Maldives

Situated along the pristine beaches of the Maldives’ Baa Atoll island archipelago, the Anantara Kihavah is the perfect place for a beach vacation getaway with villas and residences along the beaches and above water that offer a nearly unmatchable level of luxury and comfort. Private infinity pools, Jacuzzis, and oversized bathtubs are the norm at this resort of 80 spacious accommodations, and this kind of extravagance extends to the resort’s wide array of dining destinations, its spa, and its stargazing center. After days spend island hopping, viewing the nearby coral reef on a diving excursion, or simply sitting around enjoying the comfort of one’s villa, guests can dine at the resort’s one-of-a-kind underwater wine cellar and restaurant, at a hand-picked destination dining location, or at any of the resort’s other restaurants with cuisines that range from Asian and Japanese to International and tapas. There is an on-site gym, open-air movie theater, and even a trampoline park complete with basketball hoops. No expense was spared when constructing the Anantara Kihavah, and accordingly guests have no shortage of things to do is the tropical paradise.

The award-winning Baros Maldives is heralded as one of the most romantic resorts in the world, noted for its tranquility, lush vegetation, and pristine beaches, situated in a sparkling turquoise lagoon. The property's 75 luxury villas are available over seven categories, all of which are appointed with open-air bathrooms, outdoor rain showers, and private balconies, from which guests can enjoy either sunrise or sunset views. Many villas are overwater, though some are located on the island, while upgraded villas add private pools or gardens. Resort facilities include an infinity swimming pool, a gym (yoga sessions are complimentary), a spa, a dive center, and an on-site marine center with a resident marine biologist. For dining, guests can enjoy international dishes with a superb horizon view at The Lighthouse Restaurant, al fresco barbecue by the sea at Cayenne Grill, Asian plates at Lime Restaurant, or sundowners at Sails Bar or The Lighthouse Lounge. Destination dining is also available. The Baros Maldives Resort and Spa is a 25-minute boat ride from Malé's international airport.

Cheval Blanc Randheli is luxurious new property in the Maldives' Noonu Atoll, inhabiting a handful of islands surrounded by teeming reefs. It's still new, having opened in November 2013 and is top of its class; a Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy property, only the second of its kind. The Randheli is around 40 minutes away from Male airport by seaplane, with a luxurious lounge at the airport so guests can make their transfer in comfort. The design and décor of The Randheli conveys relaxed island living in its light, natural palette and thatched roofs, yet a refined, contemporary edge shines through in its all modern interiors, up-to-the-minute technology and cathedral-style loft ceilings.

Explore COMO Cocoa Island, a resort built amidst crystal clear waters and powdery beaches. Situated on its own island, Cocoa Island has 34 overwater suites modeled after traditional dhoni boats, the gently-curving, wooden vessels used by local fishermen. Simple wooden walkways built above the shallow lagoon connect the suites to the hotel’s facilities. Each room has its own private terrace, allowing guests to effortlessly slip from the bedroom straight into the warm turquoise sea. The resort offers a truly luxury experience with a highly customized level of service. Dining options include the luxurious Ufaa, which serves cuisine inspired by the foods of south India’s Malabar Coast; COMO Shambhala, which features fresh, organic ingredients and an authentic, Indian-style tandoor oven; and in-villa and beachside dining. Guests can indulge in holistic wellness treatments and explore world-class diving sites. COMO Cocoa Island is a 40-minute speedboat ride from the international airport at Male.

COMO Maalifushi is the only luxury resort in the pearly white and otherwise undeveloped Thaa Atoll in the southern part of the Maldives. Accessible by a 35-minute domestic flight to Thimarafushi Airport followed by a 25-minute speedboat ride, this is a truly remote and gorgeous getaway. Designed by Japanese architect Koichiro Ikebuchi, the 65 villas and rooms are tastefully decorated with a combination of cultural authenticity and chic modern style. Built with New Zealand pine, floored with teak and artfully thatched, the accommodation options cater to all guests from honeymooning couples in search of peace and romance to families seeking adventure and fun. In the three restaurants, guests can take their pick of dining options to suit their mood. Crystal clear lagoon waters are perfect for swimming and snorkelling, treatments at COMO Shambhala Retreat are sure to relax and rejuvenate,while a range of watersports and a fully-equipped gym are available for more active guests.