After an early (and hasty) departure from the relative primitiveness of l’Ankàrana, we’ve arrived at our next port of call in the village of Joffreville. We’re staying at Le Domaine de Fontenay, a luxurious colonial style guest house not far from the Amber Mountain National Park. After shying away from last night’s basic amenities, I’m looking forward to having a nice cup of tea and a hot shower.

We were all but welcomed with open arms by the owner and her brother, who are both from the Seychelles and speak absolutely flawless English. They seemed genuinely pleased to have us here, with both having interesting and engaging stories to tell.

The rooms here are stunning; enormous, with stone floors, a king sized bed and a freestanding marble bath in the bathroom. Our only neighbour is a 150 year old Tortoise named Galileo.

So far the food here has been exceptional, as is the local rum. Delicious.