Prince William studies on island paradise

Prince William recently trained with the Welsh Guards

Prince William has swapped the rigours of training with the Welsh Guards in Belize for the white sands of Mauritius for an "educational trip", it has been revealed.

A spokesman for St James's Palace said the prince would be working on an undisclosed project with the Royal Geographical Society on a private trip to the Indian Ocean island.

The presence of paparazzi at any stage may put in jeopardy the facilities planned for later in the gap year

St James's Palace spokesman

The news of his trip emerged when the palace issued a statement asking the media to respect the prince's privacy during an "important period of personal development".

Prince William will be attending St Andrews University in 2001 after receiving ABC grades in his A-levels last month.

The teenager was taking part in exercises with the Welsh Guards in Belize when told of his grades.

The island of Mauritius is famed for its beach resorts

The palace spokesman said: "I can confirm that Prince William is engaged in an educational project in Mauritius for a few weeks.

"This is a private trip and the Prince of Wales would be grateful, in accordance with the guidance issued by the Press Complaints Commission, for the media's continuing - and much appreciated - co-operation in respecting William's privacy."

The spokesman issued a clear warning to any part of the media considering intruding on the trip.

"The presence of paparazzi at any stage may put in jeopardy the facilities planned for later in the gap year," he said.

Mauritius is known for its white sandy beaches, palm trees and stunning mountain scenery.