Toasting champagne glasses aboard a sunset cruise, where dolphins glide seamlessly through tranquil waters, it’s easy to see why such a serene setting has guests wishing they could stay longer. Set against sweeping panoramas of the aquamarine Indian Ocean, InterContinental’s first foray to the Maldives holds the environment it now calls home close to its heart, joining forces with the Manta Trust and encouraging guests to dive right into marine conservation.

Pared-back in design, artisanal touches echo the attention to detail running through Maamunagau as a whole Disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of everyday life is as plain sailing as could be – though the real sailing on offer may not be quite so simple. For the contemporary traveller searching for a sense of freedom, here is where you'll find it.