But the Gold Coast can also surprise even the most dedicated beach snob with its sea hazed dunes, warm waves and soft, clean sand.

BBC: Shore thing: Australia��s beach obsession

Do not let the lack of spa-like ambience turn you off, though: the clean, warm and unchlorinated waters are soothing and invigorating, and soaking in them is more about the experience than the surroundings.

BBC: Soaking in Iceland��s social scene

This is when you can tell whether it's warm and sensual, floral and intoxicating, or aromatic and clean, she says.

WSJ: Finding a Signature Fragrance

Soap, warm water and a dry cloth are all you need, once a day, to keep glasses optimally clean and functional.

WSJ: How to Clean Your Glasses Properly

Japan's ANA, for instance, is outfitting its new 787 fleet with gender-segregated bathrooms that have windows and bidet-toilets ("Washlets") that offer warm, pressurized water jets for a fresher clean than one-ply paper.

CNN: Best economy-class innovations