Most expensive private islands 2006

Today, even remote islands have cellular phone service, and if yours doesn't, you can get telephone, Internet and television service via satellite.

Though "private island" might conjure up images of tropical paradises lush with palms, such properties can be had around the world. You can buy part of a remote Asian archipelago that can only be reached by plane, then car, then boat; or a vintage estate off the coast of Connecticut--close enough to commute to Manhattan each day.

One thing holds true around the globe, however: Before you consider buying an island retreat, you must rent one, Vladi advises.

"Check out the flora and fauna," he says. "See how you can get along in an anti-social environment. See if you like the local culture--you have to buy your groceries, get your boat repaired."

Some locales may be more welcoming than others. For example, a $27.5 million property known as Sultan's Island originally appeared on our list, but was subsequently withdrawn because of local anti-foreign sentiment.

"The media are creating a stir about foreigners buying it and so the owner has taken it off the market," says Morrison, the listing broker.

Consult a professional broker, and be sure to ask the right questions about any island that looks appealing in pictures.

"The further away the island, the more remote the island, the less salable the island is," Vladi says. "No photo shows you that. You don't see mosquitoes in photos. I can show you the most beautiful islands that have sand flies."

If the prices on our list are too steep, don't despair. Though the big ones are certainly desirable, often because of development potential, the best islands for private retreats are often smaller and far cheaper.

"An island that is five, ten, or 20 acres, that's human-sized," Morrison says. "Something you can walk around in an hour or two hours."

And, of course, you still won't bump into any neighbors.

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