Holiday Type / Local Spirit

COMO Cocoa Island is a nirvana for anyone who appreciates the pleasures of luxurious seclusion. A private island, known locally as Makunufushi, it is located in the less developed South Malé Atoll, flanked to the west by a superb diving channel and to the east by a quiet snorkelling reef. Overhanging the water are a number of thatched Dhoni Suites in bleached wood with kajan roofs, along with a selection of one to four-bedroom villas and a number of enchanting white-finished Loft Villas featuring private sundecks and full-length windows overloo...

Cretan inspired Greek architecture, terracotta colours, mature palms and the endless blue reflected from over one hundred and forty private pools. These are the ingredients that set the tone for a relaxing escape at this elegant hotel, staying in a choice of generously appointed accommodation – all bungalows, suites and villas replete with marble-lined bathrooms and beguiling sea views. Soothe your senses in the magnificent Elounda Spa & Thalassotherapy, famed for its rituals employing seawater straight from the clear Cretan Sea. Two Thalasso p...

Suffused with an air of romance, this idyllic destination is the first luxury resort south of the equator in the Maldives – a pristine retreat encompassing nearly two kilometres of sugar white beach. It’s a location known for its incredible corals and dive sites – Manta Point and Turtle Point being aptly named for viewing these species in large numbers. Enchanting accommodation comes in seven distinct styles, including the Pool Villas which feature a pool terrace nestled in lush, tropical foliage; family friendly Beach Villas set in a garden wi...

Set in nineteen coastal acres of Antigua’s National Park on the southern side of the island, this luxury 5 star resort overlooks the yacht-dotted English Harbour. Magnificent vistas extend seaward from the reception building, which houses the colonial-style Stone Bar, a panoramic venue for pre-dinner cocktails where barman Tully makes the perfect pina colada, and the gourmet Terrace Restaurant. Soft candlelight sets the scene for alfresco dining, with an inspired menu of local and international fare complemented by an extensive wine list. Down ...

This member of Small Luxury Hotels is tucked away by a golden sand beach on an unspoilt peninsula close to UNESCO World Heritage site Mount Athos (the men-only monastic state constructed in the 10th Century, of which Prince Charles is a repeat visitor). The resort’s tranquillity is enhanced by its monastic architecture and features rooms with views over the gardens or ocean, whilst luxury suites offer direct access to the beach - considered to be one of the best in Greece - where the sand gently shelves into the sea and the water is remarkably ...