THE FACTS ABOUT MALDIVES

True, August is still monsoon season in the Maldives, but only just. And when the rain stops there's sunshine, a balmy average temperature of 28°C and turquoise water as far as the eye can see. Low-season rates make the archipelago a bargain right now, and this summer there's the added attraction of the One&Only Reethi Rah in the North Malé Atoll. This is a new resort for those who want more than just a slip of sand and a palm tree: its small village houses a 9,500-square-metre ESPA spa and three restaurants, one of them, the Reethi, with a walk-in wine-cellar. The 130 spacious villas all have private verandas (some with swimming pools) and direct access to the lagoon and the resort also has a special opening offer: book five nights and you get two additional nights free. CONTACT One&Only Reethi Rah (00 960 44 88 00; www.oneandonlyreosorts.com). Beach villas from US$704 in July; US$797 in August