St. Maaten has always been one of my favorite places. Powdery sand beaches, warm turquoise water, superb gastronomy and both a “Dutch” side and “French” side create quite the tropical cocktail. Just 37 square miles with an inviting European ambiance along with a laid back Caribbean vibe, the idyllic isle offers a fantastic beachy escape. Many prefer to stay on the Dutch side, which has more amenities, activities and lively nightlife - to the more relaxed French side, which has its own charms. Adding to the island’s allure - English is spoken everywhere, the dollar is accepted currency and direct flights touch down in paradise.

Set in the middle of the azure waters of the South Pacific Ocean, Fiji is a true paradise. This enchanting island with breathtaking landscapes offers sun- kissed powdery sand beaches, coconut palms, lush tropical vegetation, friendly people and more. The stunning archipelago famous for its vibrant coral reefs and under water wonders makes an idyllic oasis for those seeking to luxuriate in nature and get away from it all.

The highly anticipated Jay, an Autograph Collection Hotel - part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio, launched last November in San Francisco’s lively Embarcadero neighborhood. This luxurious charmer with a prime location near the Ferry Building, features 360 stylish rooms and suites, some with terraces offering stunning bay vistas. And these “viewing spots” are sublime.

Sipping a mojito in my cushy cabana at Velas Vallarta while gazing at the cerulean sea, sure felt like paradise to me. Puerto Vallarta captivates with its sun kissed beaches against the backdrop of the Sierra Madre Mountains. This trendy resort town on Mexico’s Pacific Coast with a lively palm tree lined oceanfront malecon (promenade), offers a vibrant art scene, voguish boutiques, superb gastronomy and happening nightlife.

You might not have the town of Richmond, Rhode Island on your travel bucket list, but amidst this small town (where the population is barely over 8,000) lies a sprawling resort that has visitors coming in droves.