Destination proposals are the ultimate luxurious, love-filled way to pop the question. We all know the joy of going on holiday: the excitement of the build-up, the bliss once you touch down, and the new sights, scents, and tastes that await. And we can imagine the overwhelming euphoria of saying yes to the person you want to spend the rest of your life with. So why not make a trip even more special and totally unforgettable by combining the two, and asking your partner to marry you whilst you’re abroad?
Whether you love relaxing beach getaways, chic city trips or action-packed holidays, a destination proposal ensures you’re starting your engagement with a sense of adventure and excitement.
To help you with your planning, here’s our guide to the essentials for destination proposals:
The essentials for planning destination proposals
How to pick your destination
The first, and most important, thing to think about when planning destination proposals is the location. (It’s kind of in the name!) We’re so lucky to have the entire world at our fingertips, so when it comes to picking your destination, the sky’s the limit. But how do you choose?
We always recommend that you pick somewhere that’s special to the two of you, to make it totally perfect. Is there somewhere you’ve always dreamed of going? Somewhere that’s always been on your bucket list? Somewhere you’ve got saved on your Pinterest boards, in your Instagram saved section and even turned down the corners on magazine pages? These make excellent proposal destinations. Way to make a once-in-a-lifetime trip even more unforgettable!
However, what counts as somewhere special is, ultimately, up to you. It doesn’t have to be somewhere traditionally romantic, if that’s not your style. Anywhere becomes a romantic place once it’s the site of your dreams coming true.
Think about the logistics
Another thing to consider when choosing the location for destination proposals is the local specifics. These include the local laws – it would be a bit of a bummer to have your meticulously crafted proposal ruined by a fine for jaywalking in America, for example.
It’s also worth swotting up on any religious laws that might be in place too. The last thing you want to do is cause offence to the locals by proposing in a holy, sacred space where it’s not allowed.
And when you’re planning the itinerary, investigate the peak times to visit certain tourist hotspots. This can help prevent you from feeling overwhelmed when you get there, and ensure your plans to get hitched run without a hitch.
Things to remember for destination proposals
When you’re making your hotel booking or any restaurant reservations, make sure to tell them the special occasion. People always talk about the honeymoon period, but the days after you’ve just got engaged are their own special bliss, and it feels so lovely to have people sharing in that joy with you. This is especially true for destination proposals, when your immediate family and friends aren’t in the same country to celebrate with!
It almost goes without saying, but it’s so important we’ll mention it just in case – look after the ring! Make sure to keep it with you when you travel – don’t put it in the luggage hold, in case it gets misplaced. If you’re worried about accidentally revealing the surprise if you’re stopped and searched at security, make sure your partner goes first. They’ll be too busy putting their shoes back on and gathering their belongings to pay attention to you! Then, as they’re focusing elsewhere, you can explain to the security officer what it is.
A final word of wisdom we’d give about destination proposals is to make it as stress-free for yourself as possible. Don’t plan the proposal for the final night of a fortnight away if it means you’ll spend the other 13 days stressing and not being able to fully relax. It’s your holiday too, remember!
Perfect proposal destination ideas
Though we stand by what we said above about it ultimately being a personal decision, we couldn’t leave you hanging with no suggestions for destination proposals whatsoever!
Romantic locations for destination proposals
If you’re looking for good, old-fashioned romantic locations, then of course, Paris is perfect. It’s called The City Of Love, after all! Or perhaps you’re itching for Italian romance, in which case Venice’s charm will sweep you off your feet. Or, maybe, you’re looking for a slightly more avant-garde, but no less romantic, spot – then we’d suggest sun-soaked Santorini. Whether you’re in search of amour, amore or agape, these destinations provide the perfect backdrop.
European city breaks
Every single country in Europe is steeped in history and brimming with things to see and do. However, here are just some of our absolute favourites, which we know are perfect settings for destination proposals. In mainland Europe, you could visit the Gothic grandeur in Prague; experience the Mediterranean magic of Barcelona, or cruise down the canals of culture in Amsterdam. Or why not visit the many landmarks of London, a place that’s iconic for so many reasons? Ireland, too, has a stunning charm about it you can’t get anywhere else – whether in the vibrant streets of Dublin or the rolling greeneries of the countryside.
American city breaks
If you fancy travelling further afield and across the pond, then the United States is chock full of unique places perfect for destination proposals. Of course, if you fancy an indulgent, non-stop trip, New York City has been the setting for many a romantic film. We’d also really recommend Chicago, a place full to the brim of incredible culture and history. If you want sunnier climes, then Los Angeles is a slice of uber-cool laidback paradise; and Miami is home to some of the best beaches in the world.
Once-in-a-lifetime destination proposals
A once-in-a-lifetime question befits a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, and these destinations guarantee that and more. Travel back in time in Greece, a country where you can feel the history beneath your feet with every step. Or, experience the future in Dubai, a city so cool and cutting edge it’s unlike any other. See the old and the new in Johannesburg, an energetic city with both safari and rainforest on its doorstep. Alternatively, experience total paradise in the blissful island of Sri Lanka. Or, if you really want to go all out, head to Singapore for an unforgettable holiday; it may be one of the most expensive cities in the world, but it’s also one of the most incredible.
