You asked: My exhausted investment banker husband and I are looking for a beautiful resort, not too far from New York, that offers surfing instruction. What would you recommend? L.C., New York

There are quite a few places that offer the combination of great surf instruction and real pampering but most require at least ten hours of flying time from the East Coast. Given your distance issue, I’ve arranged the options in order of proximity.

The closest pampering resort with surfing would be the Four Seasons Punta Mita. I have a good friend who went for his honeymoon a number of years ago—specifically so they could take surf lessons. They loved it so much that they are returning for their anniversary this year. To read his postcard, click here. Rooms from $375.

Next closest option would be in Central America, specifically Nicaragua and Costa Rica, but none of the places there have accommodations that would pamper an exhausted banker, so I’m not even listing them here. You can look at some on the surf camp booking site www.quiksilvertravel.com

In our Bali destination report our correspondent raves about a surf resort at the southern tip of the island that caters specifically to teaching women, in case you decide to go on your own. See Surf Goddess.

Finally, the Four Seasons Maldives at Kuda Huraa (North Malé Atoll, Republic of Maldives; 800-819-5053; www.fourseasons.com/maldives) also offers surfing instruction. The late NY Times journalist R.W. Apple Jr. wrote about (the resort, not the surfing) for me at Town & Country and thought it was a gorgeous spot. The thought of him riding waves would amuse him and anyone who knew him. Rooms from $580 until July 15; $680 after.

See also info on Tamarindo, Costa Rica in the Discussion Boards