Powder white sands, unusually rich vegetation, crystal clear waters and understated luxury is what the original desert island hideaway is all about.

One destination spread languidly across two islands, Niyama gives the luxury Maldives holiday an exciting twist.

Its popularity has risen like the tallest temple tower and images of its Buddha-flanked streets, corrugated rice paddies and otherworldly beaches are bountiful. So it could be argued that, nowadays, Thailand is in no need of an introduction… perhaps.

There’s a special intimacy about Ivory Lodge that sets it apart, its contemporary interiors boldly decorated in themes that hint of tribal African origins, each villa set in a garden forest by the Sabie River, with outdoor shower and viewing deck complete with telescope.