Cocoa Island © Cocoa Island

The Maldives resort island of Bandos is located in the North Malé Atoll, a convenient 20-minute boat ride from the airport. Bandos itself is an idyllic setting for a tropical holiday, with white sand beaches and crystal-clear lagoons ringing lush green vegetation, and numerous palm trees swaying in the breeze.

There is plenty to do in Bandos for active holidaymakers, including scuba diving, sailing, windsurfing and game fishing. The resort has facilities that include tennis and squash courts, swimming pools, saunas, gyms, and a salon and spa. There is also nightly entertainment, though not lively enough to satisfy younger vacationers looking for a party.