British Virgin Islands

Guest Author - Aaron Kirley

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) have been called one of the most beautiful tropical destinations on Earth and if you ask around you’re sure to find consensus on this point. Located in East of Puerto Rico in the Caribbean Sea, this overseas British territory consists of more than 50 islands. The capital city of Road Town is located on the largest island Tortola. Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and Jost Van Dyke are significantly larger than the other islands that make up the BVI.

Getting There
Travel to the BVI’s is limited to boat and plane. Although I highly recommend arriving on a 48 foot sail boat, you can also take a ferry from nearby St. Thomas, or fly on a connecting flight from Puerto Rico or Antigua.

Tortola
Of volcanic decent, Tortola is home to nearly 24,000. Population growth is fueled by the International Business Companies Act of 1980 which offers companies tax shelter, but this tax shelter isn’t the thing attracting people to Tortola as the island offers beautiful white sand beaches, hiking, botanic gardens, luxury hotels, and great nightlife. If you’re in search for the perfect beach then definitely check out Smuggler’s Cove is your exotic oasis which is accessible by a winding rocky road at the most western tip of Tortola.

Virgin Gorda
The second most populated of the BVI’s, tourists come here to relax on the beach, swim, and snorkel. If you find yourself on looking for something to do on Virgin Gorda then head to The Baths on the southern tip of the island. The Baths are awe inspiring rock formations located on the beach and coast line.

Jost Van Dyke
Great Harbor is the perfect social gathering spot to moor your private yacht. The white sand beach surrounding Great Harbor is lined with outside bars, shops and restaurants. If you’re looking for adventure, take your dinghy to Sandy Cay and relax in the privacy of its white sandy beach.

If you plan to visit the British Virgin Islands make sure you don’t show up with a pocket full of pounds, the US Dollar is the official currency in the BVI.