Maldives

Almost 1,200 small islands make up the Maldives. Two hundred are home to local people, with around another 100 that are either already catering to tourists or will be in the near future. Many are so small that they can be crossed on foot in minutes. Only by flying above does the visitor really grasp the amazing geography of this Indian Ocean country; the deep vast blue of the sea is speckled with occasional golden patches of sand, often dense with palm trees.

The country is one of contrasts. A strict Islamic state, every Maldivian is a Muslim by law. Local people are banned from drinking alcohol, and many women cover their heads with a buruga. Meanwhile, a little way across the sea, bikini-clad tourists knock back cocktails at the beach bar, served by barmen who have never tasted the drinks they mix. It’s certainly not as easy to sample the local culture here as it is in other tourist destinations on the Indian subcontinent. You could spend your whole two weeks without coming into contact with a Maldivian coin or banknote, and not see any sign of the religion that dominates here. But the cultural side is there if you want to seek it out.

However, for most tourists what the Maldives provides is simply a fantastic beach holiday, offering many of the best points of the Indian subcontinent without the hassles. Beaches and water are both pristine. Whichever resort you end up at, both service and food are likely to be exemplary. With only a limited number of guests on each island, you will never find yourself jostling for towel space on a crowded patch of sand. Divers have one of the most varied and stunning marine environments right on their doorstep (and the water is always warm). And though perfection like this doesn’t come cheap, it offers excellent value. Which is why some holidaymakers come back for their trip of a lifetime year after year.