Jumeirah Vittaveli

Floating lazily in the shallow water, you graze your palm along the powdery bottom. Kicked up grains of sand tickle your newly tanned arms, while the sun glints off a drop of water on your cheek - skirting past the defense of your dark glasses.

As you exit the Indian Ocean, you turn with a smirk to wave good-bye to all the curious marine life you'd spied while snorkeling earlier. The Maldives had welcomed you with open arms, as had Jumeirah Vittaveli. Walking up the beach, your villa came into view. Sure, there were 36 others (plus 39 more out over the sea), but this one was yours, and it felt like home.

Following a quick splash in your outdoor shower, you dress for dinner and head out. As you leave, you make a note: "Take moonlit bath this evening."

Yesterday had been Ashtanga yoga followed by Mediterranean fare at the over-water Fennesse. Today, as the huge sun relented and began to sink, you'd decided for something a bit more casual. Kicking off your sandals in favor of feeling the sand on your still city-soft feet, you headed for Mu, a beach grill with surf, turf, and an infinite ceiling of stars.