A veritable honeymooner’s paradise, the Maldives is a resplendent haven of fine beaches and luxurious holiday accommodation in the Indian Ocean. This includes the stunning ‘huts on stilts’, which provide secluded lodging off the shoreline, so you can roll out of bed and dive straight in to the sea! The smallest country in Asia, the Maldives consists of over 1,000 coral islands spread over a distance of 90,000 square kilometres. It has established a reputation as the most intimate and idyllic holiday resort. Its exclusive atmosphere and tropical climate makes it a popular choice for holiday-makers seeking romance and privacy.

Located around ancient coral reefs and prehistoric dormant volcanoes, the main centre of this network of stunning islands is Male, a bustling and modern capital on Hulhulé Island, with an array of market stalls, shops and bars. This is where the airport is located, and day-trip dhonis (boats), safari boats and private yachts depart from the harbour throughout the day. New resorts are continually opening throughout the Maldives, and this destination is constantly evolving. Even the less expensive self-catering accommodation options are far from cheap. For holiday-makers who want to be pampered and don’t mind paying a premium for the privilege of luxurious amenities and an unrivalled location, the Maldives remain an ideal choice. Diving is a popular pastime here, in particular at Fushifaru Thila, and the coral reefs are particularly vivid and stunning at Maa Kandu and Kuda Kandu.

The Maldives will always be populated all year round by sun-worshippers and enraptured couples who, for a price, have a choice of beautifully-appointed guest accommodation located close to azure lagoons, rainbow coral and golden sands.