Mauritius

Mauritius has professionalised the art of making relocation feel like a lifestyle choice; Seychelles has professionalised the art of ensuring it remains a holiday.

Both operate with a veneer of tropical ease, though Mauritius has developed enough bureaucratic infrastructure to make you feel the hierarchy in the paperwork if not the people.

Mauritius will hand you a brochure and a residency form before you've asked a question; Seychelles will smile warmly and say very little about what happens next.

Neither island appears to be in a particular hurry, though Mauritius at least has a sales agent ready on time.

Mauritius offers a functioning expat community and a north-coast social scene; Seychelles offers a polite fortnight and a graceful suggestion that you might enjoy the airport.