TL;DR: Mauritius and the Seychelles offer white sand, clear lagoons and palm lined beaches. In Mauritius, Le Morne and a catamaran trip to an island are popular, and in the Seychelles, Anse Source d'Argent on La Digue, Anse Lazio on Praslin and a sandbank picnic by boat stand out. Propose on dry sand, because a ring can slip off a wet finger, and rinse the ring in fresh water after salt or suncream. Pieces start from £600.
Why the Indian Ocean islands
The water is clear, the beaches are beautiful and the resorts are set up for romance. It suits couples who want a holiday proposal with calm water and warm weather, and who would like their resort to help with the details.
Mauritius
- Le Morne beach, with a mountain backdrop and calm water.
- A catamaran trip to an island. Check operators.
- A private beach dinner at a resort.
- Chamarel, with its coloured earth and waterfall, for a scenic inland moment.
Seychelles
- Anse Source d'Argent on La Digue, with granite boulders and pale sand. Check access arrangements.
- Anse Lazio on Praslin, a beautiful bay.
- A sandbank picnic by boat.
Choosing between them
- For a mix of beach and landscape, choose Mauritius.
- For granite boulders and wild beaches, choose the Seychelles.
- For comfort and service, choose a resort beach dinner.
- For a sense of escape, choose a boat to a sandbank.
Seasons
Both are warm for much of the year. Check seasonal winds and rain for the month you plan to go.
Planning the moment
- Choose a spot and a backup, and ask the resort what they can arrange.
- Check boat timetables and sea conditions.
- Time the moment for golden light, and plan a dinner afterwards.
- Arrange a photographer through your resort or a local.
Working with your resort
Resorts on both islands are used to proposals, and many have someone who can arrange flowers, a private table on the sand or a quiet spot at sunset. Contact them before you travel, explain that it is a surprise and ask them to keep any messages to you only. Agree a signal for the moment, so staff know when to bring champagne or start taking photographs. If plans depend on the weather, ask what their indoor or sheltered backup looks like.
Choosing a ring for island life
A holiday proposal often means the ring is worn straight away in sun, sand and sea air. A low, secure setting such as a bezel or a well made claw setting is a practical choice, and it is easier to keep clean of sand and suncream. Platinum and gold both cope well with salt air, though every ring benefits from a rinse in fresh water at the end of the day.
Water, sand and the ring
A ring can slip off a wet finger, so propose on dry sand, and take it off before swimming. Rinse the ring in fresh water after salt or suncream. Our guide to beach holiday ring care goes further, and travel storage for rings covers carrying it.
Flying with the ring
Keep the ring in your hand luggage on the long flight, ideally in a zipped pocket rather than its box, so it does not show up at security in front of your partner. Keep your paperwork with you, and check customs rules for each country on your route. Our guide to proposing abroad: customs, insurance and airport security covers the details.
Ordering from the UK
We work by video consultation and message, send sketches and CAD renders, and make nothing until you approve the design in writing. Standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, varying with your location and how busy we are. Delivery is insured and tracked with FedEx, and the customer pays import duty and tax, which differ by country. See ten questions international customers ask.
Frequently asked questions
Can the resort help?
Most can with notice.
Should I wear the ring in the sea?
It is safer not to.
When is the best time?
Check seasonal winds and rain for your dates.
Should I insure the ring before I travel?
Yes, speak to your insurer about cover abroad before you fly.
How far ahead should I order the ring?
Allow at least 8 weeks, more for overseas delivery.