Destination Proposals: How to Plan an Engagement Abroad

There’s nothing more exciting than going on vacation. It’s a chance to spend some quality time with your partner, whether you’re returning to somewhere special or visiting a new country for the first time. Destination proposals are one of the biggest trends of the last decade, as travel has become increasingly more accessible. 

While popping the question abroad might seem like an overwhelming prospect, it’s easier to plan than you might think! Destination proposals are popular because they create a deeply personal moment, making your vacation extra special. 

Our blog is full of proposal planning tips, especially if you’re popping the question abroad. In this guide, we’re giving you an overview of how to plan a picture-perfect proposal during your vacation.

Why More Couples Are Choosing Destination Proposals

Destination proposals reflect a wider shift amongst couples today. Experience-led luxury is becoming more popular than ever before, whether it’s indulging at a fancy restaurant or going on a spa retreat. These luxury splurges are a way for couples to have a meaningful experience together, rather than focusing on more materialistic items. 

While proposing on vacation may seem extravagant, most destination proposals are far more intimate than they would be at home. There’s no denying that social media has also influenced this, with some luxury hotels even offering dedicated butlers for destination proposals.

Choosing the Right Destination for Your Proposal

Whether you’ve booked your vacation with the intention to propose, or the timing perfectly aligns, there’s a lot to consider when choosing exactly where to get down on one knee. Below, we’re sharing our top tips for choosing the right spot for popping the question.

1.    Focus on Meaning, Not Instagram

Proposal planning means thinking about your engagement photos – but you don’t want to choose the location just for your Instagram post. If you’re heading back to somewhere you’ve visited before, consider a spot where you have shared memories or a personal interest in.  

Coastal escapes, historic cities, and mountain retreats are perfect locations that offer lots of photo opportunities, while giving you plenty of quiet spots for your proposal.

2.   Consider the Type of Atmosphere You Want

There are dozens of different ways to propose, whether it’s over a candlelit dinner, during an outdoor walk, or in front of your partner’s favorite painting at a museum. Consider the type of atmosphere you want for your proposal. Coastal regions tend to be more relaxed, while city destinations offer elegant backdrops for your photos. 

Read more: Outdoor vs. Indoor Proposal: How to Choose Your Perfect Proposal Setting

How to Travel With an Engagement Ring Safely

The most important part of a destination proposal is making sure that you keep the engagement ring safe. Here are some of our top tips on how to travel for a destination proposal:

• Keep the engagement ring in your carry-on luggage
• Make sure that your travel insurance covers valuable items
• Use discreet packaging and keep the ring with you whenever possible
• Know exactly where the ring is in your bag if you’re flagged at airport security
• Use the in-room safe if you’re planning to propose later in your trip

Read more: How to Travel with an Engagement Ring (Without Your Partner Finding Out)

The Best Proposals Feel Like an Extension of Your Relationship

The best destination proposals are ones that feel personal to who you are as a couple, rather than being performative for your social media feed. Whether you’re already going on vacation or surprising your partner with a trip away, the secret to planning a destination proposal is to stay intentional. 

Explore our blog for more proposal planning tips or book a virtual consultation to start designing your bespoke engagement ring today.