Over-and-under-water indulgence

You might recognise some of the aquatic architecture on Conrad Maldives Rangali Island ; it’s home to two of the world’s undersea firsts: the Muraka, a Bond-style residence with a bedroom beneath the waves and Ithaa, a fine-dining restaurant sunk five metres below the surface.

Here, you’ll experience two Maldives islands in one. On Rangali-Finolhu, the hip and lively sibling, you’ll find novel dining venues, namely the show-stopping Japanese grill and the sand-floored Cheese and Wine Bar. Over at Rangali, the pace runs a little slower, with yoga, quiet zones and meditation on the menu. Go snorkelling in the marine-rich South Ari Atoll in search of sharks, rays and turtles, or head out to dive with the ‘whale shark whisperer’ (seasonally) for encounters with the Indian Ocean’s gentle giants.

Blissful beach days in Bali

Bali is a firm favourite with romantics thanks to its knock-your-socks-off scenery and extraordinary hotels. The Oberoi Beach Resort, Bali is a top contender for a spiritual stay by the sea. Go all out with a Luxury Oceanview Pool Villa and you’ll have a secluded garden, al fresco dining pavilion and large pool all to yourselves.

The resort’s serene setting – gardens flowing with frangipani flowers and Balinese temples, lotus ponds and a tiffany blue pool among water lilies – feels a world away from the buzz of nearby Seminyak. Yet, it’s just a short walk to the town’s trendy beach bars and restaurants. For dining on your doorstep, head to Kura Kura restaurant where we highly recommend the spicy catch-of-the-day, best served with a crisp white from the wine list.