Halaveli is a tiny island in the Indian Ocean – you can walk around the perimeter in 10-15 minutes – but what it lacks in size it makes up for in pure, unsurpassed luxury.

It has 86 villas – some on the beach and some over-water – and each category is perfect in its own way.

All the villas have pools, with Beach Villas furnished in a chic beach style with the latest technological features including Apple TV, iPod docks Nespresso machine and the like. The outdoor bathrooms feature double vanities, rain showers, double bath and a beautiful black-slate pool is the centrepiece of the garden. Guests can choose to have a villa with a swimming pool at the front, with a view onto the turquoise lagoon, or at the back, for complete privacy.

There are three restaurants – all excellent – with kids treated like VIPs, an idyllic spa and activities to please everyone. Go on a dolphin cruise, learn to waterski and do a turtle snorkelling safari – swimming with huge turtles and being able to get up close to them is unforgettable. Also see the five sting rays that visit the beach most nights; being able to get so close to these beautiful creatures is very special.

The best thing about Halaveli is its ‘barefoot luxury’ style.