NEW YORK - Is there anything more romantic than getting engaged in New York City?
In the movies, men always propose to women they love in New York City. They pop the question at the top of the Empire State Building, in Central Park, in a horse-drawn carriage or while ice-skating at Rockefeller Center.
The hard part is all the details. How do you actually make things happen for a New York engagement trip?
The place to pop the question: Yes, you can do it at the top of the Empire State Building - but the hassle factor of long lines (up to an hour wait on busy days) can put a damper on romance. Be sure to buy your $19 tickets online in advance to skip the ticket line; for $45 you can get an express ticket that puts you at the front of security and elevator lines, too ( www.esbnyc.com . 212-736-3100).
Central Park has many beautiful spots, but one of the most romantic is the arching Gapstow Bridge in the park's southeast corner, with its backdrop of city skyscrapers. Pop the question there, then go skating at the nearby Wollman ice rink. If you're the literary type, try proposing near the statue of Romeo and Juliet near the Delacorte Theater ( www.centralparknyc.org , 212-310-6600).
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If you want to ask her in a horse-drawn carriage, you can either be spontaneous and hire one on 59th Street at the south border of Central Park, or call ahead to reserve an engagement ride. One choice is Manhattan Carriage Co. (40 minutes, $100, 212-664-1149). They'll stop at the romantic Cherry Hill alcove in Central Park so you can propose.
If you want to do it amid the swirl of holiday lights, now through Jan. 2 is the time. The tree at Rockefeller Center is alight, the elaborate department store windows shine and seasonal shopping such as the Shops at Bryant Park are open.
And if you want to ask her on the ice under the big Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center, tickets at the famous rink are $13.50-$17.50 per person plus $9 for skates ( www.rapatina.com/iceRink/engagementOnIce.swf , 212-332-7654).
Once you are on the ice, find yourself a break in the crowd.
Then take a deep breath, take her hand, don't fall down, and ask that big question: "Will you marry me?"
