Soneva Jani

In a nation that boasts over 100 dreamy, high-end resorts, Soneva Jani stands head and shoulders above the rest. A magical aquatic playground that meanders through the Noonu Atoll lagoon, it blurs the lines between fantasy and reality.

Palatial villas appear to float above the limpid sea, each with a private pool, a retractable roof for stargazing and some with water slides, for quick access from the first floor to the sparkling lagoon.

Guests can curl up in hammocks at the over-water cinema with popcorn and prosecco, dine in the observatory while gazing at the constellations, take meditative walks through the garden labyrinth or help themselves to complimentary sushi, ice cream or cheese from the So Cool room.

Sea lovers can fill their days with snorkel and dive expeditions whilst landlubbers can choose from castaway picnics on private islands, organic garden lunches, dolphin cruises and cooking classes, to name a few.