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Whether you choose the Maldives to relive a Robinson Crusoe fantasy, or just as the antidote to a hectic modern life, it has to be one of the most beautiful, peaceful and romantic places on earth. But going barefoot is where the similarities to Crusoe end, as the many superb resorts will pamper you with luxury, magnificent spas and divine cuisine.

Set amidst some of the most spectacular coral reefs in the world, the Maldives is a renowned diving paradise. Even if you’re a complete beginner, most resorts have their own PADI approved dive centre and will introduce you to an underwater experience of tropical fish and colourful coral. Naturally, watersports feature wherever you go and just the aqua marine colour of the water will be enough to tempt you in. But the Maldives is also a place to stretch out in a hammock between palms, go for long walks along deserted beaches, or refresh your mind, body and spirit with exotic and soothing treatments in the world-famous spas. Many resorts also offer activities such as tennis and volleyball, or gentler pursuits such as yoga, Tai chi and meditation.

We love the fact that even when staying in a thatched villa hideaway built on stilts above the ocean, you’ll still be able to live in great luxury with all your creature comforts. And coupled with the tantalising fusion of Asian and international cuisine and impeccable service, we think you’ll never want to leave. Each resort offers a very individual experience, including the chance to stay on traditional Dhonis or your very own desert island, but you won’t find anyone sending a message in a bottle from here.

Out and About
The majority of activities centre around the water. Here are a few of our suggestions.

• The Maldives ranks among the top five places on earth for watching whales and dolphins, with over 20 different species (a quarter of the world’s total). These range from the magnificent Blue Whale (the largest animal alive), to the highly acrobatic Spinner Dolphin.

• Experience the underwater world of the Maldives in the state-of-the-art Whale Submarine. Diving to 120 feet, families will love this unique and fascinating adventure, where tropical fish can be viewed from the comfort of an air-conditioned submarine.

• What better place to get your PADI diving certificate. The atoll passes are teeming with a variety of fish, coral life, sharks and manta rays.

• Try a fly and dive experience, where you can sample the best of the Maldives from above and below the water. A seaplane flying at low altitudes can take you to the famous dive sites and gives you the opportunity to get some incredible aerial photographs.

Food and Drink
As the Maldives comprises more sea than land, it is only natural that fish is a prominent feature of food here. However, with visitors and influences from around the world, Maldivian cuisine now blends Arabic, Indian, Sri Lankan and Oriental tastes into a unique flavour that embodies a culinary identity of its own. With the flexibility to dine in the privacy of your own villa, by candlelight on a secluded beach, or in one of the many fabulous restaurants, you will be spoilt for choice. The resort restaurants are excellent and we especially like Deep End Restaurant at Taj Exotica for its exciting Mediterranean dishes and fine wines. For a unique experience try Fresh in the Garden at Soneva Fushi, which uses the freshest ingredients and looks out over the organic fruit and herb garden. A special mention also goes to Tapasake, the over-water Japanese restaurant at One&Only Reethi Rah. The fresh seafood, sushi and sashimi are out of this world and there is a fantastic selection of premium sakes. And do try the mouthwatering homemade gelati in Blu at Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru, served all day by the poolside.

Getting There
Flights to Malé are with British Airways or Sri Lankan Airlines direct or Emirates via Dubai in both directions. Total journey time: 10 hours 15 minutes approx direct and 13 hours 45 minutes with Emirates (including stopover in Dubai).

British Airways Departures from Gatwick on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday on B777 aircraft with World Traveller, World Traveller Plus and Club World cabins.

Sri Lankan Airlines Departures from Heathrow on Saturday and Sunday (additional service on Thursday between January - March, July - September and November - December and Monday and Friday from the end of March onwards) on A343 aircraft with Economy and Business Class cabins.

Emirates Departures from Heathrow via Dubai daily on B773 aircraft with Economy, Business Class and First Class cabins.

Note: All our inclusive holidays are based on British Airways World Traveller flights. Prices with Sri Lankan Airlines and Emirates are also available on request.