JOE YOGERST From the beautiful skies and bright blue seas of Kunfunadho Atoll to the fresh fruits found there, the Maldives are a little piece of paradise in the middle of the Indian Ocean.

What's Inside Ecapes Memorable moments for the bride and groom More Americans set their sights on taking vacations abroad Sometimes, you only get a taste of a place San Francisco's 'Nutcracker' full of memories, magic Ski resorts spend green to attract vacationers Make room for one more megaresort, the Cosmopolitan Travel services now reach out to all in the family More Travel

Awesome archipelago

The Maldives are gaining attention, but they're still an upspoiled paradise in the Indian Ocean

By Joe Yogerst

The late Spalding Gray used to talk about "perfect moments" – an overwhelming notion that you wouldn't want to be any other place, doing anything else, than what's happening at that precise moment.

Gray's perfect moment took place on a beach in southern Thailand. Mine transpired on a sandy shore in the Maldives, islands that droop like turquoise and sapphire tears in the middle of the Indian Ocean.

• Mosques, minarets and markets are highlights

San Francisco Convention and Visitors Bureau is offering Visa card users discounts at area hotels, attractions, restaurants and shops.