Down on your knee, out with the ring: This is how men traditionally propose in the West, but it’s only one of many traditions.

a matter of choice

“Would you make miso soup for me every day?” In the past, Japenese women could expect their suitor to pop this question, but these days, most would prefer to be admired for more than just their cooking skills. In traditional families, however, the parents have the final say.

a matter of respect

Men in Fiji first approach a woman’s parents, who can expect to receive a beautiful pair of whale teeth as an engagement gift.

a matter of convention

Talk about traditional: Among heterosexuals in the United States, men propose to women 95 percent of the time. In Scotland and Ireland, women like to take the initiative – but only in a leap year, on February 29.

Rob Woodcoy, an American fine artist and photographer, is also a man on a mission. His montages, centered on the human figure, tell stories and convey how diverse we are as individuals. He runs photography workshops, too – including one in northern California this month.

robwoodcox.com

On Scheelhoek Island in The Netherlands, you can observe sandwich terns, an endangered species of bird, at the egg-shaped TIJ Observatory jointly designed by RAU Architects and Ro&Ad Architects – composed entirely of natural materials.

rau.eu

The Kakku pagodas – of which there are over 2000 – have bells in their dainty towers that tinkle in the wind. The 16th-century temple complex is sacred to the Pa-O people, but visitors are now allowed to enjoy the magic, too.

inlelaketourism.com/kakku-pagodas.asp

If you and your family can’t decide where to take your next vacation, try one of these tips: They combine the sea, the mountains and a city getaway in a single destination.