Set on a private island, Anantara Veli Maldives sits 21 kilometres south of Velana International Airport. The speedboat ride takes around 30 minutes and runs day and night. You step from flight to sea with little fuss, then reach a lagoon that feels far from the world.

Villas here feel private, light and close to the sea. Choose overwater villas, pool villas or beach pool villas with decks, daybeds and lagoon views. Some add private pools, outdoor showers and Villa Host service. Wellness villa touches can add aroma, light, music and deeper rest.

Days can move from reef to shore with ease. You can snorkel with mantas in season, seek whale sharks year-round, try dolphin or turtle trips, surf from April to October, dive with Aquafanatics, adopt coral through HARP, or join a Spice Spoons cooking class for a local taste.

The resort keeps the pace refined and relaxed. Balance Wellness by Anantara offers spa care, Ayurvedic rituals, yoga, and a quiet garden. You also have an ocean-facing yoga pavilion, fitness centre, tennis court, infinity-edge beachfront pool, wine cellar with Wine Guru, boutique, room service and a luxury Nirvana yacht.

Dining has a polished island feel. Cumin brings South Asian spice by the beach. Origami serves sushi, sashimi and teppanyaki. Baan Huraa sits over the lagoon with Thai dishes. Sea.Fire.Salt. Offers seafood and prime cuts, while Dhoni Bar, Aqua and Fushi Café keep days full of flavour.

Romance sits at the heart of this island. You can mark a vow, a honeymoon, an anniversary or a private dinner under the stars. Dining by Design shapes meals by the sea, while sunset settings and the secluded faree tent give each moment a grand yet personal Maldives feel.