Coco Bodu Hithi, Maldives

Bodu Hithi opened in 2006 following a multi-million dollar investment by Maldivian operator Coco Collection and is excellent value for what we would call an entry-level 5 star resort, thanks to sensible pricing and generous stay-pay and early booking offers. The island has matured nicely since, and there's a lush, tropical atmosphere.

The villas are spacious, well-appointed and feature good-sized private pools. They are traditional and older in style so don’t expect the modern fixtures of some of the other resort. In the large Island Villas the pools are in a walled garden to the rear offering total privacy. The Water Villas and Escape Water Villas are on one jetty, with steps from the decks onto the best snorkelling area of the house reef. The huge Coco Residences are on a separate jetty and offer a hint of opulence while retaining an authentic Maldivian ambiance.

There's a good array of dining choices and facilities, including tennis courts, and an impressive over-water spa. There's no kids' club though, Bodu Hithi is more aligned to couples, or grown-up families than children.

Coco Bodu Hithi is a superb getaway for honeymooners and couples wanting total peace and relaxation in style.

This medium-sized island has good vegetation with plenty of tall palm trees and offers a good variety of accommodation. The Island Villas are generously sized, very well equipped with Plasma TV and DVD player complimented by a wonderful private pool off the bedroom and a good sized patio leading to the beach close by. At a time when some resort's prices are verging on ridiculous Bodu Hithi still offers some sense of value for money.

The resort's Island Villas all benefit from spacious accommodation on land, with a private garden. Then there are the three categories of accommodation over the water: Water Villas, Escape Water Villas and Coco Residences. All are well appointed and come with a good sized infinity pool on the deck with great views over the lagoon. For the perfect holiday why not start off in an Island Villa and finish the last few days in a Water Villa?

Air is the main restaurant, while Aqua Restaurant Offers you the chance to dine over the water. Alternatively, you can dine on the beach at the al fresco Breezes. Special dinners can be arranged on the beach, on a sand bank or while enjoying a cruise. Enjoy a drink at the excellent Latitude Bar. Stars restaurant, Tsuki and the Wine Loft complete an impressive range of dining options.

The Coco Spa offers a good selection of treatments alongside a collection of special skin care products which can be purchased at the Spa Boutique. There are also Yoga and Tai Chi pavillions.

Dive Ocean is a 5-Star PADI dive center. The Watersports Centre is also well equipped.

For those with the energy to spare on land there is a superb over-the-water Fitness Centre with a good selection of equipment. Near to reception nestled amongst the palm trees is an all-weather, floodlit tennis court. Badminton is also available. If you can't escape your business or feel the need to stay connected to home Bodu Hithi has complimentary wifi in the rooms and main areas.