A surf camp is certainly not number one on the list of places to stay for those who prefer the finer things in life, but Chaaya Island Dhonveli was surprisingly pleasant. They own the rights to a coveted surf spot called Pasta Point which can be booked exclusively through Atoll Travel in Australia or their affiliates in other countries, which ensures that there is no overcrowding on the waves. Whilst the hotel facilities were more of a three star, the service was excellent. The hotel staff were always smiling and friendly, and they really go out of their way to make the experience memorable. The surroundings are so beautiful – they’re exactly what you see on a postcard without Photoshop – that you cannot help loving every moment that you’re there.

For a more opulent stay, Baros is the place to go. As part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World group, you can be reassured that you’ll have a five star experience. Both the beach villas and the water villas are wonderful, and choosing between the two really depends on what you prefer.

The beach villas have tastefully decorated outdoor bathrooms complete with truly unique rain showers.

The spa treatments here are excellent – both the massages and facials are highly recommended. And for yogis, a private class with the resort yogi Bhupender Kumar are most definitely worth taking. He teaches what he’s learned from practicing for many years in India and is always smiling and patient with those struggling to learn advanced poses. Make sure to have some refreshing ginger tea while you’re at the spa.

The snorkelling and scuba diving here are also great activities to partake in. The coral and variety of fish and sharks are more impressive than those in the Great Barrier Reef Australia, at least from my experience.

The teppanyaki at Cayenne restaurant is delicious and the food is much better than at The Lighthouse restaurant, although the ambiance at The Lighthouse is quite romantic.

You end up leaving here dreaming of the next excuse to come back – vow renewals for that ten year anniversary perhaps? Even if you only get to see the Maldives once, you’ll remember it for a lifetime.

As always, have a great trip!