What it is

An eye-poppingly inventive new resort of modernist overwater villas.

What it isn't

Landlocked. You’re surrounded by glimmering, shimmering crystal clear water on all sides. Pack your sunscreen.

What we think

When Soneva Jani opened, media outlets around the world proclaimed it the coolest resort of the year: no contest. Why? In a nutshell: several overwater villas have their own waterslide that ferries you down in a whoosh to the lagoon. The place has it’s own overwater observatory, complete with Midnight Astronomy Picnics. Their on-site gardens (because—did we mention—this is an eco-friendly resort that grows much of their produce themselves?) are home to a circular Labyrinth cut out of ficus hedges. But our favorite thing about the place may just be that, in true de-stressing and un-plugging fashion, they ask you to surrender your shoes upon arrival.

You're here because

If you’re being honest, it’s because you want to get here before all your friends do. What’s a better bragging right than snorkeling with their resident marine biologist—and sea turtles?

The Moment

You’ve had wraps before, but never one made of marine minerals, algae and sea plants, all applied while you’re lofted over the place they may have come from: a shimmering lagoon.

Restaurants & Bars

The Gathering - a three-storey overwater structure home to various dining outlets, including So Fresh, So Imaginative, So Engaging, and So Starstruck. Each features a unique menu, ranging form continental breakfast, to afternoon tea, to modern fine dining and chef's tasting.

- The Gathering Bar

Location

Just one hour by speedboat or 40 minutes by seaplane from Malé International Airport, on one of the largest islands in the Maldivian archipelago.