Destination honeymoons have been popular for many years, but trends show that couples are creating unforgettable engagements too. After all everyone loves to go on holiday, so what could be more romantic than going away somewhere really special to pop-the-question? No matter what you choose – a few days in a beautiful city, a beach getaway or an action packed adventure – a destination proposal is a wonderful and memorable way to start your engagement.
Britt-Marie Monks the director of London based, specialist travel agency, The Honeymoon Fixer told us that she recently booked a special holiday for a couple at the Sugar Bay Hotel in Barbados and was also asked to organise a private dinner on the beach for the proposal. The client requested candles to line the pathway to the beach, a large heart to be made from red roses and a saxophonist to serenade them once they were seated.
The destination you choose doesn’t have to be traditionally romantic. Perhaps you’d like to revisit a place you both love or maybe you’d rather experience somewhere totally new? Here are some ideas from The Honeymoon Fixer.
A European City Break For a few romantic days away heading to a beautiful city makes perfect sense. Of course Paris is renowned worldwide as the "city of love" and likewise Venice is incredibly romantic with it's gorgeous architecture, hidden squares and canals. Both cities provide the ultimate backdrop for a proposal. Needless to say, there are many other cities that are equally fabulous and ideal for a short break. For instance, Prague, Lisbon, Budapest and Amsterdam aren't far away and each have their own unique charm.
A European Beach Getaway Greece is always a favourite and Santorini, with it's dramatic scenery, white washed villages and stunning sunsets is top of the list. Ibiza in Spain is another beautiful island with lots of lovely beaches and if you enjoy clubbing is a great place to celebrate your engagement.
Croatia has plenty of great beaches along it's Adriatic coastline and over a thousand islands surrounded by a crystal clear, turquoise sea. Italy never fails to delight and Sicily, or one of the smaller islands like Elba or Capri, would be perfect for a destination proposal.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Destination You can't fail to find romance and love in the Maldives. The Caribbean too has plenty of beautiful tropical islands each with their own unique and special vibe. Whether you're looking for barefoot luxury, a secluded getaway or a more action packed experience the Caribbean has it all. For lovers who like nature Costa Rica would be a good destination. South Africa is also a great place for wildlife and is equally well known for their high quality wines and cuisine. Thailand is another popular destination and has a huge choice of resorts with spas and fantastic facilities in spectacular locations.
Active Holidays Couples who prefer activity holidays have plenty to choose from. For ski lovers, what could be more romantic than proposing in the mountains?
Cycling and hiking are also very popular and there is an endless choice of tours and trails. Or, if being on the water is more your thing, you could charter a boat and sail around the Caribbean, Turkey or the Greek Islands.
Wherever and whatever holiday you decide for the proposal getting help from a travel expert is well worthwhile. They can give you advice on the best time of year to visit, help you avoid tourist hotspots, book hotels and organise the itinerary.
One last and important piece of advice from Britt is "don't plan the proposal for the final night. The last thing you want is to spend most of your time away worrying and not being able to fully relax. Remember it is your holiday too!"
The team at The Honeymoon Fixer is always on hand to help and they can be contacted by email at info@thehoneymoonfixer.com or you can ring them on 02034 416 848.