Christmas may be over but ‘tis still the season to pop the question: 44 percent of proposals occur between Thanksgiving and Valentine’s Day. And since destination weddings are trending these days – why not destination engagements? It seems like a win-win to us, so we’ve tracked down a handful of unique destinations that have (occasionally unexpected) romance already built in. Getting down on one knee just got a lot more fun.
What’s cooler than proposing underneath 20,000,000 pounds of ice at Utah Ice Castles, essentially your very-own fairy tale castle? Midway, Utah’s ice castles, made from thousands of icicles, are full of tunnels, archways and caves to explore. End your adventure through this sparkling wonderland at a tower of lit up icicles, where a diamond ring is waiting.
DEAL: The Utah Ice Castle is just 30 minutes from the Waldorf Astoria Park City, which has a romantic Hot Tub Après experience perfect for celebratory post-proposal drinks with your new fiancé. The property is offering a Lift Ticket Package that includes two adult lift tickets per night booked to use at Park City Mountain Resort now through April 10.
The historic Stanley Hotel, in the scenic mountain village of Estes Park, famously served as Stephen King’s inspiration for The Shining. We know that book and its classic film adaptation aren’t exactly romantic fare (to say the least), but this spot is definitely not "all work and no play." The Stanley oozes with mysterious appeal, boasting elegant design features, an otherworldly hedge maze and a spooky history – book the hotel’s Ghost Adventure Package, for the full supernatural experience. The paranormal investigator and resident psychic on staff can help pop the question by interpreting the supernatural signs from the spirits said to haunt the hotel.
DEAL: With Rocky Mountain National Park as its backyard, the luxury boutique Della Terra Mountain Chateau in Estes Park is the epitome of elegance and romance. We’re talking about transparent fireplaces that can be enjoyed from the bedroom and bathroom, cascading waterfall walls adjacent to a claw-footed bathtubs and private terraces with their own hot tubs. The Romantic Winter Getaway package includes a two-night stay with champagne rose petals, flameless candles, a 60-minute in-room couples massage and breakfast in bed. Ooh la la.
Find yourself on the roof the CN Tower, looking down and hanging in the air high above Toronto’s skyline. Your heart is racing, either from being totally exposed on Toronto’s tallest tower, or in anticipation of the answer you’re hoping to hear. The EdgeWalk on CN Tower is the perfect proposal spot for thrill-seeking couples. Luckily there’s a photographer to capture the moment, so you can focus on the two rather large leaps of faith.
DEAL: Take advantage of the InterContinental Toronto Centre romance package with a stay in the heart of Toronto. The package includes deluxe room accommodations, chocolate truffles and strawberries, spa credits, breakfast in bed; and an AVEDA welcome amenity.
Valles Caldera in Albuquerque is the southwest’s scenic super volcano, and though the geological feature may be dormant, a romantic proposal here will heat things up. The national preserve is full wildlife, plus there’s epic hiking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing through the caldera. End your adventure with a soak in nearby natural hot springs.
DEAL: After exploring outdoors, take your engagement celebration to new heights. The Love is in the Air package combines accommodations at the charming Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm, complete with farm fresh breakfast, with a sunrise flight for two in an iconic Albuquerque hot air balloon.
