OLLING lazily in the stretched blue tarpaulin of the Indian Ocean, seemingly adrift in the sea, is the Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa, Maldives. Located in South Ari Atoll, a short 25-minute seaplane ride from Malé, this sybaritic spa retreat aims to make a splash in the ranks of the top Maldives luxury resorts with spoiling villas and one of the best house reefs complete with a coral-encrusted shipwreck to entice serious divers.

The 112 beachfront suites and overwater villas range from 76sq m to 146sq m, with a separate living room that, in overwater villas, extends outdoors to take in those spectacular sunsets. Expect air-conditioning, spacious and airy bathrooms with indoor and outdoor showers. Acquire a tan on your very own private terrace, watch satellite TV, or plug into the Internet. Proximity to the airport makes this an accessible all-inclusive hideaway for jet-setters on a tight timeline. It is perfect for honeymooners but serves up family friendly amenities with equal aplomb.

For the more discerning, the Island Club offers premium facilites and services, including a clubhouse with a private pool bathed in SPA Cenvaree mist spray. Spot that rainbow. Top-drawer amenities include premium spirits, snacks, flowing beverages and an exclusive dining venue.

Gourmets are catered for at four speciality restaurants serving Thai and Italian with Teppenyaki thrown in for good measure. After hours retreat to a bar lounge for more music and entertainment. Why stop? Kids' facilities include Camp Safari for ages four to nine while the E-Zone caters for those aged 10 to 17. The extensive fun arsenal includes PlayStation, Nintendo, video games, and Wii. All this, while liberated adults and juniors head out kayaking, boating, fishing, snorkelling and diving. The SPA Cenvaree as ever beckons wellness seekers with rejuvenating treaments and oils. Of course you will have to leave your footprints in that sugar-white sand at this one-of-a-kind escape in one of the best Maldives spa resorts.