Work gets me feeling pretty stressed, and by the time vacation comes around, I’m beyond ready for St. Barths, my idea of paradise. One of the most physically beautiful places I’ve been to, St. Barths has incredible white beaches, calm crystal clear turquoise waters warm enough to bathe in, and perfect spots along the rocky coast to watch the sunsets. And set amidst this natural beauty are happening restaurants, huge yachts, some of the best shopping around, and people and celebrity-watching that is pretty indescribable, especially considering the island’s compact seven square miles of size. Seductively hip? Absolutely, but it’s the warmth and welcoming feel I get that makes St. Barths so magical for me.