New research has revealed that modern Brits are dreaming of extravagant destination proposals, with over a fifth (21%) admitting they would be more likely to accept their partner’s hand in marriage if they popped the question in a sunny spot abroad over boring Blighty.

According to the findings from holiday expert, On the Beach, the locations we’re lusting after for pic-perfect proposals are Santorini (35%), Barbados (33%) and Crete (25%).

However, it seems planning a destination proposal is not without its stresses. When quizzed as to the most nerve-wracking aspects of proposal planning, Brits who had already popped the question revealed:

● Over half (52%) said they broke a sweat trying to hide the ring from their partner

● 45% struggled to get the ring through security undetected from prying eyes

● Of those who had already sealed the deal, well over a third (37%) revealed their other half had found the ring in their luggage. Eek!

But why not keep calm and stick it in your carry on? To help starry-eyed lovers enjoy a romantic and panic-proof proposal this summer, On the Beach has launched a trio of faux travel guides, hollowed out with secret ring box compartments to transport the precious cargo undetected. The travel guides are based on the nation’s top proposal wishlist destinations; Santorini, Barbados and Crete.

After a tricky few years for travel, 39% of Brits think people planning to pop the question overseas this year will make the most of their trip by combining it with an extended beach holiday. Genius! In fact, three in ten (31%) would actually rather their partner invest in a sun-soaked proposal holiday than a sparkly diamond.

Discussing the trend for destination proposals and the impact of a renewed interest in travel this year, Kate Mansfield, Dating & Relationship expert said: “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:

1. 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.

2. Get personal – details matter! Do your research if you don’t already know what your partner’s favorite everything is. Maybe their ideal cooked brekkie arrives as if by magic on the morning you propose, or a boujie bottle of bubbly is waiting for you at dinner? Also consider special dates and anniversaries when choosing the moment you want to propose.

3. 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, budding Romeos and Juliets should email [email protected] with their chosen destination, and guides will be gifted on a first-come-first-served basis.

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’! If you’re hoping to pop the question in one of our top destinations, you can book with confidence knowing we’ll make the most wonderful week of your year even more special with our Lounge and Fast Track perks (and help keep your secret safe too). Here’s hoping that 2022 is the year destination proposals can finally take flight!”

The findings also revealed:

● Two thirds (62%) agree extravagant proposals have become more common in recent years

● Over a third (35%) believe when and where someone proposes is just as important as the big day

● Over half (55%) think an ‘out of the blue’ proposal is the best kind, while 22% of those polled felt disappointed by their own proposal experience.

● Almost a quarter (23%) label traditional proposals in a restaurant or pub setting as outdated – and that’s not all, as 36% think asking permission to marry someone’s son or daughter is plain old fashioned.

For those Brits who do choose to propose at home in the UK there are also some important findings: as the worst situations to pop the question were revealed to be on the sofa while watching TV (43 percent), while doing the dishes (41 percent) and stealing a friend’s thunder by proposing at their wedding (40 percent).

Also to be avoided are proposing at the supermarket (38 percent), in the car (35 percent) and during a football match (33 percent).