Geography: The British Virgin Islands are located in the northeastern Caribbean, about 80 km east of Puerto Rico and 1,770 km southeast of Florida. The islands occupy the northeastern part of the archipelago of the Virgin Islands, which also includes the US Virgin Islands, which belong to the United States.
Time: Behind Moscow in winter by 7 hours, in summer - by 8 hours (GMT / UTC - 4). The country does not switch to winter / summer time.
Nature: All the islands of the group, with the exception of Anegada, are of volcanic origin and are therefore elevated. Hills and uplands composed of Cretaceous limestone and crystalline rocks, which are the peaks of ancient underwater volcanoes, occupy almost 90% of the entire territory of the islands. Separate ancient crystalline volcanic massifs rise 500 m above the water, and the highest point of the islands, Mount Sage on the island of Tortola, reaches a height, according to various estimates, from 521 to 550 m. overgrown with dense subtropical vegetation. Anegada Island is of coral origin and is low - its maximum height barely reaches 8 meters above sea level.
There are no rivers and lakes on the islands, so water resources are very limited - if you do not take into account the numerous seasonal streams and springs on Tortola, as well as wells, there are no other sources of fresh water on the islands. Dense rainforests cover the interior hilly regions of Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke, but due to lack of water, many areas are covered with sparse hardwoods, thickets of dry shrubs, cacti, and palms. Local flora includes redwoods, tree ferns, various fruit trees and creepers. Animals common to the islands are lizards, rats, feral donkeys and various birds. The bo-peep night frog is found exclusively in Virgin Gorda and Tortola and has a "voice" that seems impossibly loud for such a small animal. Virgin Gorda is home to a tiny endemic gecko (Spherodactylus pathenopian), which has about a dozen names here.
There are many coral reefs around the islands, full of caves and lagoons. The total length of the coastline is about 80 km, and the reef wall stretches for a total of 240 km.
Climate: Tropical marine, trade winds, warm and very even. The average monthly temperature fluctuates slightly throughout the year - from +22-24 C in winter to +28-29 C in summer. Diurnal temperature changes are also weakly traced.
Precipitation is up to 1300 mm per year, and there are two dry (winter and summer) and two rainy (spring and autumn) seasons. The maximum amount of rain falls in the period from September to November-December, although even at this time, no more than five to six days a month are rainy. Between July and October, tropical hurricanes are likely to pass over the territory of the islands, although here they are recorded much less frequently than over the nearby Windward Islands.
Political system: The British Virgin Islands (often referred to simply as the BVI in English-speaking countries) have been a self-governing territory of Great Britain since 1967. The head of state is Queen Elizabeth II, represented on the islands by a governor appointed by the monarch (or rather, the British Department of Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs) from among the leaders of the party or majority coalition that won the legislative elections. The Governor is in charge of defense, finance, foreign policy, justice and civil service, and also heads the Legislative and Executive Councils of the islands.
Legislative power is vested in the unicameral Legislative Council (13 deputies are elected for a four-year term in direct and secret elections: one member from each of the nine constituencies plus four in proportion to one deputies from each major island).
The Executive Council (Cabinet of Ministers) is appointed by the Governor from among the members of the Legislative Council. The Cabinet consists of the Governor, the Chief Minister and three line ministers, as well as the Attorney General.
Population: About 23 thousand people. About 83% of the population are descendants of immigrants from the African continent, the rest are mulattoes, Creoles and representatives of other ethnic groups of the planet.
About 80% of the population lives on the island of Tortola, another 16 islands are permanently inhabited in one form or another, the rest are uninhabited.
Language: The official language is English. However, most of the locals speak West Indian English, which is a bizarre mixture of Spanish, Danish, English, French and African dialects.
Religion: The dominant religion is Christianity (Protestants - 36%, Methodists - 33%, Anglicans - 17%, Catholics - 10%, etc.), representatives of other world confessions also live on the islands.
Economy: The basis of the Virginian economy is foreign tourism, which provides jobs for 20% of the working population. The islands are visited by 200,000 tourists a year, mostly from the United States. Agriculture employs 2% of the economically active population; the development of agricultural production is hampered by the low fertility of virgin soils. The sown areas on the islands do not exceed two thousand hectares; sugar cane, coconuts, bananas, and vegetables are grown on them. Animal husbandry is more developed; pastures occupy four thousand hectares, there are two thousand heads of cattle, six and a half thousand sheep, three thousand pigs, twelve thousand goats. Fishing is carried out for domestic consumption and for export. From the industry in the Virgin Islands there are small enterprises for the production of cement and other building materials, rum, light industry products. Electricity is generated at a power plant with a capacity of 5,000 kilowatts. The Virgin Islands export products worth 2.5 million dollars, and import - more than a hundred million. A third of exports are food products. The USA is the main (up to 90%) foreign trade partner of the British Virgin Islands. The main port of the islands is Road Town. Beef Island Airport is located 16 km from the administrative center. After the measures taken in 1984 to liberalize the tax regime, the Virgin Islands turned into a major financial center of the West Indies. Unemployment on the islands is low and immigration is highly regulated.
Currency: US dollar (USD, US$) equal to 100 cents. In circulation are denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 dollars, coins - pennies (1 cent), nickel (5 cents), dime (10 cents), quarter (25 cents), half-dollar (50 cents) and 1 dollar.
Main attractions: Arawak Indians from the Orinoco Basin settled in the Virgin Islands around the 1st century BC. e. In the middle of the 15th century, they were conquered by the more aggressive Carib Indians, who, just a few decades later, met here the ships of Columbus, who discovered the islands during the second expedition to the shores of the New World. It's hard to say what guided great navigator, choosing a name for the land he discovered, but official history says that these islands got their name in honor of St. Ursula and her 11,000 virgins. In the light of this theory, the names of the remaining islands of the group seem even more strange - Tortola ("Land of the Turtle Dove"), Virgin Gorda ("Fat Virgin"), Anegada ("Sunken Island") or Jost Van Dyke (the name and surname of the famous Dutch pirates), clearly pointing to very, very different stages of their history, but they are still accepted today.
Quickly settled by immigrants from Foggy Albion, the islands from 1872 to 1960. were part British colony The Leeward Islands, having received autonomy in 1967. Almost the entire life of this tiny piece of land, lost between the chain of the Leeward Islands and the larger islands of the Greater Antilles, depends on two factors - banking (the islands are considered one of the largest and most authoritative offshore centers in the region) and tourism. Green hills and dry valleys, comfortable coasts and a good climate, political stability and a very favorable ecological situation, many well-protected harbors and an extended chain of reefs are considered the main advantages of the islands. Formerly a haven for pirates and smugglers, these days they attract the attention of a huge number of lovers of beach holidays, diving, yachting and windsurfing.
Tortola Island ("Land of the Dove" in Spanish) is the central and largest island of the British Virgin Islands. The green hills of the slopes of ancient volcanoes gently run down to the dry coast with its bays and bays, built up with small towns, resorts and fishing villages. The mountain range that stretches across the entire island is not high, but it is she who forms the noticeable differences between the northern and southern shores of Tortola. The north coast is a relatively gentle strip of beautiful beaches with soft white sand. The southern coast runs down to the sea in numerous valleys, forming many bays and bays, the coasts of which are partly rocky, and partly covered with small beaches with coarse volcanic and coral sand.
The main city, the largest port of the island and the administrative center of the British Virgin Islands is located on south coast Tortola, on the shores of the vast bay of Rhode Bay. Squeezed between the coast and the slopes of the hills of Fort Hill, Leonard Jos Hill and Fehey Hill, the streets of the horseshoe city frame the western shore of the bay, while its northern and eastern parts are occupied by port facilities and commercial districts (however, there are many of these on the western side). The main street of the capital - Main Street is almost completely built up with shops and restaurants, offering its guests a huge range of goods and services. This is where most of the historical monuments cities - the Post Office (mid-18th century), the Anglican Church of St. Phillips (1840), the building of the old governor's residence of the Old Government House (now the Public Museum) and the small Folk Museum (1983) with a good local history and historical exposition. The main landmark is Fort Carlott (Fort Burt), towering over the southwestern part of the city, built by filibusters in the middle of the 17th century, by 1776 rebuilt by Her Majesty's Navy engineers and named after the Governor of the Leeward Islands William Burt, and in 1874 rebuilt into a fairly dark prison).
On the opposite shore of the bay, on the slope of Fort Hill (by the way, there are two hills with that name in the city, and both of them are crowned with old fortresses), another small fortress rises - Fort George (XVII century). And exactly halfway between the fortresses, in the area of the old port warehouses in the northern part of the bay, lies the main shopping and entertainment area of the city - Wickems Cay. The Center for Applied Marine Research, located in the Levity Stouts College complex, is developing a range of scientific and educational programs - here you can find an art gallery and a small museum with expositions dedicated to local nature, history and folk crafts.
In the very center of the city, the O'Neill Botanical Gardens (opened in 1986) are located, which have the status of a national park. The four-storey park contains on its territory great amount representatives of local and imported plants, a small pond with unique varieties of water lilies, a small waterfall, an aviary for birds and even a miniature patch of rain forest. The structures of the Experimental Agricultural Station, founded 100 years ago (the station itself was moved to Barakita Bay), the "house of orchids", the "Christmas garden" and many cozy recreation areas have also been preserved. And in the western part of Road Town, on the shore of Road Harbor, there is a small Queen Elizabeth II park, planted with rows of exotic plants and white cedars - the national symbol of the islands. There is also a small picnic area and playground.
The sights of the island include the Calwood distillery (one of the best rum producers in the region) in Cane Garden Bay, the ruins of Fort Dungeon (1794) in Pokewood Pound, Thornton plantation - the birthplace of architect William Thornton (creator of the Capitol building, USA) , Zion Hill Chapel (1834) at Sopers Hole, Fort Recovery (1640 - the oldest building on Tortola) near Road Town, North Shoe Shell Museum in Carrot Bay with a huge collection of thousands a wide variety of sea shells, boats and fishing tackle, put on eternal parking near the island of Nenny Cay, the historic sloop "Vigilent" (XVIII century), Mount Halty with its ruins of a sugar plantation and an old windmill (XVIII century, has the status of a national park), Sage Mountain National Park with its picturesque forest of mahogany, white cedars and kapak trees, as well as the Shark Bay Ecological Reserve on the northern coast of the island, in Brevers Bay.
The eastern part of the island is an intensively developing resort area. Superb recreational areas sprawl along the secluded and peaceful shores of Trellis Bay, Fat Hogs Bay and the old Josias Bay sugar plantation with its art gallery and Secret Garden patio. The western part of the island is at the same time considered the main resort area of Tortola and is replete with excellent beaches and many modern resort complexes around Steele Point or Long Bay.
The best beaches of the island are located on the north coast, in Cane Garden Bay, which has two reefs, as well as in Smugglers Cove ("Smuggler's Cove", the western part of the island) and in Brevers Bay (northern coast). The shores are also good in the Apple Bay Beach area (Capoons Bay, very popular with windsurfers), in Long Bay with its one and a half kilometer white sandy beach, and in the Elizabeth Beach area, also known as Lambert Bay, one of the widest beaches on Tortola. Sheltered moorings at Brandwine, Cane Garden Bay, Sopers Hole, Hodge Creek Marina Cay and Trellis Bay provide the perfect setting for yachting. The isolated beaches at Apple Bay, Brevers Bay, Josias Bay, Elizabeth Beach, Long Beach Bay and Smugglers Cove are great for swimming and snorkelling.
The unusually shaped island of Virgin Gorda lies 18 kilometers northeast of Tortola. This is the third largest island of the group, but only 2,500 people live on it. Its northeastern part is the top of an underwater volcano, whose elevated slopes scatter in all directions, forming numerous peninsulas and capes, especially protruding into the sea in the northeast and southwest. The southern part of the island is flat and almost entirely occupied by the buildings of the capital of the island - the city of Spanish Town. There is less rainfall here than on Tortola, so the main vegetation of Virgin Gorda is made up of thorny bushes and cacti, only in the center of the northern part, around the peak of Gorda Peak (408 m), there is a small massif of dry mountain forest, which is the real property of the island.
Spanish Town - the main settlement of the island, is so small that it does not even remotely resemble a city. A rather chaotic complex of low houses and narrow streets, through which livestock roam freely, is centered around Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbor, where most of the restaurants and shops, banks and tourist centers are located. In the southern part of the city are the ruins of the old Spanish fortress of Little Fort, which is surrounded by a 36-acre protected area of the national park of the same name.
To the south of the city stretches the desert region of the Valley ("valley"), in which there is nothing interesting, except for two historical parks - the ruins of the old copper mines of Coppermine Ruins and the main pride of the island - the famous Baths ("baths" or "baths") on the south side of Devil Bay. This surreal landscape of huge volcanic boulders literally "running" from the wooded slopes above the beach in rows into the clear greenish-blue sea forms a bizarre labyrinth of tiny gorges, grottoes, caves and reservoirs. Water flows and the impact of ocean waves have turned rocky remains into huge caves and real natural pools (that's where the "baths" come from), framed by huge cobblestones. This natural phenomenon has long been a real mystery to researchers, who eventually came to the cautious opinion that this landscape was formed by a combination of volcanic and glacial activity (classic "ice and fire"). Like it or not, but this area is one of the most visited places in the British Virgin Islands and is literally "clogged" with tourists at any time of the year, so it's better to come here early in the morning or at noon. To the north of Butts, the beautiful white beach of Spring Bay begins, resting on numerous coves formed by the same boulders. Devil Bay, along with Butts, has national park status, and its shores are excellent for swimming and snorkeling. Numerous pleasure boats and boats depart from here, allowing you to see the natural phenomenon of Bats from the sea.
The island's only North Sound Road runs northeast from Spanish Town to the small village of Gun Creek. From here, most excursions begin to the second attraction of the island - Gorda Peak National Park - a 265-acre area guarding one of the best (and last) dry mountain forests in the Caribbean. Biodiversity local nature is considered one of the richest in the region - six endemic species of orchids grow here and about a hundred rare species animals, including three species of rare tree frogs that live only on members of the bromeliad family, including the famous bo-peep frog, which got its name from the sounds it makes, amazingly loud for such a tiny creature. Also here are the Virgin Gorda gecko (the smallest in the world), soldier crabs (this is in the mountains!), About a dozen species of snakes and about 70 species of birds.
Most visitors to the island are attracted by luxury resorts, most of which are concentrated in the north of the island, in the North Sound. Bounded on one side by the northern part of Virgin Gorda, and on the other by the reefs and islands of Mosquito, Prickly Pear, Saba Rock, Eustasia and Necker, protected from the direct impact of ocean waves, the vast North Sound provides the best conditions for hiking excursions, beach holidays , snorkeling and diving in the British Virgin Islands. Good beaches can also be found in Savannah Bay (north of Spanish Town), remote Maho Bay (north of Savannah Bay), Spring Bay Beach and Trunk Bay.
"Sunken Island", as its name can be translated, is located about 32 km northeast of Virgin Gorda. Unlike other islands of the Anegada group, it is not of volcanic, but of coral origin (this is an ancient coral atoll, whose massif was raised tectonic processes above sea level) and with a very small elevation above the water (about 8 m) it is only 14 km long and 5 km wide. Stretching from west to east, the island bears all the attributes of its origin - almost its entire coast is surrounded by almost thirty-kilometer Horseshoe Reef (one of the longest reefs on the planet), and on the island itself there are about two dozen inland salty reservoirs of all sizes, which are the rudiments of an ancient lagoon . Near Anegada, since its discovery, especially during the heyday of piracy, more than 200 ships sank, the skeletons of which are still visible in absolutely clear water, which makes the island especially attractive for diving enthusiasts.
Accordingly, almost all the sights of the island are located at the junction of the sea and the coast. Cow River Beach at the northwestern tip, Loblolly Bay Beach (one of the best on the planet), Flash of Beauty, Bones Bite and Windless Bite are just a few of Anegada's most beautiful beaches to relax in. under the crowns of coconut palms or sea grapes. Isolated shores of the finest white sand are protected by coral reefs and capes protruding into the sea at Nutmeg Point, Setting Point and Pomato Point.
Anegada's natural assets are not limited to reefs and beaches. In fact, this entire island is a wildlife sanctuary, home to numerous so far sea turtles, birds and endangered rock iguanas, which are found in carefully protected conservation areas throughout the island. Frankincense pine, sea grapes, red jasmine and syncarpia (Syncarpia, turpentine tree) grow here alongside feathery sea lavender and wild orchids. The salty lagoons of Flamingo Pond, Red Pond, Bamber Well Pond and others, along with coastal mangrove forests, are home to numerous exotic birds, including shorebirds, the rarest osprey, terns, kaluu birds, blue herons and frigatebirds. . And the lagoons near Natmeg Point are completely unique - thousands of the rarest flamingos for the region gather here, which have long been the hallmark of Anegada.
For snorkellers, the island can offer a maze of reefs, underwater tunnels, banks and caves with their richest marine life. Authentic Moharra nurseries and pipefish can be found on the sand banks close to the shoreline, while green sea turtles can be found in the sheltered waters behind the reef wall. On the reefs themselves, scuba divers can see angelfish, sea cats, lobsters, triggerfish, numerous scaridae (Scaridae), blue surgeonfish (Acanthurus) and bigeye jackfish, whose flocks live among the ruins of numerous Spanish galleons, American privateers and British warships sunk in these waters. Despite its remoteness, Anegada has a well-developed infrastructure for serving water activities, including sea fishing, which is very popular here.
Located on the southwest coast, Anegada Harbor is quiet and provincial. A narrow strip of simple houses, stretching along the bay of the same name with docks and numerous cages for breeding lobsters - that's the whole city. And most of the residential complexes, restaurants, bars and shops are not concentrated here, but in the nearby areas of Pomato Point and Setting Point (most of the island's 150 residents also live here). The small Pomato Point Museum (tel: +284 495-80-38) and the Anegada Museum contain a rather unusual collection of objects and things recovered from ships sunken in the waters of the island. And on the East End peninsula, you can find ancient burial mounds, testifying to the presence here of the Arawak Indians, who settled the island more than one and a half thousand years ago.
The tiny mountainous island of Jost Van Dyke lies 5 km northwest of the coast of Tortola. Stretching from west to east, a small (only 8 sq. km) island with strongly indented coasts, like many islands in the group, is of volcanic origin. The two peaks of the ancient volcano - Majonni Hill (1054 m) and Roach Hill occupy almost its entire central part, and the southwestern peninsula is almost entirely occupied by the third cone - West End Hill. Numerous bays and bays, formed by mountain valleys flooded by the sea, frame the entire island like a necklace. No more than a few hundred people live here permanently, and in the off-season only 100-150 people remain on the island, all the rest leave for Tortola to work. Permanent electricity was introduced here only ten years ago, and running water is far from everywhere, but Jost Van Dyke is well known to tourists as a place of secluded and quiet relaxation, capable of providing guests with unspoiled natural beauty and excellent conditions for seaside holidays.
The main village of the island - Great Harbor - consists of picturesque wooden buildings standing on the shore of a beautiful bay surrounded by mountains with sandy beaches that start almost from the threshold of a few houses. In fact, this is not even a city - three main streets stretch parallel to the seashore, connected to each other by short streets-lanes. The center of the resort area - the palm-fringed Great Harbor Beach - is not the best place on the island for swimming, but the beach area closest to the restaurants and shops of Main Street. A little to the west is White Bay Beach, considered the best beach on the island and one of the top 10 in the region (there are also good Soggy Dollar and Gertrude bars, as well as a hotel and several shops). Also good are the shores of the tiny island of Sandy Reef off the southeast coast of Jost Van Dyke and the isolated Sandy Spit Beach.
The island is surrounded by numerous reefs with several good dive sites around Little Yost Van Dyke, Green Cay and Sandy Cay. In autumn and winter, you can watch whales and dolphins passing on their seasonal migration routes very close to the coast of the island, or visit the "natural hot tubs" of the eastern peninsula, formed by foaming sea waters bubbling in narrow passages between boulders. Nearby Great Tobago has excellent dive sites and a marine reserve that protects a colony of frigatebirds. And in the very east of the island, in Diamond Cay Bay, there is a bird sanctuary of the same name with an area of 1.25 acres. Covering much of the bay and parts of the nearby islands of Sandy Cay, Sandy Spit, and Little Yost One Dyke, this sanctuary protects beaches where endangered leatherback turtles lay their eggs, as well as two endemic lizard species and several bird species, including seabirds. terns, boobies and pelicans.
The idyllic Cooper Island (9 km from Tortola) offers tourists a variety of exotic plants and birds, as well as excellent conditions for all types of sea activities (4 private hotels and a club are open here). Guana Island is home to an 850-acre nature reserve and the luxurious Guana Island Club, considered the largest private resort in the Caribbean. Little Touch Island lies southwest of the eastern tip of Tortola and is considered an isolated seaside resort with lush tropical vegetation and good conditions for relaxing by the sea. Located in the throat of Trellis Bay off Great Camano Island, Marina Cay is considered one of the best snorkeling spots in Tortola. Nearby Cam Bay on Great Camano is one of the youngest national parks in the British Virgin Islands and offers excellent conditions for snorkelling.
Salt Island, which lies 5 km southeast of Tortola, is widely known as the birthplace of a peculiar British tradition - every year a bag of salt is collected in the regularly drying lagoons of this island, which is solemnly sent to the British Queen. Here is a favorite place for divers - the sunken British frigate "Ron" (1867). Nearby Ginger Island is well known for its huge mushroom corals and colorful sponges.
Prickly Pear Island (243 acres) lies in the North Sound on Virgin Gorda and also bears the title of a national park (since 1988). Cactus-covered hills here run down to ancient shores and saltwater pools that are nesting grounds for native and migratory birds, while the mangrove forests on the south shore are home to dozens of species of fish, sea urchins and other creatures. And at the same time, access to the island is not limited, since its northern and eastern shores are considered among the best in the country. North Beach, in particular, offers excellent conditions for swimming and snorkelling, and for hiking enthusiasts, the National Parks Trust maintains a hiking trail from Sand Box Bar to North Beach and Vixen Point, a favorite destination for windsurfers and yachtsmen.
Sir Richard Branson's private Necker Island is a celebrity magnet. On this tiny green island off the coast of Virgin Gorda, there are several luxury hotels (or rather, one, but with several remote buildings in the style of a Polynesian village), equipped with the latest technology. Saba Rock is one of several beautiful islands that guard the North Sound on Virgin Gorda. Here is the only resort that offers guests a feeling of complete privacy.
The southernmost island in the group, Norman Island is widely known as "Pirate Island" due to the fact that its sheltered and isolated bay provided shelter for many pirate ships. Local legends say that it was he who was the prototype of "Treasure Island" in the novel by Robert Louis Stevenson. There are also underwater caves that are extremely popular with divers, and several safe bays and reefs are good for yachtsmen, the best of which are Soldiers Bay, Money Bay and Byte - one of the most protected harbors in the region.
Peter Island is an 1,800-acre island with the only resort accessible only by water. Its Didman's Bay, located on the northern shore, is famous for its horseshoe-shaped beach and good marina. Private Scrub Island is a booming resort area just a mile from Tortola International Airport. Here you can find the most breathtaking panoramas on the islands of the group, white sandy shores and lush tropical vegetation.
Fallen Jerusalem Island lies off the coast of Virgin Gorda and covers an area of about 30 acres. In 1974, the island received the status of a national park and protects the nesting sites of several varieties of seabirds. However, regular excursions are organized here, the main point of attraction for which is the amazing landscape of the island, all strewn with huge boulders, as well as underwater tunnels and caves on the north coast, in the North Lee Bay area.
Around the islands, there are about 60 first-class dive sites, many of which are part of the National Underwater Park System.
Historical outline: The islands were discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493. The first European settlers from 1648 were the Dutch. The British appeared in these places in 1666. They developed a plantation economy, for which they imported Negro slaves from Africa. In total, 7,000 Africans were brought to the Virgin Islands. The Virgin Islands officially became a British colony in 1762. In 1960, the islands received the status of a separate possession, and in 1967, limited self-government. The 1977 constitution somewhat expanded the rights of the Virginians.
National domain: .vg
Entry rules: You can arrange a trip to the British Virgin Islands through the British Embassy, on British terms.
Tourists can stay on the islands for up to six months with a return ticket and a booked hotel room.
Customs regulations: The import of foreign currency is not limited, the declaration is required. The export of currency is allowed in the quantities declared in the entry declaration. When importing gold, a declaration is required.
Persons aged 18 and over are allowed duty free import of up to 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 230 gr. (0.5 lb) of tobacco, as well as up to 0.94 l (1 quart) of wine or other alcoholic products. Items for personal use are not subject to duty.
Perishable food, weapons and ammunition, drugs and drug-containing medications are prohibited for import into the country (illegal importation of drugs is punished very strictly on the islands), as well as products of animal and vegetable origin without the permission of the relevant services. The export of most species of plants and fauna (including corals), antiques, as well as items raised from the bottom of the sea is prohibited.
Often referred to as simply BVI, the British Virgin Islands is one of the most opulent and compelling charter destinations in the world. Centered in one of the most spectacular cruising areas in the Caribbean Sea, the BVI is home to a plethora of lush isles and islets, ideal for island hopping with each island offering its own unique delights.
Roughly split into two island chains the British Virgin Islands stretch for more than 30 miles and are separated by the Sir Francis Drake Channel. Located on the northern side, the main island of this glorious archipelago is Tortola which is neighbored by the Beef Island, Guana Island, The Camanoes and The Dogs. On the south side, Norman and Peter Islands, Dead Chest, Salt, Cooper and Ginger islands, and Virgin Gorda can be found. To the north east of the main group of islands are Jost Van Dyke and the Tobago islands, whilst Anegada lies 14 miles north of Virgin Gorda. Most of the islands are small and uninhabited with some being privately owned, the most notable of which being Richard Branson’s Necker Island - the secluded nature of this gorgeous destination is the ultimate island escape.
Largely unspoiled by development and brushed by gentle trade winds, the British Virgin Islands make for a great sailing destination without being too rough for motor yachts . Abound with excellent yacht facilities it comes as no surprise to know that this charter destination has become one of the most popular in the world.
Tortola
The main island in the British Virgin Islands, Tortola is an eclectic mix of thick alluring jungle, towering mountain peaks and an assortment of vibrant towns. Deemed as the charter capital of the Caribbean, Tortola boasts an abundance of things to do with the hustle and bustle of the island capital of Road Town being an undoubted highlight. Sports enthusiasts will enjoy the opportunities to snorkel, fish, dive and hike before taking part in a game of tennis or cricket whilst beach lovers will admire the stretches of secluded sands which are lapped by crystalline azure waters.
Virgin Gorda
Brimmed with beauty and loved by all, Virgin Gorda has somehow maintained her innocence despite her increasing popularity. A yacht charter is the ultimate way to explore, with a relishing cool breeze making for calm and tranquil sailing. The Baths are unmissable, boasting obscure rock formations of mysterious shapes, which invite hikers to traverse the immense boulders and alluring grottoes.
Jost Van Dyke
Small in size but with a big personality, Jost Van Dyke radiates an overwhelming sense of welcome, making it difficult for visitors to leave this captivating destination. Reputed as the ‘party island’ of the BVI, Jost Van Dyke is rich with mountainous scenery and lush vegetation making it a secluded getaway with a vibrant twist. Laced with restaurants and bars alenty, Jost Van Dyke is one of the most popular islands in the Caribbean and for good reason.
59 sq mi
673/sq mi
The british virgin islands is a British overseas territory, located in the Caribbean to the east of Central America . The 36 islands are of volcanic origin, with the exception of Anegada, which is a coral atoll. The U.S. Virgin Islands (St. John, St. Thomas, and St. Croix) were once part of the territory, but were purchased by the U.S. from Denmark in 1917.
The islands extend east-west for 60 miles and are located just west of the Anegada Passage, a major channel connecting the Caribbean Sea to the Atlantic Ocean .
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The Islands, with a population of 22,000 (2005 census), have one of the more prosperous economies of the Caribbean region, along with one of the lowest unemployment rates in the world. Their main industry is tourism, based upon their ideal location, climate, and overall enjoyable environment.
Geography
The British Virgin Islands are comprised of 36 semi-tropical Caribbean islands, ranging in size from the largest, Tortola, approximately 12 miles by 3 miles, to tiny uninhabited islets. The four main islands are Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and Jost Van Dyke. They are located in the Virgin Islands archipelago which forms the northeastern extremity of the Greater Antilles, and are to the immediate northeast of the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Atlantic Ocean surrounds the islands on the north and east, while the Caribbean Sea lies to the south and west, with the island of Puerto Rico also to its west.
In addition to the four main islands other, smaller islands include: Beef Island, Cooper Island, Ginger Island, Great Camanoe, Great Thatch, Guana Island, Moskito Island, Necker Island, Norman Island, Peter Island, and Salt Island. Of the 36 islands in the group, 20 are uninhabited.
Climate
The British Virgin Islands enjoy a tropical climate, tempered by trade winds. Temperatures vary little throughout the year. In the capital, Road Town, typical daily maximums are around 90° in the summer and 84°F in the winter. Typical daily minimums are around 75°F in the summer and 70°F in the winter.
The Spanish Empire acquired the islands in the early sixteenth century, mining copper on Virgin Gorda. Subsequent years saw the English , Dutch , French , Spanish , and Danish all jostling for control of the region, which became a notorious haunt for pirates. During the process of colonization the native American Indian population was decimated through disease and mistreatment.
The Dutch established a permanent settlement on the island of Tortola in 1648. In 1672, the English captured Tortola from the Dutch, and the British annexation of Anegada and Virgin Gorda followed in 1680. Meanwhile, over the period 1672–1733, the Danish gained control of the nearby islands of St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix.
The islands were considered principally a strategic possession, but were planted when economic conditions were particularly favorable. The British introduced sugar cane which was to become the main crop and source of foreign trade, and slaves were brought from Africa to work on the plantations. The islands prospered economically until the growth in the sugar beet crop in Europe and the United States reduced significantly sugar cane production.
In 1917, the United States purchased St. John, St. Thomas, and St. Croix from Denmark for U.S.$25 million, renaming them the U.S. Virgin Islands. Subsequently, the British renamed the islands they controlled as the British Virgin Islands.
The British Virgin Islands were administered variously as part of the Leeward Islands Colony or with St. Kitts and Nevis , with an Administrator representing the British Government on the Islands. Separate colony status was gained for the Islands in 1960, and the Islands became autonomous in 1967. Since the 1960s, the Islands have diversified away from their traditionally agriculture-based economy towards tourism and financial services, becoming one of the richest areas in the Caribbean .
politics
Executive authority in the British Virgin Islands is vested in the royal monarch of the United Kingdom and is exercised by the Governor of the British Virgin Islands. The Governor is appointed by the Monarch on the advice of the British Government. The Defense and Foreign Affairs remain the responsibility of the United Kingdom.
The Constitution of the Islands was introduced in 1971, and made by an Order in Council under powers granted by the West Indies Act of 1962. Ratified in 1971, it has been amended many times, first in 1979, then in 1982, 1991, 1994 , and 2000. A new constitution was made in 2007 (the Virgin Islands Constitution Order 2007), and will come into force on the next date when the Legislative Council is dissolved for a general election.
The Head of Government is the Chief Minister, who is elected in a general election along with the other members of the ruling government as well as the members of the opposition, much like the United States presidential elections. An Executive Council is nominated by the Chief Minister and appointed by the Governor. There is a unicameral Legislative Council made up of 13 elected members who serve four-year terms.
Economy
Sunset in the British Virgin Islands, April 2007.
Tortola, British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands enjoys one of the more prosperous economies of the Caribbean region, with a per capita Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of around $38,500 in a 2004 estimate. The 1995 unemployment was 3 percent, one of the lowest in the world.
The economy consists mainly of what is termed the "twin pillars"—tourism and financial services, though light industry is also important. Politically, tourism is the more important of the two pillars, as it employs a greater number of people within the Territory, and a larger proportion of the businesses in the tourist industry are locally owned, as are a number of the highly tourism-dependent sole traders, such as taxi drivers and street vendors. The islands are a popular destination for U.S. citizens, with around 350,000 tourists visiting annually. Tourists frequent the numerous white sand beaches, visit The Baths on Virgin Gorda, snorkel the coral reefs near Anegada, experience the well-known bars of Jost Van Dyke, or charter yachts to explore the less accessible islands.
Economically, however, financial services are by far the more important. Nearly 50 percent of the Government's revenue comes directly from license fees for offshore companies, and considerable further sums are raised directly or indirectly from payroll taxes relating to salaries paid within the trust industry sector (which tend to be higher on average than those paid in the tourism sector). s offshore companies were formed in the British Virgin Islands. Since 2001, the Islands" financial services have been regulated by the independent Financial Services Commission.
transport
music
The music of the Virgin Islands reflects long-standing cultural ties to the island nations to the south as well as to various European colonialists. Thought the U.S. Virgin Islands and British Virgin Islands are politically separate, they maintain close cultural ties. From its neighbors, the Virgin Islands has imported various pan-Caribbean genres of music, including
The british virgin islands are a self-governing British overseas territory, situated in the Caribbean just to the east of the US Virgin Islands .
The BVIs, as they are called, are a popular travel destination for sailors, fishermen, sun worshippers, and other independent travelers, albeit not for the cost conscious. Boating among the dozens of tiny, mostly uninhabited, islands is a great stop on any tour of the Caribbean islands.
understand [edit]
Landscape [edit]
The British Virgin Islands comprise 60+ islands and keys, with more than 43 of them being uninhabited islands. The islands fall into two types: the majority are steep volcanic islands (including the main islands, Tortola and Virgin Gorda), and a small number of relatively flat coral islands (such as Anegada and Sandy Spit). In fact, Anegada is referred to as "the drowned island" because its elevation is so low. Many people miss it altogether until they sail close to it. The highest point is Sage Mountain on Tortola.
Climate [edit]
With a tropical climate tempered by easterly trade winds, relatively low humidity, and little seasonal temperature variation, the weather in the BVI is rather enjoyable. In the low season, there are some hurricanes, although in recent years they have had little consequent damage beyond some flooding.
History [edit]
The islands were first settled by the Dutch in 1648 before being annexed in 1672 by the British.
Economy [edit]
The economy is one of the most stable and prosperous in the Caribbean. The US dollar is the legal currency within the British Virgin Islands. The islands of the BVI are highly dependent on tourism, generating an estimated 45% of the national income, together with the offshore financial industry.
Regions [edit]
Get in [edit]
The British Virgin Islands maintain a separate border control with the United Kingdom. Nationals of the United Kingdom , Canada , , New Zealand , Singapore , Japan , South Korea , Switzerland , United States of America etc. do not require a visa to enter and visit the British Virgin Islands. Other nationals do require a visa. However from 1 September 2016 foreign nationals who have been granted a visa to visit either the UK, the USA or Canada can also visit the BVI based upon the same visa. For more detailed information, refer to the following website for more details .
Passport and visa regulations are enforced at harbours, especially for boats moving back and forth between the US and British territories. US customs may tell you a certified birth certificate is acceptable, but as of June 2009, ferry operators can only take passport carrying US citizens or face a CBP.GOV $3,000 fine. US CBP.GOV offices in St. Thomas.
By plane [edit]
Most international flights from North America into the BVIs involve changing planes in either San Juan , Puerto Rico (for flights from North America and Spain), Antigua (for the UK) or Saint Martin (for the Netherlands and France) since the Beef Island airport cannot accommodate large aircraft. Alternatively, the BVI can be accessed from the United States via St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands , where upon arrival in St. Thomas, travelers can transfer to the BVI via ferry.
- via St. Thomas. For North American visitors, traveling by air to St. Thomas and then connecting by ferry is usually by far the cheapest way to travel to the BVI from North America. However, some incoming flights arrive too late to catch the ferry to Tortola, so may necessitate an overnight stay in Charlotte Amalie. See the section on travel by boat below.
- via San Juan. The other common way to travel from North America is to fly via San Juan. Several small regional carriers ply the route between San Juan and Tortola, but the two main carriers are Cape Air and Seaborne Airlines . Other small regional carriers include LIAT , Air Sunshine , interCaribbean Airways or the recently formed (but not yet operational) BVI Airways . When you are departing from the BVI both Cape Air and Seaborne can check your baggage through onto connecting airlines and give you boarding passes for connecting flights, but the reverse is not always true - when you are traveling to the BVI depending on how you are ticketed you may need to check-in again (so but you can do this at the gate often up to a few minutes before take off, and it does not take long - these are fairly small planes).
Warning - if you are trying to book tickets directly via the internet (rather than through a travel agent) and you want to fly via Puerto Rico, it is normally much cheaper to book a flight to San Juan and then separately book a flight from San Juan to Tortola on one of the regional carriers. Because of the pricing arrangements, booking on a codeshare basis through American Airlines or Continental can result in absolutely exorbitant ticket prices. Typically a far which may come to US$700 - 850 to fly from a major American city to San Juan will balloon to around US$6,000 if you add a connection to Tortola. However, you can normally book the separate connecting flight directly with a local carrier for US$200 - 300.
- via Antigua or St Martin. Air travel from Europe usually involves either flying from the UK to Antigua (British Airway , Virgin Atlantic), or flying into Sint Martin from Amsterdam (KLM , TIU Airlines Netherlands) or Paris (Air France), and then (in each case) connecting via LIAT. However, a number of carriers also link to North America (American Airlines, Air Canada, Delta, United, JetBlue, Spirit)
By cruise ship [edit]
The main cruise ship pier in the BVI is located on Tortola via Road Harbour. The port holds two large cruise ships, but some cruise passengers may find themselves being shuttled into the dock by a smaller boat because their ship is either too large for the pier or the pier already has two ships docked.
Tortola is an ideal hub from which cruise travelers can experience day-trips to incredible attractions and excursion opportunities to one of the numerous nearby islands. From snorkel trips to shopping to the Baths, or just sipping the famous BVI Painkiller at Pusser's or another beach bar, it's easy to hop from island to island in the BVI.
By boat [edit]
Many travelers find it easier to just buy two one-way tickets from different companies instead of one round-trip ticket with the same company. Since ferries from different companies are coming and going constantly, you should be able to catch a ferry at any time during the day. Often times one company will be convenient upon arrival, but not upon departure. Just check the schedule to find out if this will be the case for you, if not then by all means, buy the round-trip ticket and save a few bucks.
Get around [edit]
By boat [edit]
A great way to see the islands is by boat. sailboats and motorboats can be rented or chartered with a crew from any major harbour. The conditions for sailing and motoring depend on the time of year and anchoring off islands can be tricky, so either be sure you know what you are doing or hire a crew.
If you are an experienced sailor, it doesn't get any better than the BVI. Line of sight sailing in moderate trade winds, no currents to speak of, barely any tides, and a few underwater obstructions other than the shore itself make sailing around the islands very relaxing. Most of the 60 or so islands and cays are only a couple of hour's sail from your next destination.
Road Town, on Tortola, is one of the principal centers for bareboating (self-hire yacht chartering) in the Caribbean. It is the headquarters of Pro Valor Charters on the East End of Tortola. Sunsail Sailing Vacations and Tortola Marine, located in the Road Reef Marina; Conch Charters , Boatsters BVI Boat , and The Moorings which are five of the main charter boat companies operating out of Road Town/Road Harbor. Ten minutes from Road Harbor is Nanny Cay Marina where you can find Horizon Yacht Charters , Virgin Traders Motor Yacht Charters , Addison Yacht Charters and The Catamaran Company . BVI bareboat charters can also be booked well in advance through a wholesaler such as LateSail ] which works out of the same ports and often through the same operators. And if you like to use all included service, search for ].
By car [edit]
Cars can be rented on the larger islands such as Virgin Gorda and Tortola , but are obviously unnecessary on many smaller islands where goat paths and foot trails are the main mode of transportation. There is one scooter for rent on Jost Van Dyke . There are several rental car agencies at the airport and a couple other rental car locations around Tortola.
Be aware that the roads are very hilly, the standard of the roads is low, the standard of the driving is very low, and there are no specific laws against driving whilst under the influence. People driving in the BVI for the first time are advised to think as if everyone else on the road is trying to cause an accident and make it look like their fault - although that is not actually true, it will give you the right frame of mind to have when get behind the wheel. Polite honks are common as a sign of showing thanks for letting them go in front of you, or as a signal that they are letting you in. It is also customary to stop for pedestrians who may not necessarily always be crossing at an intersection.
By taxi [edit]
Taxis in the British Virgin Islands can be expensive. Do not bother to try and haggle - taxi prices are fixed by law. Taxi rides can be colorful - sometimes taxis are shared with other passengers or the driver may stop en route to run an errand. Either way, it's a good chance to really get to know the island!
See [edit]
Nature is the main attraction in the islands, with coral reefs, white sandy beaches, and seaside villages the main draw.
Other attractions include historic villages, churches, and, if the sun is too much for you, a museum in Road Town, the shady Botanic Gardens or the rain forest on Sage Mountain in Tortola.
Do [edit]
Lambert beach, Tortola
- beach
The quality of beaches in the British Virgin Islands, even by Caribbean standards, is very high. Because of the large number of beaches, particularly on the north side of Tortola and the west side of Virgin Gorda, the beaches are generally not crowded (with the exception of Cane Garden Bay on Tortola, which is next to a densely populated area). It is not uncommon, even during the tourist season, to be able to have a more remote beach largely or entirely to yourself for an afternoon. With the possible exception of Cane Garden Bay, beaches in the BVI do not tend to have the vendors pestering tourists which are characteristic of some other Caribbean islands. Conversely, many of them do not have any amenities, so remember to bring your own lunch and water!
- Sail
The Virgin Islands is the most popular area for a sailing vacation in the Caribbean. This is a first-timers paradise, since the islands are close together and well protected from the Atlantic. You wake up to sunshine and a blue sky, choose the cruising target of the day by pointing on a nearby island and set sail in a comfortable trade wind. There are many yacht charter companies and marinas in the British Virgin Islands. Apart from cruise ship passengers, the majority of visitors to the British Virgin Islands stay on liveaboard boats or charter sailing vessels.
- learn to sail
Tortola Sailing & Sights Soper "s Hole Marina. Frenchmans Cay. BVI. Tel: +1 800-390-7594 www.tortolasailingandsights.com
Hawksbill Turtle off Ginger Island
- scuba diving
In 2011, the BVI National Culinary Team won nine medals at the Taste of the Caribbean culinary competition, taking home five gold medals, including one in the Culinary Team of the Year category and one in the Chef of the Year category.
drink [edit]
Rum, not surprisingly, is the drink of choice in the islands. Many rum-based delicious concoctions can be found at bars on the main beaches and roads. Because beaches in the BVI are so pristine, many do not have refreshment stands so it would be wise to bring at least water. However, a lot of the beaches have nearby restaurants and bars, so it's easy to saunter over for a drink when you're done relaxing on the sand. The "Painkiller" - a drink made from rum, coconut, and topped with OJ - is highly recommended, as is the Bushwacker. However, each bar has its own specialty drinks so it's worth it to sample your way through the BVI. Watch out for the No-See-Um, a refreshing banana, coconut and pineapple drink made with 151 proof rum - it'll get you before you see it coming!
Take advantage of the happy hours, 4pm to 6pm in most establishments.
There is plenty of night life around Road Town, although many popular tourist places are advertised and some of the more local bars are worth checking out, so ask a local for what is on where. Live local music is a feature of many restaurants and bars. The sunsets are spectacular, so a drink on the beach or in the mountains, watching the sunset and listening to local music before dinner can be a very pleasant vacation from the usual club-based entertainment of most mainlanders. Banana Keets on Tortola offers a beautiful view of the sunset, as does Bitter End Yacht Club on Virgin Gorda. The Banana Keets terrace overlooks Sage Mountain as well. Expats tend to hang out in Road Town, at the Dove, le Cabanon, or Village Cay. These places are full on Fridays. Do not miss the Full Moon Party at Bomba's Beach Shack, which is full of revelers and good times. This bar is famous for its walls where panties and bras are hanging, old license plates are affixed to the walls, and drinks are flowing freely.
sleep [edit]
If you"re renting a boat, you already have your bed too, but for landlubbers, the larger islands offer resorts, budget bungalows, and a few things in between. To get off the beaten path there are many options if you"re willing to island hop by boat.
There are larger hotel options on Tortola, as well as many intimates, locally owned inns that are hidden treasures. Private islands like Necker Island (owned by Sir Richard Branson) and Guana Island can be rented. Peter Island Resort is a very exclusive private island resort (and is connected by a free ferry service from Road Town). Other high end resorts are on Virgin Gorda, but there are many villas and smaller hotels there as well. Jost Van Dyke offers laidback options and Anegada has adventurous packages for the active traveler.
Many visitors to the BVI stay on land will rent private guest houses rather than stay at larger hotels, and there are a large selection to choose from through the islands.
get out [edit]
stay safe [edit]
The BVI has much lower incidence of crime than many other Caribbean countries, and wandering about alone, even at night, is not considered particularly high risk. However, as with all foriegn travel, tourists should use good judgment and avoid certain areas.
Despite the perception of the Caribbean being laid back in relation to drugs, possession and supply of narcotics is a criminal offense and penalties can be severe.
stay healthy [edit]
Most healthcare in the BVI is private and run along the lines of U.S. healthcare (ie. it is expensive). Compared to other Caribbean islands, the quality of care is good, but for serious matters, patients are usually transported to Puerto Rico for care.
The history of the British Virgin Islands is worthy of being immortalized in legend. It is said that Norman Island in the south of the archipelago is described in Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson. Once upon a time, pirates hid looted treasures in the caves located nearby. The bottom of the ocean here has become a graveyard of sunken ships.
The filibusters were replaced by sailors and divers. The sheltered waters of the Sir Francis Drake Channel attract wind-chasing yachtsmen and the exotic underwater world attract divers from all over the globe.
The British Virgin Islands includes more than 60 large and small islands, of which less than a third are inhabited. At the same time, none of the inhabited islands can see the excessively dense buildings that are typical for some regions of the Caribbean. The people of the Virgin Islands appreciate the nature of their country, and it shows: the beaches, surrounded by palm trees and sapphire waters, remain untouched. There are no high-rise buildings, no casinos, no noisy crowds.
The largest and most populous island of the archipelago is. However, there is no need to talk about excessive population density: the number of all residents of the British Virgin Islands does not exceed 30 thousand people. Across the strait from Tortola is the island, which has yacht clubs and exclusive resorts for those who value privacy. It is here that one of the most famous sights of the British Virgin Islands is located. We are talking about the national park "Baths" (the name "Bani" is also found), where granite boulders form pools, grottoes and caves through which you can swim. For those more adventurous, you can head to remote islands like Jost Van Dyke and Anegada, the only coral island in the archipelago of volcanic islands that is very popular with divers. It is surrounded by the largest barrier reef in the Caribbean, which explains the huge number of shipwrecks resting at the bottom. We can say that an underwater amusement park was formed here.
Most of the buildings in the British Virgin Islands are built in the traditional Caribbean style. Villas are usually built from concrete. They are characterized by wide verandas, high ceilings and bright colors. Pergolas, rich vegetation on the plots, use of local stone and various types of wood help to soften the hard lines of concrete structures. The most exclusive houses emphasize the landscape features of the site. “If the house has an infinity pool overlooking the Caribbean Sea, then all possible shortcomings are immediately forgotten,” assures Dietmar Lichota of Tortola Lichota, sales agent for BVI Sotheby’s International Realty.
The holiday property market remains stable. Many international investors during their trips to the Caribbean region pay attention to the objects intended for buyers of second homes. Buyers cite the economic and political stability of the country as the main reasons for this decision. Although it is a self-governing territory, it is under British sovereignty.
