We’ve been conditioned by years of romantic movies to think that a wedding proposal should be the most romantic moment of your entire life. It should be a grand gesture in an exotic location, something you’ll remember for the rest of your marriage. And we say, why fight it? If you’re considering a grand romantic proposal, here are some of the best locations around the world for you to go down on one knee.
The Bow Bridge, Central Park, New York City
New York City’s been the setting of so many romantic comedies; you may feel like you’ve already been there. One of the most picturesque places in the city–assuming you’re not going for the top of the Empire State Building–is the bow bridge in Central Park. You can do the whole horse-drawn carriage ride for even more ambiance, or just go for a leisurely stroll through the park until you arrive at the bridge. You may not get the most private, intimate proposal, as there are bound to be dozens of tourists around, but it’s still a beautiful setting for a spring or summer proposal.
Oberoi Amervilas, India
If New York doesn’t have enough of that exotic feel, the next destination definitely does. It’s the most luxurious hotel in India, all teak and mahogany and marble. But the real draw is that many of its rooms overlook the Taj Mahal. Get a room with a balcony, and you can propose in front of one of the Seven Wonders of the World; which incidentally was built as a monument to love. The word “romantic” doesn’t even begin to describe how breathtaking an experience like this would be.
Fern Grotto, Kauai, Hawaii
With its volcanic islands, beautiful beaches, and lush greenery, Hawaii is an undeniably romantic vacation destination. There are plenty of gorgeous spots all over the islands to propose, but we suggest Fern Grotto for maximum romantic potential. It’s a cave by the beach, overgrown with leafy ferns. There are usually plenty of volunteers around to hold lit sparklers and also musicians on hand to serenade tourists with the Hawaiian Wedding Song–a perfect prelude to an unforgettable proposal.
Trevi Fountain, Rome, Italy
The ancient beauty of Rome offers plenty of romantic places to propose. You could opt for the Coliseum, if you have a more swords ‘n’ sandals relationship with your significant other, or if you’re Catholic, go for the Sistine Chapel or elsewhere in the Vatican. But for the most romantic spot, we suggest the Trevi Fountain. It’s an amazing work of art, absolutely gorgeous, especially when it’s lit up in the evening. You’ll feel like Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck when the proposal goes down.
Sure, you could go out for a nice dinner at a fancy restaurant for your proposal. But if you’re looking for that movie-quality romantic proposal, book a flight to one of these destinations before you buy that wedding ring. After a proposal like that, you could honeymoon in your own backyard and not feel like you’re missing out.