You have just arrived at the most beautiful place on earth. The sun is shining bright, there's a light breeze in the air and not a cloud in the sky. The sand is whiter than snow, and the ocean waves are singing nature's lullaby as they crash onto the shore.

Life doesn't get much better than this, you think to yourself as you find a good spot to enjoy this tropical paradise. You have your man and your best friends by your side, and you are getting ready to order a frozen concoction to complete the surreal scenery. You put your towel down, take off your cover-up skirt and tank top -- you're ready to soak up the sun.

Then it happens -- you realize that everyone on the beach has directed their eyes on you. You immediately freeze, afraid to move a muscle. After what seems like lifetimes, you finally look down and realize that you are wearing a hideous, worn-out, unflattering bathing suit that's so outdated even your great-grandmother's grandmother wouldn't have been caught wearing it.

Just when you are about to shrivel up in shame, the alarm clock sounds and you wake up with a new mission in life. It's time to go swimsuit shopping.

If the thought of a tropical paradise vacation is giving you nightmares instead of dazzling dreams, then chances are you are in desperate need of swimsuit shopping support. The first thing you need to do is breathe deep and keep the thought of those waves crashing in your mind at all times.

The next step is to get rid of the old hand-me-down you've been wearing for way too long and relax. You are not alone. There are many places designed to help you shop comfortably while you find your perfect fit. Whether it's high prices, fluorescent lights, crowded stores or three-way mirrors you want to avoid, there is a swimsuit shopping solution for you. Here's a list of the top 10 different places and ways you can go about shopping for your swimsuit.

1. Check out stores that sell only swimwear -- these are great for specialized assistance.

2. Department stores offer plenty of choices, but the lighting can be harsh in the dressing rooms.

3. Buy them online. Find a site that asks for your specific measurements and body type.

4. Check out discount stores for great deals.

5. Surf the net for specific swimsuit sales at your favorite department stores.

6. Shop seasonal sales to get major discounts.

7. Fashion magazines and catalogs are great ways to avoid the crowded malls, but before you order make sure to take your measurements and buy the suits that best match your shape.

8. Specialty stores and boutiques near the beach often offer great sales but not much variety.

9. eBay.com often has brand-new designer suits just waiting for a bid.

10. Bring your best buddy with you. You can make the experience a bit more fun and get an honest opinion.