Perhaps the most difficult decision about planning a destination wedding in Mexico is which location to choose. Here's an overview of what we consider the best places to tie the knot: Cancun/Cozumel, Acapulco and Puerto Vallarta.
Cancun/Cozumel
The best thing about Cancun and Cozumel is that you can get Caribbean water at a Mexican price. White-sand beaches, plush resorts, a plethora of water sports -- you get the idea.
Cancun is a young person's resort. A 30-minute flight from Cancun is the island of Cozumel, which has some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling in the country. The leisurely pace stands in contrast to Cancun.
Acapulco
On the Pacific coast, Acapulco is famous for its culture and history. The water and beaches aren't as outstanding as Cancun, but the hotels, private homes and villas are stand-outs. The hustle and bustle here continues well past sunset with a busy night life. Great restaurants overlook the harbor, and the shopping is fantastic.
Puerto Vallarta
This resort town has a totally different feel from Cancun or Acapulco. Cobblestone streets and outstanding restaurants give it an international ambiance, enhanced by the sporty boutiques and great shopping. Take a day trip into the jungle for a mini-safari. On the down side, Puerto Vallarta has only average beaches and water, according to travelers we've interviewed.
Wedding facts
Only civil marriages are legal in Mexico. As for requirements and documentation, each federal district (roughly the equivalent of states) of Mexico has its own rules and regulations. Most of the tourist areas have relaxed marriage-license rules that do not include extensive medical exams.
There is no residency period, but you must have your birth certificate translated and authenticated by a Mexican consulate in the United States.
When to go
High season runs from Christmas through April, with prices at their peak. Perhaps the best time to visit is from November 28 through December 15, when the weather is nice and the premium prices have not kicked in. Other discounts are available in the off season (summer and fall).
As for the weather, the coastal areas boast a tropical climate, with temperatures in the 70s and 80s in winter and 90s in the summer. Each region of Mexico has a different climate, so you may want to research an area before making plans.
Insider tips
We strongly recommend that you use the services of a professional wedding planner or a resort's wedding coordinator to ensure you've complied with all the rules. With all the paperwork and regulations, it takes about six to eight weeks to get a marriage license in Mexico.
Who to call
You can reach the tourism board for Mexico at (800) 44-MEXICO.
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