Work hard, play hard, that’s the motto in our family. We don’t take much time off, but when we do we try to plan a vacation that will appeal to our need for rest as well as our need for fantasy and escape.

This year we spent seven glorious days on the island of Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands. If secluded white sand beaches, crystalline turquoise waters, soft trade winds, and that delicious vibe of African, Latin and European culture sounds good then this one’s for you.

Little Dix Bay offers secluded, ocean front cottages in an understated mix of rattan, stone, and tropical prints.

I could stare out at that view all day.

Nothing like your own chartered boat and crew to make you feel as glamorous as a Bond Girl.

Willy T’s – Perfect place to park your boat, climb aboard and have some freshly grilled fish, a cocktail and some naughty talk from bartender “Zeus.”

My beach read this year was “Elizabeth…The First Wife” by Lian Dolan. A clever, breezy read about learning to feel good about yourself and not worry about what anyone else thinks.

It was a tough job, but somebody had to do it!