Here, 102 thatched bungalows lie among the palm-trees, while villas on stilts stand over the lagoon's turquoise waters. Moreover, the journey to Landaa Giraavaru is almost as spectacular as the place itself as you soar in the open skies on a 30-minute seaplane ride from the international airport at Malé.

The resort has everything you could ever want. All villas come with DVD players, satellite TV and internet access; some even have private plunge pools to laze in. The island boasts an Olympic-size main pool with a swim-up bar and a sundeck as well as a seawater pool and a children's pool.

There is also a state-of-the-art gym, a floodlit tennis court and a spa at the heart of the island where you can head in the evening to rejuvenate with some yoga or an Indian Ayurveda treatment.

For the more adventurous islander, a range of water-sports are on offer, as well as fishing, dolphin-watching and picnics on sandbanks. Others who want to explore the sea and surrounding coral reef can take advantage of the resort's own PADI centre.

When it comes to dining in style, there is an array of choice, with Italian, Japanese or Arabian cuisine on offer.