PLANNING AN ENGAGEMENT? THESE ARE THE TOP PLACES IN THE WORLD TO PROPOSE

So, you've found the perfect ring for that special someone; now, all that's left is to plan the dreamiest proposal. Destination proposals have long been a popular way to ask for your love's hand in marriage, and it's easy to see why. Travelling is one of life's greatest privileges and pleasures, something to cherish in your memories forever, and being able to do that with a partner is unbeatable. To further those memories with a proposal means you'll always have a personal connection with that city, making it an important part of your relationship. These are our pick of the top 10 places to propose worldwide.

UNDER THE NORTHERN LIGHTS, FINLAND

There's something about a winter getaway that makes things feel more romantic, and seeing the Northern Lights is something on everyone's bucket list, so combine the memorable trip with an even more memorable proposal. Pulling this off might take a bit more planning, so talking to a tour guide is advisable to help arrange a private tour for two. Not only will they check the weather conditions to ensure you get the best light show, but they can also ensure a moment's privacy for you to pop the question. Wrap up warm, have some coffee in a flask (or a sneaky dram of whiskey!) on hand, and spend the first few hours of your engagement gazing up at the lights. Extra marks if you book to stay at one of the glass-topped igloos. 

OIA, SANTORINI

Everything about Santorini is romantic, from the endless blue Aegean ocean to the picturesque white-washed buildings, so it's no surprise that this is one of the top places in the world to propose. Just think how that 14K white gold band will glint in the sunshine. However, to ensure your proposal is more considered (and guarantees a 'yes!' of course), why plan to do it at the famous sundowner spot, Oia? Get there early to secure a prime viewing spot, and pop the question just as the sun dips below the horizon for that heady romantic backdrop. Book a surprise celebratory dinner at beloved 1800 to seal the deal further. 

CENTRAL PARK, NEW YORK

It's hard to imagine anything better than a picnic in Central Park. Iconic Dean and DeLuca's Madison Avenue store is near one of the Upper East Side entrances and is perfect for picking up a small lunch to take into the park. Set out a blanket, have some chilled bubbly on hand, and you have the ideal set-up to get down on your bent knee. Do you still need to find the perfect ring? Central Park is a leisurely walk from the Shimansky Diamond Experience store on 5th Avenue. 

ANTELOPE CANYON, ARIZONA

If you're both more interested in the outdoors, Antelope Canyon in Arizona is likely at the top of your dream travel list. With its scenic pink hues and smooth lines, the canyon is an incredible sight for anyone but would set an idyllic scene for a dream proposal. As you'll have to arrange a tour guide, you can liaise private access for that perfect moment, so make sure you plan correctly. 

PONT ALEXANDRE III, PARIS

You'd need help finding somewhere that isn't romantic in Paris. Every street corner with its gilded street lamps and extravagant architecture is something out of a fairytale, undoubtedly making Paris one of the top places in the world to propose. That being said, we don't encourage you to drop to one knee just anywhere, so after a stroll along the Champ Elysees, lead your paramour to the jaw-dropping Pont Alexandre III. Spend a moment admiring the view before asking your love for their hand in marriage. To allow the excitement to settle in, why not book a lavish dinner at Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athenee to celebrate in style? 

TABLE MOUNTAIN, CAPE TOWN

For any tourist visiting Cape Town, there are several non-negotiable sights to visit. From the V&A Waterfront, with one of the world's oldest working harbours (and a world-class Shimansky store to boot!), to the rolling plains of the Winelands, there is no shortage of romantic things to do. However, taking the cable car up to Table Mountain is simply unmissable. At the summit, you have a jaw-dropping 360º view of the Cape and all its glory. Where better to take the next step than on this very mountain? Once you traverse the top, find a quiet spot to propose and following the 'yes', move to the cosy wine bar on the terrace for a glass (or bottle) of something bubbly. Need more ideas for that dreamy proposal in Cape Town? We've got you covered. 

CAPRI, ITALY

Yet another endlessly romantic place, Capri truly is an island for romantics. After spending the day in the sun at one of the many beach clubs, book a dinner at Da Paolino (famous for the canopy of lemon trees). It might seem a bit old school to propose at dinner, but once you see this restaurant, you'll understand why it's one of the best places in the world to propose. Start dinner with some prosecco, slip in the question between the first and second course, and spend the rest of the meal basking in the glow of the new journey in your relationship. 

TAJ MAHAL, INDIA

Aside from verbalising your desire to spend the rest of your life with someone, a proposal is a moment to express the remarkable things about your partner and pay tribute to and honour them. Where better to do this than in front of the world's most significant romantic gesture – the Taj Mahal? Built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favourite wife, who died in childbirth, the Taj would be an incredible backdrop to your proposal. Once you've sealed the deal with a kiss and the ring, you can have a moment of pause in the nearby Metabh Bagh gardens. Word is it's best to watch the sunrise there, to make the most of the view and to beat the crowds. 

MOKORO RIDE, BOTSWANA

Away from cell signal, traffic and other pressures of daily life, being in the bush truly allows you to take a moment and connect with the one you're with. The Okavango Delta is one of the world's most incredible sights to see, but if you plan, it's also one of the best places to propose. Through luxury safari company And Beyond, you can arrange a magical stay at one of their plush tented camps, during which you can organise a mokoro ride. Head out just before sunset, where you will glide along the Delta. Then, once the sun is about to go down, present your love with the ring and enjoy the moment surrounded by the natural soundtrack provided by the African bush before heading back to the camp for celebrations around the fireplace. Are you looking for a ring to match the glowing African sunset? Shimansky's range of yellow diamond rings is for you.

ABOARD A TRAIN TO MACHU PICCHU, PERU

Hiking the Inca trail to Machu Picchu has to be one of the most humbling travel experiences, one that takes lots of preparation and physical fitness, but perhaps whipping out a ring. In contrast, sweaty and exhausted from the hike isn't the most romantic way to propose. If you'd rather admire the trail in a little more luxury, then the Belmond Andean Explorer is your trip. Not only do you stroll through the trail with a front-row seat to the exquisite views, but the team on board are there to ensure you have everything you require for a dream trip – or proposal. The final destination is Arequipa, a UNESCO World Heritage site that would be the perfect spot to propose. 

We can all agree that these are some of the best places in the world to propose. However, the perfect proposal is only possible with the perfect ring. Not sure where to find the ideal engagement ring?? We've compiled a handy guide here. Once you know what you're looking for, find it at the Shimansky stores nationwide.