The Maldives

Concierge.com's insider take:

The 62-room Taj Exotica is Four Seasons with a deep bow toward India. First impressions of the lagoon alone—one of the largest in the Maldives—will leave you with lasting memories. An intimate ambience permeates an island so narrow that you never lose sight of the vibrant sea in either direction. Land villas feel like beach houses, set back from the shore with cozy outdoor daybeds, while the overwater villas provide direct access to the ocean from decks angled to maximize privacy. All rooms are stocked with generous-size bottles of Molton Brown bath products, a rotating menu of delectable homemade treats, high-thread-count linens, and Ploh bathrobes in two thicknesses. You'll want to disrobe for the Giva Spa where two in-house Ayurvedic doctors heal in unexpected ways: like the dincharya treatment, which includes rubbing a mixture of castor oil, camphor, and cow ghee in the eyes to cleanse tear ducts. More indulgent treatments, like Maldivian mud wraps and water therapy, are also on offer. An afterthought at most resorts, the on-site boutique here stands out with silver-tip stingray belts from Bali and original jewelry that wouldn't look out of place at Barney's. Food figures prominently in the indulgences here, from speedy room service for decadent breakfasts to the show kitchen at 24 Degrees where the menu extends from authentic Indian fare to spicy Thai and juicy burgers. Also check out the overwater dining room at Deep End, which serves rich indulgences like Moroccan-spiced lobster medallions and foie gras terrine.