There’s something almost British-Raj about this place. All decorative domes, pinnacles and pagodas, it’s reminiscent of a Maharajah’s palace. And it’s got plenty to shout about on the inside, too. Take the lobby for example. There are marble pillars trimmed with gold, stained glass ceiling panels and chandeliers.

The bedrooms are also rather special. Each one is a junior suite, so hydro-massage tubs, sunken living areas and private balconies come as standard. Not to mention nice-to-have extras like satellite TVs, minibars and RIU’s signature bar butler. Factor in marble floors, peaches and cream décor and masses of space and you’ve got one luxurious sanctuary.

And there’s more of the same in the restaurants. It’s all Victorian-style recessed ceilings and mirrored pillars in the main buffet. Meanwhile with lots of black lacquer and geometric-patterns, the Japanese is the epitome of Oriental chic. And the à la carte grill looks like a French salon – cue chandeliers, wood-panelling and Louis XV chairs.

As for the pool area, it’s the hotel’s star attraction. For starters, there’s a series of courtyard ponds complete with splashing fountains. Next in line is a good-sized infinity pool, designed to look like it’s part of the big pool beyond it. Finally there’s the lake-sized main pool. This is where you’ll find the swim-up bar and four adjoining whirlpool baths – and a vast sun terrace filled with elegant canvas parasols and sunloungers.

Location-wise, you’ll find it all right by the beach - a spectacular stretch of white sand. Backed by gently nodding palms and lapped by azure waters, it's like a scene from Treasure Island.

Travel longhaul with Thomson Airways and you can look forward to…

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