More than two years passed before he could get another commission but by then Krolow had 80 islands for sale, in different parts of the world. He also started buying islands himself. He and his company now own more than a dozen islands — in Canada, Panama, Belize and Fiji — which are rented out as holiday lets.

Some islands can be bought undeveloped, while others already have roads and/or houses. Islands are also available for rent. Many celebrities have their own private islands. Commercial development of uninhabited islands can raise ecological concerns, as many have a fragile environment.

Can you buy a private island? Yes. In most cases, you will need a deposit of 10 percent of the purchase price to enter into an agreement of sale. You will also need to arrange for a jumbo mortgage or private financing to cover the remainder of the purchase amount.

Island prices vary according to location. It is true that islands can be bought in any part of the world if you have sufficient money.