A proposal, in theory, should only happen once, so you want it to be a moment that you and your partner treasure forever. It’s not always easy to pick a place to do it, though.
Like with all big events, there’s a lot of planning that needs to go into it, with many places requiring bookings, travel, and costs accounted for.
In this blog, we’re going to break down some of the decisions needed, the logistics, and crucially, the best destinations for a proposal.
Planning your proposal abroad: Tips
Planning a proposal is hard work. Not only must you think about the destination, but you must also consider the time of year that you’re planning to propose, which might affect how busy certain tourist spots are or the timings for picture-perfect sunrises and sunsets.
Here are just a few things you might consider before you propose.
Choose your scenery
Before picking the destination, decide what kind of scenery you’re looking for. Are you after a beachfront proposal, a place with a fantastic sunset, or somewhere known for its wonderful restaurants?
You might forsake all of those options for something totally unique to you as a couple, which might help narrow down the choice of destinations.
Choosing the ambience
On social media, there’s been a rise in large-scale, public proposals with a flash mob, but that’s not for everybody. Have a think about your relationship to determine whether a proposal at a booming beach festival or a quiet hillside restaurant is the right choice for you.
Planning around the proposal
It’s not just the proposal you’ve got to think of. You don’t want to be sat around all day waiting for the big moment, so, naturally, you’ll want to make plans beforehand. Give yourself plenty of time to prep, get fresh, and make sure you’ve got everything in order so you’re not rushing.
Having a long, busy day before a proposal might not be the best idea, so maybe opt for something a little more relaxing, like a chilled-out beach day or a mooch around the local cafes.
Whatever you do beforehand, DON’T FORGET THE RING!
Timings & logistics
Time of day and time of year can drastically affect how you might execute your planned proposal. It will affect how busy an area will be, the weather, the length of days, etc., so be sure to factor these things into your decision.
If you’re after a photographer to capture the event, be sure to check with the relevant parties to make sure that it’s allowed, especially in places like a restaurant or private tourist attraction.
The best proposal destinations
Now you’ve thought of the general tone of your proposal, it’s time to select a destination. Luckily, we’re the experts in romantic getaways, so we’ve got you covered! Here are our picks for the best proposal destinations across the world.
Italy
Italy is a country with a lot of history, lots to see, and plenty of romantic locations that you might consider for your proposal.
Venice has long been known as a city of romance thanks to its wonderful canals that run through the city, perhaps lending to a Gondola proposal.
Italy’s lakes are world-renowned for their incredible scenery, even being used in Hollywood films. A peaceful proposal overlooking Lake Como could be your dream proposal.
If you’re after the ultimate in romance, why not pay homage to the original star-crossed lovers in Fair Verona? There are even tour packages that include the ideal proposal spots.
Greece
Famed for its wonderful crystal-clear seas and white, sandy beaches. Greece is a beautiful country to propose in.
Greece’s ancient history is steeped in romance with myths like Aphrodite and Adonis showcasing that love can endure even the most trying circumstances.
Santorini is renowned for its wonderful sunsets that provide the perfect backdrop for an evening proposal overlooking the Aegean.
Balos Beach on Crete is an ideal location for those looking for a more private proposal destination, with its turquoise lagoon and white sand, giving you a proposal worthy of a postcard.
A cruise around the Greek Islands will give you a bit of time to explore each destination before deciding on the right moment to pop the question.
Maldives
The Maldives is known as a great cruise destination, but it’s also a great destination for couples wanting to propose somewhere absolutely idyllic.
Fireside beach proposals are popular amongst visitors to the Maldives, allowing you time to enjoy the sunset and relax after your partner has (hopefully) said yes. Thanks to the Maldives’ many private sand banks, you can enjoy a moment in peace despite being a bustling tourist destination.
If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, why not propose underwater during a scuba dive? It’s a great time to truly surprise your partner by proposing when they’d least expect it.
Bahamas
Much like the Maldives, the Bahamas is the cruise destination of dreams, with crystal blue waters and incredible beaches.
Governor’s Harbour has miles of secluded beaches, giving lovers a private moment to propose if they wish.
Organising a small picnic to eat in the evening under a gazebo will provide plenty of romance for the proposal and give you a chance to watch the sunset as fiancés.
Canada
America’s northern cousin, Canada, has plenty of gorgeous scenery and tourist attractions that make ideal proposal locations.
Niagara Falls makes an incredible backdrop to one of the best moments in your and your partner’s lives. You might have to shout to be heard over the crashing waterfall, but hopefully, your partner gets the idea when you get down on one knee with a ring in your hand.
The 360 Restaurant in CN Tower, Toronto, is a proposal destination like no other, offering 360-degree views over Toronto at over 500 metres in the sky. Or if you’re a thrill-seeker, you might enjoy an edge walk proposal!
Lake Louise is one of Canada’s most beautiful lakes, with turquoise glacier-fed water and high peaks surrounding it, it’s truly stunning. This one is somewhere you NEED to hire a covert photographer because the lake will provide incredible backdrops to accompany your memories.
USA
Just south of Canada, America has a massive range of proposal destinations, from Florida to New York, and Washington to California.
A proposal on the viewing deck of the Empire State Building is a brilliant, if windy, way to do it. It’s a truly iconic location, tying yourself and your proposal to the history of this incredible building.
If nature’s more your thing, you might choose to propose on the beach where the Cape Florida Lighthouse is located. While only a small beach, it attracts locals and tourists alike due to its incredible views both day and night.
Across the vast country that is the USA, you’ll be treated to beautiful sunshine year-round in California. Lake Tahoe is a stunningly beautiful location to get down on one knee and you might even want to celebrate in style by travelling through to Las Vegas!
Australia
Whether you’re looking to propose in Sydney Harbour or on a private yacht off Whitehaven Beach, Australia is an incredible place to propose. Available through our Cruise & Stay packages, Australia has great weather all year, with the Wet Season still accompanied by high heat and plenty of sun.
Sydney Harbour Bridge is a popular proposal destination because of its iconic backdrop, but don’t be afraid to push the boat out a little by visiting incredible destinations like The Twelve Apostles, which also provides a truly unique backdrop to your proposal.
Norwegian Fjords
Known for picturesque landscapes and crystal blue waters, the Norwegian Fjords are an incredible place to pop the question.
Bergen is the second-largest city and is surrounded by fjords. It’s a cultural hub in Norway, with a bustling music scene that’s been home to world-famous artists like Alan Walker and Kygo. You might want to take advantage of this bustling music scene by proposing at a concert of one of Norway’s brilliant musical artists.
During your cruise around the Fjords, you’ll want to take advantage of the incredible scenery to really set the mood. Geirangerfjord is an incredible part of the world that shows the beauty and power of nature. Not only will it make for a beautiful spot in the moment, but it’s also so picturesque that you’ll be going back for years to come.
Wow! It’s incredible how many beautiful locations there are across the world that are perfect to propose in. There’s loads more to see on our website. Thanks to Cruise & Stay holidays you can enjoy an extra few days before or after your proposal before going back to the madness of working life.
If you’d like to see cruises designed specifically for couples, take a look at our Cruises for Couples deals page!
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