The vibrant buzz of modern Dubai with its iconic skyscrapers, bustling souks, shops brimming with designer brands and the timeless desert, creates an enthralling combination with the tropical harmony and island charm of Mauritius, where there’s more to it than lazy island living. It’s a place that is synonymous with luxury and elegance, and a wonderful blend of French, Créole, African and Indian influences throughout not just its culture, but also its exquisitely flavoured food. Guide price 11 nights from £9,975 per person based on 2 adults s...

Where flintstone-like boulders flow down from volcanic hills and flawless atolls sit alongside busy island towns. The Seychelles stands in its own bubble of time where its prehistoric purity refuses to be eclipsed by the clamour of modern day island life. Dubai’s first impression shows ambition and unabashed indulgence; requiring a dive-right-in approach to the glossy designer shops and gourmet restaurants that are always one step ahead of the trends. This city’s aim is to be a cut above the rest and, trust us, if somewhere in the world has ‘th...

These contrasting destinations make for a match made in heaven. Discover Dubai’s fine dining restaurants and vibrant nightlife, soak up the culture or perhaps try indoor skiing or venture out on a desert safari. After a few days of action-packed adventure, head for the impossibly beautiful islands of the Maldives. Slow things down by relaxing on the beach, indulge in ocean-inspired treatments at the spa or discover the vibrant underwater world with a local dive expert. It’s time to relax in paradise. Guide price 9 nights from £41,370 per fami...

True to the mantra ‘a place for the joy of living’, quite brilliant design details and a captivating take on art and service have the warmth and grace of a woman’s touch. Don’t expect just pretty pieces adorning the walls at art-immersive island retreat JOALI. No, here we’re talking a wondrous Zaha Hadid-inspired, manta ray-shaped jetty unlike any other welcoming your arrival, and dining in cocoon-like structures suspended in the trees. There are pieces you can sit on, climb into, hide in, drink out of and even wear. A secret sculpture garden ...

Curating memorable moments on the southern tip of the Raa Atoll, Maamunagau Resort is a contemporary haven, perfectly pairing the art of rest and relaxation with eco-endeavours; here, every day is a special occasion. 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...

The brand’s debut in the Maldives is a bold one; this striking, eco-friendly private island resort is the kind of place you never want to leave. Opening to grand acclaim on the innovative Fari Island Archipelago, this is arguably Ritz-Carlton’s most future-forward hotel. A brainchild of the architect behind some of our favourite Asian resorts, the Maldivian drum was the inspiration for the spherical villas crowned with hidden solar panels. Smartly making the most of the sunrise or sunset views, they effortlessly balance modern, minimalist luxu...

The picture-book paradise of Milaidhoo lies in the Baa Atoll UNESCO biosphere reserve, which supports one of the largest groups of coral reefs in the Indian Ocean. Commanding a breathtaking setting close to Hanifaru Bay, on an island just 300 by 180 metres, the resort is custom crafted for barefoot comfort, welcoming couples, honeymooners and guests aged nine and above. Maldivian design pervades spacious accommodation, the Water Pool Villas standing on stilts over the ocean, while Beach Pool Villas stand directly on the powder-soft sand. All h...

This architectural masterpiece pays homage to the fragile ecology that surrounds it. Cleverly balancing daring design, while being respectful of tradition and local craftsmanship. A wander around this hedonist’s hideout unearths striking structures around every corner, each telling its own unique story. This is a place where you’ll find villas inspired by the graceful form of manta rays, or the fisherman’s hut that was first discovered on Vommuli. Others are reminiscent of the Maldivian dhoni that sail these waters – either set on the rocky sh...