An island paradise in the Maldives
Velassaru's villas give you uninterrupted ocean views
When it comes to holiday destinations, the Maldives is renowned as paradise on earth. But what is there to do in paradise, apart from take in the views? I visited Velassaru, the country's newest island resort, to discover the answer - and was pleasantly surprised with what I found.
The Maldives is famous as a honeymoon destination and if it's a luxurious romantic break you're after, Velassaru ticks all the boxes. With their high ceilings and minimalist teak interior, the beach bungalows look like they've just been transported in from a New York boutique hotel. I particularly liked the open-air bathrooms complete with your own personal palm tree.
But for the ultimate luxury, book into the water villas which each boast their own terrace with uninterrupted views across the lagoon and the Indian Ocean beyond. There's no better feeling than rolling out of bed in the morning and stepping straight into the warm turquoise sea. Though if you want lots of fish on your doorstep it's best to head for the water bungalows on the corner of the island. The gentle current across the lagoon means the water there is thick with angelfish and parrotfish.
The island has two bars and four restaurants offering cuisine from around the world. Gastronomes might be tempted by the upmarket Mediterranean flavours and wines at the Etesian restaurant. But my favourites were Turquoise for the Maldivian curries (only take up the chef's offer of making them 'authentic' if you're feeling really brave), and Sands, where you can feast on delicious teppanyaki while perched over the lagoon.
But a visit to Velassaru isn't just about relaxing in luxury and stretching your waistband with fabulous food. The good news for anyone who may be worried about the onset of cabin fever is that there's a whole list of activities to get stuck into too. The island has a dedicated dive school complete with its own marine biologist. I did my first dive in Velassaru and it was the best experience of the whole trip.
But you don't have to be able to dive to enjoy the amazing array of marine life in the Maldives. For the ultimate trip the staff at Velassaru offer you a speedboat trip to your very own mid-ocean desert island. Once there you'll find a picnic hamper, your own personal waiter, stunning underwater views from the edge of the reef and some of the best snorkelling you can imagine, with turtles, rays and dolphins regular visitors.
Since El Niño, the locals tell me the wet season has been a lot drier. So you don't have to come in the December to April high season – and pay premium prices – to enjoy a sun-drenched holiday in the Maldives any more. These days it really is an all-year-round destination.
Kuoni (01306-747008) offers seven nights B&B at the five-star Velassaru Maldives, including direct flights from Heathrow with transfers. Prices for October 2009 from £1,205 per person based on two sharing.
Three other paradise resorts
Mauritius
The Intercontinental has a two-tier infinity pool and a rooftop spa. Rates start from £110. Ichotelsgroup.com, 0870-400 9650.
Tahiti
Le Taha'a Island Resort & Spa is situated on its own private coral island. Double rooms cost from £577. See Letahaa.com.
The Seychelles
Every villa at Maia has a private infinity pool. Rooms cost from £1,739 per night. See Maia.com.sc.