Overview

Over water villas and under water reefs: The Maldives is a string of enchanted atolls embraced by a turquoise ocean.

Tiny teardrop islands like nowhere else on earth. Explore their crystal-clear lagoons and make footprints in their powder-white sands.

Finally, the Maldives have come into their own, the everincreasing choice of luxury beach resorts and hideaways the perfect complement to their dazzling white sands and crystalclear waters. Thankfully, the hotels make no attempt to upstage the natural beauty of their tiny island homes; they are simply content to blend in discreetly and offer different ways of enjoying them, both above and below water.

Whether the resorts are reached by speedboat or seaplane from Malé, they each have their own unique personality. Choose between rustic hideaways that are the very definition of barefoot luxury or international resorts with plenty of activities. Many resorts boast suites that are stilted above the lagoons, most include world-class scubadiving and spa treatments on their menus, and all serve a delightful blend of east-meets-west cuisine, enhanced by discreet but friendly service.

Drop in during the winter months between November and April to be sure of enjoying the driest seasons. Most flights to the Maldives connect over Dubai or Doha, so why not consider including a stopover in your holiday.