Studio founder Guillaume Provost says developers in emerging markets must contemplate how their projects can 'punch through the noise barrier.'

I never knew I could lust over a kitchen appliance.

With summer vacations on the horizon, Disney Experiences are popping off at their bi-coastal theme parks, Disney Cruises, and international destinations. Walt Disney World is getting a nighttime parade featuring new Pixar and Disney Animation Studios favorites, while Mickey Mouse and the Fab Five get dapper outfits to shine along with Starlight. Spooky fun is already beginning with the Disney Villains getting their own show at WDW’s Hollywood Studios and Halloween party tickets going on sale. Over at Disneyland, the 70th anniversary party is in full swing with fun festive foods and more. At Disneyland Paris, the theme park dances the summer away with a new music festival. And Disney Cruises prepares to set sail with the fleet’s newest ship in this week’s theme park news. Walt Disney World – Starlight This summer brings an all-new nighttime parade, Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away, which will debut July 20, 2025. The Magic Kingdom Park exclusive will bring back nighttime parades to the Walt Disney World resort and will feature classic and new Disney and Pixar fandom faves along the parade route on Main Street. The sparkling floats will light up the night and of course we’re excited to see the updates to Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and Daisy’s costumes for the summer premiere. Walt Disney World – Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After There has been a need for more indoor shows as Walt Disney World’s humid summer gets underway, so why not some chilling tales from the Disney Villains to beat the heat? We’re excited to check out Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After for a fun musical romp through villain showstoppers and more. Walt Disney World – Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Haunted Mansion’s Butler Broom extends the invitation for what’s sure to be a swinging wake. New this year will be a Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse spooky meet and greet at the Town Square Theater. For those of us with little tots, the Storybook Circus will get a “happy haunt” transformation to help the smallest of Disney fans ease into the spirit of the season—since it is Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween after all. Along with popular returning faves, the event will run August 15 to October 31. Tickets here. Disney Imagineering tour of Epcot’s Moana: Journey of Water Delight in one of our favorite walkthrough attractions at Walt Disney World to keep summer visitors cool with Imagineering’s fun-fact filled behind the scenes look at Moana: Journey of Water. Disneyland 70th Food This summer, aside from watching all the nighttime shows and scavenger hunting with the key to Disneyland, we’ll be eating our way through the parks. Our current fave dish is the 70th celebration Mickey Waffles at Schmoozies which are like confetti cake in flavor and have a creamy strawberry center that’s not to be missed. Disneyland France – Disney Music Festival © Disneyland Paris Disneyland Paris makes a debut as a music festival destination from now until September 7 with the Disney Music Festival. The event will combine all genres of music with experiences inspired by Pixar and Disney Animation favorites, with hubs dedicated to various genres of music. That includes a mariachi band with Coco’s Miguel in Frontierland, jazz with Mary Poppins in Town Square, rock n’ roll with Elvis Stitch in Discoveryland, and more characters getting in on the fun. I want to know to know the story of DJ Chip and Dale, who just by the looks of their outfits look like they mean house music business. Disney Cruise – The Disney Destiny The comic book action and fairytale magic of Disney, Pixar, and Marvel heroes and villains will soon take over the Disney Destiny, the newest ship set to embark on ocean adventures in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. The Destiny will begin its trips later this year on November 20 with 4-5 night cruises taking off from the port of Fort Lauderdale to the Bahamas and Western Caribbean. We’re excited for the ship’s epic looking Hercules show and the gorgon battle teased in the image above. Duffy and Friends Celebrate 20 years at Tokyo DisneySea The iconic international bear Duffy and his friends are turning 20. The celebration is hittingTokyo DisneySea for seaside fun this year with special food, entertainment and merch. I hope we get some stateside soon! We need LinaBell and other plushes for those of us collecting. Star Wars BDX Droids on a World Tour – Tokyo Disneyland International Disney fans can meet the Star Wars droids which will be featured in Jon Favreau’s The Mandalorian and Grogu until June 30 at Tokyo Disneyland. Spider-Man themed land breaks ground at Shanghai Disney Resort The Marvel Cinematic (theme park) Universe expands at Shanghai Disneyland with a new Spider-Man inspired land which will host new shows, dining, and attractions. Notably there will be a high-octane coaster that will swing you around on a heroic action encounter with Spidey. Land broke on May 18 for the area which will neighbor the recently opened Zootopia land. Makes sense, the Wonderful World of Disney insects living next to animals and all. Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.

Michael Burrell//Getty ImagesIncreasing the value of your home is a concept you'll hear about repeatedly once you're a homeowner. While it might be tempting to see a new roof or sparkling kitchen as an "investment" instead of a massive expense, sometimes that kind of budget rebranding just isn't in the cards. The good news? There are actually a myriad of ways to increase your home's value without breaking the bank. We asked the property experts at Jones Whyte for their top tips for increasing your home's value without spending a fortune, and their advice focuses on enhancing your home's overall appearance, functionality, and efficiency. The key is for homeowners is to adopt the mindset of a potential buyer, explains Nick Hay, a partner at Jones Whyte. “Make improvements that you would look for when buying a house for yourself. By doing this, you can create a welcoming and appealing home that buyers can easily envision as their own.” Below, we're rounding up five of the easiest—and most inexpensive—ways you can see a big boost in profit, should you choose to sell your home. Clean Up Your Curb AppealNate SheetsFirst impressions are key to a welcoming home. A regular landscaping routine is a low-budget way to make an impact. Start by regularly mowing, edging, and trimming your lawn, managing your weeds well, and tearing out any old, dead, or dying plants. Doing this consistently over time ensures you never have an unmanageable mess, and you know what thrives in your front and backyard.Beyond that, Hay also recommends installing outdoor lighting or repairing any broken fixtures you may have on the exterior of your home. This can improve your house's overall safety while creating a warm and inviting glow. Make Small (But Significant) SwapsStephen Kent JohnsonIf there are areas of your home that make you fantasize about a costly gut renovation (especially your bathroom or kitchen), think about small upgrades that can make a big impact. “In the bathroom, you can replace old lighting fixtures, re-caulk the tub, or add a new shower curtain and rug,” he says. We also suggest a new front door paint color, a few window flower boxes, and fresh cabinet hardware for a budget-friendly refresh.Focus on Energy-EfficiencyHaris KenjarLongevity has become a major point of interest recently for potential home buyers. Amid climate change unpredictability and financial turmoil, people want to know they're buying a home that will last—and a large part of this has to do with energy efficiency. “If there's room in your budget, consider investing in extra insulation or a more efficient heating system,” says Hay. These types of projects often have a larger up-front cost but can help raise your home's overall value and lower your energy bills at the same time. Plus, many energy-efficient home projects can come with a tax credit to help offset costs. Incorporate Smart Storage SolutionsAdam MacchiaMaximizing the square footage you already have is an easy (and functional) way to boost your home's value without spending a lot of money. Installing shelving in an unused closet, decluttering your crawl space or attic, and making use of the vertical space in your home are all great places to start. There's no shortage of organizing inspiration online to guide you, including our tips from professional home organizers.Invest in Home StagingNate SheetsWhen it comes time to sell your home, consider investing in a professional home stager. Just as you trust the expertise of a real estate agent, stagers are tasked with knowing exactly what a potential buyer is looking for in a home's interior and delivering on it. While the list of home staging tasks is long and varied, you can expect them to clean, re-arrange furniture (and sometimes bring in new pieces), decorate, and re-style your home to help you put your best foot forward. This helps potential buyers envision themselves in the space, which can result in more interest and higher offers after a viewing or open house.Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

The Google I/O 2025 keynote was all about Gemini and AI. But it's nice to see that the Chrome desktop browser got some new updates and features, too. While Gemini has been available in every web browser so far, until now, it's still very much just been a website. Meanwhile, over on Android, the Gemini app integrates deeply into the ecosystem. Thankfully for AI fanatics, it can now do that in Chrome, too. Plus, Google is adding some quality-of-life upgrades to the password management system, as the browser can now change your passwords for you, automating one of the most tedious but important security tasks there is.Gemini comes to Chrome on desktop Starting tomorrow, Gemini AI in Chrome will start rolling out to Google AI Pro and Google AI Ultra subscribers in the US, but only in English. Google is starting slow here. The first version will allow users to ask Gemini to clarify information that's on a web page, or to summarize a page. But in the future, Google plans to add more features, allowing Gemini to navigate websites on your behalf and access multiple tabs at once. Gemini will be available in the Chrome toolbar. Clicking the sparkling icon will bring up a floating window that you're free to move anywhere you like. According to a demo provided to The Verge, the Gemini feature can be used between two tabs simultaneously. In the demo, the user accessed Gemini on a shopping page, got a summary of the product, and asked it some questions. Then, when they switched to another tab, they used Gemini to compare a new product with the one in the old tab. Later in the year, Google says Gemini will work across more than two tabs, as well. Chrome can now change your outdated passwords for you Credit: Google Google really wants to help you fix your bad, leaked passwords. Currently, when you use Google Password Manager to sign into a website with a password that needs changing, Google will ask you if you want to change your password. What's new is a button called Change it for me. When you're using a compatible website, you can use this new feature to have Google change your password in the background for you. This new password will then be added to your Google Password Manager. There's no mention that it uses AI, and it's set to launch later this year, but there is a catch.That's that websites needs to be updated on the developer's end for the feature to work, so it'll take a while before you see widespread adoption. Google is urging developers to adapt to its system before the feature ships, though, so larger website will hopefully get on board before then. Also, while the password change itself is automatic, the feature will always ask for your consent first before it changes a password.

The Coca-Cola Co. just announced its newest limited-time soda, and it’s a combination of Sprite and tea that was initially floated by a team of interns six years ago. Sprite + Tea just hit shelves earlier across the U.S. and Canada, and is expected to remain on the market through October. The soda is available in both regular and zero-sugar varieties, and, according to a press release, it “blends the crisp, lemon-lime refreshment of Sprite with the classically refreshing flavor of tea.” The new product arrives just a month after Coca-Cola announced better-than-anticipated first-quarter 2025 financial results, logging a 2% year-over-year revenue decline but maintaining its growth forecasts for 2025, unlike rival PepsiCo. For years now, Coca-Cola has been experimenting with new, unexpected flavor combinations designed to attract younger consumers, ranging from Spiced Coke to last summer’s Sprite Chill and the ever-popular seasonal rerelease Sprite Winter Spiced Cranberry. Most recently, the company introduced Orange Cream Coke, citing “growing demand among millennials and Gen Z-ers for fun, unexpected tastes and sensory experiences” as the inspiration behind the nostalgic flavor. [Photo: Coca-Cola] Unlike these other flavor plays from the company, Sprite + Tea might already be familiar to many fans. That’s because before it became an official product, the soda started as an idea floated by Coca-Cola interns that later became a viral DIY TikTok trend. TikTok saw it first In an interview with Ad Age, Coca-Cola Co. senior creative director A.P. Chaney explained that Sprite + Tea first landed on executives’ radars back in 2019, when a group of interns pitched a combination of the two beverages.  “It was an R&D project, and interns were asked to come up with different innovations and marketing ideas for different brands, and Sprite + Tea was an ideation of that,” Chaney told Ad Age. From there, the idea seems to have sat on the back burner until summer 2023, when a DIY Sprite tea started popping up on TikTok. In an initial TikTok by Malaysian chef Hisham Raus, Raus is shown steeping Lipton tea bags in a regular bottle of Sprite and enjoying the concoction with a slice of lemon. The video, which has since racked up 19.8 million views and 1.3 million likes, has spawned dozens of copycat videos across platforms like YouTube Shorts and Instagram Reels. Food influencer @shophocho7798 re-created the concept in a YouTube video with 3.7 million views, calling the result “literally a carbonated Arnold Palmer.” In another YouTube short with 8.3 million views, creator Jordan Howlett declared the hack “delicious” and encouraged his 4.4 million subscribers to give it a try. “When [the trend] blew up on TikTok with millions of views, it was a gut check that we were on the right track,” Chaney said in the company’s press release. While it’s unlikely that Coca-Cola is actually using the tea bag hack to mass-produce Sprite + Tea, the release does note that Coca-Cola’s North American R&D team “completed several rounds of consumer testing to fine-tune the formula for the amber-colored sparkling beverage.”  For Coca-Cola, Sprite seems to be a reliable base for flavor remixes: In 2024, the limited-time Sprite Chill became the company’s best-selling drink innovation, and Sprite Winter Spiced Cranberry has returned several times as a holiday fan favorite since 2013. Meanwhile, the recent Spiced Coke experiment was phased out after just six months when it failed to land with customers.  TikTok is already flooded with videos of fans trying Sprite + Tea, with some reviews commending the drink’s “strong tea flavor,” while others recommend that viewers stick with the DIY version.

Start SlideshowStart SlideshowDisney has enchanted us for decades with its resplendent animation and fantastical stories of princesses, wicked witches, and fire-breathing dragons, but music has always been its most indelible sprinkle of pixie dust. There are songs that move us, make us dance, and help us understand the characters that have already been so lovingly drawn. With over 350 songs in the Disney canon, it’s nearly impossible to narrow them down, but we’ve chosen the 23 in honor of the year 1923, when Walt Disney founded the company. These songs are the most magical and remind us why Disney has endured for over a century.Previous SlideNext Slide2 / 25List slides23. “Whistle While You Work” from Snow White and the Seven DwarfsList slides23. “Whistle While You Work” from Snow White and the Seven DwarfsWhistle While You Work - Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Larry Morey and Frank Churchill’s merry tune about finding the joy in the most mundane of chores is quite simple, with only nine lines, yet incredibly catchy. Adriana Caselotti’s warbling, baby voice is fitting for this old-fashioned, operetta-style number and the entire sequence that features the big-eyed, adorable forest creatures helping her out. The squirrels sweep the dust with their tails, and the raccoons wash dirty clothes in a nearby watering hole to every sprightly beat. It’s difficult not to be beguiled by this little ditty, and you’ll find yourself humming it the next time you do your spring cleaning. Previous SlideNext Slide3 / 25List slides22. “The Family Madrigal” from EncantoList slides22. “The Family Madrigal” from EncantoStephanie Beatriz, Olga Merediz, Encanto - Cast - The Family Madrigal (From “Encanto”) Lin-Manuel Miranda’s fingerprints are all over modern Disney soundtracks. He is a master at crafting clever, fast-paced, and genre-blending earworms. The biggest ones to emerge from Encanto are “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” and “Surface Pressure,” where he blends classic Broadway stylings with punchier salsa and reggaeton genres. “The Family Madrigal” may not have reached the same level of pop culture infamy as the other songs in this film, but it’s a clever and economical way to introduce the Madrigal family and their powers. Stephanie Beatriz’s bubbly voice as Mirabel suits the song’s bouncy rhythm perfectly, while the Colombian folk instruments such as an accordion, caja vallenata, and guacharaca match the colorful energy of the magical town the Madrigals call home. Previous SlideNext Slide4 / 25List slides21.“Dig a Little Deeper” from Princess and the FrogList slides21.“Dig a Little Deeper” from Princess and the FrogDig a Little Deeper (From “The Princess and the Frog”/Sing-Along) Randy Newman’s toe-tapping blend of big-band swing and gospel choir refrains perfectly captures the vibrant soul of the New Orleans setting. The feisty Jennifer Lewis leads “Dig a Little Deeper” as Mama Odie, backed by the rousing Pinnacle Gospel Choir. The song’s brassy rhythms help Tiana let loose and Naveen to realize that he’s in love with her. The lessons Mama Odie imparts through the lyrics are wise and grounded: it doesn’t matter what you have or where you come from—that doesn’t define who you are. True fulfillment doesn’t come from material wealth, status, or outward appearances—it comes from understanding what you really want on the inside. The song crescendos with Anika Noni Rose’s powerful belt and the soulful shouts of Mama Odie’s bright flamingo chorus. Previous SlideNext Slide5 / 25List slides20. “I See the Light” from TangledList slides20. “I See the Light” from Tangled“I SEE THE LIGHT” | Tangled | Disney Animated HD The dreamy melody of “I See the Light” begins with a soft guitar. Glenn Slater and Alan Menken’s composition is fairly simple, allowing the glittering visuals to take center stage. The song takes place during the lighting ceremony that Rapunzel has yearned to visit after observing it from her tower for 18 years. Flynn and Rapunzel float on a gondola, surrounded by over 45,000 glowing lanterns floating in the air, dotting the sky and reflecting off the water that surrounds them. The characters sing the verses separately in their heads before their emotions burst, then they harmonize the chorus loudly, compelled by their realization that they’re in love. It’s a unique and touching way of framing a Disney love song. Previous SlideNext Slide6 / 25List slides19. “Friend Like Me” from AladdinList slides19. “Friend Like Me” from AladdinAladdin - Friend Like Me (HD 1080p) Howard Ashman’s playful lyrics and Alan Menken’s up-tempo, syncopated, vaudevillian song was the perfect musical playground for Robin Williams to fill with the zany impressions and quirky voices he was renowned for. A trumpet warbles in between one of the clever lyrics, sights and sounds so jam-packed with hilarity that you can barely stop to catch your breath. Robin Williams was so adept at improvisation that he had nearly an entire day’s worth of material. The animation is just as bonkers as his vocal performance, where Genie morphs into countless creatures—from a train whistle to a maître d’, a boxing trainer, a bunny, and a dragon. The Broadway-style showstopper culminates with a kick line under bright spotlights with monkeys, elephants, and dancing girls in crop tops and harem pants. “Friend Like Me” is a shining showcase for one of our finest comedic talents, the great Robin Williams. Previous SlideNext Slide7 / 25List slides18. “Baby Mine” from DumboList slides18. “Baby Mine” from DumboDisney’s “Dumbo” - Baby MineSongwriters Frank Churchill and Ned Washington are responsible for childhood traumas everywhere with “Baby Mine,” which takes place when Dumbo’s mother has been jailed as a “mad elephant” for fiercely protecting her son against his bullies. She reaches her trunk through the bars to cradle Dumbo to the soft, slumbering melody accompanied by haunting strings. Betty Noyes’ has that rich, rounded tone found in vintage singing, and it conveys Mrs. Jumbo’s maternal strength. The images of all the animals—zebras, tigers, monkeys, and even the underwater hippos—nestled in the love of their mothers, except for poor Dumbo, set against the song’s soothing orchestra, is absolutely heart wrenching. “Baby Mine” is the kind of song that inspires dreams of being comforted and cared for by a loving parental figure.Previous SlideNext Slide8 / 25List slides17. ”Once Upon a Dream” from Sleeping BeautyList slides17. ”Once Upon a Dream” from Sleeping BeautyOnce Upon A Dream | Sleeping Beauty Lyric Video | DISNEY SING-ALONGS Jack Lawrence and Sammy Fain craft a solo-turned-duet with a woozy, mysterious quality that perfectly complements the story of Sleeping Beauty. Mary Costa has such an elegant and operatic voice, with rich tones that make her sound far more mature than a 16-year-old girl. She’s soon joined by the strong, handsome voice of Prince Phillip, who appears unexpectedly in the forest. Their romance unfolds quickly, twirling together in the woods, surrounded by beautiful medieval-inspired, Gothic-Renaissance style visuals. The lilting orchestration and the grand choral ensemble add to the old-world mystique. The lyrics—of knowing someone before you truly know them, of seeing them in your dreams—add a tinge of mysterious excitement and mystical fate to their romance. Previous SlideNext Slide9 / 25List slides16. “Hellfire” from The Hunchback of Notre DameList slides16. “Hellfire” from The Hunchback of Notre DameHellfire - The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996) Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz crafted one of Disney’s darkest songs. It’s hard to imagine Disney taking this type of creative risk again. “Hellfire” is sung by a corrupt priest consumed by lust for the Romani woman Esmeralda. The deep-voiced Tony Jay plays the dishonorable Frollo, who paints himself as a virtuous man—even though he killed Quasimodo’s mother and nearly killed Quasimodo. A true Catholic would have helped them. Today, Disney would never dare to show that authority figures—especially religious ones—can often be wrong and hypocritical, if not outright evil. This is one of the most provocative villain songs, in which Frollo essentially confesses his horniness. He sings of being enraptured by Esmeralda’s smoldering eyes and raven hair—a desire that burns and threatens to turn him to sin. “Hellfire” also has a spooky quality in its use of Latin and the intense religious choir that looms over Frollo in judgment, cloaked in red with faces like empty black holes. It’s a haunting song of operatic grandeur, with notes that flare and fade like the flames dancing in front of him. Previous SlideNext Slide10 / 25List slides15. “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes” from CinderellaList slides15. “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes” from CinderellaA Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes (from Cinderella) Sung with silky warmth and a shimmering, ethereal vibrato by Ilene Woods as Cinderella, “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes” is soft and soothing, yet carries an undercurrent of quiet determination. She sings to her loyal companions—adorable flocks of birds and mice—who wear the tiny outfits she’s lovingly made for them. They join in during a break of the song that is more playful and buoyant while she prepares for another grueling day of chores, yet she stays positive by believing her dreams will come true. “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes” has become a marketing anthem for the studio—used in various ads to evoke nostalgia, magic, and the promise that dreams really do come true, with Disney theme parks as the place where that magic can happen. Previous SlideNext Slide11 / 25List slides14. Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride from Lilo & StitchList slides14. Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride from Lilo & StitchHawaiian Roller Coaster Ride (From “Lilo & Stitch”) The rich voice of Mark Kealiʻi Hoʻomalu and the cheerful Kamehameha Schools Children’s Chorus come together for a song that is as sweet and breezy as a summer’s day. “Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride” takes place during a touching moment of family bonding as Lilo, Nani, and David go surfing, gliding through the waves with ease. Stitch has been naughty, so he feels a little shy about enjoying the day with them, but he slowly begins to warm up to what it feels like to have a family. We see the adorable progression as the little thrill-seeker ends up riding the waves too. The song’s instrumentation—featuring ukulele, traditional Hawaiian fingerstyle guitar, and steel guitar—evokes the ocean waves and open skies, giving it that relaxed, beachy vibe. Both the animation and the song itself honors the film’s beautiful Hawaiian setting. Previous SlideNext Slide12 / 25List slides13. “I’ll Make a Man Out of You” from MulanList slides13. “I’ll Make a Man Out of You” from MulanMulan | I’ll Make a Man Out of You | Disney Junior UK “Let’s get down to business, to defeat the Huns” Donny Osmond sings in his perfectly crisp voice. The rousing number “I’ll Make a Man Out of You” by Matthew Wilder and David Zippel is the pump-up song for a training montage. It starts out comical as we see Mulan and her clumsy friends attempt to become the ideal Chinese soldier. The catchy chorus uses evocative nature metaphors for the type of strength and calm that Mulan needs to find, and the deep-voiced punctuation “Be a man!” at the end of each line adds to the hype. When Donny Osmond belts “Time is racing towards us, ‘till the Huns arrive,” you feel a thrilling rush of urgency and swell with courage. The final chorus plays against no instrumentation, the manly voices of the soldiers booming, allowing you to focus on Mulan and her friends now kicking ass. Previous SlideNext Slide13 / 25List slides12. “A Whole New World” from AladdinList slides12. “A Whole New World” from AladdinAladdin - A Whole New World (HD 1080p) Brad Kane’s voice carries an excited, breathy quality that draws you in as he whisks Jasmine away on a magic carpet ride. He sounds bright and earnest as he describes the shining, shimmering, and splendid world that Jasmine has never seen and he’s eager to show her. Lea Salonga, who is a Broadway legend in her own right, has an angelic innocence as Jasmine. Their voices come together in perfect harmony for this sweeping duet. “A Whole New World” is one of Disney’s most romantic love songs, with a melody that flutters and glides like the magic carpet itself. Written by Alan Menken and Tim Rice, the orchestration has lush strings that propel the adventurous animated sequence where they soar through the clouds, pass the Sphinx, and touch down near a group of horses. Previous SlideNext Slide14 / 25List slides11. “Strangers Like Me” from TarzanList slides11. “Strangers Like Me” from TarzanStrangers Like Me (1080p Full HD) - Tarzan (1999)Opening with a pulsing drum track, Strangers Like Me evokes the spinning wheels in Tarzan’s mind as he learns more about what lies beyond the jungle. The montage is gorgeously animated, featuring old-fashioned ink illustrations that Tarzan looks at through a magic lantern. He sees the city of London, a giant castle, the Sphinx, and even outer space for the first time. This flood of information drives the song’s urgent pace.The filmmakers craft the entire animated sequence as a response to the lyrics, as Tarzan watches Jane (“Every gesture, every move that she makes / Makes me feel like never before”) or shows off a pocket of the rainforest filled with parrots (“Come with me now to see my world / Where there’s beauty beyond your dreams”). Phil Collins’ bright voice captures Tarzan’s wonderment, especially in the soaring chorus, where Tarzan expresses his desire to learn more about strangers like him. You feel his hunger for the great, wide world in the song’s pounding, tribal drumbeats. Previous SlideNext Slide15 / 25List slides10. “I Won’t Say I’m in Love” from HerculesList slides10. “I Won’t Say I’m in Love” from HerculesHercules (1997) │ I Won’t Say (I’m In Love) [DPU HD 4K] The story of the ancient Greek hero Hercules has such a unique musical style, with lyricist David Zippel and composer Alan Menken blending doo-wop, Motown, and gospel soul. The muses serve as a literal Greek chorus, commenting on the action with their sassy perspective. In “I Won’t Say I’m in Love,” Megara’s velvet-voiced, sarcastic Susan Egan stands apart from other Disney heroines, who often sing fluttering arias about dreaming of a prince. Instead, Megara resists her feelings because she’s been burned too many times before, creating a comical juxtaposition with the Muses, who cheekily insist that she’s in love. They tease her with “Check the grin, you’re in love.” It’s a playful and flirtatious song that celebrates an unconventional Disney princess and musical choices. Previous SlideNext Slide16 / 25List slides9. “How Far I’ll Go” from MoanaList slides9. “How Far I’ll Go” from MoanaAuli’i Cravalho - How Far I’ll Go (from Moana/Official Video) Ever since their introduction in The Little Mermaid, Broadway-style “I Want” songs have become a hallmark of Disney princess films. They are passionate solos that reveal what each heroine desires most in the world. Whatever her heart longs for becomes the emotional engine driving the story forward. In “How Far I’ll Go,” composed by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Moana is torn between her dream of exploring what’s beyond her remote island and her duty to her family. She’s genuinely torn, even wondering if she’s wrong to yearn for what lies beyond the horizon. Auli’i Cravalho’s pure, heartfelt voice captures all the wistfulness and uncertainty of growing up. The melody swells and crashes gently like ocean tides, mirroring the push and pull of Moana’s inner conflict. Previous SlideNext Slide17 / 25List slides8. “Be Our Guest” from Beauty and the BeastList slides8. “Be Our Guest” from Beauty and the BeastBeauty and the Beast - Be Our Guest (HD) Music Video Broadway royalty Jerry Orbach helms this showstopper with music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Howard Ashman. The suave candlestick Lumière uses the number to lure Belle out of her bedroom, and show that the enchanted castle is more friendly and exciting than spooky and depressing. “Be Our Guest” has clever, fast-paced lyrics sung in a classic “patter song” style which then explodes in a lively, French can-can finale. The living castle objects just want to serve and make someone happy again, offering Belle elaborate meals and dazzling entertainment. Everything is on the plate for Belle, from soup du jour, hot hors d’oeuvres, beef ragout, cheese soufflé, and of course, the grey stuff. What’s just as exciting about the number as its giddy music is the animation, with spoons swimming in punch bowls like a Busby Berkeley number, prismatic spotlights, sumptuous, brightly-colored cakes, a glowing chandelier, and dancing flatware. Previous SlideNext Slide18 / 25List slides7. “You’ll Be in My Heart” from TarzanList slides7. “You’ll Be in My Heart” from TarzanPhil Collins - You’ll Be in My Heart /Tarzan(ターザン)Phil Collins knocked it out of the park with the entire Tarzan soundtrack. Somehow his earthy voice, drum-infused instrumentals, and heartfelt lyrics were the perfect mix for this jungle story. Rather than a traditional Disney musical, Phil Collins acts as an omnipresent narrator, commenting on the action or voicing the character’s thoughts. “You’ll Be In My Heart” rightfully earned the Academy Award for Best Original Song. Originally written as a lullaby for his own daughter, the song starts off tender, with Phil Collins almost gently whispering against soft marimbas. Its lyrics of true love and devotion are moving, especially in the scene where Kala sings it to a baby Tarzan, who, despite being a different species, experiences a bond where love and care know no bounds. The song eventually crashes into driving drums, moving toward a bridge that sees the child fly free on their own: “When destiny calls you / You must be strong / I may not be with you / But you’ve got to hold on.” This song is touching for anyone who has ever loved someone and watched them grow, no matter what type of relationship. Previous SlideNext Slide19 / 25List slides6. “Under the Sea” from The Little MermaidList slides6. “Under the Sea” from The Little MermaidThe Little Mermaid - Under the Sea (from The Little Mermaid) (Official Video) Those solo calypso opening notes of “Under the Sea” immediately get you excited, and Samuel E. Wright delivers a rollicking underwater bash. His booming voice and vivacious energy are perfect for the overdramatic crustacean and his mission to convince Ariel that living under the sea “is the bubbles” with no troubles. “Under the Sea’ buoys the rainbow-colored montage of marine life that fills Ariel’s world—fish, dolphins, and coral reefs. The scene cleverly ties the instruments to various creatures and animation — harps echo the swirling school of fish, shells mimic steel pans, and a pair of octopuses intertwine their legs like bass lines. With its infectious Caribbean beat, Howard Ashman and Alan Menken’s song is a true banger and impossible not to love, which is why it won the 1990 Oscar for Best Original Song. Previous SlideNext Slide20 / 25List slides5. “Colors of the Wind” from PocahontasList slides5. “Colors of the Wind” from PocahontasPocahontas - Colors of the Wind (Blu-ray 1080p HD) “You think the only people who are people / Are the people who look and think like you / But if you walk the footsteps of a stranger / You’ll learn things you never knew, you never knew.” In this increasingly polarized world, that message has never been more relevant. Pocahontas is not immediately smitten with John Smith; instead, she condemns his entire culture, which prioritizes gold and hatred over acceptance and the beauty of nature. Stephen Schwartz’s lyrics paint gorgeous pictures of the American wilderness, questioning why the white men who have invaded these lands cannot appreciate the world around them — from the grinning bobcats to the sweet berries to the trees that stretch toward the sky, if only we let them grow. Alan Menken’s surrounding score is rapturous, carried by Judy Kuhn’s passionate vocals. More than just the profound lyrics, it’s the visuals that make this musical number so unforgettable — particularly John Smith and Pocahontas dancing in a pastel-colored wind. It’s no surprise that “Colors of the Wind” won an Academy Award for Best Original Song. Previous SlideNext Slide21 / 25List slides4. “When You Wish Upon a Star” from PinnochioList slides4. “When You Wish Upon a Star” from PinnochioPocahontas - Colors of the Wind (Blu-ray 1080p HD)Written by Leigh Harline and Ned Washington, “When You Wish Upon a Star” has come to define Disney itself, typically playing over the castle logo that opens every movie. The ethereal ballad is sung by Cliff Edwards as Jiminy Cricket, whose resonant yet quirky voice feels like someone sharing a story by a crackling fire. “When you wish upon a star / Makes no difference who you are / Anything your heart desires / Will come to you,” he tenderly sings over the opening credits. The gentle melody wraps you in a warm embrace of possibility. People often make fun of Disney adults, but perhaps one reason we hold on to Disney films long after growing up is that they offer hope in an increasingly grim world. This aspirational song reminds us there is more to life than the ordinary—if we just dare to imagine.Previous SlideNext Slide22 / 25List slides3. “Beauty and the Beast” from Beauty and the BeastList slides3. “Beauty and the Beast” from Beauty and the BeastBeauty and the Beast Tale As Old As Time HD As Mrs. Potts, Angela Lansbury’s warm, cheery English voice adds a rosiness to this powerful love ballad, backed by an orchestra of sumptuous strings. The lyrics aren’t the pure romanticism of past Disney love stories; there is no love at first sight here. Instead, Mrs. Potts gently reflects on how true love can take time to blossom, and how relationships sometimes require change, admitting your faults and working hard to set aside your vices and worst qualities. It’s a surprisingly mature outlook for a Disney love song. The accompanying animation is one of the most exquisite sequences in Disney history: Belle’s golden dress glides delicately across the floor as she and the Beast dance in the grand ballroom, the camera swirling to reveal the sparkling chandelier and Michelangelo-esque ceiling of painted cherubs above them. That Howard Ashman wrote this song while dying from complications of AIDS makes it all the more poignant. Previous SlideNext Slide23 / 25List slides2. “Part of Your World” from The Little MermaidList slides2. “Part of Your World” from The Little MermaidJodi Benson - Part of Your World (From “The Little Mermaid”)Before The Little Mermaid kicked off the Disney Renaissance (a period of more sophisticated storytelling and box office success) princess songs were mostly focused on their prince charmings. They had very few aspirations outside of dreaming about their prince or wishing for their prince. But the introduction of the songwriting team Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, who had worked on the off-Broadway show Little Shop of Horrors, helped develop a Disney princess that had greater ambitions. Ariel wanted to see the human world, and she would express that within a Broadway-style solo called the “I Want” song, where the protagonist sings about, well, what they want. “Part of Your World” has a flowing melody and a sweet yearning in Jodi Benson’s voice (and given a more soulful power in the live-action version from Halle Bailey). We see her comical misunderstanding of what her treasures are, all whozits and whatzits galore. “Wouldn’t I love to explore that shore up above?” her voice soars while reaching out through the top of her grotto towards the sun. In that moment, with her big eyes and aching voice, you completely understand how much the human world means to her.Previous SlideNext Slide24 / 25List slides1. “Circle of Life” from The Lion KingList slides1. “Circle of Life” from The Lion KingCarmen Twillie, Lebo M. - Circle of Life (From “The Lion King”) No Disney song is quite as epic as Elton John’s “Circle of Life.” The image of the rising sun, paired with the opening lines sung passionately in Zulu by Lebo M., without any instrumentals, immediately hooks you into this sweeping story of the African savannah. The title, “Circle of Life,” is fitting for this tale of birth, death, and everything in between. The lyrics somehow encompass everything about our big, beautiful world — how finite life is, and the experiences, both good and bad, that give us balance. There’s despair and there’s hope. There’s faith and there’s love. The lyrics are poetic and make you think about the wonder and mystery of existence. The song reaches a powerful peak at the end when the chorus rises together. It’s impossible not to get full-body chills on that final soaring note, “It’s the circle, the circle of life,” punctuated by the thunderous drumbeat, where the sight of Rafiki lifting Simba on Pride Rock cuts to black. “Circle of Life” is a beautiful song with a grand vision, especially for a film geared towards children.

All products featured on Architectural Digest are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.Overwater bungalows are now deeply embedded in our collective consciousness, but are still a relatively newer phenomenon in the world of hospitality characterized by sublime seascapes on all sides, water glittering like gemstones beneath your bed, and steps leading directly into the ocean.There was a time when cruise ships, yachts, and other sailing vessels were your primary options for housing right on the sea, when comfort was subject to swells and storms, not to mention space constraints. Now, as planes—both the standard and float version—descend into destinations such as the Maldives and French Polynesia, passengers can spot long, often gracefully arching lineups of bungalows that cut across famously crystalline cerulean waters. This type of villa has become so prolific it’s now found from Saudi Arabia to Indonesia, Belize to Switzerland.It all started in 1967, on the island of Raiatea—which, without a sandy beach, was proving a challenging sell for tourists. A trio of Californians known as the Bali Hai Boys conceived of a new type of accommodation: the overwater bungalow. At the time they assured the government that, like traditional Tahitians’ fishing huts, they would not harm the coral with their pandanus-leaf-thatched-roof structures, and that edict still holds true. Their trio of bungalows at Bali Hai Hotel became a craze that spread to Bora Bora and beyond; after all, the charming stilted cottages offered immersion into the magic of the sea, sans snorkel mask or air tank. Now nearly 60 years old, the iconic honeymoon hideaways, sought-after spots for not just romance but easy access to throngs of Technicolor sea creatures below, are looking better than ever.Over more than a half century, but especially in the last decade, the overwater villa has gone from strikingly simple to, in some cases, over-the-top opulent—though there are still plenty of affordable, modest versions around the world. Its homeland, French Polynesia, lays claim to somewhere around 1,000 properties, from Moorea to Rangiroa and Bora Bora. Of any destination, overwater villas are most abundant in the Maldives, with more than 170 resorts in the same category.Wherever they stand, overwater accommodations often feature similar elements, such as thatched roofs made of natural, indigenous materials. Bungalows are usually attached to a wooden pontoon walkway unless we’re talking about one very special overwater villa in the Maldives that floats, can be moved to different locations, and (thanks to state-of-the-art engineering) doesn’t rock and roll with the ocean’s swell. As interiors go, barefoot island rustic with lots of wood is a popular aesthetic, while some spots, like JOALI MALDIVES and Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, are incredibly glamorous. Panoramic views of the countless shades of blue outside are requisite, while overwater pools, jacuzzis, and suspended hammocks have become popular amenities, too.Because these revolutionary structures make for fun daydream fodder, here we look at some of the most heavenly modern overwater bungalows from around the world.Photo: Courtesy of Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve1/30Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Saudi ArabiaPerks: Private beach with cabanas, spa, watercraft rental, kids’ club, Bang & Olufson speakers, stargazing experiences, nature walksThe birds soaring above have perhaps the best view of Nujuma, Saudi Arabia’s solar-powered Red Sea villas which debuted in 2024—20 of which are of the overwater persuasion. The walkway connecting them is circular, evoking a string of pearls, while each of the dwellings is vaguely seashell-esque, with sculpted, shapely rounded roofs. Inside, those graceful curves are intact, arching over the bedrooms and bathrooms tinted in sandy hues and embellished with locally made artifacts. Even the swimming pools are devoid of any sharp edges or corners, which is all in keeping with the soft, sweeping lines that are so pleasing to the eye. From $1,999 per night.Book NowPhoto: Courtesy of Joali Being2/30JOALI Being, Bodufushi Island Raa Atoll, MaldivesPerks: Hydrotherapy hall, herbarium, yoga and fitness classes, wine cellar, multi-generational play zone, sound pathThere’s a heavy emphasis on wellbeing at this Maldives private island resort, and that ethos extends to its strikingly-hued villas, each of which has its own pool and comes with bicycles for guests, plus meditative musical instruments and mindful games. Curvy, arcing, and spiraling, like nature herself, the biophilic overwater villas reference seashells and waves and take their palette from the island’s foliage and sand. With soaring ceilings and tubs you’d want to spend all evening in, there would be seemingly no reason to leave, yet among the resort’s extra-comprehensive spa and hydrotherapy hall are two sanctuary-like watsu (water massage) pools and an inspiring yoga pavilion, not to mention Edenic open-air restaurants and an ocean-view tea bar. From $1,851 per night.BOOK NOWPhoto: Gili Lankanfushi3/30Gili Lankanfushi, North Malé Atoll, MaldivesPerks: The world’s largest standalone overwater villa, Mr/Mrs Friday private butler service, sunset cruises, Coral Lines project and coral nurseryIt’s not only the overwater bungalows but the attitude on Gili Lankanfushi that makes it a unique proposition. Shoes go in a bag at the outset of the boat ride to the resort and are literally not worn again until departure, and it even exists in its own special time zone to maximize sunshine hours. A Robinson Crusoe vibe pervades the 45 villas that fan out around a North Male Atoll private island, operated ultrasustainably down to an extensive plant-based menu featuring island-grown ingredients. The overwater bungalows have rooftop terraces, al fresco bathrooms, and water hammocks, with the world’s largest overwater villa, dubbed the Private Reserve, also featuring a gym, cinema, steam and sauna, and a water slide that delivers guests directly into the sparkling sea. From $1,796 per night.Book NowPhoto: Le Taha’a by Pearl Resorts4/30Le Taha’a by Pearl Resorts, Leeward Islands, French PolynesiaPerks: Local art, tennis, swimming pool, spa, three restaurants and two bars, wedding coordinator, vanilla plantation visits, Tahitian pearl jewelry shopTraditional Polynesian architecture and its natural materiality—see thatch, mother of pearl, wood, bamboo, pandanus leaves, coconut fiber, coral, and stone—feature heavily in this lush resort within view of Bora Bora but peacefully set apart from it. The panoramas are what differentiate the bungalows; guests can choose to gaze at Taha’a, Bora Bora or the west for the sunset, however the Taha’a Overwater Suite has perhaps the best perspective toward the first, known also as Vanilla Island. From $1,352 per night.Book NowPhoto: Patina Maldives, Fari Island5/30Patina Maldives, Fari Islands, MaldivesPerks: 13 culinary concepts, including plant-based and Nordic-Japanese fusion, spa, art and creative workshops, visiting practitioners, marina, beach clubAt this Maldives resort, modernist architecture by Marcio Kogan of Studio MK27—think clean lines; low, flat roofs that hold solar panels; expanses of glass that open fully on three sides; and concrete infinity pools that bleed into the seascape—contrasts the majority of overwater bungalows beautifully. The serene one- and two-bedroom hideaways were built with sustainably sourced materials and are outfitted with custom millwork, free-standing double bathtubs, earthly palettes of rattan, linen, and fiber, as well as furniture by the likes of Vitra, Bassam Fellows and Paola Lenti. Beyond showcasing the natural resources surrounding it, the resort’s ethos embraces wellness, responsible and innovative dining, and art from global names as well as the artist-in-residence program. From $2,630 per night.Book NowPhoto: Courtesy of Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort6/30Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort, Emirate of Ras Al KhaimahPerks: Mangrove lagoon sanctuary, six F&B outlets, curated experiences, cruising, padel, kids’ and teens’ clubs, spa with seen treatment roomsWhen it debuted in early 2024, Anantara’s new Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah resort became the first in the Emirates with overwater villas, and they’re as decadent as one would imagine for the deluxe destination. The Maldives’ dhoni-shaped thatched roofs inspired these, which feature vaulted ceilings, large decks, Arabesque flourishes, mashrabiya motifs and infinity swimming pools, naturally, across layouts that sprawl from 880 to 2,200 square feet. Free-standing bathtubs plus dual rain showers in the indoor-outdoor shower maximize enjoyment of the turquoise Persian Gulf and might even result in guests watching sea turtles swim in the protected mangrove lagoon while bathing. From $240 per night.Book NowPhoto: Courtesy of Bawah Reserve7/30Bawah Reserve, IndonesiaPerks: Seaplane arrival, plastic free, private overwater dinners, included activities, 13 beaches and two lagoons across six private islandsAn Earth-first attitude pervades Bawah Reserve, where among treehouse lodges, beaches, suites, and pool villas, the 11 overwater suites give guests the most intimacy with the Indian Ocean. Refined wood-shingled roofs, rustic timber railings, warm recycled teak walls, recycled copper bathrooms and tables and chairs made from flotsam with mural walls—designed by Sim Boon Yang—provide a new fresh feeling take on the concept, in Indonesia’s Anambas Islands in the Riau Archipelago. The private island escape is all-inclusive, so although the suites are a paradisiacal world in and of themselves, there are many activities as well as 13 beaches and two lagoons to explore. From $1,628 per night.Book NowPhoto: Stevie Mann for Soneva8/30Soneva Secret, Makunudhoo Atoll, MaldivesPerks: Remote, dedicated team for each villa of Barefoot Guardian, Barefoot Assistant and private chef, in-house marine biologist, astronomical dinner cruise, retractable roofsThirty years of experience went into the creation of Soneva’s new-in-2024 ultra-luxe, uber-bespoke, super-secluded concept in the remote Haa Dhaalu atoll. It has just 14 total villas across beach and water, with some on a lagoon that can only reached by boat, and each comes with three dedicated staff including a private chef and a Barefoot Guardian butler who can plan astronomical dinner cruises, snorkeling with manta rays or “secret day” options for surprise personalized itineraries. The villas themselves—built of FSC-certified wood with open-air bathrooms—are an exercise in thinking of everything: bedroom roofs that retract with a touch for sleeping under the stars, adventurous roof deck slides for splashing into the crystalline lagoon, and massage beds for private therapies. Coming online in 2025 is a perhaps even more immersive accommodation than the overwater villa: the Maldives’ first floating villa, a two-story wonder designed to eradicate movement from waves, as well as three floating solar farms. From $3,300 per night.Book NowPhoto: Courtesy of TA’AKTANA9/30Ta’aktana, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Labuan Bajo, Flores, IndonesiaPerks: Spa and salon, water sports, overland and water-based explorations (including to Komodo dragons), cocktail masterclasses, high tea, lap poolThe emerging destination of Labuan Bajo—gateway to Komodo National Park—on Flores had never seen overwater villas until seven of them opened in 2024 with Ta’aktana, a luxurious resort that draws from the region’s unique culture as much as it does its land- and seascapes. Still, the genre isn’t totally unknown. The seven circular bungalows with rounded interiors reference Labuan Bajo’s historical sea nomads who once lived in stilt houses, and they include fossil wood from antique phinisi sailing ships, upcycled stingray leather detailing, hand-carved patterns inspired by Flores’ lingko cancar rice field, and local macrame. From $431 per night.Book NowPhoto: Courtesy of Nayara10/30Nayara Bocas del Toro, PanamaPerks: Solar-powered treehouses, 70-foot freshwater pool, 100-year-old Elephant House restaurant, elevated oversea sandy beach on stilts, 100% off-gridSixteen overwater villas at this sustainable adults-only resort in Panama’s Bocas del Toro province hug the mangrove-thronged coastline of a lush private island that also includes a collection of solar-powered treehouses designed by IBUKU. Highlighting traditional materials such as thatched roofs, timber walls, and glass floor panels, they invite intimacy between guests and the aquamarine water, which is easily accessible via stairs for kayaking, SUP, or snorkeling excursions. The resort also boasts the world’s first overwater beach, a 90-by-20-foot tray of creamy sand with steps descending into the sea. From $1,077 per night.Book NowPhoto: Moeava de Rosemont11/30Four Seasons Bora Bora, French PolynesiaPerks: Private islet, tennis courts, sunset cruises, beach bar, spa with signature rituals, ATV excursions, kids’ club, vegan and vegetarian menusWhile all the overwater bungalows at this impeccable property epitomize the genius of the genre with their celebration of the gorgeous environs, the four Otemanu Overwater Bungalow Suites are truly awe-inspiring. Whether you're in the airy living room, noshing at the dining table, bathing in the sculptural tub, lounging in the palapa, or swimming at the edge of the infinity pool, the lagoon’s beautiful blues are staring back, truly the star of the scene. From $1,967 per night.Book NowPhoto: Courtesy of Song Saa Private Island12/30Song Saa Private Island, CambodiaPerks: Open-air spa, diving and snorkeling, scenic boat trips, meditation sessions, sea kayaking, spa and wellness programs, private beachCambodia might not be the last place you’d expect a breathtaking resort of overwater bungalows, but it’s probably surprising. In 2012, the Koh Rong Archipelago became home to this sustainable Robinson Crusoe–chic property with, among other layouts, a two-bedroom overwater Royal Villa of rough-hewn timber, with a vast glass floor in the living room (alongside driftwood furnishings), a half-moon infinity pool with an expansive terrace, dual oversize sunken bathtubs, a personal chef, and a private jetty complete with a boat for the guests’ exclusive use. From $1,338 per night.Book NowPhoto: Laucala Island Photographer13/30COMO Laucala Island, FijiPerks: 240-acre organic farm, glass-sided infinity pool, hilltop spa and yoga pavilion, three bars, private 18-hole, par-72 championship golf course, horseback riding, surfingThe Overwater Villa on this private island property is more like an overwater estate. It’s distinctive not just for its split-level design, but its dramatic outdoor spaces—massive terraces and a large pool carved directly into the rocks on the shore. Guests of the two-bedroom stunner are transported to and from the main resort facilities by private yacht (or they can walk on a wooden pathway), but with 3,000 square feet of flawlessly curated luxury and the emerald lagoon at their feet, there’s not much reason to go anywhere at all, except maybe to the signature COMO Shambhala Spa. From $6,500 per night.Book NowPhoto: Mel Yates14/30One&Only Reethi Rah, North Malé Atoll, MaldivesPerks: beach club, treehouse, beach cruisers, wellness activities and spa, adults-only pool, outdoor movie theater, kids’ clubThere are hundreds of overwater bungalows in the Maldives, but these have the distinction of being some of the most private, since only a couple connect to each pontoon, each facing a different direction in the unbelievably turquoise Indian Ocean for an edge-of-the-earth feel. Lofty wood-beam ceilings keep things light and airy in the Grand Water Villa, but understandably extras like the long infinity pool (complete with built-in submerged chaise), separate jacuzzi, draped outdoor daybed and lounge areas minimize time spent inside. (It’s also worth booking a visit to one of the spa’s overwater couples'-treatment suites.) From $2,680 per night.Book NowPhoto: Courtesy of Cayo Espanto15/30Cayo Espanto, BelizePerks: Personal butler, private dock, just seven villas, customized meals by private chef, scuba diving, yacht, helipad, fly fishingAs island paradises go, this one—featuring the first overwater bungalow in Belize—is up there. While all the recently refreshed villas are luxe, Casa Ventanas, at 1,100 square feet and more than 150 feet of privacy, goes above and beyond with custom-crafted furnishings, a glass floor featuring a light that can be switched to different colors to filter the sea-creature-filled waters below and new glass shower walls for taking in ocean panoramas while bathing. From $2,295 per night.Book NowPhoto: Courtesy of Hotel Palafitte16/30Hôtel Palafitte, Neuchâtel, SwitzerlandPerks: Lakeview restaurant, bar with live music, cycling adventures, seasonal outdoor terrace lounge, Sunday brunchThe overwater craze is not confined to tropical climes. This Swiss bolthole became the first and only hotel in Europe built on stilts when it was constructed as part of the National Expo 2002 as a “surprising work” by architect Kurt Hoffmann with a group of students. Actually, the stilts reference ancient Swiss construction techniques, but also give guests of the 26 over-lake bungalows (each with a private terrace) the sense of being on a remote island, complete with access to stand-up paddling, boating, and waterskiing to make up for the lack of tropical fish. From $382 per night.Book NowPhoto: Courtesy of St. Regis Hotels & Resorts17/30The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, French PolynesiaPerks: Lagoonarium sanctuary, spa and fitness center, 24/7 butler service, sailing and diving, swim-up bar, complimentary non-motorized watersportsAt a low-season rate of more than $4,500 per night, the Overwater Royal Otemanu Villa with Pool—it’s worth noting the 20-by-16-foot infinity edge pond is the largest suspended pool in the South Pacific—is one of the more extravagant ways to vacation at this St. Regis resort. Crafted of exotic noble woods with vibrant accents, the nearly 3,000-square-foot bungalow is a prime place to watch neon lagoon fish either behind glass portholes or in the flesh via private ladder access. From $2,013 per night.Book NowPhoto: Courtesy of Six Senses18/30Six Senses, Ninh Van Bay, VietnamPerks: Six Senses Spa and Alchemy Bar, yoga pavilion, kids club, Earth Lab sustainability center, outdoor cinema, private beachOne of the beautiful things about overwater bungalows is that, to a large degree, they allow nature meld with the indoors, and tend to act as frames for their postcard-perfect surrounds. An ideal example is this destination on the bucolic coast of Vietnam, where excessively private 1,600-square-foot Water Pool Villas overlook the bay’s coral formations and give way to flawless sunset vistas, not to mention boasting plunge pools, outdoor showers, handcrafted wooden bathtubs, and steps into the water for snorkeling. From $770 per night.Book NowPhoto: Courtesy of Conrad Hotels19/30Conrad Bora Bora Nui, French PolynesiaPerks: Private beach, infinity pool with swim-up bar; gratis snorkeling equipment, paddleboards and kayaks; private island for picnics and dining, spa and hammam, floating helipadThe former Hilton Bora Bora Nui, fully and beautifully reimagined to become a more sumptuous Conrad is set on arguably the most spectacular part of Bora Bora, and is home to the only two-story overwater bungalow in French Polynesia. With a palette that reflects their azure surroundings, the Presidential Villas (there are two)—outfitted with a well-being room with sauna, three bedrooms, a private sundeck, a pool, and a bar—are like the ultimate playgrounds in one of the planet’s prettiest neighborhoods. From $1,588 per night.Book NowPhoto: Courtesy of Six Senses20/30Six Senses Laamu, Laamu Atoll, MaldivesPerks: A well-known surf wave, wellness programs, spa and salon, two restaurants, ice cream parlor, sandbank dining, scuba diving, library, volleyballThe over-ocean villas at Six Senses Laamu have at least one thing most don’t: a sunken glass bathtub over the turquoise saltwater. A soak there is one time to skip the bubbles for an experience akin to an ocean bath. The timber-clad bungalows with signature pops of color also have their own treetop deck for appreciating the sun-soaked seascape or vibrant sunset. Other signature hallmarks of the genre are present here, too: net overwater hammocks, wide timber terraces, sun loungers, and outdoor showers. There are also offerings with personal swimming pools. From $1,056 per night.Book Now