Overview of British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands offer unblemished beaches, unspoilt anchorages and a taste of the Caribbean's laid-back charm. Visitors will soon discover why they're nicknamed 'Nature's Little Secrets'.
Located just east of Puerto Rico, the islands are clustered around the Sir Francis Drake Channel, which is renowned for its sheltered, crystal-clear waters. Yachting enthusiasts prize the archipelago for its reliable trade winds, near-perfect weather and selection of secluded bays.
The largest island, Tortola, is the Caribbean's yachting capital, and the territory's main commercial centre. Visitors will find tropical fruits and flowers on its mountain slopes. Tortola is also an ideal base from which to explore some of the other inhabited islands. Jost Van Dyke is perfect for travellers who prefer remote, rustic retreats, where calypso music and freshly baked banana bread sail the air around them. Virgin Gorda is notable for its spectacular geological formations. Divers will enjoy the reefs surrounding Anegada's low-lying coral atoll. Several shipwrecks also feature among the destination's tremendous dive sites.
Key Facts
- Language:
- English is the main language spoken on the islands.
- Passport/Visa:
-
Travellers need a return or onward ticket and all the documents required for their next destination, as well as sufficient funds. As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers travelling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean region are required to present a passport or other valid travel document to enter or re-enter the United States. If departing from the USA, a valid passport will be required by immigration authorities. It's recommended that passports be valid for six months after the intended period of travel.
- Currency:
-
The official currency is the US Dollar (USD), which is divided into 100 cents. Most establishments on the larger islands accept credit cards, but on Anegada it is best to have cash. Banks and exchange facilities can be found in Road Town, Tortola. ATMs are available in Tortola and Virgin Gorda.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 110 volts, 60 Hz. The two plug types are the same as in the US. One has two-pin flat blades; the other is the same, though it has a third round grounding pin.
Travel to British Virgin Islands
Overview
Tropical beauty graces the British Virgin Islands, where cares grow quiet, and time stands still. Hidden coves, turquoise bays and white-sand beaches await all who escape to their unblemished shores. Visitors will soon discover a delicious, mellow energy as they enjoy the destination's features.
Yachtsmen can ride calm currents and steady trade winds from one secluded beach to another. Full-moon parties follow glorious days on the sparkling, Caribbean water. Swimmers, sunbathers and water-sports lovers will also know the deepest satisfaction. Gorgeous reefs and captivating shipwrecks will hold endless appeal for divers, while walks through botanic gardens will the reveal the archipelago's waterfalls and exotic plants. Visitors can't leave without seeing how the finest rum is made at a distillery that hasn't changed much since the mid-1800s.
Climate in British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands have a sub-tropical climate with high humidity, although temperatures are moderated by trade winds. Temperatures vary little all year but there is a slight difference in average temperatures between the seasons. Summer temperatures average from 79°F to 88°F (26°C to 31°C), while winter temperatures average between 72°F and 82°F (22°C to 28°C). Rainfall is variable but there is a 'dry' season between January and July (the cooler, winter months) and a wet season between August and November.
The British Virgin Islands are a great year-round holiday destination but the best time to visit is between January and June, when it is slightly cooler and drier and there is no risk of hurricanes.
Health Notes when travelling to British Virgin Islands
There is a small risk of dengue fever in the British Virgin Islands, so visitors should protect themselves with insect repellent. Recommended vaccinations are minimal but include hepatitis A, if not previously taken. Limited medical facilities can be found on all the main British Virgin Islands and there is a hospital located in Road Town, Tortola. Comprehensive medical and travel insurance is recommended.
Safety Notes when travelling to British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands are generally considered very safe for travellers and they have a low crime rate. That said, sensible precautions should always be taken regarding valuables, especially on beaches. The islands are susceptible to hurricanes, particularly between June and November, but tropical storms can occur throughout the year. It is a good idea for visitors to check the forecast for storms during their stay, and to plan around the hurricane season.
Customs in British Virgin Islands
In the British Virgin Islands, it is considered impolite to take photographs of the local people without asking their permission beforehand.
Duty Free in British Virgin Islands
Travellers to the Virgin Islands over 18 years do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco, and wine or spirits up to 1 litre.
Doing Business in British Virgin Islands
Business attire in the British Virgin Islands is fairly formal and conservative. A lightweight suit is appropriate for most meetings, unless in an informal outdoor setting where smart slacks and a shirt is more appropriate. Handshaking is customary for introductions between both men and women; women are considered equals in the business world and should be treated as such. Business cards are exchanged on introduction. Being late for meetings is considered offensive despite the laid-back impression of the island. Meetings are usually fairly unstructured, though. The language of business is English, and business hours generally run from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
Communication in British Virgin Islands
The international dialling code for the British Virgin Islands is +1 284. The outgoing code is 011 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 01127 for South Africa). Many hotels provide wifi.
Tipping in British Virgin Islands
For good service, a 10 to 15 percent tip is usual in the British Virgin Islands. Hotels often add a service charge to the bill, usually between 10 and 12 percent, so it is best to check before tipping. Bellhops and porters usually expect $1 per item of luggage.
Passport/Visa Note
Travellers need a return or onward ticket and all the documents required for their next destination, as well as sufficient funds. As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers travelling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean region are required to present a passport or other valid travel document to enter or re-enter the United States. If departing from the USA, a valid passport will be required by immigration authorities. It's recommended that passports be valid for six months after the intended period of travel.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
-
United States passport holders must have a valid passport or a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, as well as proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate. No visa is required for stays of up to six months.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
-
Canadian passport holders require a passport or a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, as well as proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate. No visa is required for stays of up to six months.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
-
UK passport holders need a passport, but no visa is necessary.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
-
Australian passport holders need a passport, but no visa is necessary for a stay of up to six months.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
-
Irish nationals need a passport, but no visa is necessary for stays of up to six months.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
-
New Zealand nationals require a passport, but no visa is necessary for stays of up to six months.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
-
South Africans need a passport, but no visa is necessary for stays of up to six months.
Tourist Offices
BVI Tourist Board, Tortola: +1 284 494 3134 or http://www.bvitourism.com/
- Tourist Authority Offices in the United States:
-
BVI Tourist Board, New York: +1 212 563 3117
- Tourist Authority Offices in the United Kingdom:
-
BVI Tourist Board, London: +44 207 355 9585 or info@bvi.org.uk
British Virgin Islands Embassies
- In the United States:
-
British Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 588 6500.
- In Canada:
-
British High Commission, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 237 1530.
- In Australia:
-
British High Commission, Canberra, Australia: +61 2 6270 6666.
- In Ireland:
-
British Embassy, Dublin, Ireland: +353 1 205 3700.
- In New Zealand:
-
British High Commission, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 4 924 2888.
- In South Africa:
-
British High Commission, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 421 7500.
Foreign Embassies in British Virgin Islands
- American Embassy
-
United States Embassy, Bridgetown, Barbados (also responsible for the BVI): +1 246-227-4000.
- Canadian Embassy
-
Canadian High Commission, Bridgetown, Barbados (also responsible for the BVI): +1 246-629-3550.
- Australian Embassy
-
Australian High Commission, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago (also responsible for BVI): +1 868 822 5450.
Travel Advisories
Health Information for Travelers to British Virgin Islands
Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Hide Vaccines and Medicines
Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor (ideally, 4-6 weeks) before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need.
| | Find Out Why | Protect Yourself |
All travelers You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel. |
| Routine vaccines | Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot. |   |
Most travelers Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting. |
| Hepatitis A | CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in the British Virgin Islands, regardless of where you are eating or staying. |  |
| Typhoid | You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in the British Virgin Islands. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater. | |
Some travelers Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US. |
| Hepatitis B | You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures. |   |
| Rabies | Rabies is present in bats in the British Virgin Islands. However, it is not a major risk to most travelers. CDC recommends rabies vaccine for only these groups: - Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for bat bites (such as adventure travel and caving).
- People who will be working with or around bats (such as wildlife professionals and researchers).
|  |
All travelers
You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in the British Virgin Islands, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in the British Virgin Islands. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
Rabies is present in bats in the British Virgin Islands. However, it is not a major risk to most travelers. CDC recommends rabies vaccine for only these groups:
- Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for bat bites (such as adventure travel and caving).
- People who will be working with or around bats (such as wildlife professionals and researchers).
Key
- Get vaccinated
- Eat and drink safely
- Keep away from animals
- Reduce your exposure to germs
- Avoid sharing body fluids
- Avoid non-sterile medical or cosmetic equipment
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Hide Stay Healthy and Safe
Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in the British Virgin Islands, so your behaviors are important.
Unclean food and water can cause travelers' diarrhea and other diseases. Reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits.
Eat
- Food that is cooked and served hot
- Hard-cooked eggs
- Fruits and vegetables you have washed in clean water or peeled yourself
- Pasteurized dairy products
Don't Eat
- Food served at room temperature
- Food from street vendors
- Raw or soft-cooked (runny) eggs
- Raw or undercooked (rare) meat or fish
- Unwashed or unpeeled raw fruits and vegetables
- Unpasteurized dairy products
- ”Bushmeat” (monkeys, bats, or other wild game)
Drink
- Bottled water that is sealed
- Water that has been disinfected
- Ice made with bottled or disinfected water
- Carbonated drinks
- Hot coffee or tea
- Pasteurized milk
Don’t Drink
- Tap or well water
- Ice made with tap or well water
- Drinks made with tap or well water (such as reconstituted juice)
- Unpasteurized milk
Take Medicine
Talk with your doctor about taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs with you on your trip in case you get sick.
Hide Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in the British Virgin Islands. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.
What can I do to prevent bug bites?
- Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
- Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
- Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
- Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
- Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
- FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
- FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
- DEET
- Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
- Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or PMD
- IR3535
- Always use insect repellent as directed.
What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?
- Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
- Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.
What can I do to avoid bed bugs?
Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs.
For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites.
Note: Zika is a risk in the British Virgin Islands. For more information, see Zika Virus in the British Virgin Islands.
Hide If your travel plans in the British Virgin Islands include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.
- Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
- Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
- Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
- Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity during high temperatures.
- If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
- Protect yourself from UV radiation: use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
- Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
- Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
- Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
- Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
- Do not dive into shallow water.
- Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
- Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
- To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.
Hide Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.
Follow these tips to protect yourself:
- Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
- Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
- Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
- Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
- If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.
All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:
- Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
- Go to a doctor right away.
- Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.
Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.
Hide Reduce your exposure to germs
Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:
- Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
- If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
- Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
- If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.
Hide Avoid sharing body fluids
Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.
Protect yourself:
- Use latex condoms correctly.
- Do not inject drugs.
- Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
- Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
- If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.
Hide Know how to get medical care while traveling
Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:
- Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
- Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
- Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
- Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call the British Virgin Islands’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
- Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.
Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).
In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.
Hide Select safe transportation
Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.
In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.
Walking
Be smart when you are traveling on foot.
- Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
- Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
- Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving
Choose a safe vehicle.
- Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
- Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
- Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
- Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
- Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
- Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.
Think about the driver.
- Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
- Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
- Arrange payment before departing.
Follow basic safety tips.
- Wear a seatbelt at all times.
- Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
- When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
- Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of the British Virgin Islands may be poor.
- Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
- Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
- If you choose to drive a vehicle in the British Virgin Islands, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
- Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
- Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Flying
- Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
- If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
- Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Medical Evacuation Insurance
If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.
Helpful Resources
Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.
The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.
Traffic flows on the left side of the road in the British Virgin Islands.
- Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
- LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.
Hide Maintain personal security
Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
Before you leave
- Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
- Monitor travel warnings and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
- Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
- Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.
While at your destination(s)
- Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate.
- Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
- Follow all local laws and social customs.
- Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
- Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
- If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.
Hide Top
Hide Healthy Travel Packing List
Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Virgin Islands, British for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.
Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?
It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.
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Hide Travel Health Notices
Be aware of current health issues in the British Virgin Islands. Learn how to protect yourself.
Alert Level 2, Practice Enhanced Precautions
- Hurricanes Irma and Maria in the Caribbean November 14, 2017 Beginning on September 6, 2017, Hurricane Irma crossed the Caribbean, followed on September 16 by Hurricane Maria. These storms caused severe damage in a number of countries and territories, including Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, the British Virgin Islands, Cuba, Dominica, the Dominican Republic, Guadeloupe, Haiti, Martinique, Puerto Rico, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, Sint Maarten, Turks and Caicos, and the US Virgin Islands.
- Zika Virus in the British Virgin Islands August 29, 2017 Zika virus (or Zika) has been reported. Public health officials have reported that mosquitoes are infected with Zika and spreading it to people.
Top
If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.
For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel.
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Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.
Currency
The official currency is the US Dollar (USD), which is divided into 100 cents. Most establishments on the larger islands accept credit cards, but on Anegada it is best to have cash. Banks and exchange facilities can be found in Road Town, Tortola. ATMs are available in Tortola and Virgin Gorda.
|
Exchange rate for 1 USD - U.S. Dollar
|
1.00 BMD
Bermudan Dollar
|
0.90 EUR
Euro
|
0.69 GBP
U.K. Pound Sterling
|
108.90 JPY
Japanese Yen
|
1.31 CAD
Canadian Dollar
|
0.99 CHF
Swiss Franc
|
1.38 AUD
Australian Dollar
|
25.11 UAH
Ukrainian Hryvnia
|
337.71 KZT
Kazakhstani Tenge
|
1,505.84 LBP
Lebanese Pound
|
0.71 LYD
Libyan Dinar
|
6.86 BOB
Bolivian Boliviano
|
107.88 NPR
Nepalese Rupee
|
0.38 OMR
Omani Rial
|
3.64 QAR
Qatari Rial
|
1.38 SGD
Singapore Dollar
|
8.29 SEK
Swedish Krona
|
6.63 TTD
Trinidad Tobago Dollar
|
9.98 VEF
Venezuelan Bolivar
|
45.83 DOP
Dominican Peso
|
6.72 HRK
Croatian Kuna
|
18.63 MXN
Mexican Peso
|
586.30 XOF
West African CFA Franc
|
3.16 PGK
Papua New Guinean kina
|
1.00 BSD
Bahamian Dollar
|
2.11 FJD
Fiji Dollar
|
22.64 HNL
Honduran Lempira
|
110.53 DZD
Algerian Dinar
|
1,191.31 MMK
Myanma Kyat
|
11.19 BWP
Botswana Pula
|
3.37 PEN
Peruvian Nuevo Sol
|
693.53 CLP
Chilean Peso
|
478.10 AMD
Armenia Dram
|
24.17 CZK
Czech Koruna
|
19.98 MDL
Moldova Lei
|
124.29 ISK
Icelandic Krona
|
2,938.75 UZS
Uzbekistan Sum
|
3.85 ILS
Israeli New Sheqel
|
0.71 JOD
Jordanian Dinar
|
0.30 KWD
Kuwaiti Dinar
|
31.35 UYU
Uruguayan Peso
|
35.52 MUR
Mauritian Rupee
|
28.51 NIO
Nicaraguan Córdoba
|
8.34 NOK
Norwegian Krone
|
3.92 PLN
Polish Zloty
|
3.75 SAR
Saudi Riyal
|
146.02 LKR
Sri Lanka Rupee
|
35.62 THB
Thai Baht
|
3.67 AED
U.A.E Dirham
|
3.59 BRL
Brazilian Real
|
4.05 RON
Romanian New Leu
|
7.77 HKD
Hong Kong Dollar
|
587.63 XAF
Central African CFA Franc
|
22,474.70 VND
Vietnamese Dong
|
13.95 ARS
Argentine Peso
|
2.70 XCD
East Caribbean Dollar
|
7.83 GTQ
Guatemalan Quetzal
|
9.77 MAD
Moroccan Dirham
|
0.38 BHD
Bahrain Dinar
|
1.00 PAB
Panamanian Balboa
|
1.50 AZN
Azerbaijan Manat
|
3,117.81 COP
Colombian Peso
|
68.30 KGS
Kyrgyzstan Som
|
279.76 HUF
Hungarian Forint
|
7.87 TJS
Tajikistan Ruble
|
13,683.10 IDR
Indonesian Rupiah
|
8.88 EGP
Egyptian Pound
|
1,191.10 KRW
South Korean Won
|
5,669.42 PYG
Paraguayan Guaraní
|
4.16 MYR
Malaysian Ringgit
|
538.75 CRC
Costa Rican Colón
|
1.47 NZD
New Zealand Dollar
|
104.74 PKR
Pakistani Rupee
|
66.80 RUB
Russian Rouble
|
15.60 ZAR
South African Rand
|
2.12 TND
Tunisian Dinar
|
2.00 BBD
Barbadian Dollar
|
1.75 BGN
Bulgarian Lev
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Beef Island Airport (EIS)
Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport
Location: The airport is situated seven miles (12km) from Road Town, Tortola.
Time: Local time is GMT -4.
Getting to the city:
Taxis are available. Many resorts provide water launches or courtesy vans for their guests.
Car rental:
Hertz, Avis, Alamo and National are represented at the airport.
Airport Taxis:
Facilities:
There is a restaurant and bar, and tourist information is available.
Parking:
The airport's (uncovered) car park is open daily and is located directly outside the terminal building. Parking is free for the first 30 minute. After that, it costs USD 1 an hour for up to 4 hours, and 50 cents for every subsequent hour up to a daily maximum of USD 10.
Overview of the Attractions in British Virgin Islands
Tropical beauty graces the British Virgin Islands, where cares grow quiet, and time stands still. Hidden coves, turquoise bays and white-sand beaches await all who escape to their unblemished shores. Visitors will soon discover a delicious, mellow energy as they enjoy the destination's features.
Yachtsmen can ride calm currents and steady trade winds from one secluded beach to another. Full-moon parties follow glorious days on the sparkling, Caribbean water. Swimmers, sunbathers and water-sports lovers will also know the deepest satisfaction. Gorgeous reefs and captivating shipwrecks will hold endless appeal for divers, while walks through botanic gardens will the reveal the archipelago's waterfalls and exotic plants. Visitors can't leave without seeing how the finest rum is made at a distillery that hasn't changed much since the mid-1800s.
Tortola
Tortola (Turtle Dove) is the largest island in the British Virgin Islands archipelago. Travellers can look forward to a charming land of rolling hills and sandy beaches, where time flows with the grace of waves lapping on shore. Mount Sage lies at its centre. As Tortola's highest elevation, the mountain offers wonderful views of the destination's lovely bays, uncrowded beaches, surrounding islands and tropical vegetation. Visitors will also see the scattered ruins of 18th century buildings, which are reminders of the plantation era, when rum and sugar drove the island's economy. Tortola's scenic capital, Road Town, sits around a deep, yacht-filled harbour. Hotels, quaint island-style shops and cheerfully painted restaurants add to the locale's appeal. Travellers will find local and international foods, among which specialities such as fresh lobster, turtle dishes and coconut curries are highly recommended. All in all, Tortola's charm comes from the warmth of its people, and
its quality as a sailing destination. Indeed, its clear waters, reliable trade winds and close proximity to other islands make it one of the world's foremost yachting hubs.
Cane Garden Bay
Cane Garden Bay is Tortola's most popular beach and a favourite anchorage for sailors. It's also the preferred location for swimmers, sunbathers and water-sports enthusiasts. The area is the centre of the island's nightlife, featuring seaside bars, restaurants and Caribbean-style entertainment. Travellers will find a number of villas and guesthouses around the curved bay, as well as rentable water-sports equipment, and gift shops. Tourists who prefer quieter beaches should avoid peak season, as Cane Garden Bay is a favourite drop-off spot for cruise ships and can become very crowded.
J.R. O'Neal Botanic Gardens
Located in the centre of Road Town, Tortola, the splendid J.R. O'Neal Botanic Gardens are a must for fans of the Caribbean's tropical flora. Pathways wind beneath floral pergolas, through a mini rainforest and passed a variety of ponds, waterfalls and exotic, indigenous plants. The gardens are also home to tropical birds and red-legged tortoises. Travellers may see baby tortoises if they visit at the right time of year. The four-acre gardens are maintained and developed as part of the British Virgin Islands' National Parks system, and offer a great escape from the heat. Though perhaps not as big as some people are used to, the gardens can easily keep visitors occupied for an hour or so.
Address: Station Avenue, Road Town.
Smuggler's Cove
Smuggler's Cove is the perfect place for those who prefer serene and uncrowded beaches. Travellers can access the remote spot via a rutted dirt road, and enjoy the Caribbean beach's classic beauty at the end of it. Pristine white sand, turquoise water and towering coconut palms are all in the frame. Visitors will be hard pressed to find a better location for swimming, sunbathing and snorkelling. The cool ocean temperature can be refreshing, and the area's currents make snorkelling exciting.
Address: Western tip of Tortola Island.
Callwood Distillery
The Callwood Distillery is a must-see attraction. Located in Cane Garden Bay, it manufactures delicious rum the old-fashioned way. The Callwood family have owned the distillery since the mid-1800s and it doesn't appear to have changed much since then. Indeed, the facility still uses traditional methods and antique equipment. Guests will encounter a delightfully laid-back, dilapidated space, and the rum produced there seems all the better for it. Current owner Michael Callwood is always proud to inform visitors that Arundel Cane Rum (the distillery's brand) is made from pure sugar cane juice, with no preservatives added. He calls this a 'pre-emptive strike against hangovers', and guests can actually view the ancient oak barrels in which the rum is aged. One part distillery tour, one part history tour, the Callwood Distillery is among the British Virgin Isles' most celebrated tourist attractions.
Address: Cane Garden Bay.
Virgin Gorda
Virgin Gorda's coastline is a magical world of caves, pools and coves. Its secluded beaches and safe anchorages make it popular among sun chasers and yachtsmen. The island's idyllic beaches are perfect for lounging and water sports. Handsome Bay, Big Trunk Bay and Savannah Bay are all widely loved spots. Devil's Bay National Park also has its own secluded beach. The Baths are Virgin Gorda's star attraction, though. Located on the island's southern shore, the jumble of half-submerged granite stones form a playground of pools, arches, grottoes and tunnels. Spanish Town is the destination's main centre, where visitors can shop for charming souvenirs, eat delicious local cuisine, or simply unwind in the town's laid-back atmosphere.
Public Holidays in British Virgin Islands
Port of Call - Jost van Dyke
Jost van Dyke is quite simply the most relaxing and laid-back island in the Caribbean. The main street is a beach, electricity only got there 20 years ago, and the population of around 150 is outnumbered by visitors. This is taken to new extremes every New Year's Eve, when Jost lives up to its nickname 'the Party Island'.
Jost (pronounced '
joast') is the smallest of the British Virgin Islands and is located about 5 miles (8 km) northwest of Tortola. Its beaches are flawless and the azure-coloured waters of its magnificent bay unparalleled. Cruise ships dock in the bay and tender passengers to either Great Harbour or the White Bay Beach. The two bays are connected by a hilly walkway or short jeep ride.
Shopping in Jost van Dyke
This is not a shopping destination and frankly there is little to buy and no bargains to be had. Cocoloco's in White Bay has some nice clothing and Foxy's in Great Harbour sells a variety of gifts.
Dining in Jost van Dyke
Soggy Dollar - great fish and a relaxing vibe in peaceful White Bay.
Foxy's Tamarind Bar - the place to relax; reliable eating, island style.
Sidney's Peace & Love- probably the best lobster in the world.
Things to do in Jost van Dyke
Snorkel off Sandy Cay, owned by the Rockefeller family.
Take an hour long ATV adventure tour of the island.
Visit nearby Tortola, or any of the other British Virgin Islands.
British Virgin Islands Tourist Board Tel: +284 494 3134 http://www.bvitourism.com
Port of Call - Tortola (Road Harbour)
Tortola is the largest of the British Virgin Islands and one of the least glitzy and most traditional islands in the Caribbean. A mountain range down its centre lends drama to the landscape and ensures any road journey is both scenic and time consuming.Tortola was historically a pirate's nest, and the surrounding coves and waters were ruled by the flag of the skull and crossbones. Today, the island is a popular cruise stop, with the result that its relatively few attractions can get overrun with visitors during busy periods.
First sighted by Columbus in 1443, Tortola became a British colony, evidenced in part by the charming Red Royal Mail post boxes still in use today. Calm seas and clean waters make for excellent diving and snorkeling conditions, and have helped to make Tortola one of the main yachting centres in the world. Ships dock at Road Harbour, from where passengers can easily walk into town.
Shopping in Tortola (Road Harbour)
The Crafts Alive Marketplace on the Waterfront sells local arts and crafts, while Sunny Caribbee is a shop with a wonderful range of interesting merchandise. Soper's Hole at the West End has a range of shops catering to visitors.
Dining in Tortola (Road Harbour)
Mrs. Scatliffe's - superb West Indian food.
The Dove - no view, but great food and it's where the locals eat.
Brandywine - amazing views meets creative cuisine in this local favourite.
Things to do in Tortola (Road Harbour)
Swim with dolphins at Dolphin Discovery.
Explore the maze of boulders at The Baths.
Visit Marina Cay on the eastern tip of Tortola.
Take a stroll in Queen Elizabeth II National Park and let the kids play at the playground.
British Virgin Islands Tourist Board
Second floor AKARA Building, central Road Town
Tel: +1 284 494 3134 http://www.bvitourism.com
Port of Call - Virgin Gorda (North Sound)
The third largest of the British Virgin Islands, Christopher Columbus is rumoured to have named the island 'The Fat Virgin' because of its bulge in the middle, likening it to a plump woman. With sandy, white beaches and great snorkelling off the coral reefs, Virgin Gorda is a more laid-back and much quieter island than its Virgin island brothers of Tortola or St John.
Key sights include The Baths, which are beautiful beach grottos, caves and pools along the beach formed by ancient volcanic boulders, and the Copper Mine ruin, which is located in the National Park and was first worked by the Carib Indians. There are two main ports in Virgin Gorda: in the Spanish Town area, ships dock at the Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour, which features shops and other attractions; while the North Sound area tenders smaller ships into the main dock at the Bitter End Resort.
Shopping in Virgin Gorda (North Sound)
Most of the shopping in Virgin Gorda is centred round hotel boutiques but those looking for a bargain and locally made crafts should take a trip to the Virgin Gorda Craft shop in Spanish Town. The Thee Artistic Gallery is also worth a look, as this eclectic boutique sells everything from maps to jewellery and other nautical themed trinkets.
Still in the Spanish Town area, the Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour Shops sell a wide range of touristy souvenirs and gifts, and a few clothing shops can be found here as well. In North Sound, the Bitter End Yacht Club, which is more of a resort, features plenty of gift shops but the shopping options are not nearly as diverse as in Spanish Town.
Dining in Virgin Gorda (North Sound)
The Bath and Turtle - small casual eatery in Spanish Town.
Saba Rock - affordable pub fare with fantastic views over the water.
The Crab Hole - clean and authentic West Indian restaurant worth finding.
Things to do in Virgin Gorda (North Sound)
Hike in Gorda Peak National Park.
Swim at The Baths.
Tan on Spring Bay Beach
Go yachting in the bay.
British Virgin Island Tourism Board
Tel: +1 284 495 5181
http://www.bvitourism.com
