Gaafu Alifu Atoll, Maldives / Raffles Maldives Meradhoo

This far-flung refuge has succeeded in getting away from it all, lounging in one of the world’s largest and most remote atolls with not a nosey neighbour in sight.

Raffles hit the bullseye when they decided to bring their sophisticated brand and heartfelt signature service to the southern Gaafu Alifu Atoll. They’ve brought the same ethos and amenities fans love; from the personalised touches like stocking up the mini bar with your favourites and slippers the exact size, to the familiar sight of The Long Bar that crops up at every property. But although technically a chain, there’s more of a boutique feel about the place. It could be because of the intimate number of villas and tiny decorative details (we’ve got serious tile envy), or maybe it’s the refined demeanour, a world away from the razzle-dazzle of some of its northern counterparts.

Travel notes:

• 38 villas; 16 overwater and 22 on the beach; plus the Royal Residence
• Overwater villas are a 2 minute speedboat or dhoni ride away from the beach island
• Nikkei cuisine (a Peruvian and Japanese fusion) is served with a view at fine dining signature restaurant Yuzu, there's all day feet-in-the-sand international fare at Thari, and a starlit surf and turf beach grill at The Firepit most evenings; plus the adults-only lagoon bar
• Ingredient dependent, chefs are open to creating off-menu dishes upon request, and in-room and private dining are also options
• Diving, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding and snorkelling are complimentary, while jet skis and seabobs are also available
• Of 290 islands in the atoll, only 20 are inhabited, meaning there’s no light or noise pollution – making the night sky even brighter and the silence even louder