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The Maldives have long been considered as one of the world's most popular getaway destinations, thanks to the pristine seascape, lush marine life and the exclusive luxury service offered by the many resorts. Though such lavishness is costly, many of those who yearn for a heavenly vacation don't worry too much about the price tag.

Billed as an "intelligent luxurious" resort, Soneva Gili by Six Senses has already proved that its service and accommodation standards are worthy of every dime. Located just 20 minutes from Male International Airport, the resort sits on a tiny coral island in a sparkling lagoon with jetties branching out across the shallow water to the oversized villas, some of them quite isolated in the Indian Ocean.

There are 29 Soneva Gili Villa Suites connected to land by jetties. Each 210squaremetre suite features a kingsized bed, an open-air living area with day bed and, a roofed sun deck and openair bathroom. Each unit faces out to the ocean, giving a feeling of total solitude and privacy. From the sun deck, you can take a dip in the crystal clear waters anytime you like and snorkel to your heart's content.

For a more secluded stay and total privacy, there are 16 standalone residences accessible only by boat. Five hundred meters away from Soneva Gili, the monumental Private Reserve with total area of 1,400sqm offers the ultimate in luxury with five separate buildings, private coral pool, spa facility and private entertainment.

As you're stranded here on the islet, Soneva Gili provides most things you need. The kitchen serves European, some Asian and occasional Maldivian cuisine. There are three restaurants and a wine cellar for those who like to mix. The less social can choose to have breakfast in their villa and set up a romantic dinner in any location on the isle at additional cost.

One thing that makes Soneva Gili stand out is the customised service. You'll have your own personal butler, Mr Friday as he is known, who will cater to your every need. Guests in the Private Reserve, get a resident Mr and Mrs Friday on 24hour call.

Other facilities include Six Senses Spa with a number of signature holistic treatments, gym, openair fresh water pool, yoga and Tai Chi sessions, board games, movie DVDs and free wifi. You can borrow the equipment for water sports, fishing and tennis. Divers shouldn't miss the chance to experience the unique and rich underwater world at the Maldives' many famous dive sites. One must is the Manta Point, which is only 10 minutes boat ride from the resort. Here in the Maldives, if your last dive is more than three months ago, you will have to complete an orientation dive before taking an actual dive. Not a diver? Grab a snorkel and plunge in - even at chest-deep level you can see the abundant fish and corals. The resort can also arrange a short day trip to other nearby islands and the capital city.

Perfect for a relaxing getaway, Soneva Gili is not a location that provides actionpacked programme or crazy nightlife. It's a safe environment for small children, but not exactly a fun place for them.

AT A GLANCE

High point: Luxurious resort with customised service, great dive sites nearby, ideal for tranquil and romantic getaway.

Low point: No other excursion or activities outside the resort premises, limited food options, fresh water for drinking is charged fairly high, not family friendly.

Find it: Lankanfushi Island, North Male Atoll, Republic of Maldives

Pay for it: US$1,750 to $2,500 per night

Phone it: (+960) 664 0304

Browse it: www.SixSenses.com