The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands

There’s an unmistakable air of luxury surrounding the tropical paradise that is The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. It could be the secluded chain of private islands, the boldly designed overwater villas or the above-and-beyond private butler service. Or it could simply be postcard-perfect natural surroundings: sparkling turquoise waters, lush vegetation and blue sky as far as the eye can see.This ultra-luxe resort is a feast for the eyes. One hundred villas are all created with a unique curvature and lined with strategically placed wooden slats to maintain a sense of privacy. The circular overwater villas — a marked departure from the thatched-roof villas prevalent in the Maldives — form an oval around the ring-shaped spa. Indoor/outdoor living spaces feel seamless, with retractable wall-to-wall windows and spacious outdoor showers.In fact, The Ritz-Carlton eschews the barefoot luxury look of other Maldives resorts in favor of a sleek, modern aesthetic. You won’t find gimmicks like waterslides into the ocean or glass-bottomed bathrooms — just pure, unadulterated luxury.