The Maldives is one of the few places on earth that looks exactly like you’d imagine — and then some. The archipelago is on many a bucket list and it’s easy to see why: think impossibly white sand, sparkling oceans and swaying coconut palms.

As the atolls are dotted throughout the Indian Ocean, privacy is pretty much a given no matter where you choose to stay. And that choice might be a tricky one as the Maldives is home to some of the most exceptional resorts.

While you’ll likely stay put on one island for your stay, the Maldives has become more than just a ‘fly and flop’ vacation destination. There is plenty to do and see: the usuals, like scuba diving, sunset cruises, snorkeling and cooking classes, but also the less than usual: ice skating, subamarine deep dives, paragliding and glass blowing.