British Colony Paradise (British Virgin Islands)

Member Name: Value-for-money

Product:	British Virgin Islands
Date:	26/03/09 (38 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: So much like Paradise

Disadvantages: US Dollar currency which isn't so good in the current economic climate

Location

The British Virgin Islands are a chain of volcanic islands located in the Caribbean with neighbouring islands being Puerto Rico, The US Virgin Islands and St. Martin. The main inhabited islands are Tortola, Virgin Gorda and Anegada with the capital Roadtown located on Tortola.

Getting There

The B.V.I is accessible both by air and sea, with many people either sailing in from neighbouring islands or arriving by cruise ship at Roadtown and there are many yacht clubs and moorings for that purpose.

Although there are no direct flights from the UK to the B.V.I, I've found the simplest and easiest way is in transit through Antigua. You leave the UK at around 9 am and reach your destination by 6pm local time, just in witness your first sunset on Beef Island.

Where To Stay

There are many resorts and villas on any of the main islands or on private islands, the latter being the most expensive. The rates vary depending on the time of year with off-peak times being less expensive.

Alternatively, there are local guesthouses and hotels at a lower price.

Getting Around

The most popular transport for tourists is a rented vehicle which gives you the freedom to visit the island at your leisure, however you will be driving along some cliffside roads with steep inclines which are great for scenery but not for the inexperienced driver.


What To Do

There is also a number of water sports including scuba diving, canoeing, windsailing. There is also a chance to swim with dolphins at the Dolphin Discovery program. However, a visit to the B.V.I is never complete without a visit to The Baths of Virgin Gorda which boasts spectacular caves and caverns formed by house-sized boulders on the beach. There are also places of historical significance such as the Copper Mine and The Dungeon, a two hundred year old fort.

Notable restaurants include the Copper Mine on Virgin Gorda, Marina Cay near Beef Island, Saba Rock and Bitter End. There are also a number of restaurants with local cuisine.

Entry

Stay may be granted for up to a month at port of entry (air or sea) as long as you have pre-arranged accommodation and a return ticket. This can be extended if necessary.

A visa is needed if you are not a European, U.S. or Canadian national.

Summary: Truly unforgettable experience