The movements are purposeful during the morning Meditation Walk offered at Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve resort in Krabi, Thailand. Just as sunlight starts to shimmer on the blue-green Andaman Sea, the contemplative beach walk is led by a Buddhist monk from a nearby temple (or, if the monks are otherwise occupied, a trained instructor from the resort’s spa). A simpler version of the walking meditations performed by the holy men, this session encourages guests to focus on each body movement and deep breath as they slowly stroll along the coast, with the aim of clearing the mind, strengthening the mind-body connection and promoting relaxation. These goals are shared by the resort at large, too. With its serene ESPA offering traditional Thai treatments, 54 plush villas (each with a butler, custom-made 13-foot bed and bathtub built for four), and secluded, lush tropical setting, Phulay Bay has a special magic that has guests making vows of their own—perhaps not to join a monastery, but definitely to return as soon as possible. phulay-bay.com
—Sandra Ramani