Romance means different things to different types of people, but there are certain places around the world that just evoke dreamy, warm feelings in nearly all of us. You don’t have to travel to propose, but if you want to, here are 14 places around the world that will make your already romantic proposal completely unforgettable.

1

Lago de Atilian, Guatemala

Hazy sunrises, rolling hills, flat water. At sunrise, you'll be all alone, in the peace, quiet, and colors of the morning. Photo: Colby Brown

2

The Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

It feels like standing on the edge of the Earth. These cliffs are a sheer drop into the Atlantic ocean and inspiration for the "Cliffs of Insanity" in the movie "The Princess Bride". Just don't drop the ring. Photo: Kate Siobhan Mulligan

3

Petra, Jordan

If you're travelers, few places are as drenched in the atmosphere of adventure as Petra. Yes, it's from Indian Jones, and for many people, that's enough. But it is also ancient, massive, mysterious, and when it's lit up by only candlelight, it's otherworldly. When you arrive for the after-dark event, the carved pathways that lead to Petra (about a fifteen minute walk) are also all lit up by candles. Arrive early and propose before the crowds arrive. Photo: Sylvain L.

Intermission

Outdoor

California’s four least-visited national parks are some of the raddest places in the US. Here’s why.

Jun 2, 2021Hayley Goerisch
Outdoor

23 of the bluest, clearest waters on the planet

Nov 3, 2020Joe Batruny
Culture

Poisonous gases and curious tourists: Inside the lives of the Kawah Ijen miners

Dec 2, 2019Jonathan Bertucchi
4

Paris, France

Yes, you've seen it before. It doesn't change the fact that the Eiffel Tower evokes all sorts of emotions: wonder, wanderlust, nostalgia, and yes, romance. It's simply too symbolic to cast aside. So go ahead, get engaged in Paris. It's a popular choice for all the right reasons. Photo: Jacob Hopkins

5

Banff, Canada

The Rocky Mountains of Alberta, which span into British Columbia, are the crown of Canada. Sparkling glacial mountains and jewel blue lakes make Banff and the surrounding areas the perfect place to get all gooey. Breathe in that cold clean air and ask what you came here to ask. Sunrise is quieter than sunset - but bundle up (even in the summer). Seen here is the viewpoint of Peyto Lake. Photo: Kate Siobhan Mulligan

6

London Bridge, UK

Iconic. Propose on it, or with it in view. People have been doing it for centuries - join the tradition. Photo: temibbade

7

Machu Picchu, Peru

Stand on top of the world and declare your love. Don't do it at sunrise unless you can get away from the crowds. Instead, find a quiet spot later in the day when people have dispersed - though you aren't allowed to stay until true sunset (because of, you know, falling down sheer cliff faces). Or, climb the towering Wanu Picchu and propose on the peak above Machu for extra effect. Though, your partner might be sweaty from the ascent. Your call. Photo: travelwayoflife

Intermission

Travel

Soon, your ID might not get you through airport security

Apr 26, 2021Evangeline Chen
Culture

Poisonous gases and curious tourists: Inside the lives of the Kawah Ijen miners

Dec 2, 2019Jonathan Bertucchi
Outdoor

How to explore breathtaking southern Greenland

Jan 24, 2019Jorgo Kokkinidis
8

Pretty much anywhere in Iceland

You'd be surrounded by mountains, ocean, glaciers, and all the wild of Iceland. Alternatively, you could choose from the blue lagoon, a hundred different enormous waterfalls, or the glacier beach with bits of ice washing ashore. Choose your own adventure with this one. And yes - the rings in the image were made from Icelandic volcano. Photo: Hayley Finn

9

Rialto Bridge, Venice

Another classic. Some might pop the question from a gondola, but that's a bit tough on the wallet these days. Instead, clamber onto the famous bridge at dawn when it's quiet, or simply embrace the chaos. If this bridge is too much, there's plenty - I mean plenty - of smaller ones to choose from. Photo: Shaun Dunmall

10

Chiang Mai's Lantern Festival, Thailand

I don't know what makes candlelight so romantic but damn, it is. So when thousands of people gather to release lanterns together in Chiang Mai, it's kind of astoundingly beautiful. Photo: Guy Tetreault

11

Golden Gate Bridge, San Fransisco

Another iconic spot to begin your lives together. Photo: Nan Palmero

Intermission

Outdoor

The ultimate summer backpacking gear guide for newbies

May 5, 2021Tim Wenger
Outdoor

How to explore breathtaking southern Greenland

Jan 24, 2019Jorgo Kokkinidis
Outdoor

How to climb Colorado’s beautiful and intimidating Ouray Ice Park

Jan 29, 2019Katie Botwin
12

Cappadocia, Turkey

Get into the sky by going up in a hot air balloon at sunrise in Turkey. You can do this in a few places - the outback, Myanmar, or on a safari for example - but something about Cappadocia is just so enticing. Photo: Pedro

13

Times Square, New York City

Get into the chaos and let it all melt away. Times Square has the ability to feel like the center of the universe, so it's likely that no one will even notice and you'll somewhat be blissfully "alone". Photo: MK Feeney

14

Proposal under the Milky Way

Or just get away from city lights, anywhere, and propose under the milky way. Photo: Daxtonimaging

More like this

Sex + DatingWhen your boyfriend travels abroad to propose to you