Taj Exotica, Emboodhu Finolhu, Maldives

A striking property that brings the high standards of India's finest hotel company to the Maldives.  This lovely island is 700 metres long by 30 metres wide, its surrounding turquoise waters dominating most of the views and its rustic charms mirrored throughout its extensive use of bamboo, timber and coconut thatch.  Out of the 62 villas, 56 are stilted over the lagoon.  You can can choose between twin or single bedroomed villas, all boasting sea-facing bathtubs and private sundecks with steps directly down into the water.  The single villas look out towards the sea for maximum privacy, whilst the Honeymoon suite sits right at the very end of the long pier.  Eight beach villas are secreted away amidst the natural vegetation, all of them with open-air bathrooms and verandahs, four with their own private plunge pools.  Amenities include air-conditioning, personal bars and tea/coffee making facilities and safe deposit lockers. You can take advantage of the PADI-recognised dive centre or the Jiva Grande Spa situated on a private island sanctuary and a member of Leading Spas of the World.  Other recreational possibilities include use of the gym and infinity-edge swimming pool, snorkelling trips to other islands, as well as water sports such as windsurfing, electric (silent) skidoos,catamarans and pedalos.  The main restaurant serves Continental, Asian and Maldivian cuisine beside the lagoon, whilst the stilted speciality restaurant offers à la carte dinners with the emphasis on fresh seafood and Asian curries. Discreet evening entertainment is available. This is a very  well run hotel. TRANSFER TIME 15-mins speedboat ride from Malé International Airport. Style Beach hotel and spa conveniently close to Male. No. of Bedrooms 62 villas and suites. Special Offers Free nights and Honeymoon Pool One large pool. Dining Two restaurants and one bar Activities and facilities  Jiva grand spa, fitness centre, volleyball, SCUBA diving centre, catamaran, sailing, waterskiing, sea kayaks, windsurfing and fishing. Prices Prices from £2,040 (low) and £3,330 high) per person sharing a lagoon villla B&B with return flights in economy class on Sri Lankan Airways from Heathrow.