Getting engaged is one of the most exciting times in a person's life. Traditionally, after a knee is bent and a ring is presented, partners will begin their life's journey together as one. So, start that journey off right!
While sticking with a traditional proposal is not essential, location remains key. My husband proposed to me during Autumn, under a covered bridge, in a quaint village adored by us both. Fall folliage was in full effect [1], with yellow and orange leaves falling and swirling in the wind around us. The combination of "how" and "where" truly made his proposal perfect.
Think about your future fiancé when planning your proposal, and pick a location [2] that reflects who they are. Stay local or travel far and wide, but be sure to create an engagement that is unforgettable. Make your soulmate's heart flutter with these 10 perfect places to pop the question around the world!
Paris
Proposing in the City of Love is a no-brainer, for Paris is one of the most romantic cities in the world [4]. From chic patisseries and glamorous bistros to charming boutiques and street jazz, Paris simply cannot be beat. Create an unforgettable proposal under the stars at the top of the Eiffel Tower, on one of the city's most stunning bridges, Pont Alexandre III, or at the breathtaking garden at Le Jardins du Luxembourg. If you're looking for that perfect proposal location, saying "je t'aime" in Paris is not such a bad idea!
Northern Lights of Iceland
Witnessing the Northern Lights is a dream for many. During Iceland's winter months, the night's sky is invaded by an extraordinary glow, producing shockingly beautiful shades of blue, green, and pink up above. The surreal atmosphere creates an unimaginable, exotic, and ideal location for any proposal. Proposing under the Northern Lights, though, is no easy feat. The skies must be clear, and there is no guarantee the lights will appear during your visit. If getting engaged beneath the natural wonder is your dream, be sure to plan your trip with an expert, and have a backup plan just in case (Iceland offers extraordinary alternatives). Get engaged below the Northern Lights, and you'll be dancing in the moonlight with your fiancé for a lifetime!
New York City
New York City [6] is home to some of the most iconic proposal locations around the globe. Get into that empire state of mind and start planning a memorable engagement in the city that never sleeps. From the boats, bridges, and little crevices of Central Park to the top of the Empire State Building, NYC offers some of the most classically romantic locations in the world. More options include, a proposal on or beneath the Brooklyn Bridge, popping the question at the New York Public Library (a perfect option for any Carrie Bradshaw/Sex and the City [7] fans), and getting engaged on the rooftop of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Champagne at the ready. So what are you waiting for? Pop the big question in the Big Apple!
A Royal Proposal in Kenya
Interested in a regal proposal? Follow in the footsteps of everyone's favorite royals, Prince William and Kate Middleton. Back in 2010, Wills swept his future princess away to Kenya for a romantic getaway. There, it is said, is where he proposed, in a secluded and extremely private log cabin. If you're not one for log cabins, amazing alternatives in Kenya include getting up close and personal with giraffes at Giraffe Manor [8] or proposing on an unforgettable safari.
Venice
For a fairy-tale engagement, consider Venice, Italy. The charming city [9], made up of narrow streets and countless canals, looks like it was plucked right out of Hans Christian Andersen story. Propose in the Floating City under the stars at San Marco, or at sunrise in a gondola beneath The Bridge of Sighs. Then, celebrate in one of Venice's many cafe's with a true Italian Prosecco toast.
Kauai, Hawaii
Say aloha to your new fiancé in one of Hawaii's idyllic locations, Kauai. From stunning waterfalls to outstanding gardens, Kauai won't disappoint. Visit the Na Pali Coast for unparalleled romance, where roads do not exist, creating the perfect amount of intimacy for your proposal. Hike the Kalalau Trail, hit the beach, enjoy a private boat tour, or visit one of the area's many natural wonders for a proposal that can't be beat. Pop the question here, and your soulmate will be sure to say mahalo (thank you)!
Santorini, Greece
Santorini, an island of whitewashed houses and blue domed churches, is made up of towering cliff villages and is one of the world's most romantic locations. Offering beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, and unforgettable sunsets, Santorini is an excellent option for a proposal. Surprise your special someone at Heart-Rock in Megalochori, or at Oia's highest point, a church with unimaginable views. Proposing on this Greek island will male anyone say, "I do."
Hot Air Balloon in Switzerland
Whisk the love of your life off their feet and high into the air by proposing in a hot air balloon. Gstaad, Switzerland, is an ideal location for romance, adventure, and of course, an engagement. The Swiss paradise is a stomping ground for international celebrities and offers top of the line shopping, hiking trails, ski resorts, and legendary hot air balloon rides. Day or night, flying over the Swiss Alps is an unforgettable experience. Propose in the sky, and your partner will be on cloud nine!
Beneath the Maldives
You can propose with your feet on the ground or up in the air, but for an extra special experience, ask your love to marry you underwater. The Maldives in and of itself is one of the most stunning and exotic locations on earth, and the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island hotel is home to what the New York Daily News called “the most beautiful restaurant in the world.” Ithaa [11], located roughly 16.5 feet below the surface, offers 180-degree panoramic views of the turquoise sea and its colorful coral gardens. The restaurant can be booked privately for special occasions, like a proposal. Ask for their hand under the sea, and the world will be your oyster!
Scottish Castle
Many little girls dream about one day becoming a princess. Make your bride-to-be feel like royalty at Inverlochy Castle [13] in Scotland. The stunning 19th-century castle, surrounded by exquisite evergreen trees, was visited by Queen Victoria in 1873, who wrote in her diary, "I never saw a lovelier or more romantic spot." Best of all, the castle also serves as a renowned hotel. Rent a Rolls-Royce or make use of the hotel's helicopter pad to make your proposal unforgettable. If the castle gets Queen Victoria's seal of approval, you'll be sure to get one from your future fiancé!