“My most brilliant achievement was my ability to be able to persuade my wife to marry me”  - Winston Churchill

Churchill had a point. A successful proposal will be one of the biggest achievements of your life, and perhaps the one that makes the greatest contribution to your overall happiness. Naturally you want the moment to be perfect. After all it represents the most momentous decision a person can make.

There are some destinations that have become synonymous with romance. From Paris to Prague, these are the places that will give you the best chance of success.

Paris

Known as the ‘city of love’ there is nowhere more seductive than Paris. It is one of the world’s most alluring cities with its ornate bridges, shaded boulevards, delicious cuisine, and café terraces. The Eiffel Tower is the traditional choice for lovers looking to impress, and its panoramic views don’t disappoint.

However there is more to Paris romance than its most iconic landmark. Try the Jardin Du Luxembourg or a Seine dinner cruise for alternative proposal ideas.




Venice

Venice was home to the most famous lover of them all – Casanova. Although exclusivity wasn’t for him, the city remains alluringly seductive. Much of Venice’s romantic charm comes from its mysterious and other wordly quality, with traversing the network of canals being like stepping back in time.

The classic proposal location in Venice is on a Gondola ride. However this can be very pricey. For a proposal with a difference head to the Campanile bell tower in St Mark’s Square at sunset, and enjoy the panoramic views.


Bora Bora

Bora Bora is a beautiful pacific island off French Polynesia. Surrounded by a lagoon and a barrier reef, it is the definition of paradise. It is most famed for its luxury over-water bungalows, and lavish spas.

However to see the real Bora Bora you need to get off the beaten track. Dotted with the ruins of ancient villages, and ceremonial sites it is the ideal place to explore. Guided hikes can take you to the best spots for panoramic views, and that all important question.



Rome

The ‘Eternal City’ is forever on the proposal destination hot list. There is something intoxicatingly sexy about Italy that’s hard to ignore. A popular destination for couples is the ornate Trevi fountain. The locals believe that throwing a coin into the water guarantees that you will return to Rome – hopefully together!

If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle head to the Tivoli's Villa D'Este. The palace and gardens are a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture.


Prague

Prague is one of the most romantic cities in the world thanks to its preserved old-town, and fairy-tale architecture. It is often slightly over-looked in comparison to its French and Italian counterparts, but it has no less to offer.

The most romantic spot is the city’s castle – the largest complex of its type in the world. Like Paris the best way to see the city is by boat. A river cruise could provide the perfect setting for your request.

There are, of course, things that are out of your control; the answer being one of them. But you wouldn’t be asking the question if you hadn’t found somebody you believe is worth the risk. These 5 romantic destinations will set the scene for your perfect proposal, and hopefully a yes!

Bio: Estelle Page is a freelance interior designer who enjoys travelling. She writes part-time for Hotelopia.