For those who couldn’t care less about snow-blanketed lodges and ski vacations, we give you permission to abscond to a warm beach with a sarong and frivolous paperback. And if you feel jaded, and wish to escape the sentimental commercialism of Christmas entirely, we recommend a destination steeped in other spiritual traditions. Godspeed, and may you return with your soul stirred.

Providenciales Island, Turks and Caicos Islands

“Provo” lies 600 miles south of Miami, where the Atlantic meets the Caribbean, and boasts clear turquoise water, teeming reefs, and temperatures in the 80s. The ultra-luxe Amanyara Resort on the island’s secluded western shore has a white-sand beach dotted with wood-roofed, glass-walled private pavilions set amid reflecting ponds and mahogany trees. Be warned: This is uncluttered island life at its most languid. You may arrive at Amanyara determined to enjoy the world-class snorkeling, clay tennis courts, and open-air yoga studio, but even the best laid plans are undone by expansive sundecks, infinity pools, and overstuffed daybeds with bar service. Rates for pavilions begin at $1,500 with a minimum stay of three nights.