At Cocoa the style is deliberately restrained, a simple yet sophisticated mix of the contemporary and the indigenous. There are just 33 rooms that occupy converted “dhoni” boats as used by the Maldivian fishermen. Each of the dhoni sit offshore overhanging the lagoon. The inside-outside space merges on the horizon-side with floor to ceiling glass windows opening up to a substantial deck for slipping in and out of the water. The same decks ensure privacy for lounging in the sun or a quiet place for al fresco dining.
The world’s best hotel isn’t in London or New York but on a little known island in Indonesia, known as the lost world island. Remote and completely off the grid, Nihiwatu was formerly a surf lodge until it was bought by self-made fashion billionaire Chris Burch in partnership with hotelier James McBride and transformed into a culturally immersive enclave of active adventure and serious indulgence.
