Rare is the resort that can put guests in the mood before arrival, but W Retreat & Spa Maldives hits the right note in its private, white-washed airport lounge, where Balinese loungers and cocktails ease the transition from international flight to tropical holiday. Most of the resort's 78 Pool Villas are side-by-side on stilts above the turquoise lagoon. The Beach Oasis Villas are more private with the added advantage of outdoor baths and showers, and well-placed for the resort's 'Sweet Spots': mini-bars with free soft drinks and ice creams.
There's a funky mix of Moroccan chairs and Indian embroidered cushions, and while the remote location may challenge the US brand's 'Whatever/Whenever' ethos, this W team has more than good looks (we liked the discreet inquiry about the best time for turndown, which allows privacy between scuba diving and gourmet dinners at Fish, where the sashimi all but swims to the table). International DJs play at the underground club, while the over-water lounge is the resort's sassiest bar. There is an open-air spa and yoga sessions, too.
WHEN TO GO
Between September and May when monsoon rains tend to abate.
ROOM TO BOOK
The 500-metre-square Ocean Haven has a private, infinity-edged swimming pool, wraparound deck and
glass-bottomed lounge.
CONTACT
North Ari Atoll, Fesdu Island, Maldives (00 960 666 2222; www.whotels.com).
COST
Doubles from US$990; Beach Oasis Villas from US$1,050; Ocean Haven Villas
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