Best Spots to Propose in Madrid

Madrid is the crown jewel of the sun drenched country that is known as Spain. When little girls dream of their engagements, they envision endless sunshine, white powdery beaches, and quite often also include the amenities found so often in historical Spain: the castle, the drawbridge, and the gilded ballrooms. Eventually the little girls will grow up and become women who enter the dating world and it will not be too long until they meet the one who will become their future husband. Of course, should Mr. Right not take a hint from the dreams spun so long ago and save up his proposal for just the right moment? Quite possibly the right moment will come in beautiful Spain where sunshine and mystique are as commonplace as dreams and romance.

As the capital of Spain, Madrid is the perfect backdrop to a proper marriage proposal of the romantically minded. First on the list of possibilities for him to get down on one knee and pop that life changing question is the Parque del Buen Retiro which is in the heart of the city. Dating back to about 1868 when the property was opened to those who were not of royal blood, this park has a large number of breathtaking features that add romance to a sunny day. There are water displays as well as lush gardening that still hints at the symmetrical garden exhibits once favored by royalty.

For those who are spiritual as well as romantic, the Jardin del Monasterio de El Escorial is another choice location. Located about 30 minutes outside of Madrid this monastery does serve a solemn purpose - it does contain a number of catacombs - yet it is open to visitors and displays a fascinating array of artifacts. The library with its display of ancient Bibles is the prime location for the religious couple to contemplate their nuptials, and for the man to slip that ring on his future bride's finger.

World travelers know that the symbol so often displayed in maps and postcards that best encompasses the spirit of the city is the Plaza de Cibeles which showcases a group of lions drawing a chariot. This famous statue will give you the perfect opportunity to ask that one question you know is the next step in your relationship, and once the affirmative answer is received there will be plenty of fellow tourists or Madrilenos who will be more than happy to snap your picture to help you remember this day forever.

Of course, if you want to wait until after a light lunch, or early dinner, why not go to the famous Plaza Mayor or Puerta Del Sol? These outdoor venues are reminiscent of giant courtyards filled with small restaurants, cafes, and boutiques. Residents and visitors alike mingle, relax, and people watch. Marriage proposals are not a rarity, and the approving nods of visiting nuns, as well as the enthusiastic applause of restaurant owners and their guests will encourage you to actually say the words once you have sunk down on your knee.

So go ahead and visit this dazzling metropolis that offers history, bodega wineries, awe inspiring medieval castles, and of course the ancient villages that seem to still look like they did more than 200 years ago. The dizzying castanets, dining and dancing, as well as world famous flamenco dancers and guitar players will send your engagement off to a memorable start. So go ahead and plan your getaway! Make it as extravagant as you like, and do not spare the expense to get in cahoots with the Spanish maitre d' - after all, if you are planning on hiding the ring in a dessert or drink, proper timing is everything!