Above: An aerial view of villas at Fregate Island Private in the Seychelles

Safaris are often thrilling, even life-changing, but they are seldom restful. Most morning game drives begin before sunrise, the dirt roads are bumpy and the tsetse flies can be infuriating. True, upscale lodges generally have a pool, and it is possible to relax during the heat of the day, when the animals have sought refuge in the shade. But it still makes sense to spend a few days relaxing on the beach before returning to normal life, soothed by the sea breeze and free from the tyranny of the 5:30 a.m. wake-up call.

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