Frégate Island Private

The beaches are beautiful, but strong currents and waves meant we couldn't swim, and reaching them involved about 200 steep stairs. My husband slipped and fell on his back, which felt dangerous. There were also around 300 kinds of birds nesting and leaving droppings everywhere. The island had no activities, and for a private day trip to other islands they offered us a transport ferry boat. The villa cost £3000+ a night, yet giant millipedes got into our villa, underwear, clothes, and food. My husband and I had booked six nights through Knightsbridge Circle Luxury, a London-based concierge company. After three nights, I woke up to millipedes by my bed and clothes and insisted we leave immediately. We moved to the newly opened Six Senses resort, which had none of these creatures and great service, so we basically had to pay for our holiday again. I've visited several other Seychelles islands, and these millipedes are native only to Fregate Island. Fregate private island charges outrageous amounts, and it needs major changes and lower prices. It's not adequate for tourism.

I visited about 20 years ago, on one of my first trips overseas, and it felt like heaven on earth. I remember the giant tortoises and rare black magpies as part of the island's magical feel. Celebrities followed after my 10 day holiday there. It's more developed now, of course, but those memories will stay with me.

There are more than 10 villas, but we hardly saw anyone else. The staff were attentive, the food was fabulous, and the bungalow felt like a dream house. With all the endemic life around, I felt like Robinson on a luxury holiday. It was how I'd imagine heaven, and I just wish I could return one day.

I've been to the island about 4 times now, and it's simply amazing. Truly a paradise.