This verdant small island, located in the Grenadines, has been a retreat for "jet set" since the 1960's when Lord Glenconner (Colin Tennant) gave land to Princess Margaret as a wedding present. Since then this very private enclave has had such other well-known residents as Mick Jagger, David Bowie, and Tommy Hilfiger. Mustique has several very pretty beaches, including the famous Macaroni Beach, and about 80 houses, which dot the island. Whether crowning a hill or on the beach, each is wonderfully designed and furnished with great style. All also have terrific views and are fully staffed.

How private is it? One can only arrive via a charter plane or by private boat. There are no cruise ships or ferries for visitors and only two small and expensive hotels - the world class Cotton House and the even smaller Firefly. Mustique is not about eating out and the only restaurants are in "town" at Basil's and in the hotels. By day tennis, snorkeling, picnics, sailing and riding (very frisky horses) are activities of choice. There are also sports programs available for children of all ages. After the sun goes down, the only evening activities (outside the houses) are the weekly cocktail party held at the Cotton House followed the next night by the barbecue and jump-up at Basil's. The tiny and charming Easter Bunny painted village on the edge of Britannia Bay has no name and only a few small shops. However, among the things available are foie gras, Balinese antiques, Champagne and homemade ice cream. This is a very civilized and special island.

Local currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC) though US dollars are accepted. Fly to Barbados nonstop on one of several major carriers and then take a private or shared charter on Mustique Airways to the island. One can now also fly via private jet to Canouan and charter a small plane (a 7 minute flight to Mustique).