Why: It is where I have lived for 20 years and because I met my husband, a native Norfolk Islander, there.

The island is an old volcano, very hilly and surrounded by magnificent cliffs. It is heavily forested with the native Norfolk Island pine and, although it's sub-tropical, it looks Arctic because of the pine. When you look under the pines you see all the tropical trappings such as palms and bananas.

It is the best place to snorkel I've ever been: the coral reef is only 100 yards from the shore so you can paddle out in your flippers.

Even though it is a tourist resort, it is absolutely peaceful. It is three by five miles and sits all on its own in an infinity of ocean between the tip of the north island of New Zealand and New Caledonia. There is no town, only a shopping centre, but you know everyone you want to know, and we all know far too much about one another.

Yet because it is so hilly and the roads are so winding, you don't get a sense of how small and isolated it is unless you go up to the top of the mountain and look out to the water all around you. Despite living there for 20 years, there are still places I haven't been to.

What's the best thing? There is no pressure on anyone; you feel isolated because you are isolated. You are in an enclosed world, beautiful and different.

My advice: I'd hire a car, because it is too hilly to walk and just pootle around the island enjoying that sense of isolation.

How do I get there? Air New Zealand (020-8741 2299) flies London to Norfolk Island return via Auckland or Christchurch plus a stopover in Los Angeles for £968.10 inclu tax. For other flights and accommodation, see www.pi-travel.co.nz/norfolk_island.

• Morgan's Run by Colleen McCullough is published by Century at £17.99.