Loved-up Britons are dreaming of extravagant destination proposals, with more than a fifth admitting they would be more likely to accept if they popped the question in a sunny spot abroad. According to the findings from holiday expert, On the Beach, locations for the perfect proposals are Santorini (35 per cent), Barbados (33 per cent) and Crete (25 per cent).
However, it seems planning a destination proposal is not without its stresses. When quizzed as to the most nerve-wracking aspects of proposal planning, Britons who had already popped the question revealed:
- More than half (52 per cent) said they broke a sweat trying to hide the ring from their partner
- Some 45 per cent struggled to get the ring through security undetected from prying eyes
- Of those who had already sealed the deal, more than a third revealed their other half had found the ring in their luggage.
On the Beach has launched a trio of faux travel guides for the top three destinations, hollowed out with secret ring box compartments to transport the precious cargo undetected. Zoe Harris, chief customer officer at On the Beach, said: “Our research shows that when making the ultimate romantic gesture it really does pay to ‘put a wing on it’ and head abroad - whether that’s swimming with turtles in Barbados, or watching the sun set in Santorini.
"It all adds to the excitement and romance, and seems to be a sure-fire way to secure that all important ‘yes’. Here’s hoping that 2022 is the year destination proposals can finally take flight.”
Kate Mansfield, dating and relationship expert, added: “It’s unsurprising that Brits are more likely to say ‘yes’ to a proposal while on holiday. Exposure to warmth and sunlight is hugely beneficial and a natural mood booster - helping you to keep calm, positive and focused in the moment.”
Sharing her top tips for a panic-proof proposal, Kate advises:
- Plan ahead for a yes: Tap up the hotel hospitality on offer to you ahead of arrival. Speak to staff about the finishing touches that will help you prepare before the big day. On the Beach even offer free airport fast track and lounge access on 4* & 5* bookings, so you can glide through customs and set the special tone for your trip from the outset.
- Get personal: Do your research if you don’t already know what your partner’s favourite everything is. Maybe their ideal cooked breakfast arrives as if by magic on the morning you propose, or a bottle of bubbly is waiting at dinner? Also consider special dates and anniversaries when choosing the moment you want to propose.
- Keep a close watch on your VIP (Very Important Package): Getting the ring through security undetected can seem like a challenge, but this is where your On the Beach travel guide really comes into its own! Try to avoid putting it into your checked luggage and instead pack it in your hand luggage for safekeeping.
For those wanting to get their hands on one of the limited-edition, ring smuggling travel guides, email putawingonit@onthebeach.co.uk with their chosen destination, and guides will be gifted on a first-come-first-served basis. For more information about On the Beach’s offers for summer 2022, head to www.onthebeach.co.uk
