Gettin’ Hitched and Honeymoonin’

Belize [1]’s reputation for romance is growing, and an increasing number of resorts cater to exotic weddings and honeymoon packages, including ceremonies conducted underwater, atop Maya pyramids, or in caves. Actually, I don’t think anyone’s been married in a cave yet, but someone’s bound to do it. Most couples, however, are quite content with a barefoot beach ceremony.

For a US$50 marriage license, the couple must arrive in Belize three business days before submitting marriage paperwork to the Registrar General office on the fourth business day. A rush job costs US$250 and allows you to obtain your marriage license before arriving in Belize, in which case you can get married on your first day in country, if you so wish. For this service, you’ll need a travel agent or wedding planner to act on your behalf in Belize.

The Registrar General’s of Belize (tel. 501/227-2053, www.belizelaw.org [2]) handles marriage licenses. You’ll need to show proof of citizenship (i.e., a valid passport), proof that you’re over 18, and, where applicable, a certified copy of a divorce certificate or death decree to annul a previous marriage. Forms can be obtained at two locations: the General Registry, Supreme Court Building, Belize City and the Solicitor General’s Office, East Block Building, Belmopan. No blood test is required.

A few select Belize wedding specialists can help you facilitate the paperwork, find ministers, and handle your party’s flowers, accommodations, receptions, and everything else. Contact Iraida Gonzales on San Pedro [3] (www.belizeweddings.com [4]), Lee Nyhus in Placencia [5] (www.secretgardenplacencia.com [6]), and Katie Valk, who provides services anywhere in the country (www.belize-trips.com [7]).