British Virgin Islands: Overview
Also known as "nature’s little secret", the British Virgin Islands are an overseas British territory located in the Caribbean waters of Sir Francis Drake cahnnel, east of Puerto Rico. Its natural beauty, exotic fauna and flora and the little impact tourism has had in the islands make them one of the world’s main tourist destinations. Only 20 of the 36 islands of the archipelago are inhabited; among them Virgen Gorda, José Van Dyke, Tortola and Anegada stand out.
Climate
The archipelago has a pleasant subtropical climate and the highest temperatures are softened by trade winds. Most days are sunny and wet. Rainy season varies and precipitations are impredecible; there are some periods of drought. In winter temperature varies between 72 -82 ºF, while in summer it fluctuates among 79 - 88 ºF. Between June and November the chances of hurricanes increase, although tropical storms are frequent throughout the year.
Important information
In most cases entry requirement is an effective passport and a visa is not required. The allowed time for staying in the country is 30 days, although it is possible to extend this period. Besides this, everyone must have an onward return ticket and enough funds to cover the expenses of the trip.
The official currency is the American dollar (USD). Most shops accept credit cards and traveler's checks, but when traveling to Anegada, it is better to carry some cash. In Tortola and Virgen Gorda ATMs are prevalent, while in Road Town you will find banks and oficial exchanging offices.
It is used tipping 10-15% for a good service, although hotels generally add 10-12%, so make sure if that extra percentage has not been added befote tipping. Bellboys and doormen usually get U$D 1 per bag. Taxi drivers do not expect to be tipped, since most of them drive their own cars.
Concerning health, it is recommended to take cautions against mosquitoes, since there have been some cases of dengue fever. In the main islands of the archipelago medical facilities are limited and in Road Town you can find only one hospital. None of the British Virgin Islands has hyperbaric decompression chambers and complex cases require evacuation to the U.S. Virgin Islands, the USA or Puerto Rico. It is strongly recomended to hire full medical and trip insurance.
Although safety conditions in the archipelago are quite good and there is a low crime rate, you are advised to take the Basic security measures to avoid having any trouble during your stay. Keep an eye on your lugage and valuables, especialy in tourist and crowded places.
It is important to respect cultural customs and ask the locals for permission before photographing them, since it is considered rude to take pictures of people without asking.
Where to go
The biggest island of the archipelago, Tortola, is the main business center. It is also one of the main destinations for sailors and a must for those who love picturesque hills, beautiful beaches and calm atmospheres. In the center of the island is Mount Sage the highest point, from where you can enjoy spectacular views of the lush tropical landscapes, the lonely coasts and bays and the surrounding islands. You can also visit the 18th century ruins, a memento of the plantations times, when sugar and rum were the engines of economy. South of the island, beside a yacht port, colorful restaurants, hotels and stores, is Road Town, the picturesque capital of the archipelago, a perfect place to enjoy the local and internacional cuisine. You can also go to the popular beach of Cane Garden Bay, ideal for swimmers, aquatic sports lovers, sailors and those in search of some nightlife. In the centre of the capital city are J. R. O'Neal Botanical Gardens, where you will see many samples of the beautiful Caribbean flora and fauna.
The coast of Virgen Gorda, the third island in size of the archipelago, is formed by hundreds of bays and inlets and it is one of the favorite destinations for yatch owners and tourists. It has beautiful enclaves, private and isolated beaches and crystalline waters. The tourist impact in the island is severely controlled to preserve its paradisiac landscapes virgin; hotels and resorts are luxurious but discreet, mainly ran by locals. Spanish Town, the main city is characterized by its relaxed lifestyle, souvenires crafts shops and national cuisine restaurants. Besides its many beautiful beaches, the main attractive of the island is The Baths, located in the southern coasts; giant granite rocks forming pools, tunnels, grottos and arches, ideal to explore and enjoy swimming and diving. Early in the morning or late in the afternoon are the best moments to visit this place, since at that time is less crowded.
