Study Reveals 70% of Singapore Travellers Are Saying ‘I Do’ Overseas

In a recent survey conducted by Skyscanner, nearly 70% of Singapore travellers revealed they have either had or are planning a destination wedding, opting to tie the knot overseas instead of locally. The survey, which gathered insights from 1,000 individuals in Singapore, highlighted a growing trend among Gen Z travellers (ages 18-25), with 61% expressing a strong inclination toward having a destination wedding, showcasing their love for travel even when it comes to saying “I Do.”

Singaporeans’ Ideal Wedding Destinations

Asia tops the list for destination weddings, with 64% of respondents favoring regions such as China, Thailand, Japan, and the Maldives. Popular cities like Bangkok, Tokyo, and Sapporo have emerged as the most searched destinations for Singaporeans planning weddings between August and December 2024, underscoring Asia’s charm and accessibility.

Cost remains a significant factor, with 75% of respondents citing budget considerations as a key influence on their destination choice. Interestingly, 35% of travellers are willing to pay 26% to 50% more to bring their dream wedding to life. However, it’s not just about practicality—42% of Singaporeans prefer destinations that hold sentimental value, reflecting the importance of emotional connections when planning such a special occasion.

For many, the romantic beach vibes of tropical destinations are the perfect setting for their big day. A laid-back, seaside atmosphere was favored by 41% of those surveyed, emphasizing Singaporeans’ love for a relaxed yet romantic wedding experience.

Beyond the Wedding: Pre-Wedding Photoshoots and Honeymoons

The survey also revealed that travel plays a key role in multiple stages of a couple’s journey. 33% of travellers have done or plan to do a pre-wedding photoshoot overseas, with many opting for tropical seaside settings to capture those dreamy wedding moments. Additionally, 28% of couples are combining their wedding and honeymoon in the same destination, with more than half doing so to save on flights and accommodation. Special honeymoon packages offered by resorts make this combination even more attractive for newlyweds.

Runaway Romance and Elopements

For the more adventurous couples, 14% of Singaporeans are choosing to elope overseas, preferring intimate and personal ceremonies. The allure of cost savings, a personalized experience, and the uniqueness of a secret wedding has drawn many couples toward this option.

Travel Tips for Couples Planning a Destination Wedding

Skyscanner’s Cyndi Hui, Travel Trends and Destination Expert, reminds couples to keep their guests in mind when planning. Almost half of the surveyed guests (48%) expect accommodation to be covered, while 41% anticipate having their flights paid for. To manage costs, couples can use Skyscanner’s tools like the Whole Month View to find the cheapest flights, and the ‘Free cancellation’ and ‘Pay at arrival’ options to avoid hotel booking risks.

With destination weddings on the rise among Singaporeans, it’s clear that tying the knot overseas offers both romantic appeal and practical benefits, blending love for travel with life’s biggest moments.