Maldives

The Maldives is less a country than a scattering of coral atolls across the Indian Ocean. Most islands hold a single retreat, reached by seaplane or speedboat, so the distance from everything else is part of the design.

When to go

The dry season runs from November to April, with calm seas and long, clear days. Manta rays gather in Baa Atoll during the wetter months, which suits divers who prefer wildlife to perfect skies.

How we would plan it

We start with the kind of stillness you want, then match the atoll and the house reef to it. Some travellers want to be on the water at dawn. Others want a villa they never have to leave.