautiful southern coast, is also only minutes away from Sri Lanka‟s historic city of Galle. Aptly named “The Fortress”, the hotel resembles a powerful fortress rising next to the beach, with its high walls and solid wooden entrance doors enclosing verdant gardens, hammocks and water features. If serenity combined with luxury is your vision, then the Fortress is perfect for the occasion. Celebrate with the ultimate romantic beach or garden wedding with the breathtaking view of Indian Ocean.

Traditional Sri Lankan Dancers and drummers escort you in a procession to the wedding arch where an elephant waits to greet you.

With a spa featuring Ayurveda treatments, a free flow swimming pool, wine cellar, restaurants, boutiques and exquisite rooms with either private courtyards or balconies, the Fortress will appeal to both the couple and their family and friends.

Saman Villas Saman Villas is a hideaway on the west coast, perched on a rocky promontory dividing two long seemingly endless, surf swept, pristine beaches of golden sand backed by the coconut plantations, in the sleepy fishing village of Aturuwella. The atmosphere is one of tranquility disturbed only by the sounds of birds and the waves crashing on the rocks.

Whether you wish for a quiet and intimate garden wedding just for the two of you or a wedding on a beach with friends and family, Saman Villas is one of the most innovative wedding hotels in Sri Lanka.

Offering a whole collection of services, some of which include décor for the „Poruwa‟ ceremony, registration & certificate, a decorated elephant with mahout available for elephant rides and posing for photographs on the beach, and the option of a six course romantic lobster dinner at the pool pavilion.

Couples can select from 16 packages, be it a spectacular full traditional Sri Lankan wedding on the beach complete with drummers, dancers and an elephant or a more personalized ceremony with their own vows.

Reef Villa & Spa Reef Villa sets a new benchmark for romance in Sri Lanka, excelling in the intimate and superb attention to detail. The seven unique suites feature romantic four-poster canopied beds, spacious shaded verandas for private dining and antique Indian swings, which overlook the lush gardens and views of the sparkling blue Indian Ocean.

This truly spectacular beach villa, with extravagance based on Indo-Colonial lines, is set in acres of exotic tropical gardens with palm-fringed pavilions and reflection pools. With a variety of options, a wedding can be arranged by the ocean, poolside, in the dining pavilion or magnificent main house and can take the form of a civil or Buddhist ceremony, a Christian blessing or renewal of vows.

The occasion can be as simple or as elaborate as you wish and can include ceremonial dancers, drummers and singers of stanzas of blessings, an elephant to greet you, complete made-to-measure wedding costumes for the bride and bridegroom, including hair, makeup and dressing of the bride, and a personal firework display.

Aditya Hotel Aditya is a small all-suite luxury boutique hotel on a hidden stretch of beach in southwest Sri Lanka, between the well-known resort of Hikkaduwa and the historic city of Galle.

With only twelve suites, Aditya feels warm, allowing you to imagine it as your own private luxury villa on the beach. Each suite is named after one of the solar deities of Hindu mythology and is unique in layout and dĂŠcor, ranging from celestial ceiling designs, dreamy verandas to tropical art and antiques.

Aditya offers more than just luxury on the beach or lush tropical gardens - it arouses the senses and draws in the soul.

A wedding day is easy to plan at this luxurious hideaway with its backdrop of a shimmering blue ocean, or gorgeous golden sunset. Incorporate the mesmerizing rhythms of traditional drummers, the flamboyant movements of the dancers, an elephant welcome and the free-flow of the finest food and drink to make the occasion utterly memorable.

Honeymoon Ideas With a variety of beaches all around this warm and sunny island, couples have plenty of choices. Those wishing to experience the marine life of whales and dolphins should head to Kalpitiya, north of Colombo and to Mirissa in the south of the island. During the summer months the climate is best on the east coast and Pigeon Island in Trincomalee is great for snorkeling. The best open beaches are found in Bentota, which is in the southwest coastal region, whilst surfing enthusiasts will be content with Arugam Bay in the east and Hikkaduwa in the southwest.

For couples seeking something else in addition to the sandy beaches, there is much in store on this island.

Sri Lanka is extremely rich in culture and history with several World Heritage Sites just waiting to be explored. A few days can include leisurely excursions from your luxurious hotel base to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, the cave paintings at Dambulla and the world renowned ruins of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa.

Another top favourite attraction is the ancient rock fortress at Sigiriya. Discover this magnificent place on foot or by taking a wonderfully romantic balloon ride at dawn over the striking surrounding scenery.

Nature and wildlife enthusiasts will have much to see and do on their honeymoon. Yala National Park has the worldâ€&#x;s highest density of leopards, the Minneriya National Reserve has the largest gathering of Asian elephants in the world and Horton Plains National Park is home to a number of bird species endemic to the country. Our recommendation is to take a luxurious private mobile camping safari for a real “get away from it allâ€? experience in one of the national parks.

The hill country is the perfect getaway for those couples looking for cooler weather and who love being surrounded by layers of green landscape, rolling hills, plunging waterfalls, tea plantations and stunning views. Stay in one of the gorgeously private tea plantation bungalows of tea trails for the ultimate honeymoon experience.

Poruwa Ceremony A traditional Sri Lankan ceremony, the Poruwa custom was as valid as a registered marriage until the British introduced the registration of marriages

by Law in 1870. Today's Poruwa Ceremony has been influenced by both upcountry and low country customs and is the main event in Sri Lankan Buddhist weddings when the couple is symbolically married, with the signing of the marriage license that legalizes the union done separately.

The "poruwa" itself is a small, raised platform with a canopy above it, onto which the bride and groom step up from either side. The ceremony is led by a man chanting prayers and instructions. He ties their little fingers with a thread, after which two uncles pour water over their fingers while prayers are chanted. Before this, the groom has to drape a new (usually red) sari over the bride's shoulders, symbolizing that he will provide for and take care of her from now on.

As the newlyweds step down from the Poruwa a coconut is broken and an oil lamp is lit, symbolizing good luck, and a new start.

Registration of Marriages in Sri Lanka Registration of Marriages in Sri Lanka

The legal requirements for Registration of Marriages of Foreign Nationals in Sri Lanka are very straightforward. You are required to provide the following documents to the Divisional/District Registrar of the area where your marriage would take place.

Please note that clear and complete photocopies of the documents will be required prior to travel. It is critical that you forward copies of documents no later than 12 weeks prior to departure.

The following original documents are required:

1. Birth Certificate(s) 2. Your Passport (valid for minimum 6 months) 3. An affidavit confirming the guest‟s status (Married / Single / Divorced / Widowed) 4. A letter stating the guest‟s full name, postal address and occupation.

5. A letter stating the full names, addresses and occupations of the guest‟s parents.

The following documents are required only if they apply to the guest :

1. If divorced, a decree absolute.

2. If widowed, the death certificate of your late spouse and your previous marriage certificate.

3. If you have changed your name, a deed poll (including divorcees who have reverted to their maiden names).

4. If adopted, an adoption certificate.

5. If under 18 years of age, evidence of parental consent in the form of a statutory declaration.

Any relevant documentation you hold which is in any language other than English must be accompanied by a certified translation.

PLEASE REMEMBER: Original copies of all the relevant documents above must be taken with you to Sri Lanka.

RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT: You are required to be resident in Sri Lanka for 4 working days prior to the wedding date. Before finalizing the date of your arrival please check with the Hotel regarding public holidays.

Weddings in Paradise – Koh Samui, Thailand Get married in Paradise – Koh Samui Ko Samui has become one of the most renowned wedding destinations in the world due to its pristine, golden sand palm-fringed beaches, gorgeous sunsets, brilliant blue sky and sea and lush tropical vegetation.

In Koh Samui, we love working with our highly professional partners and wedding specialists, EuroAsia. Their unrivalled attention to detail, passion and experience takes away any stress in planning your big day, leaving you free to enjoy the celebration with friends and family.

Choose from one of five packages offering a Thai Buddhist Blessing ceremony, a Western wedding ceremony or a combination of both in any one of five romantic yet diverse locations ranging from a hotel, private beach or island setting. A series of optional services, entertainment and guest packages allows you to easily create your own special celebration whilst keeping control of the ever important budget.

Weddings ceremonies The Ceremonies: Thai Buddhist Blessing Ceremony Enchant your wedding day by allowing the Thai spirit and culture to enter the occasion.

Bless your marriage with water, prayers, knots and flowers by authentic Thai monks from a Thai Temple. Exotic paintings and photos of Thai Gods and Goddesses align your love to Thai and Asian traditions. A Thai Khim player can play traditional music during the entry and exit or choose a Thai drum parade accompanied by beautifully dressed traditional Thai dancers.

Western Wedding Ceremony Get blissfully married with a certified and licensed English speaking celebrant. The exchange of vows, exchange of rings, the kiss and presentation will be as itâ€&#x;s done back in your home country yet celebrated far from home. A symbolic dove release, planting of love trees or candle ceremony can be included.

Mixed Thai Buddhist and Western Wedding ceremony The most popular choice combines both the traditional Thai and Western ceremonies leaving the marks of Buddhaâ€&#x;s blessing and the pronouncement of the marriage by an anointed celebrant.

Weddings Locations The Kala Samui Inspired by nature, Kala is our pick as one of the most environmentally friendly resorts with a venue that features a majestic backdrop with real isolation and privacy. Whether itâ€&#x;s a simple setting or an elegant occasion, the Kala caters to every taste and budget.

Le Meridien Samui Resort & Spa Le Meridien Samui with its spectacular views overlooking Lamai Beach and the Gulf of Thailand, inspires for a perfect event. Discover Samuiâ€&#x;s first ocean pier, a unique venue for a wedding.

Nikki beach With its trendy feel and one of the best sunset locations on Koh Samui, Nikki Beach is highly suitable for couples looking for an extraordinary and exclusive wedding ceremony.

Private Beach wedding EuroAsiaâ€&#x;s private beach venue is tranquil and utterly picturesque. With the turquoise Gulf of Thailand as a backdrop, this venue suits couples looking for seclusion and breathtaking natural beauty. From relaxed casual to uber-sophisticated, we can design a personalized style of ceremony to match any budget and desire.

Private island wedding For couples seeking the utmost in privacy and intimacy, look no further than Koh Matlang Island.

An isolated yet well maintained island off the eastern coast of Koh Samui, accessibility is by a short boat ride. Your private wedding experience is limited only by your own imagination here.

Registration of Marriages in Koh Samui Standard Legal Marriage Procedures for Koh Samui 1.

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The wedding couple is required to go to their respective embassies in order to arrange the affirmation of freedom to marry. Once these documents are completed, our associated wedding planner, arranges the following leaving the couple free to head to Koh Samui to relax or travel elsewhere in Thailand. • Our Bangkok representative notarizes the Thai translation of the authenticated affirmation, takes the Thai translations to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Bangkok for authentication and endorsement. This takes 3 working days. • Our Bangkok representative couriers the documents to Koh Samui.

Arrival of documents to Koh Samui by post. The documents are taken to the Koh Samui District Office for endorsement. This usually takes 2 working days.

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Appointment made with registrar at Koh Samui District.

On the wedding day, the registrar (Balat) will be present at the venue for the actual signing: usually, around 5 pm for signing, but may change due to other commitments.

A faxed copy of Kor Ror 3 (Marriage Certificate) is sent to the Bangkok representative.

Once the faxed copy of K.R. 3, is received, she will notarize the English translation. This usually takes 3 working days.

Our Bangkok representative will send the translated version back to Koh Samui, if the couple is still in their hotel. If not, she will post it to the couple's home country by registered post. It takes 2 weeks to arrive to the couple's home country.

Important Remarks: • It is necessary that the wedding couple advise their nationality at their initial inquiry in order for us to have sufficient time to arrange their legal marriage.

• Different countries have different rules, although most follow similar guidelines. To be sure of the exact and current guidelines, we suggest checking with the relevant embassy in Thailand (all information is usually available online) about legally-recognized marriages abroad. Some countries charge more to register a legal marriage in Thailand and hence prices may vary from country to country.

• Wedding couples need to be aware of registering over weekends, on Thai holidays and the couples own national holidays, as all government offices and embassies will be closed.

• Amphur service is not available during December 31st to 3rd of January or April 13th to 17th.

Aleenta Phuket Close to the action of Phuket with its shopping, excursions and stunning offshore islands of Phang Nga, yet on its own stretch of long, secluded and beautiful beach, lies the stunning boutique resort of Aleenta.

Aleenta Phuket delights in tailor-making wedding services and can offer Western ceremonies and /or Buddhist ceremonies, as well as incorporating elements of other cultures in the ceremony as per the guest‟s request.

Aleenta does not arrange the legally-binding wedding documentation but can refer couples to a company specializing in legal services.

We chose Aleenta due to the following: • Its pristine beach, Natai Beach, is completely private and faces the Andaman Sea. • One wedding per day is held in order to provide full attention the bride and groom.

• The resort can easily cater for any size groups from the smallest up to 120 guests.

• The resort offers both rooms and villas so it‟s ideal for wedding parties. There are pool villas, ocean-view lofts, and luxury private 2 and 3 bedroom beachfront villas, each within steps of the beach.

• Easy access as it‟s being only 20 minutes from Phuket Airport.

• Hotel offers a wide range of activities from golfing to fishing, diving to windsurfing as well as excellent spa which cater to all guests‟ wishlists.

The “Natai Beach Wedding Celebration” would include for example a Western or Buddhist ceremony or combined cultural elements, altar (decorated with local flowers), master of ceremony/Monks, flower bouquets, hair and makeup artist for the bride, photographer, 1 hour couple massage at Spa IV for bride & groom, 1 bottle of champagne, sound system for ceremony (background music) and baby turtle adoption and release into the sea for bride and groom.

Twin Palms Phuket Located on stunning Surin Beach, Twin Palms is one of Phuket‟s most exciting and contemporary resorts and a wonderfully romantic setting for a wedding.

Chose from a Western wedding or a Thai traditional wedding and select from a range of reception options, such as a private romantic cocktail party, a fabulous dinner or barbecue.

We chose Twin Palms due to the following:

• The setting. “Catch” – the superb trendy, stylish and laid-back beach venue of Twin Palms with its excellent food and wine selection.

• Surin beach‟s unbelievably dazzling white sands.

• The hotel‟s wonderful landscaping, winding swimming pools and contemporary rooms, guaranteed to please the wedding party guests.

• Choice of penthouse suites, duplex pool suites and rooms for guests.

• Taking a cruise on Andaman cruises to unwind after the occasion.

• Extremely flexible and willing to make the wedding celebration special and unique.

Maldives – Weddings & Honeymoon To many, the Maldives are undoubtedly the world‟s most romantic destination, appealing not only for a wedding ceremony but also perfect for a honeymoon in the same location.

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There are no “legally-binding” weddings in the Maldives, as its 100% Muslim country with the registrar only performing the marriage of local people.

Several resorts offer “renewal of wedding vows” or „‟exchange of wedding vows” ceremonies and celebrations.

Possibilities include a traditional Maldivian-style wedding ceremony and several resorts specialize in various themed styles of ceremony with locations ranging from on the beach, on a deserted island, underwater or onboard a Dhow or yacht.

New regulations mean that all ceremonies are now conducted in a language chosen by the couple and they can follow a set ceremony or use personal vows they would like to say to each other.

The Maldives is world-renowned as a honeymoon destination and so many hotels offer wedding packages. We have chosen our four favourites, which are Olhuveli Beach & Spa, Anantara Kihavah Villas, Sheraton Full Moon Maldives and Baros.

A poignant ceremony created to inspire romance, a beachfront location, the soothing sound of waves lapping, a cool ocean breeze and the traditional Maldivian touches such as drummers escorting the bride down the sandy aisle all add up to the dream wedding. A special dinner under moonlit sky and flickering candles, a romantic dhoni sail or aromatherapy massage make the start to the honeymoon so magical.

Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort With its dazzling white sand beaches, sandbanks and crystal-clear lagoon, Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort makes a magical backdrop for a memorable sunset beach wedding.

We chose Olhiveli because: • It‟s location on the tip of South Malé Atoll means that it is only 45 minutes by speedboat from the airport.

• Unparallelled recreational facilities both on and off the island to suit all ages and interests. Two large infinity pools, floodlit tennis court, volleyball, billiards and badminton.

• An excellent water-sports centre – with one of the only registered kite-surfing schools in the Maldives – also offers wake-boarding, standup paddle-boarding and a diving school with PADI Gold Palm status.

• Wonderful white sand beaches and a large, shallow blue lagoon surrounding the whole island makes it extremely picturesque, as well as great for snorkelling.

Sheraton Full Moon Maldives On Furanafushi Island in North Male Atoll. Like many resorts the Indian Ocean‟s white sandy beaches contrast the turquoise lagoon providing the perfect backdrop for a ceremony.

We chose Sheraton Full Moon because: • Located only 15 minutes away by speedboat.

• Ideal not only for the happy couple but also for their family, friends and children who join for the celebration. Sheraton Adventure club for the under 12‟s. Great beach for a beach party.

• Spend time for a couples‟ treatment at Shine Spa, located on its own enchanting paradise island.

• “Extreme Maldives” - the one-stop spot for a fun-filled day with loved ones learning how to windsurf or sail or, for the more daring, wake boarding and knee boarding or surfing.

• Range of accommodation from rooms, cottages, suites, overwater bungalows and villas and ocean villas to suit the couple and their guests‟ taste and budget.

• Good value and excellent service.

Anantara Kihavah Villas The ultimate location for living the fantasy of a romantic Maldivian wedding. Located in the Baa Atoll, a 35-minute sea plane flight from Male, an experience in itself. Anantara‟s trademark luxury villas and residences do not disappoint.

We chose Anantara Kihavah Villas because: • Its coral adoption programme. By taking part, you can return perhaps to celebrate an anniversary, and see how your corals have blossomed.

• The crystal-clear waters and abundance of tropical fish of the Baa Atoll declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

• The overwater spa for everything from soothing, enriching, detoxifying, polishing and restoring.

• Its 4 wildly diverse choices for the ceremony outlined below.

Beach The barefoot luxury of white sand, a sparkling ocean a cooling ocean breeze and distant views of dolphins on the horizon make the perfect and natural setting for a ceremony.

Private Yacht Onboard a luxury private yacht, exchange vows to the sounds of the waves and sight of the endless blue horizon. Rings are presented in a shell at sunset before sharing a private gourmet dinner then being rocked to sleep. Awaken to the first glimpse of the sunrise, before enjoying a champagne breakfast on the deck or on a secluded sand bank.

Underwater Wine Cellar & Restaurant For a surreal and unique experience embrace your wedding dream of an underwater fantasy. Descend to the hotels exclusive underwater restaurant and wine cellar, to be encircled by a panorama of reefs and colourful marine life.

Dive in to your wedding Embark on a new life together by diving into a dream world with marine life swimming peacefully around. Yes, it is possible to sign your wedding certificate and present each other with rings underwater and an underwater photographer will testify. Dry land is not forgotten with a delicious lobster and seafood barbecue dinner.

Baros Maldives This well-established (being the 3rd resort in the Maldives to open in 1973) and intimate resort deservedly retains its huge popularity.

Idyllically located in the centre of a gorgeous turquoise coloured atoll encircled by its own reef, this relaxed resort fulfills the dream for a wedding or honeymoon.

We chose Baros because:

• Easy access - just 25 minutes by speedboat from Male.

• The island‟s intrinsic beauty, even by Maldivian standards.

• Its ultra-romantic ambience and possibilities for vows to be renewed at The Lighthouse, on the beach, on a sandbank or on Nooma, the 19 metre traditional Maldivian sailboat.

• The arrangements can include a Memorial Palm Tree Planting or traditional Maldivian Bodu Beru procession of dancing drummers.

• A choice of overwater villas, pool villas, villas and residences fits every budget.

• Charter “Serenity”, the resort‟s 16 metre luxurious motor yacht with a lounge and one private cabin for a sunset cruise to see the dolphins or go big game fishing.

• Spectacular house reef suitable for beginners and experts to explore.

• Plenty of options for those extending to honeymoon, from a leisurely paddle in a glass bottom canoe to see the world-class marine life, coral transplantation workshops, a catamaran cruise or for the more active, windsurfing.

Malaysia – Weddings & Honeymoon A wedding is the ceremony in which two people are united in marriage or a similar institution.

Wedding traditions and customs vary greatly between cultures, ethnic groups and religions and as a result Malaysia offers a million heady possibilities for starry-eyed lovers. Be it a traditional wedding ceremony amidst a rustic village setting, a glorious beach wedding or an avant-garde function in progressive Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia can fulfill your dream wedding and honeymoon.

We have selected four beach hotels, scattered from the island of Langkawi, west and east coast of Peninsula Malaysia to Sabah, which specialize in offering not only local traditional setting wedding ceremonies following either the Malay, Chinese, or Indian cultures, but also Western style wedding ceremonies.

For those seeking more than a beach for their honeymoon, the wonderful natural scenery of the central mountain range of Peninsular Malaysia and in Borneo invites nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts to continue their journey together.

Due to legal procedures, we advise arranging the legal marriage in your own country and the ceremony in Malaysia.

Shangri La’s Rasa Ria, Sabah Create a wedding to remember in the paradise of Malaysian Borneo and stay on for a honeymoon to encounter the unique fauna and flora of Sabah.

We chose Shangri La Rasa Ria because: • Scenic location on spectacular Pantai Dalit Beach surrounded by 400 acres of tropical forest.

• Ideal for a garden as well as a stunning beach wedding.

• Meet the “man of the jungle” at an Orang Utan Rehabilitation centre in a nature reserve, just outside the hotel‟s grounds.

• Fantastic range of activities for the wedding couple and party. Catamaran sailing, a championship golf course, deep sea fishing, horse-riding, all terrain vehicle safaris amongst others and a brilliant kids‟ club.

Honeymoon • Sabah is an ideal honeymoon destination for nature lovers.

• For the active couple, there is the opportunity for adventure conquering the famous Mount Kinabalu.

• Take a coral island tour with BBQ lunch to enjoy the pristine islands and white sand beaches within Tungku Abdul Rahman Park. The shallow waters are home to an amazing variety of marine life.

Pangkor Laut Resort, Pangkor Island Sophisticated, stylish and yet simple unpretentious luxury are the hallmarks of Pangkor Laut Resort.

Located 1.6 km off the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, it is a truly tropical island with rocky outcrops and white sandy beaches fringed by a beautiful rain forest.

We chose Pangkor Laut because: • The island is pure escapism from the real world.

Allow the stress of civilization to evaporate. • Choose from one of three incredible locations for the exchange of vows: on one of the most beautiful beaches in the world at Emerald Bay, on board a luxury yacht or at lantern courtyard for an outdoor ceremony amidst private open-air pavilions and koi-filled ponds. Whichever you chose, culminate with a cocktail reception at Chapman's Bar, with candles, torches and hanging tea lights lighting the path to a beachfront wedding table, decorated with fresh white flowers, corals, shells and pearls against a sunset backdrop of the Straits of Malacca.

• Nothing can be more romantic than an over water sea villa, the hotel‟s signature private bungalows on stilts over the sea. Optionally the Spa Villas, also built on stilts over the sea, have direct access to the Spa Village for extra special treatments and massages prior to the big day.

• Personalized service and proven reputation.

• Locations for those memorable private romantic dinners.

Honeymoon

• Being a private island Pangkor Laut is a top beach destination for those seeking a tranquil honeymoon experience.

• Offers a superb spa experience.

• The Estate at Pangkor Laut is ideal for those wishing for the luxury of having everything within reach without the hassle of moving. Every Estate has two dedicated staff members who cook and serve meals and look after every whim and detail.

Four Seasons Langkawi On the beautiful island of Langkawi and surrounded by an emerald sea, tropical forests and silver sandy beaches, the Four Seasons is a luxurious location to celebrate your love.

We chose Four Seasons Langkawi because: • Located at Northeastern part of Langkawi Island, this is one of the most stunning parts of the island, and facing the Andaman Sea. The long stretch of white sandy beach makes it a top venue for a beach wedding.

• The sumptuous and spacious villas, some coming with private pools, making it one of the best hotels in the region for both a wedding celebration as well as honeymoon.

• Langkawi‟s has wide appeal for all the family and friends joining. From the hotel, take a jungle hike through one of the world‟s oldest rainforests, covering more than 50 percent of the island. If a rainforest adventure is not your scene, explore the fascinating mangrove and coral life, or take a boat trip to one of the deserted offshore islands.

Honeymoon • Langkawi is perfect for a honeymoon couple as it offers more than just a beach holiday.

Discover the island‟s Malay village life, or the jungle interior or board a yacht for a sunset cruise.

• For any children joining the celebrations, keep them occupied with excursions to the Langkawi Bird Paradise Wildlife Park, marine aquarium of underwater world, cable car to the summit of Gunung Machincang (708m) and duty-free shopping.

• For a honeymoon in Malaysian in the waters around Langkawi Island, shared with select family and friends, charter Naga Pelangi II. This is the first and only Malay Junk Schooner based on the wooden traditional boat design yet built to modern yacht standards. With its 4 comfortable cabins, it is a wonderful opportunity to sail around Langkawi admiring the regions‟ spectacular rock formations, lush green rainforest and superb beaches.

Tanjong Jara, Dungun On the East coast beside glistening jade waters and a pristine golden beach, Tanjong Jara Resort is the ideal location to create the perfect wedding and honeymoon.

We chose Tanjong Jara because: • The tranquil setting, natural beauty and vibrant colours of this un-spoilt coastline.

• The beautifully designed wooden buildings crafted as Malay palaces, make for a romantic retreat.

• Tanjung Jara specializes in Malay cultural weddings recreating the grandeur of the old Sultans lifestyle.

• The hotel‟s philosophy encouraging purity of spirit, health and well-being allowing you to relax and live the moment. Take time to discover each other as well as friends and family.

• Choose from Nelayan beach under a gazebo draped with flowers, Teratai terrace overlooking the free form pool shaded by leafy branches or arrive by local trishaw accompanied by a local wedding procession into the lush tropical gardens of the hotel.

• Explore the reefs off Tenggol island, one of Asia's best kept dive secrets.

Honeymoon

• Enjoy the traditional Malay spa experience and romantic beach dinners.

• Discover the beauty and culture of the East coast.

• Take excursions along meandering rivers, cycle through sleepy fishing villages and to islands gleaming like jewels in the iridescent sun. Learn new skills such as batik or cooking the delicious local cuisine.

Nargisi Kofta Curry (Mince Wrapped Eggs) Ingredients • 500 grams finely ground lamb mince • 5 eggs, 700 grams size full boiled in their shells • 1 egg for beating into the mince • ½ teaspoon garam masala • 2 green chilli slit seeded • 60 grams med onion copped well • ½ salt teaspoon or to taste • ½ cup plain flour with 1 teaspoon garam masala • 3 tablespoons or more oil

The Sauce • • • • • • •

100 grams red onions 2 cloves garlic chopped well 350 grams tomatoes chopped well 1 pinch turmeric 1 teaspoon chilli powder 1/2 teaspoon garam masala 2 green chillies chopped fine

Recipe source: http://newasiancuisine.com Nargisi Kofta Curry (Mince Wrapped Eggs) by Carol Selva Rajah

Preparation Method 1. Add 1 beaten egg to the minced lamb.

2. Add finely chopped green chillies, onion powdered spices and salt to the mince.

3. Peel the eggs after they cooled, then dip them in the seasoned flour and then coat with minced meat carefully, coating the mince with a light dusting of flour again. Deep fry until golden brown. Allow to cool To prepare gravy 1. Heat fat and add sliced onion and sauté, until golden.

2. Add finely chopped garlic, turmeric and chilli powder.

3. Add pureed tomatoes salt and simmer slowly.

4. Put the koftas in the gravy, simmer for about 15 mins slowly.

To serve Slice koftas in half with a sharp knife. They are supposed to look like elongated eyes with the eggs on their extended ovals.

Garnished with chopped coriander leaves and serve, allowing one serving for each person with some sauce for serving.

Recipe

Coming Up: Mid-Autumn festival (29 September – 01 October 2012) The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, Lantern festival or Moon-cake Festival is one of the most important in the year for the Chinese and Vietnamese. Celebrating the end of the autumn harvest, this centuries old lunar festival abounds with legends and romance. When the full moon rises, families get together to watch the full moon, eat moon cakes, and sing moon poems. Itâ€&#x;s also a romantic time for lovers whether together or apart watching the moon simultaneously. Moon cakes are believed to have originated from the Yuan dynasty (1206–1368) revolutionaries, who are said to have used the pastries to pass secret messages between each other.

In Singapore and Hong Kong, not only are the popular festival deities worshipped and all flavours of moon cakes relished but there are fantastic displays of traditional lanterns glittering around the cities.

Hong Kong eagerly watches the Tai Hang fire dragon dance, dating from the time during the 19th century when a plague was stopped with the same dance.

In Vietnam, the many traditional activities include lion dancers, the lighting of lanterns and planting of mid autumn trees.

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