live Russia says drone attack damages logistics hub in Samara region
A large-scale drone attack has hit Russia's Samara region, damaging facilities and disrupting operations at an Ozon logistics complex, accordin...
Tourists from all over the world flock to Paris, France for elaborate Valentine’s Day proposals, with agencies reporting record bookings and luxury packages reaching up to €100,000.
A Texan man surprised his girlfriend with a tearful “yes” on a Paris terrace overlooking the Eiffel Tower this week, hiring a local proposal planning agency to create the perfect romantic scene. White roses, candles, and careful choreography marked the one-year anniversary moment for Josue Perales and Kayla Balboa.
Paris-based agencies report a surge in demand for such proposals ahead of Valentine’s Day, catering to couples willing to spend thousands for unforgettable experiences.
Les Entremetteuses, also known as “The Matchmakers,” coordinates hundreds of proposals annually, with founder Pauline Le Tendre describing Valentine’s Day as her “busiest day of the year.”
Packages at Les Entremetteuses start at €590 ($699) for a riverside proposal and rose petals, while more elaborate setups range from €1,500 to €2,000 ($1,779–$2,372). Some clients opt for additional services such as performers, champagne, and photography.
Luxury-focused agency Kiss Me in Paris offers highly choreographed proposals in top hotels, yachts, French chateaux, or full-day Paris experiences, with average spending of €10,000 ($11,861) and some clients paying up to €100,000 ($118,614).
Co-founder Cengiz Ozelsel said the prestige of a Parisian engagement appeals to couples seeking an “Instagrammable” moment.
Agencies report growing demand from international clients, particularly from English-speaking countries. Oui Love Paris, which focuses on budget-friendly proposals, has seen bookings quadruple since 2020.
Social media, popular shows like Emily in Paris, and global events such as the Paris 2024 Olympics have helped boost Paris’ reputation as a romantic destination.
For Perales, using local experts simplified logistics and reduced stress. “It was so much easier,” he said. Proposal planners say the work is emotionally rewarding, noting that couples invite them into some of their most intimate moments.
“It’s really, really, really important that they walk away feeling like, ‘Oh my gosh, that was wonderful, that was amazing,’” said Ozelsel’s wife and co-founder Chantelle Marie Streete.
Shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remains limited on Thursday, with no increase in vessel crossings as U.S.-Iran talks to resolve the conflict remained stalled. Nine commodity vessels transited the key waterway on Wednesday, unchanged from the previous day, according to Kpler data.
Russia is open to listening to new proposals on how to reach a settlement on the Ukraine conflict, a senior Russian diplomat said, but any proposals should reflect the "realities on the ground".
A large-scale drone attack has hit Russia's Samara region, damaging facilities and disrupting operations at an Ozon logistics complex, according to regional authorities and the company.
Iran has condemned new U.S. sanctions as “economic terrorism” and “crimes against humanity”, accusing Washington of pursuing a decades-long policy of hostility. Tehran said the measures would not weaken its resolve to defend its sovereignty and national interests.
Türkiye said on Thursday it would continue helping Syria strengthen its military, despite rising tensions with Israel over Ankara’s role in the country.
Kanye West’s first solo concert in Central Asia delivered an estimated five billion tenge ($11 million) tourism boost to Almaty, drawing 31,000 spectators from more than 50 countries.
American actress Hayden Panettiere, known for her roles in TV shows such as Nashville and Heroes, has died at the age of 36, ABC News reported on Sunday, citing her representative.
Four artworks by 15th-century painter Antonello da Messina have been stolen overnight from the Museo Regionale di Messina, Italy's culture minister said on Sunday, expressing confidence in the police inquiry.
Cristiano Ronaldo has given one of his clearest indications yet that his playing career is nearing its end, saying the 2026-27 season will “probably” be his last in professional football.
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has changed Eurovision Song Contest rules to allow a winning country to be blocked from hosting if security risks, armed conflict or geopolitical tensions make it unsafe to stage the event.
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