Huvafen Fushi set a new standard for stylish, sophisticated luxury when it opened in 2005 and has inspired countless imitators elsewhere in Maldives and beyond. Understated and more than a little fabulous, Huvafen Fushi is all about unfussy luxury and hassle-free glamour, making the most of its gorgeous beaches and reef, its superb restaurants and world-class water villas.

　　The villas are thoroughly modern, with clean lines, lots of space and all featuring their own plunge pools, 40-inch plasma-screen TVs, Bose surround systems, media centres, espresso machines and remote-control everything. The water villas that have been so widely copied remain some of the most impressive in the country, each with its own plunge pool and enclosed deck overlooking the sea, with access to the lagoon down a staircase.

　　Despite this, the atmosphere within the resort is informal and relaxed, with no reception and most things being arranged by the thakuru (butler) in-room. There's an impressive array of dining options: Celsius for international, Feeling Koi for izakaya-style Japanese cooking and Forno for Neapolitan pizza and pasta. There’s also Vinum, one of the largest wine cellars in Maldives, and the funky sand-floored UMBar by the enormous infinity pool. The gorgeous Lime Spa has an amazing underwater treatment room, so you can be massaged while schools of fish swim by the windows. There's also a gym, diving and water-sports centres, plus three individually designed dhonis moored in the lagoon that guests can book to stay on for a night or two during their visit. Manta rays show up at 5pm each day for feeding: an unforgettable sight!

　　While the island is on the small side, the entire place feels eerily empty even at full capacity, such is the way in which the resort has been laid out. This is a great place for a luxurious honeymoon or a romantic break with a funky but sophisticated feel.