Ever wanted to wake up in paradise? If the thought of saying “I do” in a large hotel reception doesn’t sound like you, perhaps you should be looking ‘beyond the sea’. Yes, with destination weddings a popular trend, many couples are jetsetting off to islands such as Bali, Langkawi & Phuket for sand-filled, blue-sky nuptials. But for those of you who crave a slice of paradise that is a little more private (and affordable) – then Gem Island could be for you.
One of the few privately-owned islands in Malaysia, Gem Island is in a Marine Conservation Park situated just off the beautiful East Coast of Malaysia. It also happens to have only one resort, which has 45 exclusive villas with a sea frontage view.
What does this mean? It means you can live it up by booking out the whole island to yourself, party the whole night through… and not break the bank.
The Beach: There’s not one, but three private beaches to choose from. Dip in the sea, bask in the sun and simply relax.
When To Visit: Best to come between April – September during the Malaysian ‘Summer’. This is also the period when the water is most clear and guests are able to catch a glimpse of turtle hatchlings.
Wedding Packages
Packages vary from couple to couple, depending on what is required. Whether you want the entire works complete with a wedding ceremony or just a casual gathering with family and friends. Every package is specially customised for the brides-to-be but as a reference point, wedding budgets have started from as low as RM 40,000 onwards.
The Civil Ceremony
Yes, even though you’re getting married on a secluded island – it is possible to be legally married! Gem Island can also arrange for a priest or religious representative to preside over the ceremony. However, the couple will still need to get their documents of consent from their respective home countries if they are foreigners. It can also be arranged to have couples married at the Registrar of Marriage in Terengganu (for the issuance of Certificate of Marriage)
The Villas
Out of the 45 villas, there are Water Villas, Premier Villas, Hideaway Villas and Hideaway Suites available. The Hideaway Suite is the most exclusive and wedding couples are usually upgraded to this, as here they can have the view from 2 balconies.
The Cuisine
Brides can select dishes from either a Western or Chinese menu, as well as local Malaysian cuisine. And if you’re feeling thirsty, standard alcoholic beverages are easily available. Fancy a buffet dinner by the beach?
The Marine Conservation Park
It’s not everyday you get to wake up in the amazing surroundings of a conservation park, which is something Gem Island is very proud of. Explore the island and discover the marine life and beautiful coral reef. Or pop by the Gem Island Turtle Sanctuary that has been running for over seven years. Every year, the resort releases more than 2000 to 3000 baby turtles to the sea, to help sustain the turtle population.
The Story So Far
In the last couple of years, Gem Island has held quite a few destination weddings, with couples hailing from the likes of Australia, UK, France, Japan, Hungary and even Tunisia! And of course, local Malaysians included. Some chose to book the entire resort for the wedding so they can party the whole night through (no gatecrasher issue here, haha). A popular choice with tourists, the next couple to say “I do” are from Brazil!
How To Get There
The convenient location of Gem Island can be reached by a scenic drive along the East Coast or a swift flight, either by Air Asia, Malaysia Airlines or Firefly to Kuala Terengganu (TGG) – Firefly now flies directly from Singapore to Kuala Terengganu. From the airport, a 30 – 40 minute drive by road to Marang Jetty and then a 15-minute boat ride to the Gem Island resort.
Last Words From The Gem Island Team
Gem Island is a dream destination where picture perfect serenity & privacy rules for the ultimate wedding getaway!!
* If you’re interested in popping by Gem Island to hold your destination wedding or for a honeymoon, then check out their website for more information. Enjoy and don’t forget the sunblock! x
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