DWs are still fairly uncommon, although they are gaining in popularity (this site is a testament to that!). What your FI doesn't understand is that you can have as much, or as little, of the traditional trappings as you want. It doesn't matter whether it's at home or on an island. The only "issue" would be the amount of people that won't be joining you because of the cost. Sure, many people would view a DW as a vacation, others would view it as a financial burden. You will have to determine how important is it to have as many of your friends/relatives celebrate with you. And remember that even some of your closest friends/relatives may not be able to come due to work, financial or other constraints. You could always compromise and have the DW of your dreams and an AHR when you get back.