transfers are a lot more expensive by plane

beach villas are better and cheaper in maldives than french polynesia, same as overwater.

virtuoso has member travel agents that can book special rates/amenities/if-available upgrades/etc
http://www.virtuoso.com/VCOM/us/Temp...rm.aspx?Type=H
member props in maldives
-one and only kanuhura
-one and only reethi rah
-soneva gili
-soneva fushi
-taj exotica

AMEX FHR has no member props there.

also, you can't have the "best" if you have a budget :P you're looking for the best for that budget.

ok i guess i forgot taj seasons. $850 rate there.

i'll check the other virt member props. done. others are more expensive.

i would say call virtuoso / a virtuoso agent and see what they're offering for taj exotica maldives. especially rates/packages where you get upgraded if the next room type is available. (when you're checking in)

also, a bunch of the properties are members of SLH. if you make a booking through SLH website, you become a member, and can then get special offers/upgrades.

oh, and you're UK. if you have amex plat, you can actually book special rates with early checkin/late checkout/breakfast/upgrade.

virtuoso
-taj exotica maldives

american express platinum card (SLH rate at SLH props)
-baros
-huvafen (only nov 17-22 and after that, not early nov)
-cocoa palm (maybe slightly cheaper total)

checking rates at those now.