VISIT BVI 2023

OFFICIAL IN-ROOM PUBLICATION OF THE BVI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND HOTEL ASSOCIATION

the British Virgin Islands 2023

In-room copy. Please do not remove.

HAPPY SPIRIT Handcrafted in ethical gold

C.B. Romney Tortola Pier Park +1 284 443 3030 sales@houseofluxurybvi.com

CYRIL B. ROMNEY

TORTOLA PIER PARK Enjoy our breathtaking seaside ambience, indulge in retail therapy at a variety of shopping options, taste a wide array of cuisines from indoor to international food court on the Board Walk and experience our vibrant nightlife through our collection of cocktail lounges

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SEE. SHOP. STAY SEE. SHOP. STAY

WELCOME

O

We are ecstatic that you have chosen the wonderful experiences of our destination as your ideal vacation adventure.

n behalf of the government and the residents of the beautiful Territory of the British Virgin Islands (BVI), it gives me great pleasure to extend a warm welcome to you, our valued guests. We are ecstatic that you have chosen the wonderful experiences of our destination as your ideal vacation adventure — majestic blue waters, mouthwatering cuisine, and memorable attractions. As you turn the pages of this publication, you will discover the treasure chest of experiences that awaits you.

BVI is the “Sailing Capital of the World,” and whether you are a solo adventurer chasing the waves in the Caribbean, escaping for a romantic couple’s getaway, or looking for a family-friendly destination with activities for everyone, the BVI offers a piece of paradise for you.

I welcome you to enjoy the range of experiences and activities in our Territory. We are excited about the many annual maritime events here in our waters, including the Anegada Kite and Paddle Festival, the BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival, Nanny Cay Round Tortola Race, and the one and only Virgin Islands Poker Run, to name a few. Venture out to the many islands and cays, each offering something special. Immerse yourself in BVI culture and discover what makes us unique: our enchanting historical sites, the musicians who play our traditional fungi music, and our mouthwatering dishes, such as fish and fungi, which is the BVI’s national dish. These delightful experiences will create lifetime memories of the BVI. In our commitment to ensuring a quality tourism experience for all, the Government of the Virgin Islands works continuously to develop an exceptional guest experience.

We wish you an enjoyable time in the BVI and hope you leave with happy memories of our magnificent shores.

SINCERELY,

DR. THE HONOURABLE NATALIO D. WHEATLEY Premier and Minister of Finance, Seventh District Representative

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VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

WELCOME

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We encourage you to take advantage of the many available activities, such as kiteboarding, hiking, scuba diving, sailing, and so much more.

n behalf of the residents of the British Virgin Islands, it is an absolute pleasure for me to extend a warm welcome to you, our valued guests. Thank you for choosing the BVI for your vacation. I know you will have a memorable experience as you explore our amazing shores.

We invite you to island hop and explore the only place in the world where you can have breakfast on one island, lunch on another, and dinner on another all on the same day! You are in the destination that U.S. News & World Report has named the number one “Best Place to Visit in the Caribbean" for three consecutive years (2017–2019) and number two in 2021–2022.

The main island of Tortola is our cultural and business centre. Cruise visitors have the pleasure of arriving at the cruise pier and shopping centre, Cyril B. Romney Pier Park, a colonial-style entertainment, shopping, and dining complex. Virgin Gorda is adorned with gigantic boulders spread over three National Parks, which include the renowned Baths. Jost Van Dyke, an intimate and relaxing island, beckons you to dine at its colourful beachfront restaurants and bars.

The pink flamingos of the northernmost island of Anegada can’t wait to mesmerise you. There is so much to explore at this home of the Anegada Lobster Fest.

There is so much to see and do in the British Virgin Islands. We encourage you to take advantage of the many available activities, such as kiteboarding, hiking, scuba diving, sailing, and so much more. Please visit www.bvitourism.com for more information.

We look forward to seeing you again soon.

CLIVE MCCOY Director of Tourism, British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission

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VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

WELCOME

W

This will be a memorable trip filled with excitement on both land and sea, whilst being surrounded by our natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

elcome to the British Virgin Islands!

We are delighted that you made the excellent decision to visit one of the finest destinations throughout the Caribbean region! With more than 60 islands, rocks, and cays, we are not short on offering you a plethora of experiences. This will be a memorable trip filled with excitement on both land and sea, whilst being surrounded by our natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

We are especially thrilled if you are a new visitor, and we encourage you to pace yourself, as there are ample encounters that will tantalise your senses. Be sure to treat your taste buds to our delectable Virgin Islands cuisine, whilst being amazed at our beautiful sunsets, unspoilt beaches, and the historical sites that reflect the journey of the Virgin Islands people. If you are a return guest, we say welcome “home” to those who have become like family and friends over the years and a special heartfelt thank you for once again choosing the BVI experience. We hope you are satisfied beyond your expectations!

SHAINA M. SMITH-ARCHER Chairman, Board of Directors, BVI Chamber of Commerce and Hotel Association

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VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

The BVI Tourist Board

SINCERELY YOURS,

Commercial Sales & Valuations Residential Sales & Rentals

Consultancy & Market Analysis Vacation rentals

CONTRIBUTORS

April Tia Glasgow

Jane Bakewell

April Tia Glasgow is a writer living in the Virgin Islands. Whilst working in government communications for over a decade, she recalibrates, or “comes back to centre,” with poetry and music. She is the founder and member of the Callaloo Poets and Artists Collective and was a participant for the premiere Moko Writers Workshop. Her poems have been published in three anthologies: VI Callaloo: Poems from the Caribbean, The Caribbean Writer: Volume 23 (2009), and Where I See the Sun: Contemporary Poetry from the Virgin Islands. She also curates poetry events, including Microphone Messenjahs, the BVI’s first big-stage poetry event.

Jane Bakewell is a freelance writer based in the BVI, where she has made her home for nearly 30 years.

Her love of travel and adventure brought her to the BVI in 1994, where her family had started a small beach cottage rental business on Tortola. Soon after, she formed a day charter snorkelling business, High Sea Adventures, with a local partner. She has written for newspapers and magazines in the United States, as well as several publications in the BVI, including the BVI Welcome magazine, where she served as associate editor. Her writing continues to promote the beauty and hidden secrets of the BVI, as well as her other favourite destination, Israel.

Verna Penn Moll Verna Penn Moll is a Virgin Islander dedicated to the cause of preserving the cultural and spiritual heritage of the Virgin Islands. Penn Moll was educated in the Caribbean and United Kingdom and has held leading positions in her homeland, including school principal, chief librarian, and chief records management officer. She has edited and written several books and has received several awards for her contributions to education, literacy, and culture, including Member of the British Empire, 1984; BVI Badge of Honour, 2002; and the CCHA Award for Preservation of Culture and Heritage. She founded and sponsors the Cedar Tree Press Literary Award biannually. She is married to Peter Moll and has a large extended family.

Clive Petrovic

Carol M. Bareuther

Clive Petrovic is an ecologist with more than four decades of experience studying nature in the BVI. His special interests include birds, endangered species, and marine life. He was involved in starting the Marine Centre at the local community college.

Currently he serves as the Environmental Specialist for the Recovery and Development Agency, where he oversees environmental aspects of all construction projects. He is most comfortable exploring nature and sharing his knowledge with visitors and residents alike.

Carol M. Bareuther, R.D., visited St. Thomas by cruise ship in 1986, returned two months later from her native New Jersey to work as the hospital’s nutritionist and never left. One husband, two children, and a threedecade tandem-writing career later, Bareuther still loves life in the U.S. Virgin Islands. She’s authored Virgin Islands Cooking and Sports Fishing in the Virgin Islands and has written for Cooking Light, Vegetarian Times, Cruising World, Marlin, and Sail. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, swimming, hiking, and reading.

Cleave Michael Farrington

Angelle Frett Born and raised in the BVI, Angelle Frett is a recent graduate of Nottingham Trent University. Her work has been published in Caribbean Posh magazine, and she is now a communications professional. Passionate about culture and building community, Frett is the founder of The Village, an online community for young women in the Virgin Islands.

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VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

Cleave Michael Farrington is passionate about photography. Born and raised in the BVI, his love for photography was not an instant thing but more of a journey in which he discovered a love for the art.

He has been a professional photographer for the past 12 years, focusing mostly on sports, weddings, maternity, and special events. He loves to tell stories through his photos, and the aim is always to capture unlikely, unusual, and memorable shots.

During the pandemic, he discovered another newfound passion in landscape photography; and he has also been doing drone photography. Find him on Facebook at C M Farrington Photography or Instagram @cleave_michaelfarrington.

Andrea Milam Andrea Milam has lived in the Caribbean since 2005.

Enamoured with the region’s culture and natural beauty, she moved to St. John in the Virgin Islands after graduating from college. There, she got married, built a home and a family, and established her writing career. She strives to shine the spotlight on the region’s incredible food, music, culture, and people in her writing assignments. Andrea is grateful every day to be a part of the Love City community.

P R I VAT E ISLAND LIVING

at it’s finest.

VIRGIN GORDA

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

BVI: 1 284-393-1000 | US: 1 800-761-0377 | info@oilnutbay.com

CONTENTS

OFFICIAL IN-ROOM PUBLICATION OF THE BVI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND HOTEL ASSOCIATION

the British Virgin Islands 2023

In-room copy. Please do not remove.

ABOUT THE COVER The BVI is often referred to as the sailing capital of the world — and with good reason. Photo courtesy of VOYAGE Charters.

the British Virgin Islands

Tortola Virgin Gorda Jost Van Dyke Anegada Deals & Specials COVID-19 Info

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Welcome to the BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

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Exploring Island hopping adventures

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Beaches Splendid shores in the BVI

History & Culture Historical sites and cultural attractions

Events & Festivals What’s happening throughout the year

Things to Do Top 10 ways to play

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Just for Kids Activities for all ages

On the Water

Maps of the BVI

Watersports and sailing adventures

Getting around the islands

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STAY CONNECTED View the digital edition of this publication online at www.bviccha.org and download the new VISIT BVI app to have the latest information about what to see and do at your fingertips.

The BVI Tourist Board

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Land Activities Have fun on terra firma

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Ecotourism Preserving Nature’s Little Secrets

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Shopping Stores as well as shores

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Dining & Nightlife Memorable meals and parties

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Accommodations

Photo on right: The BVI Tourist Board

Diverse lodging options

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Spa & Wellness Ways to relax and rejuvenate

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Useful Information Helpful travel tips

Directory of BVICCHA Members Businesses in the BVI

Real Estate Own a piece of paradise

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Index of Advertisers Guide to shopping, dining, and activities

OUR TERRITORY OFFERS JUST AS MUCH IN ADVENTURE AS IN RELAXATION. READ ON TO DISCOVER ALL THERE IS TO SEE AND DO IN THE BVI!

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the British Virgin Islands 2023

OFFICIAL IN-ROOM PUBLICATION OF THE BVI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND HOTEL ASSOCIATION

the British Virgin Islands 2023

VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

Official Publication of the BVI Chamber of Commerce and Hotel Association (BVICCHA) Tropic Isle Building, Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands VG1110 Tel: 284-494-3514 | Fax: 284-494-6176 Email: info@bviccha.org | Web: www.bviccha.org

Chairman

Shaina Smith-Archer

President of Hospitality Shamora Penn-Maduro

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VISIT BVI

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Contributors

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Sailing and Snorkeling the Beautiful British Virgin Islands

| Offering the Very Best Day Sails in Tortola.

Touring the British Virgin Islands by boat allows you a unique opportunity to enjoy the enchantment and beauty of the Caribbean!

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! g n i l i a S Let’s go

Crystalline waters, pristine shorelines, and stunning natural wonders are just some of the reasons why visitors love to vacation in the British Virgin Islands. This archipelago, composed of more than 60 enchanting islands and cays, promises travellers a memorable and supremely restorative experience.

Villa Rosa courtesy of Smith's Gore

WELCOME

TO THE

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

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THINGS TO DO

TOP 10

FIND SCENIC WONDERS AND OUTDOOR ADVENTURES THROUGHOUT THIS IDYLLIC DESTINATION.

WAYS TO PLAY

WRITTEN BY VANESSA MOLINA

The BVI Tourist Board

SANTAMARIA

The British Virgin Islands chain makes for an idyllic getaway.

With its scintillating shorelines, sailing culture, and sublime seaside cuisine, it’s the perfect place to enjoy some time away from the hustle and bustle. Here are 10 ways to spend your days on a holiday you’ll long remember.

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VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

From top: The BVI Tourist Board, Steve Simonsen

1. Sail Away Rhone National Marine Park off Salt Island is where you’ll find the RMS Rhone, a ship that last sailed in 1867 before going down in a hurricane.

A boat is a great way to discover all the picture-perfect islands and cays across the BVI. Charter a catamaran, sailboat, or yacht for the week to explore the surrounding islands or enjoy a relaxing day on the water.

2. Enjoy the Views

Although the BVI is best known for its beaches, you don’t have to venture too far to enjoy some scenic views. The volcanic summit of Sage Mountain offers visitors breathtaking views of Tortola and the surrounding waters. At an elevation of 1,300 feet, Gorda Peak Park offers vistas of Virgin Gorda and even Anegada on a clear day.

3. Dive the Rhone

The BVI is a top spot for scuba diving and snorkelling. With its many shipwrecks, there’s a whole underwater world to explore. Rhone National Marine Park off Salt Island is where you’ll find the RMS Rhone, a ship that last sailed in 1867 before going down in a hurricane. The 90-foot descent towards the shipwreck reveals a largely intact vessel where you can swim amongst the many sea creatures that have made it their home.

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THINGS TO DO

5. Enjoy the Vibes

Cane Garden Bay is one of the most popular spots on Tortola with a spectacular beach that will find you wanting to linger longer. In addition to a variety of accommodations options, this lively area also boasts everything from kayak and Jet Ski rentals to beach bars and delicious dining — so there is plenty to do and enjoy here.

4. Sip a Cocktail

Excellent beach bars can be found throughout the BVI. Foxy’s on Jost Van Dyke is a favourite specialising in homebrewed craft beers and rum. Soggy Dollar Beach Bar, also on Jost Van Dyke, is famous for its Painkiller cocktail made with rum, pineapple, orange juice, cream of coconut, and nutmeg. Other places to try include Cooper Island Beach Club, Cow Wreck Beach Bar and Anegada Beach Club, Quito’s Gazebo at Cane Garden Bay in Tortola, and CocoMaya on Virgin Gorda.

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VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

On the east end of Jost Van Dyke you’ll find this natural wonder, which you can reach after a short scenic hike. Here you can enjoy bubbling waters as the waves crash between the gaps in the cliffs, creating what the locals call Mother Nature’s Jacuzzi. The surrounding area supports plenty of plants and animals, including pelicans, goats, and cacti.

7. Attend a Full Moon Party

Once a month, locals and tourists gather under the full moon for a night of fun and festivities. The tradition began at Capoons Bay on Tortola and continues at several local beach bars. If you happen to be travelling during a full moon, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to dance the night away under the moonlight.

From top: The BVI Tourist Board, Marta Garraus, courtesy of CocoMaya

Cane Garden Bay boasts everything from kayak and Jet Ski rentals to beach bars and delicious dining.

6. Try the Bubbly Pool

8. Explore the Baths Explore coral reefs and have a go at sea-cave snorkelling, where you may spot parrotfish, blue tang, or sergeant majors.

At the southwestern tip of Virgin Gorda, you can find one of the most awe-inspiring attractions in the BVI. The Baths National Park is known for its surreal landscape of giant granite slabs scattered over the shoreline, forming caverns, mazes, and pools where you can explore, snorkel, or laze in the sun.

10. Go Snorkelling

Norman Island is just one of many famed snorkelling spots across the BVI. Here you can explore coral reefs and have a go at sea-cave snorkelling, where you may spot parrotfish, blue tang, or sergeant majors. Get an early start to avoid the crowds at this popular spot.

DID YOU KNOW? Even if you just go to take a quick selfie to post on Instagram, Conch Shell Mounds is worth it. Here, huge mounds of conch shells pile up to form mini islands on the eastern end of Anegada.

Top photo: Steve Simonsen

9. Tour Anegada

This idyllic island boasts shipwrecks, pristine sandy beaches, and flocks of flamingos.

Consider visiting the Conch Shell Mounds. The man-made mounds peeking out from the sea are thought to be made of 800 years’ worth of discarded conch shells. Then treat yourself to a lobster dinner on Anegada, regarded by many as the best in the Caribbean.

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HISTORY & CULTURE

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VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

WRITTEN BY APRIL TIA GLASGOW

FOR THE HISTORY BUFF, ARTIST, NATURE LOVER, ADVENTURE SEEKER, AND THE PARTIER, THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS OFFERS MANY ATTRACTIONS TO MAKE YOUR TIME HERE MEMORABLE. HISTORICAL SITES Memories of the past are found at the BVI’s many historical sites. With more than 500 years of historical treasures, there is much to explore, including ruins from the plantation era when sugar was in high demand.

1780 Sugar Works Museum: You’ll find memories of the past here in Road Town, Tortola. The well-preserved museum is a reminder of the BVI’s sugar industry.

Mount Healthy Sugar Mill: Located on the north side of Tortola, this is the only intact structure of its kind in the islands. The site not only entices those seeking to learn more about the past but is also a popular location for photographers, largely because of the Old World feel, lush hillside, and panoramic views atop Mount Healthy.

Callwood Rum Distillery: Where there was sugar, there was rum. Callwood Rum Distillery in Cane Garden Bay is where visitors go to taste cane rum as it was made over 400 years ago.

Kingstown Church of the Africans: This one-of-akind historic relic is the oldest church built by Africans in the Americas. It was a free black settlement called King’s Town, where Africans that were captured before the slave trade was declared illegal could not be enslaved when they landed. The British King created the settlement for them.

COUNTDOWN

CULTURAL

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HISTORY & CULTURE

The Sunday Morning Well: This hangout spot for high school students and locals is a heritage site that is integral to the emancipation story of the islands. This is one of the places where the 1834 Emancipation Proclamation was read on August 1, 1834, abolishing slavery in the British West Indies.

The Stickit: Residents have traditionally gathered for meetings and other community events at this landmark in Long Look. Why the name? Residents would post or “stick” bulletins and other signs to disseminate information about activities and the latest news. The area is part of the wider Nottingham Estate, which was land given to freed Africans.

Vernacular Architecture: Take a stroll down Main Street and you’re sure to note that almost all the wooden buildings are painted with vibrant colours and have stone foundations, designed that way because of storm surges. Much of the stone used were ballasts brought to the islands on merchant ships looking to pick up goods like sugar and cane rum.

The Theodolph Faulkner Museum: A must when visiting Anegada. It’s named for its former owner, the famous Virgin Islander who co-led one of three historic marches in 1949 that called for more political representation by BVI residents.

This demonstration was successful.

In 1950, general elections were held to restore the Legislative Council.

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Mount Healthy Sugar Mill

THE ARTS SCENE Mount Healthy is a popular location for photographers, largely because of the Old World feel, lush hillside, and panoramic views.

The Virgin Islands is also known for its talented artists, some of whose skills can be seen in paintings, art installations, and murals.

Murals: The Fahie Hill Murals on Tortola depict life in the postplantation era, with villagers farming and making cassava bread. Featured is artwork from Quito Rymer, Cedric Turnbull, Gath Hewlett, Dean “Ghost” Smith, Pearl Friday, and Thor Downing. The East End Methodist Church Mural features art from Cedric Turnbull, Desiree Smith, Reuben Vanterpool, Pearl Friday, Nadia Winter, and Joseph Hodge. The scenes show a baptism, harvest, a preacher on horseback, and outdoor gatherings. The Long Look Methodist Church Mural, painted by Vincent “Bing” Malone, tells the story of Methodism in the Virgin Islands.

The BVI Tourist Board

The Copper Mine: A national park on Virgin Gorda reveals another story about the BVI’s past and resources. Operations began in the 1800s but were abandoned after the fall of copper prices. Go there to see the stone walls of the engine house and views of Virgin Gorda’s southern shore.

Paint and Sips: These events, which combine a professionally led painting class with a highenergy environment and a few drinks, have popped up all over the islands. They are curated by local artists like Via Donovan Hodge, Zia Mystique, Gabrielle Skelton-Bardo, and Tia Modeste.

Open Mic Poetry Nights: Enjoy the spoken word? The Callaloo Poets gather once a month at Rose Duck N’ Dive in Brandywine Bay for an open mic that welcomes poetry, song, dance, and other forms of expression.

EVENTS AND FESTIVALS There’s nothing better than a good party, as islanders will tell you. In the BVI, there’s always something to celebrate — and you’re invited!

Cleave Michael Farrington

Virgin Gorda Easter Festival: This full-weekend celebration usually includes village entertainment with popular musical artistes, a food fair, hat parade, and beach fête and culminates with a parade with masqueraders and musicians.

Annual Emancipation Festival: This August celebration commemorates the emancipation of the enslaved Africans of the islands. Big-stage musical and cultural events are planned in three villages on Tortola: Road Town, Carrot Bay, and East End. Festival highlights include the Miss BVI Pageant, Prince and Princess Show, horse races, J’ouvert — a large-scale musical “march” held at sunrise — and the August Monday parade.

Anegada Lobster Festival: Visitors who come here are treated to mouthwatering Caribbean spiny lobsters. It’s one of the BVI’s most recent events, with a

NATURAL ATTRACTIONS In the BVI, there’s always something to celebrate — and you’re invited!

Visitors to the BVI are struck by the archipelago’s scenic beauty. If you like to get out and explore, you’ve come to the right place.

scavenger hunt–type experience where patrons are encouraged to visit each featured vendor to sample lobster delicacies. This two-day event attracts hundreds to the 14-square-mile island with food, fashion, and music.

Hiking: Hiking tours became pretty popular in 2020, when locals and visitors wanted some outdoor fun that allowed for social distancing. The Pineapple Walk hike in Brewer’s Bay can be explored with an official tour guide from Eco Adventures BVI or Hike BVI. It’s a great hike, and you’ll get to see how pineapples are grown.

Foxy’s Old Year’s Night: Great Harbour on Jost Van Dyke is the site of one of the biggest New Year’s Eve parties in the world. The night begins with a Caribbean barbecue, transitions to a music concert with local and international acts, and ends with a fireworks show.

Virgin Gorda: Explore the BVI’s national parks, like 99 Steps to Nowhere on Virgin Gorda. Also on Virgin Gorda, The Baths is famous for huge boulders lining the island’s south shore.

They form trails and caves for a unique beach adventure with friends or a serene solo hike.

The Salt Pond: Salt Island is another must-see in the BVI. There are no hotels, restaurants, or watersports; so visitors enjoy hiking, swimming, quiet time, and even salt harvesting when the salt pond is dry enough.

Conch Shell Mound: Marvel at the huge mounds of conch shells on Anegada. Some of the shells have been around since the 1600s. The shells pile up to form mini islands on the eastern end of the island. After visiting the mounds, check out the rest of the island, which is also known for its pink flamingos and pristine beaches.

Glass-Bottom Boat Tours: Gumption’s Sea It Clear offers educational adventures where patrons learn about the marine environment between Virgin Gorda’s North Sound and Necker Island.

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HISTORY & CULTURE

WRITTEN BY APRIL TIA GLASGOW

An Artful Welcome

THE BVI’S DESTINATION WELCOME SIGNS SHOWCASE ISLAND SCENES AND CULTURAL SYMBOLS.

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T

he Virgin Islands has served as the ideal backdrop for many of the world’s photographers, filmmakers, videographers, and other visual artists.

The picturesque seascapes, lush hillsides, awe inspiring sunrises and sunsets, tropical architecture, and beautiful people have been the bulk of the scenes captured, until now.

The main islands — Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, and Anegada — now have signature signage that not only serve as perfect selfie backdrops and landmarks but also tell the Virgin Islands story through artistic interpretation of cultural icons.

The BVI Tourist Board spearheaded the project along with the

Honourable Sharie de Castro, junior minister for tourism at the time.

“We must continue to enhance our tourism product and promote Brand BVI to maintain our competitive advantage. As such, we must ensure that the destination be as much known for its traditions and tranquillity, and its attractions. And yes, these magnificent concrete sculptures are a welcome addition,” says Honourable de Castro.

Four Virgin Islands artists were commissioned to paint the island destination signs: Desiree Smith, Isah Chinnery, Nadia Winter, and Tia Modeste. Each sign, found in spectacular locations on the main islands, represents the individual artist’s style and personality.

The main islands now have signature signage that tell the Virgin Islands story through artistic interpretation of cultural icons.

TORTOLA by Desiree Smith This 32- × 5-foot “TORTOLA” sign, located at the Queen Elizabeth II Park, was painted by pop artist Desiree Smith.

Trained and educated in fine art, it was a privilege to be chosen to add her touch to the sign, she says. Her style employs vibrant and bold colours, often outlined in black, and references to pop culture.

Asked to use images that represent Tortola and the Virgin Islands, Smith used symbols like an abstraction of the Territory’s official emblem, Vigilate, which depicts St. Ursula holding an oil lamp. Smith also referenced the Virgin Islands festival, painting the colourful festival flags, and a reveller dressed in a costume.

She also highlights other symbols like the turtledove, white cedar flowers, and red hibiscus blossoms. Smith gives a nod to the islands’ sailing industry, moreover, with a diver, cruise ship, and sailboat. Crowning her “magnum opus,” she says, is her artistic signature: a red-glitter heart.

VIRGIN GORDA

by Nadia Winter Nadia Winter, an art teacher, professional artist, and fashion designer, decided to showcase Virgin Gorda’s landmarks, culture, and musical heritage.

In four days, Winter painted the semi-realistic mural overlooking Gorda Sound with the help of a colleague and students from the Bregado Flax Educational Centre.

“Virgin Gorda is known as the musical city of the Virgin Islands,” she says. Thus, she depicts a musician’s hand holding a guitar. Other images include a fisherman in his boat, the iconic boulders of The Baths, sailboats, the Copper Mine National Park, and the cedar tree, the national tree of the BVI. The final scene is an image of a resort that represents the luxury of Virgin Gorda, known as a high-end vacation hub.

JOST VAN DYKE by Isah Chinnery Isah Chinnery is a self-taught artist from Jost Van Dyke whose realistic paintings celebrate the island’s agriculture, fishing, and marine life.

Scenes depict fruits like mangoes, pineapples and sea grapes, a diver, catamaran, coral, and stingray, as well as the island’s beautiful beaches and lush green hillsides.

Chinnery says he collaborated with other artists, including two of his art students, during the two months it took to create the sign. That teamwork, he says, “was another representation of what Jost Van Dyke is to me — people working together to accomplish something beautiful.”

“I’ve been an artist all of my life and in many different ways,” says Chinnery, who started his art career by scribbling at home and learning art in high school. Whilst working as a manager and boutique clerk at the Soggy Dollar Bar, he noticed guests requesting something local to take back home with them to remember Jost Van Dyke. It was then that he was inspired to fully embrace his art career.

ANEGADA by Tia Modeste Modeste is a chef with her own catering business, but she says, “Art is my first love.” The self-taught artist’s sign combines contemporary realism with a play on pop art. She describes her artwork as giving some “oomph” to Anegada, which is also called the Drowned Island because of its flat topography.

Modeste painted Anegada’s rock iguana and other scenes from nature, including the pink flamingo, conch, and fish. No doubt the artist would have painted a lobster, as Anegada is home to the Virgin Islands’ annual lobster festival, held in November.

BVI by Akeem Lennard At Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park is a sign that represents all the British Virgin Islands.

Commissioned by Tortola Pier Park Limited’s board, the BVI sign is the work of Akeem Lennard of Greencrete BVI. According to the park’s website, the sign “encapsulates everything about our islands.” You’ll find it near the park’s Luxury Deck.

If you’re looking for a keepsake of your tropical vacation, snap a selfie at one or all the new welcome signs. They’ll remind you of the islands’ artistic talent and the warm welcome you received in the British Virgin Islands.

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HISTORY & CULTURE

EVENTS AND FESTIVALS

There are many events and festivals taking place throughout the year, so be sure to mark your calendar.

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The BVI Tourist Board

November 2022– October 2023

2022 NOVEMBER Culture and Tourism Month Guy Fawkes Bonfire Night Nov 5 Full Moon Party Nov 8 BVI Charter Yacht Show at Nanny Cay Nov 8–11 Nanny Cay Round Tortola Race Nov 12 Foxy’s Thanksgiving Dinner Nov 24 Anegada Lobster Festival Nov 25–27 Ogier Deloitte BVI Half Marathon Nov 26 Christmas Tree Lighting at Sir Olva Georges Plaza

DECEMBER

2023 JANUARY 2023 Painkiller Cup SUP Race Jan 14 BVICCHA Business Awards Gala Jan 21 Grenada Sailing Week Jan 29–Feb 3

Full Moon Party Dec 7

FEBRUARY

Old Year’s Night Foxy’s NYE Party Dec 31

Full Moon Party Feb 5

JUNE Full Moon Party Jun 3

J U LY Virgin Islands Day July 3 Full Moon Party July 3 Summer Sizzle BVI Annual Fashion & Lifestyle Week Puerto Rico’s Christmas in July in Virgin Gorda

BVI Wreck Week Feb 12–18

MARCH

Cleave Michael Farrington (2)

Leverick Bay Poker Run May 28

Full Moon Party Jan 6

Necker Cup Pro Am Tennis Tournament Dec 5–10

Foxy’s Christmas Dinner Dec 25

Foxy’s Wooden Boat Regatta May 27–28

AUGUST Full Moon Party Aug 1

Dark and Stormy Regatta Mar 4–6

Emancipation Festival Aug 7–9

Full Moon Party Mar 7

Emancipation Monday Aug 7

Virgin Gorda Easter Festival Apr 8–9

Emancipation Tuesday Aug 8 Emancipation Wednesday Aug 9

BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival 50-Year Anniversary Mar 27–Apr 2

Full Moon Party Aug 30

APRIL

SEPTEMBER

Full Moon Party Apr 6 Tortola Torture Ultra Marathon Apr 15

MAY

Full Moon Party Sep 29

OCTOBER Willy T Virgin’s Cup Oct 21

Full Moon Party May 5

Full Moon Party Oct 28

BVI Dinghy Championships hosted by The Royal BVI Yacht Club May 12–14

Foxy’s Catfight Regatta & Halloween Masquerade Party

Events and dates are subject to change, so we suggest you confirm the details in advance.

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BEACHES

Valley Trunk Bay, Virgin Gorda

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WRITTEN BY VANESSA MOLINA SANTAMARIA

TREAT YOURSELF TO A REWARDING BREAK WHILST VISITING ONE OF THESE TOP BEACHES.

WHETHER YOU’RE LOOKING TO SNORKEL, SUNBATHE, OR SIP COCKTAILS whilst working on your tan, the British Virgin Islands has the perfect beach for you. The BVI is known as one of the most breathtaking places for island hopping in the Caribbean, where at any given time fluttering sailboats and fancy yachts can be seen dotting the horizon. With 60 islands and cays spanning this magical archipelago, it can be hard to choose which beaches to visit. Here’s a guide to help you find your favourite spot in the sun.

SHORES

SPLENDID

Anegada Reef Hotel

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BEACHES

Tortola Cane Garden Bay The beach here is a real crowd pleaser. It offers the most amenities, including bathrooms, stores, and restaurants. However, its proximity to Road Town means the beach can get crowded when cruise ships are in port. To secure a spot on the beach and beat the rush, be sure to get there early in the morning or visit after dinner to dance the night away at Quito’s Gazebo or ELMs.

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Brewer’s Bay In the cove just to the north of Cane Garden Bay you’ll find one of the most laid-back beaches on Tortola. Here you can enjoy some of the best snorkelling on the island amongst extensive coral reefs that are home to an abundance of marine life. Beach chairs and watersports equipment are available for rent, and you can enjoy refreshments at the nearby beach bar. The hairpin turns and steep hills on the road leading to Brewer’s Bay Beach aren’t for the faint of heart, so it’s best to hire a taxi or take a boat to get here if you don’t have a four-wheel-drive vehicle.

bookend the western shore, or go snorkelling in the calm blue water and marvel at the colourful fish and coral.

Smuggler’s Cove At this pristine beach you can chill like a local as you catch some rays. To maintain its undisturbed nature, the beach has limited amenities; but you may occasionally find a couple of vendors selling snacks and drinks. Take a sandy stroll and dip your toes in the water as you gaze at the iconic peaks that

Josiah’s Bay Surfers extol the virtues of this local favourite on the east end of Tortola near Beef Island. Access is easy by road but unsuitable for anchoring. There’s a small beach bar serving snacks, a covered porch with picnic tables, and beach chairs available for rent. Don’t be surprised to see a cow or horse strolling along the

Smuggler’s Cove

VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

Take a sandy stroll and dip your toes in the water as you gaze at the iconic peaks that bookend the western shore.

shore, as well as boarders when surf’s up.

Forgot your surfboard? No problem. You can rent one or take a lesson at the surf school there.

Beef Island The Queen Elizabeth II Bridge links the east end of Tortola with the island, where you’ll find the BVI’s main airport. As you cross the bridge, be on the lookout for flamingos that often hang out in the mangroves just below. If you visit those mangroves and surrounding areas, you may notice a sulphur-like odour that is harmless and naturally occurring. Luckily, the smell rarely carries over to the gorgeous beach.

Note that when swimming here, the bottom drops off rather quickly compared with other beaches in the BVI.

DID YOU KNOW?

Spring Bay

Toxins in sunscreens damage coral and other marine life, so please be conscious of what you are putting on your skin, as it will eventually wash into the sea.

Mineral-based sunscreens are a far safer alternative.

Top phtoo: The BVI Tourist Board

Virgin Gorda Spring Bay Nestled between the lush tropical forest and the iconic boulders of Virgin Gorda is an often-overlooked beach offering a peaceful repose away from crowds. Here you can enjoy much of the same experience as you would at The Baths but with fewer people and less hiking. There is a protected cove that is perfect for swimming and snorkelling. There are also picnic tables and a grill, but note that all events here must first have permission from the National Parks Trust.

Devil’s Bay The beach at the southwestern tip of Virgin Gorda is part of the famed Baths National Park. This tranquil location for swimming and snorkelling can be reached via a 15-minute hike through vegetation and granite boulders. There are no facilities at Devil’s Bay Beach, but there are restrooms at the top and bottom of the trail, along with showers and lockers. In addition, there is a beach bar at the bottom of the trail.

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BEACHES

Sandy Cay

Jost Van Dyke

Sandy Cays The only way to get to Sandy Spit and Sandy Cay — pronounced “key” by locals — is by boat. Both are off Jost Van Dyke and close to each other, offering great swimming and beach lounging. The water here is crystal clear and deep blue, making it a postcard-perfect destination. Sandy Spit is a mere speck of sand that is forever shifting at the will of ocean currents. Sandy Cay is a national park with a hiking trail that circles the island through a small forest to a rocky bluff with great views of Tortola. The hike is moderate and takes only about 30 minutes.

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White Bay

Gorgeous White Bay beach is a popular destination for boaters from the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.

Left photo: Steve Simonsen

White Bay On the southern side of Jost Van Dyke is one of the best beaches to relax with a cocktail or take up the party vibe. Gorgeous White Bay beach is a popular destination for boaters from the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. Boaters raft up in flotillas and rock out to music whilst downing delicious, rum-infused Painkillers from the Soggy Dollar Bar. A trip to Jost Van Dyke is not complete without a visit to Foxy’s.

This eclectic restaurant and bar is just steps from Great Harbour.

If you are lucky, you will catch Philicianno “Foxy” Callwood, the owner, singing a tune whilst strumming the guitar. The beach isn’t known for swimming, but its sandy shores are too good to pass up on a hot day. Great Harbour can get busy, especially during New Year’s Eve, when Foxy’s hosts one of the hottest parties on the planet.

The snorkelling on Loblolly Beach is touted as the best in the BVI and one of the best shoreentry snorkelling spots in the Caribbean.

Peter Island

Other Islands Norman Island Norman Island is at the southern tip of the BVI archipelago, and the only way to get there is by boat. It is said that Norman Island inspired Robert Louis Stevenson’s novel Treasure Island. The only “pirates” you will see there today can be found sipping cocktails at Pirates Bight Bar or at the Willy T floating bar and restaurant. The bay is calm, serene, pristine, and perfect for a float; but it does get busy with yachts as the sun gets high in the sky.

Loblolly Beach

The BVI Tourist Board (2)

Anegada Loblolly Beach The water here is a shimmering aquamarine, with coral reefs lending a contrasting deep turquoise hue. It is not uncommon to be the only one on this beach, but you can find showers, lockers, and chairs with umbrellas available for use. The snorkelling on Loblolly Beach is touted

as the best in the BVI and one of the best shore-entry snorkelling spots in the Caribbean.

When you’re ready to take a break from snorkelling, head to The Big Bamboo for a lobster lunch and wash it down with a Bushwacker. The best way to get here is to take a taxi or rent a vehicle at Setting Point, where the ferry dock is located.

Peter Island Palm trees and pristine white sand line the mile-long crescent that makes up Deadman’s Beach, accessible only by boat. Construction is ongoing here, as the Peter Island Resort is being rebuilt following Hurricane Irma; but this picturesque stretch of sand is still worth a visit. For a more intimate experience, head to the secluded Honeymoon Beach, where you can enjoy a romantic picnic or listen to the waves lap at the shore.

Cooper Island A popular stop for boaters and group tours visiting the surrounding islands, Cooper Island offers superb snorkelling opportunities where sea turtles and stingrays can often be spotted in the seagrass. The beach is also home to Cooper Island Beach Club, an eco-resort featuring a boutique, a solar-powered microbrewery, bar, restaurant, and 12 guest rooms.

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The BVI Tourist Board

ON THE WATER

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VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

A SPLASHING SURROUNDED BY GORGEOUS AQUAMARINE WATER, THE BVI WAS MADE FOR AQUATIC ADVENTURES ON OR UNDER THE SEA.

THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS IS A PARADISE FOR WATER LOVERS. With the Atlantic Ocean to the north, the Caribbean Sea to the south, and beautiful bays and fish-filled reefs in between, this stepping-stone chain of islands offers the perfect playground for sailing, snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, and more. You’ll find watersports operators on each major island, many offering guided excursions and equipment rentals. So, jump right in — the water’s always fine!

Sail, Swim and Snorkel Cast off on a day sail for an island hopping adventure with snorkel and beach stops along the way. Aristocat Daysails offers itineraries aboard its two 45-foot catamarans, Sugar Rush and Sweet Escape, from Road Town and West End, Tortola. Snorkelling aficionados will want to choose the Norman Island and Peter Island trip.

Norman Island is said to have been the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s novel Treasure Island.

Three water-level caves are fun to swim in and snorkel about whilst marvelling at natural treasures like brilliant corals and brightly coloured fish.

Nearby, The Indians are four pinnacle rocks that rise from the sea and provide shallow-water snorkelling at its best. Stands of tree-like elkhorn coral, sea fans waving in undersea currents, trumpet and angel fish, and sponges galore are all here. What’s more,

GOOD TIME

WRITTEN BY CAROL M. BAREUTHER, RD

43

ON THE WATER

Dive In Take a one- or two-tank guided dive or get scuba-certified in the BVI. Companies like Blue Water Divers, based at Nanny

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You’ll find watersports operators on each major island, many offering guided excursions and equipment rentals.

Cay Marina in Tortola, and Dive BVI, with locations at Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour, Saba Rock, and Scrub Island, offer guided dive trips, several types of classes, and rental equipment like air tanks, weight belts, masks, fins, and snorkels. Dive operators also offer package prices for three and five twotank dives, as well scuba equipment rental by the week.

There are nearly 100 dive sites in the BVI, most no more

VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

than 90 feet deep. Divers can explore shipwrecks, reefs teeming with fish, coral-encrusted walls, and seamounts.

The wreck of the RMS Rhone, a Royal Mail ship that sank in an 1867 hurricane off Salt Island, is the most famous of the BVI’s dive sites. Star attractions are the bow section and midsection.

You’ll also find giant marine winches, the foremast with its crow’s nest, and a cannon, as well as moray eels, sea turtles,

and lobsters. Other great dive sites include Angelfish Reef off Norman Island, The Aquarium off Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour, and Wreck Alley off Cooper Island.

Paddle, Parasail, and More There are lots of amazing places to kayak by day in the BVI. But you might also want to try your hand at paddling at night.

Paradize Water Sports offers nighttime kayak tours in Cane CONTINUED ON PAGE 47

The BVI Tourist Board (2)

the pristine anchorage of Little Harbour, on adjacent Peter Island, is a place where it’s often possible to snorkel with sea turtles.

Beach lovers like day sailing to Jost Van Dyke. One of the stops is at White Bay, where a dreamy half-mile-long whitesand beach invites a walk after a Painkiller cocktail at one of the beach bars. To the east of Jost, Sandy Spit is a half-acre deserted island that’s almost all beach.

Swim in, make sand angels, then snorkel along the marine life– filled reef to the south. Most day sailboats offer snorkel gear, floatation aids like foam noodles, other watersports equipment such as paddleboards, and complimentary beverages.

If you’d like to sail for a week or more, consider VOYAGE Yacht Charters. Based in Soper’s Hole on Frenchman’s Cay in Tortola, VOYAGE offers a fleet of catamarans ranging in length from 48 to 65 feet. These beautiful floating hotels come equipped with kitchens, bathrooms and showers, full navigation stations, open-air decks, water toys, and more. Charter a boat for a do-it-yourself bareboat sail or hire a crew and let the captain take the helm on an all-inclusive vacation.

Every charter choice comes with an itinerary you can make your own. A weeklong charter means more time to explore islands like Anegada for beach walking, Virgin Gorda on North Sound for watersports, and smaller islands like Cooper, with its popular restaurant and rum bar.

WRITTEN BY CAROL M. BAREUTHER, RD

SEAWORTHY KIDS BVI WATERSPORTS TEACHES KIDS HOW TO FEEL AT HOME ON THE WATER.

BVI CHILDREN GROW UP SURROUNDED BY THE SEA, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they are comfortable in the water or skilled enough to make the most of the islands’ myriad watersports. Emma Paull is working to change this.

The UK expat, who has lived in the islands for 20 years, is an avid sailor, as well as the programme director and instructor at BVI Watersports. Her aim, she says, “is for every school child in the BVI to be water confident and learn how to kayak, stand-up paddleboard, and sail.” Not only is this an essential skill for their safety, but Paull also wants to encourage kids who are interested in watersports to become instructors.

Watersports and sailing knowledge open a large range of employment opportunities within the BVI and worldwide, she says. “We are working to become an RYA (Royal Yachting Association) centre so our trainee instructors will have a world-recognised qualification.”

In the past year, more than 200 children from Tortola and Virgin Gorda have taken part in the organisation’s camps and lessons. All programmes are low-cost or no cost. Ninety percent of the children in BVI Watersports’ programme require a full or partial sponsor to attend.

“We greatly appreciate all donations to help a child learn,” says Paull. “Twenty-five dollars sponsors a session, $250 pays for a child’s week-long camp, and $5,000 sponsors an entire week’s camp.”

For more information, visit www.bviwatersports.org.

LESSONS, RENTALS, TOURS AND FUN

284-343-7406 info@bviwatersports.org

BVI Watersports

WWW.BVIWATERSPORTS.ORG

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ON THE WATER

From Wrecks to Reefs ARTIFICIAL REEFS OFFER MORE TO EXPLORE IN THE DEEP. WRITTEN BY CAROL M. BAREUTHER, RD

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TWO OF THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS’ NEWEST DIVE SITES have emerged as unique underwater attractions after 2017’s devastating hurricanes.

Beyond the Reef, a Tortola-based nonprofit focused on improving ocean health with creative solutions like artificial reefs, sank a storm-damaged ship and three airplanes in 2019. Today they’re all encrusted with coral, providing a home for all sorts of multicoloured marine life.

Built in 1935, the Willy T, famous for its persona as a pirate-themed floating restaurant and bar, sits 65 feet below the sea at Key Bay, Peter Island. The 100-foot Baltic Trader’s crow’s nest, extending up within 35 feet of the surface, is perfect for snorkelling.

In addition, Beyond the Reef’s creative team transformed three planes – a Piper Navajo, Piper Aztec, and Cessna 150 – into bull, hammerhead, and reef shark lookalikes. Now the trio of “sharkplaneos” hangs out off Great Dog Island, west of Virgin Gorda, in a coral garden 40 to 45 feet underwater. If you visit them, know that the $5 admission

fee goes directly to Beyond the Reef’s learn-to-swim programme for local children.

Divers will also enjoy the sunken Kodiak Queen, a Navy fuel barge that survived Pearl Harbor, and the legendary RMS Rhone, a must-do for any dive enthusiast. In addition, the Territory hosts its BVI Wreck Week in February 2023.

For more information, contact the Association of Reef Keepers (www.bviark.org) and BVI Scuba Organization (www.bviscuba.org).

The BVI Tourist Board (2)

Divers will also enjoy the sunken Kodiak Queen, a Navy fuel barge that survived Pearl Harbor, and the legendary RMS Rhone, a must-do for any dive enthusiast.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 44

Garden Bay. Two one-hour guided tours are offered each night.

Along the way you may encounter tarpons, turtles, stingrays, shipwrecks, and a bat or two.

Safety jackets are included, and so are glow sticks and body paint. Plan to go when the moon is full for an extra-awesome on-the-water adventure.

Based in Trellis Bay, BVI Watersports offers kayak and stand-up paddleboarding rentals, as well as adventure tours for all ages and sailing lessons for kids and teens.

Surfing is big in the winter months on the Atlantic side of the islands. Parasailing offers incredible bird’s-eye views from above, whilst stand-up paddleboarding gives a close-up look at the sea. Kiteboarding and windsurfing are both a rush

Divers can explore shipwrecks, reefs teeming with fish, coralencrusted walls, and seamounts.

in the territory’s brisk trade winds. This is especially true off Anegada. Sportfishing charter boats take anglers out for half- and full-day trips. The BVI is famous for its North Drop, a deep trench where billfish like blue and white marlin abound, especially during the summer and early fall.

Explore the BVI above and below

British Virgin Islands

More than 45 years in the British Virgin Islands, Dive BVI has issued over 10,000 certifications. Our instructors are ready to help you achieve your dive certification, whether you are in a full course with us or just needing to complete the Open Water dive requirements.

Call/WhatsApp: +1-284-541-9818 info@divebvi.com | divebvi.com

Rendezvous Diving, Equipment Rentals, Air Fills, Private Charters, Scuba Instruction, Day Trips & Retail

Two Locations: Scrub Island Marina & Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour Marina

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ON THE WATER

Plan Your Dream Sailing Itinerary YOU HAVE MANY OPTIONS FROM WHICH TO CHOOSE IN THIS SAILING CAPITAL OF THE WORLD. WRITTEN BY RUTH ROSS, CHARTER YACHT SOCIETY OF THE BVI

Chartering a Boat: Bareboat or Crewed?

A crewed charter holiday appeals to those who want to enjoy the voyage without the responsibility of operating the boat. Your crew will consist of a captain and chef, and sometimes a steward or deckhand. They take care of provisioning, cleaning, day-today running of the vessel, entertainment, watersports, and three gourmet meals a day.

They’ll also act as your tour guides.

They’ll recommend the best bars and restaurants, for example; find quiet anchorages; and point out popular dive and snorkel sites. In addition, a crewed charter boat will have a water maker so you will not need to dock to fill your tanks every day and a generator to provide power for air conditioning and more.

Crewed charter boats come in a range of sizes and prices. There are full-time dive boats and charters that provide sailing instructions. If a crewed holiday appeals to you, contact a charter broker who can match your needs and budget to a beautiful yacht. For more information

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VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

on crewed charters in the BVI, visit www.bvicrewedyachts.com to find a list of accredited charter yacht brokers.

A bareboat trip, on the other hand, gives you complete control. If you are qualified to charter a bareboat, you have approximately 15 companies from which to choose. Select a boat appropriate to your expertise, the size of your group, and your budget. After a thorough chart briefing from your charter company, you are free to explore, as well as take on the responsibility of sailing, driving, anchoring, and mooring.

Clockwise from top: The BVI Tourist Board, William Torrillo, The BVI Tourist Board

T

he British Virgin Islands has a longstanding reputation as a sailing and chartering paradise. That’s understandable when you consider that the Territory is composed of around 60 islands and cays separated by relatively short distances. Sheltered water, safe anchorages, secluded bays, and more make this an unbeatable choice for a sailing vacation.

There are many options when it comes to chartering in the BVI. You can choose from a sailboat or motorboat, monohull, or catamaran.

Then you need to decide whether you want a crewed charter, bareboat charter, or day charter.

SAVE THE DATE The 50th annual BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival will take place in March 2023. From the protected waters of the Sir Francis Drake Channel to the outer islands, with numerous natural marks offering multiple possibilities to mix up the racing, the BVI — also known as the sailing capital of the world — is an exhilarating and challenging place to sail. Be sure to put this event on your bucket list!

A bareboat charter appeals to those who want to make their own decisions. You may want to eat in a different restaurant every night or provision the boat and dine on board. You can stock your boat by visiting grocery stores, wine and spirit suppliers, bakeries, and butchers; or you can order supplies that will await you when you arrive. The boat may have a standard inventory of water toys, or you can rent some, along with dive gear. Local dive companies can provide dive instructions for novices and accompany certified divers.

Island Hopping You’ll also find several day charters in the BVI. These can range from private charters, shared charters, fishing charters,

and charters dedicated to snorkelling and diving.

You might even hire a motorboat for a day of island hopping. With the proximity of many of the islands to each other, and the relative shelter of the Sir Francis Drake Channel, it is possible to see at least one new island each day of your trip.

Most charters starting on Tortola travel the archipelago in a counterclockwise direction, visiting the most popular spots of Norman, Peter, Cooper, and Virgin Gorda, then out to Anegada and all the way down to Jost Van Dyke before returning to Tortola. For those who prefer a slower pace, you can move from one beautiful bay to another on the same island and still see something new.

Would you like to dive or snorkel?

The Indians, The Dogs, and the wreck of the RMS Rhone are popular sites. How about beautiful beaches with a bar scene?

Cane Garden Bay, White Bay on Jost Van Dyke, Cooper Island, and Cow Wreck Beach on Anegada should tick that box. If you’re seeking a sheltered bay with lots of moorings, head for The Bight on Norman Island, Great Harbour on Peter Island, North Sound on Virgin Gorda, or Anegada.

Would you enjoy spending time on a dramatic beach peppered with giant boulders and sheltered pools? Visit The Baths on Virgin Gorda. Monthly

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ON THE WATER

WRITTEN BY CAROL M. BAREUTHER, RD

RESPONSIBLE TOURISM

REMEMBER TO RESPECT THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT on your sailing holiday.

Careless anchoring can damage fragile reefs, so private companies and the BVI National Parks Trust have designated moorings in many areas to help prevent some of that damage.

Toxins in sunscreens also damage coral and other marine life. Mineral-based sunscreens are a safer alternative. Bleach and other harsh chemicals also cause damage, so try to use environmentally safe clean-

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VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

Toxins in sunscreens also damage coral and other marine life. Mineral-based sunscreens are a safer alternative.

ing products. As recycling becomes more widely available in the BVI, try to keep your glass, plastic, and aluminium separate from your other trash. There are recycling collection points on Tortola and Virgin Gorda.

In addition, bear in mind that BVIslanders are a modest people, so be respectful of that whilst ashore. Most bars and restaurants are casual, but you should cover up your swimsuit with shorts and a T-shirt before going into a shop, restaurant, or other place of business. Footwear is also required.

The BVI Tourist Board

THOUGHTFUL TRAVELLERS RESPECT AND PRESERVE THE ENVIRONMENTS THEY EXPLORE.

Full Moon parties beckon from Trellis Bay, Foxy’s on Jost Van Dyke, and Paradise Club in Cane Garden Bay. Stilt walkers, the Moko Jumbies, perform regularly in bars and resorts. Leverick Bay Resort on Virgin Gorda, Pirates Bight on Norman Island, Cooper Island Beach Club, and Anegada Beach Club are good family areas that offer nice beaches and casual eateries.

So, what are you waiting for?

When it comes to boating in the BVI, there are endless possibilities.

Warm waters, balmy breezes, lush landscapes, and beautiful beaches are all here to be discovered. Just be warned: Once you’ve taken a sailing vacation in the BVI, nothing else will ever quite live up to it!

The BVI Tourist Board

ON THE WATER GUIDE ARISTOCAT DAYSAILS Road Town, Tortola Tel: 499-1249 www.aristocatdaysails.com Touring the British Virgin Islands by boat allows you a unique opportunity to enjoy the enchantment and beauty of the Caribbean.

A day out with Aristocat includes sailing, snorkelling, paddleboarding, lunch (sailboats only), and a variety of ice-cold drinks — a full day of fun in the sun and sea! Check availability and book online.

BLUE WATER DIVERS Nanny Cay Marina, Tortola Tel: 494-2847 www.bluewaterdiversbvi.com Blue Water Divers has an outstanding team

of professional dive instructors who will ensure that you enjoy a safe and fun diving experience. They offer a variety of services to help make your diving holiday as easy and enjoyable as possible. Contact Blue Water Divers for scuba and snorkelling equipment rentals, PADI scuba diving certification courses or diving packages, and visit the Nanny Cay location to browse amongst a wide variety of diving merchandise, clothing, and souvenirs.

BVI WATERSPORTS Trellis Bay, Beef Island, Tortola Tel: 343-7406 Email: info@bviwatersports.org BVI Watersports’ aim is for every BVI child to be water confident and learn how to kayak, SUP, and sail. They run low-cost/no-cost programmes mostly funded by sponsorships.

For visitors, they offer kayak and SUP rentals and sunset kayak tours in Trellis Bay. They also have fun days with a water bouncer and kayak lessons.

DIVE BVI Tel/WhatsApp: 541-9818 Email: info@divebvi.com www.divebvi.com Located at Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour Marina and Scrub Island Marina, Dive BVI offers rendezvous diving, scuba and snorkelling equipment rentals, air fills, private charters, scuba instruction, day trips, and retail selections.

Package discounts on diving and rentals are available.

VOYAGE CHARTERS Tel: 888-869-2436 or 443-569-7007 www.voyagecharters.com Experience a boutique family-operated charter known for excellent customer service and a stylish fleet. VOYAGE Charters’ new electricpowered vessel will be the first of its kind in the BVI, combining thoroughbred sailing performance and luxury with the latest in eco-friendly electric drives, renewable power generation, and a high-efficiency standby generator.

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ON THE WATER

All About the VOYAGE A BVI CHARTER COMPANY IS MAKING YACHTING DREAMS COME TRUE.

THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS IS A VACATION DESTINATION second to none. With so much to offer, visitors are guaranteed an amazing experience in the BVI; and the best way to do this is undoubtedly by boat.

Blessed by warm trade winds and turquoisecoloured water, sailing is the ideal way to tour the archipelago, cruising the short distances between islands and overnighting in

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different anchorages. For all these reasons, chartering a yacht in the BVI is a dream vacation that many people enjoy year after year.

Since 1995, VOYAGE Charters BVI has been making that dream a reality with award-winning catamarans built by its sister company VOYAGE Yachts of Cape Town, South Africa.

The boat builder has delivered nearly 200 yachts, each sailing from their launch in Cape Town Harbour to all corners of the world; and many have found a home at VOYAGE Charters BVI. The familyowned and -operated charter-yacht management company is based

VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

Blessed by warm trade winds and turquoisecoloured water, sailing is the ideal way to tour the archipelago.

in Soper’s Hole Marina on Tortola’s West End. They also operate the renowned West End Boat Yard and the exclusive dealership of all new VOYAGE yachts.

The company’s voyage continues with the VOYAGE 590, which was launched in 2020 and exceeded all expectations, reaffirming VOYAGE’s position at the top of their class. The

model was named “Best Charter Boat” in Cruising World’s 2022 Boat of The Year contest, says Robin Downing, owner and director of VOYAGE Charters and partner in VOYAGE Yachts. Downing is well known for setting the bar high, and with nearly three decades of operating charter yachts in the BVI, on top of years building awardwinning yachts before VOYAGE, Downing’s ideals of luxury accommodation, system integration, and performance sailing are realised in the VOYAGE 590.

The interior layout of the 590 provides comfortable living space, with six private en suite cabins and two en suite crew quarters.

An open-plan bridge deck features single-level access from the dockside through the aft cockpit, barbecue, wet bar, and dining area, into the salon lounge and large gourmet galley, and out to the forward cockpit lounge. There is a fourth social area in the flybridge, where the entire group can relax in the shaded loungers and daybed, alongside the helm seat from which the captain operates the boat.

The 590 is also equipped with state-of-the-art power management systems that allow for luxurious onboard amenities one might only expect to find in a villa.

The VOYAGE fleet continues to grow with these beautiful new yachts, which feature striking black sails.

The brand is forged in quality craftmanship and unparalleled service, upholding the adage that “it’s less about the destination, and more about the VOYAGE.”

Courtesy of VOYAGE Charters

WRITTEN BY SARAH JONES

Aristocat Daysails

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Courtesy of Aristocat Daysails

EXPLORING

WRITTEN BY JANE BAKEWELL

THERE ARE MANY ISLANDS IN THE BVI CHAIN, AND ALL ARE WORTH VISITING. ARRIVING IN THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS is like being handed a menu at a first-rate restaurant. The challenge is to choose amongst many tantalising options. If you need some help, call on the experts at Golden Journey Concierge Services, which specialises in curating an ideal experience for you and your family. As you explore, “Nature’s Little Secrets,” as the BVI is known, be sure to include some of these essential experiences.

HOPPING

ISLAND

Road Town

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EXPLORING

Callwood Rum Distillery

Tortola: The Big Island

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island. Taxi drivers at the Cruise Pier offer half- or full-day rates to take you on a picturesque, hilly journey to Cane Garden Bay or Smuggler’s Cove, two of the BVI’s favourite beaches. Rental cars are available at Hertz, Dollar, and Thrifty Rentals.

Motorcycles also are available., A must-see is the Callwood Rum Distillery in Cane Garden Bay, one of the Caribbean’s oldest pot distilleries. Arundel rum is distilled from pure cane juice as it was done hundreds of years ago. Both

Getting There: By plane from Puerto Rico to Beef Island Airport (EIS) or by ferry from St. Thomas, VI, to Road Town with Road Town Fast Ferry, Native Son, or Smith’s Ferry.

You can also reach Tortola’s West End from St. John, VI, on the Inter Island Ferry.

Steve Simonsen

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he main island of Tortola is where most visitors begin their island experience. Road Town is the capital. Throughout the business sector are craft shops, bustling marinas, and fascinating historical sites, including the Old Government House, where Queen Elizabeth II has left her signature, and the Sugar Works Museum, filled with historic artefacts.

For shoppers, Tortola Pier Park is a colonial-style outdoor cruise and shopping promenade on a harbour with more than 70 retail outlets and restaurants. Shops featuring big-brand names boast real bargains on jewellery, watches, and designer clothing.

Colourful island wear can be seen from the open doors of Crafts Alive Village, a collection of West Indian cottages in the centre of town featuring local crafts and souvenirs.

Palm-fringed beaches dotted with restaurants are on the north shore of the

DID YOU KNOW?

Original Virgin Canopy Tours

tours and tastings are available. Be sure to also visit Trellis Bay, a small community on the East End. Aragorn’s Art Studio is a local icon, where you’ll find sculptures, pottery, and handmade jewellery. This is the spot for monthly full moon parties, with local bands and the famous Moko Jumbie stilt walkers.

Hikers will not want to miss a trip to Sage Mountain National Park. Trails wind through semitropical forests as you ascend to 1,700 feet, taking in panoramic views of the channel. If you and the family are hungering for thrills, sign up for an exciting zipline adventure with Original Virgin Canopy Tours.

Watersports are popular on Tortola, and enthusiasts can rent equipment through Island Surf and Sail, including scuba gear, surfboards, stand-up paddle boards (SUP), kayaks, and even fishing gear, permits, and bait.

THE VIRGIN ISLANDS SIGNATURE WATER TA XI

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II visited the BVI in 1966 for the opening of the aptly named Queen Elizabeth Bridge, which connects the airport on Beef Island to the island of Tortola. Although the bridge has since been rebuilt to accommodate a heavier flow of traffic, this bridge will forever commemorate her visit to our Territory.

Call Us Today For All Your

From left: The BVI Tourist Board, Agencja Fotograficzna Caro / Alamy Stock Photo

Private Water Taxi Transfers The ONLY US Customs and Border Patrol Signature Carrier for transporting all Passport holders between the BVI and the USVI

(SMALL OR LARGE GROUPS)

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(284) 345-1242 (340) 998-6720 oceandreamswatertaxi.com

EXPERIENCE SERVICE AND SPEED WHILE TRAVELING IN COMFORT AND STYLE

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JUST FOR KIDS

WRITTEN BY ANDREA MILAM

Family Fun IN THE BVI, KIDS AND GROWN-UPS ALIKE WILL FIND PLENTY TO ENJOY.

Nature’s Playgrounds The Baths in Virgin Gorda is arguably one of the best, most beautiful natural playgrounds in the world. Granite boulders fringe the shoreline where impossibly soft white sands meet crystalline turquoise waters in an ethereal arrangement that is as stunning as it is entertaining. Conveniences like ropes and ladders have been added to aid you and your children as you climb up, over, and through this captivating obstacle course. A visit to The Baths is a true adventure. This destination’s sheer beauty makes it an unforgettable must-do for the whole family.

Water, of course, is another natural playground. Show your children the magic of the deep blue sea without the instruction and certification that comes with a scuba diving experience. Snuba — that’s snorkelling combined with scuba — allows you to immerse yourself in the sea whilst remaining tethered to the raft that holds your air supply. It’s an activity with a short learning curve and big rewards. Float peacefully at depths of up to 20 feet while you safely observe the myriad reefs, fish, and other undersea wildlife. This activity is open to ages 8 and up, and it’s a wonderful way to show your children the best of what the BVI has to offer.

Inland Exploration The BVI is certainly known for its beaches, but there’s also much to explore away from the shore. At J.R.

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VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

O’Neal Botanic Gardens in the heart of Road Town, you and the family can get your steps in as you meander through this charming collection of island flora and fauna. A scavenger hunt will help keep little ones engaged. Can you spot something that’s sharp (Turk’s cap cactus)? Let’s find an animal that carries its home with it (tortoise)! See who can spot the most lizards or who can find the brightest bougainvillea blooms.

Need a break from the sun? Beat the heat at The Energy Centre, a multipurpose recreational complex with a children’s play area, basketball court, volleyball court, and a six-lane bowling alley. This venue’s variety of activities will keep kids of all ages engaged whilst giving your family the opportunity to have fun and play games alongside locals. Hours differ by day and season, so be sure to plan ahead.

Tortola’s North Shore Shell Museum gives you and your family the chance to interact with two of the BVI’s best assets: its natural beauty and people.

Started nearly three decades ago by Egbert Donovan, this roadside oddity is a collection of shells found on local beaches interspersed with sayings and bits of wisdom hand-scrawled on makeshift signs and ship models. You could spend plenty of time here taking in the wide variety of shells on display, but this museum’s real gem is the proprietor himself. Egbert delights in interacting with his visitors, regaling them with tales of his storied island life. He doesn’t exactly run on regular operating hours, so if you notice Egbert at his post as you’re passing by, take the chance and enjoy this memorable encounter.

Whimsical Wonders Bring your little ones’ imaginations to life as they undergo a magical mermaid

Aristocat Daysails

Water, of course, is another natural playground.

transformation. Dive BVI will work with the whole family to teach everyone how to swim in a Fin Fun mermaid tail. From gliding through the water with the help of your fin to posing for photos on a beautiful BVI beach, this is one experience your children will remember for many years to come.

Anegada is unique amongst the BVI for its relatively flat elevation — it’s an atoll — and it offers otherworldly sights that your family is sure to enjoy.

You’ll realise why a group of flamingos is called a “flamboyance” when you spot the brightly hued birds that call Anegada home. Hundreds of Caribbean flamingos, which grow as tall as five feet, flock to the aptly named Flamingo Pond, where an elevated platform allows you to look out over the landscape and see these beauties in their natural habitat. The other mustsee spot on Anegada is a man-made anomaly that’s hundreds of years old.

Twelve-foot-high conch shell mounds rising out of the shallow sea are the remnants of fishermen’s work dating all the way back to the 13th century. It’s an incredibly curious sight that inspires wonderment and reverie.

Courtesy of Aristocat Daysails

THE BVI BECKONS with engaging family activities for all ages and interests.

Engaging in activities that everyone can enjoy creates special memories you and your children can look back on fondly for years to come. And isn’t that what a family vacation is all about?

DID YOU KNOW? Despite growing up on an island, many children in the BVI don’t feel confident in the water. But Emma Paull from BVI Watersports is working to change this.

Her goal is for every school child in the BVI to learn how to kayak, use a stand-up paddle board, and sail. She even wants to help train those that are interested in becoming watersports instructors, since this knowledge can lead to employment and leisure opportunities. In the past year, over 200 children have taken part in the organisation’s camps and lessons.

Although all programmes are offered at a minimal or no cost, many of the children require a full or partial sponsor to attend. If you’d like to make a donation, please visit www.bviwatersports.org.

Enjoy the comfort of a high speed catamaran

Counter #4 The only non-stop service to connect Road Town, Tortola BVI and St. Thomas, USVI Road Town, Tortola to Charlotte, Amalie, St. Thomas

Road Town, Tortola to Anegada (via Virgin Gorda)

Monday - Friday

Saturday

Sunday

• Departs: RT 7am, 10am, 2:30pm • Departs: ST.T 8:30am, 12 noon, 4:15pm

• Departs: RT 7am, 10am, 12 noon, 2:30pm • Departs: ST.T 8:30am, 12 noon, 2:30pm

• Departs: RT 9am, 12 noon, 2:30pm • Departs: ST.T 12 noon, 4:30pm

Monday, Wednesday & Friday • Departs: RT 6:45am, 3:30pm • Departs: VG 7:10am • Departs: AN 8:30am, 5pm

Counter closes 15 minutes before departure

Tortola (284) 494-2323 or (284) 340-3976 (after hours) St. Thomas (340) 777-2800 or (340) 715-2800 @QuitosGazebo roadtownfastferry.com • Caribbean Maritime Excursion, Inc.

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EXPLORING

Virgin Gorda: A Natural Beauty

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Getting There: Speedy's offers a reliable daily ferry service from Beef Island to Spanish Town, as well as ferries from Road Town to Spanish Town Monday through Saturday.

Dream Star, the flagship cruiser at Sensation Ferries, also offers daily service from Road Town to Spanish Town. Water taxis can also be chartered for custom destinations.

VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

Copper Mine

The BVI Tourist Board

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t is said that when Christopher Columbus noted the curvature of this island, he imagined a gorda, or “fat woman” in Spanish. This is an island of laid-back, understated beauty with some wellknown, high-end resorts, many of which have undergone significant renovations from some stormy years past.

There is much to see and do in this playground paradise. A short taxi ride from the ferry dock at Spanish Town will take you to the top of The Baths National Park, considered by many to be the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” A set of steps winds down to Spring Bay, a delightful beach with a few kiosks. The giant boulder formations offer an adventurous hike with rope rails and wooden ladders to guide you.

Devil’s Bay appears on the other side of the 30-minute-or-so boulder hike. The half-moon cove is an ideal swimming and snorkelling spot.

A rental car from Hertz, Dollar, and Thrifty can be arranged in advance and will get you to more remote beaches, such as Savannah Bay. Here you’ll find a white-sand beach you may have completely to yourself. Not far away on the opposite coast is the historic Copper Mine. Abandoned in 1862 by the British, it’s a stunning stone edifice on a point overlooking the ocean. Partial ruins of the original smoke-

DID YOU KNOW? Virgin Gorda was a small agricultural community until Laurance Rockefeller established Little Dix Bay Resort in 1964, putting the BVI on the map internationally.

Following a comprehensive renovation, Rosewood Little Dix Bay reopened in January 2020.

Meet Leronda LeBlanc, Fee Collector at the National Parks Trust of the Virgin Islands “Working at The Greater Baths National Parks was a dream I never knew I had,” she says. “One aspect of this job that I love is getting to meet persons from every part of the world.” The Greater Baths National Parks is a unique park comprising three beaches, two of which are swimmable and one non-swimmable. The non-swimmable beach has lots to offer; you can listen to the sounds of the waves and explore the cave, which is the main attraction of the park.

stack and engine house make for a great backdrop for selfies and Instagram-worthy posts.

Leverick Bay Resort & Marina is located on the shores of a spectacular large blue lagoon known as North Sound.

The Restaurant at Leverick Bay features both casual dining and event nights alive with the rhythms of local bands. Boats can be rented from the marina to explore the North Sound.

Hikers won’t want to miss challenging Gorda Peak, which rises to 1,370 feet and offers panoramic views of the North Sound. For a unique adventure, Sea It Clear Tours with Captain Gumption offers specialised nature tours to Necker Island, where you can observe endangered birds, lemurs, and giant tortoises.

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EXPLORING

Sandy Cay

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amed after a Dutch pirate in the 17th century, this smallest of the four main islands has been a favourite watering hole for sailors ever since. Rum is poured generously at every bar, and the famous Painkiller drink purportedly originated here. There are sporty activities to enjoy on this island, but soaking up the beauty in a hammock under a palm tree appears to be a favourite of many.

Arriving by ferry brings you to the Government Dock in Great Harbour.

Following a seaside path takes you past many small eateries and shops to Foxy’s Tamarind Bar and Restaurant. Iconic troubadour Foxy is the life of the party as he holds musical court, entertaining guests with humorous tunes about politics and life.

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VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

Getting There: New Horizon Ferry Service runs five times daily from Tortola’s West End temporary terminal to Great Harbour. Tickets are purchased on board.

Photo on right: Steve Simonsen

Jost Van Dyke: Yachting Paradise

EXPLORING

ONE BIG PARTY In 1968 a young Philicianno “Foxy” Callwood saw his future arrive on the sailing yachts that came to call on the idyllic four square miles of Jost Van Dyke.

In the shade of a tamarind tree, Foxy set up a bar to welcome sailors to his island home.

Tessa, Foxy’s wife and partner who was raised in Australia, has spent her adult life on Jost Van Dyke dreaming up creations that are the hallmarks of the Foxy’s brand. first as chief cook for the beach bar and bottle washer and then as a wife and mother.

She also planned the parties and events that continue to capture the imaginations of those who want to experience a little bit of true island life.

Foxy’s Tamarind Bar is often recognised as the birthplace of the BVI’s yachting tourism industry. Quick with a song, joke, or story, Foxy has been welcoming visitors to his island home for five decades. He has received numerous awards for his contributions to heritage and tourism in the British Virgin Islands. One of the most prestigious came from the late Queen Elizabeth II, who designated him a Member of the British Empire.

If you haven’t been to Foxy’s on “Old Year’s Night,” you’ve missed one of the biggest celebrations anywhere. The New York Times, in fact, cites Foxy’s bar as one of the top 10 venues to ring in the new year.

But you don’t have to wait until then to visit Foxy’s.

There’s a party there every day.

Putting Foxy’s on your bucket list is a must!

DID YOU KNOW?

FOXY’S TAMARIND BAR Lunch & dinner • entertainment

284.442.3074 foxysbar.com Ocean Spa BVI

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VISIT THE 1BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023 Foxys_MagAd_V1.indd

9/21/22 15:51

From top: courtesy of Foxy's Tamarind Bar, Steve Simonsen

Jost offers the Caribbean’s only floating spa. Ocean Spa BVI features different types of massages on board a houseboat anchored off White Bay.

From left: Cleave Michael Farrington, The BVI Tourist Board

Bubbly Pool

Foxy’s menu includes local favourites such as conch fritters and rotis, wraps filled with spicy chicken curry, with marmalade on the side. You may want to try Foxy’s Firewater, a light vanilla-flavoured rum brewed locally, as well as other rum specialty drinks with colourful names like Friggin in da Riggin. Next door is the Foxhole Boutique. Here you can find a wonderful selection of Foxy-branded gear, unique gifts, souvenirs, and beachwear.

A must-see is beautiful White Bay Beach, just over the hill from the Government Dock. Hike along a paved road with great views or opt for a taxi lift up and over.

More small eateries and bars dot the beach, including the well-known Soggy Dollar Bar. Another not-to-be-missed attraction is the Bubbly Pool off Diamond Point. You will need a taxi over another steep hill. Then refresh yourself at Foxy’s Taboo Restaurant.

Just a short hike from here leads to rock formations that create a pool where incoming waves effervesce.

Charters from Great Harbour allow you to explore tiny, uninhabited Sandy and Green Cays. Snorkelling is great, and you can arrange a diving excursion at Jost Van Dyke Scuba.

Cooper Island

Cooper Island: The Eco-Island

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he byword for Cooper Island is “no cruise ships, no crowds.”

Next to Salt Island and the Wreck of the Rhone dive site, this eco-conscious island with just five private residences is home to Cooper Island Beach Club, where electricity and water are 85 percent solar powered.

This small resort features a restaurant with fresh seafood and farm-to-table dining. A specialty Rum Bar is famous for an international selection of rums, and there’s a microbrewery with six craft beers on tap. Island wear is in high style at Grape Boutique, featuring local designers and jewellery.

Stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking are popular, as well as snorkelling at Cistern Point, where a shallow reef is home to many colourful varieties of fish. The resort can help you arrange snorkelling and diving excursions.

Getting There: There is no regular ferry service to the island. Overnight visitors are offered pickups from Tortola at Road Harbour or Hodges Creek Marina, East End. Also, consider chartering a boat.

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EXPLORING

Anegada: The Coral Island

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his northernmost coral and limestone atoll is only 28 feet above sea level, hence its name, Anegada, which means “flooded” in Spanish.

An hour-long ferry ride brings you here from Tortola, but there are just two daily departures and returns, so plan for a full-day outing.

Anegada is the island many locals travel to for a “staycation.” Still within the island chain, it is quiet and low-key for a relaxing getaway. However, for the day-tripper there are many activities that can be packed in from sunup to sundown.

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VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

Jeep rentals need to be made before your landing at Setting Point. A car and representative will be waiting for you. Motorcycle rentals are just a short walk from the ferry pier. The Anegada Reef Hotel has taxi vans that can drop you and pick you up from Loblolly Bay, which features a spectacular beach and offshore snorkelling reefs.

Freshly caught lobster is served at the seaside Big Bamboo Restaurant. Mouthwatering Anegada lobster is clawless, with most of the meat centred in the tail. The lobster is usually halved and then baked or grilled.

Heading back across the island towards the northwest shore, you’ll find a bridge that spans a section of salt ponds, which form a coastal wetland at the centre of the island. If your timing is right, resident pink flamingos may be visible in one of the inlets.

A must-visit on the northwest side is Cow

DID YOU KNOW? There are no banks or ATM machines on Anegada — yet.

The BVI Ports Authority (BVIPA) now is considering installing an ATM at the ferry dock.

Wreck Beach, named quite literally for a cow-carrying cargo ship that wrecked here. The Cow Wreck Beach Bar serves tasty local dishes and ice-cold beer. Once refreshed, be sure to take a stroll on the beach. It won’t be long before there is no one else in sight. Horseback rides on the beach can be arranged in advance through the Francis Family Farm.

For the sports enthusiast, head a little farther north to Keel Point, home of the Anegada Beach Club, where kitesurfing experts give lessons and safety tips. Anegada is also known as a premier fly-fishing destination. Make reservations at the Anegada Reef Hotel for a full- or half-day charter on a small flatbottom boat with a captain to take you casting for the bonefish that populate these waters.

Getting There: Road Town Fast Ferry offers airconditioned rides from Road Town Harbour and Virgin Gorda on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, two trips a day. Chartered flights can also be arranged from Tortola and Virgin Gorda to the Auguste George Airport (NGD).

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EXPLORING

WRITTEN BY ANGELLE FRETT

Mrs. Vivian Wheatley: A Welcoming Pioneer HAVING GROWN UP ON A FARM in the north of England, Mrs. Vivian Wheatley had no trouble transitioning to the quaint island of Anegada.

In 1970, after completing her degree in hospitality, she was told the only opportunities for women in that industry were as housekeepers and maids.

Mrs. Wheatley admits she’s a bit of a rebellious spirit. Determined to use her knowledge and fulfil her dreams of international travel, she made her great escape to the British Virgin Islands, where she

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had been offered a job managing a hotel on the Territory’s second-largest island.

With bright eyes and animated expressions, Mrs. Wheatley says she fell in love with the quiet island and its 300 residents. She also fell in love with future husband Lowell Wheatley, whom she met just two weeks after arriving in Anegada.

But the hotel closed only three months after Mrs. Wheatley became manager. Two years later, the Wheatleys petitioned the government for the

VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

property and went on to become pioneers in Anegada’s hotel industry.

For Mrs. Wheatley, hospitality meant warmly welcoming families off their boats with a lobster dinner on the beach and lots of laughter, storytelling, and star gazing. It’s that laid-back way of doing business she imparted to her children, who run the Anegada Reef Hotel and Restaurant today.

Mrs. Wheatley says she wouldn’t have it any other way. “I am,” she says, “a person who is content with what I have.”

With bright eyes and animated expressions, Mrs. Wheatley says she fell in love with the quiet island and its 300 residents.

Norman Island: Treasure Island

DID YOU KNOW? Norman Island is scheduled to be developed as an environmentally conscious, residential and tourist destination.

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ff the southern tip of Tortola is Norman Island, shrouded in pirate mystery and flanked by a large bay known as The Bight.

Legend has it that this island was the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic pirate novel, Treasure Island. The privately owned island has no permanent inhabitants, but visitors are welcomed at Pirates Bight Restaurant and The Club. Both offer tasty menus that include fish tacos and tapas.

Norman Island is known for its hiking trails and spectacular views.

The Caves off Treasure Point is a well-known snorkelling site. Explore the reef along with watery caves lined with orange cup coral.

the British Virgin Islands

Tortola Virgin Gorda Jost Van Dyke Anegada

Getting There: There is daily ferry service from Hannah’s Bay, Tortola.

The ferry departs at 10 a.m. and returns at 3 p.m. There’s also a private boat charter from Tortola. Be sure to make a stop at the famous Willy T schooner, a floating restaurant in The Bight, and enjoy a jump from the upper deck into the aqua waters below.

Did you know you can search for activities and attractions on the go? Scan the QR code above to download the VISIT BVI app and get ready for your next adventure!

Deals & Specials COVID-19 Info

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Gordian Terrace

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Leverick Bay Resort &

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Mango Bay Resort

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Oil Nut Bay

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Rosewood Little

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Valley Trunk Bay

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Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina

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The BVI Tourist Board (2)

LAND ACTIVITIES

WRITTEN BY JANE BAKEWELL

ACTIVE TYPES WILL FIND PLENTY OF EXCITING INLAND SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES IN THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS. SURROUNDED BY THE BEAUTIFUL CARIBBEAN, THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS chain abounds with options for watersports enthusiasts.

But active landlubbers need not despair. They’ll find myriad ways to enjoy the natural beauty of these volcanic-formed islands without getting wet.

Hikers will find well-marked trails on all the four main islands, as well as on less-inhabited islands. Coastal roads and hilly challenges attract cycling enthusiasts and motorcyclists, and thrill seekers can zipline over and through the treetops. Horseback riding is a fun family or group activity, along shady trails or on a tranquil beach.

Spectators, meanwhile, may prefer exciting horse races at the Ellis Thomas Downs Race Track on Tortola.

On Two Wheels Cycling is an increasingly popular sport in the BVI, which hosts a cycling federation and annual races.

Rentals can be easily arranged on Tortola and other main islands. There are coastal roads with long flat stretches, as well as challenging near-vertical climbs.

ON LAND

ADVENTURES

Sage Mountain View

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LAND ACTIVITIES

and the Boxing Day races in December. The action takes place at the Ellis Thomas Downs in Sea Cows Bay. The BVI Horse Owners Association’s goal is to help sponsor and promote this sport, with races often generating funds for special events.

Cyclists can experience that top-of-the-world feeling as vistas open up with verdant valleys and stunning views of neighbouring islands.

Following Tortola’s mountainous spine, called the Ridge Road, cyclists can experience that top-of-the-world feeling as vistas open up with verdant valleys and stunning views of neighbouring islands. The long mountain glide to the East End past Belle Vue Road is noted for amazing views.

One of the favourite flat-road routes is the 10-mile trek from Road Town to Soper’s Hole on the coastal road alongside the scenic Sir Francis Drake Channel.

Bikers should know that The Valley in Virgin Gorda is mostly level with a “smoothly undulating landscape.” Anegada has the greatest area of flat land in the BVI, although with some challenging sandy patches. Electric bikes can be found at Tortola Pier Park for shorter explora-

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tions, and motorcycle rentals are available on several islands.

Horsing Around A relatively new adventure open to the public is horseback riding.

Trained guides at various horse farms lead the rides. Anegada, with its long, flat beaches, is ideal for a family or group ride.

The Francis Farm offers sunrise and sunset tours on a beautiful, secluded stretch of beach. A scenic three-mile ride over a white

VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

sand shore takes you from Walk Over Set Bay to Cow Wreck Beach.

Shorter excursions are also available as well as Full Moon tours.

On Tortola, Countryside Adventures at Diamond Estate Farm offers instruction and pony rides for kids, as well as organised trail tours for families and groups.

The other animals on the farm will certainly delight the kids as well.

Horse racing comes alive in the BVI at the Tuesday races during Festival time in August,

Team Sports The BVI has many team sporting events organised by various local leagues and associations.

This includes basketball, football (known as soccer for U.S. visitors), cricket, rugby, and softball. One of the best ways to find out about upcoming events is to tune in to ZROD Sports (103.7 FM radio) Monday through Friday at 5:30 p.m. when Dean “The Sportsman” Greenaway shares updates on sporting events around the islands.

The BVI Tourist Board (2)

Ziplining & More Go for an adrenaline rush on a ziplining adventure at the Original Canopy Tour on Tortola.

Experienced staff members guide you through a brief orientation and safety lesson on your equipment. Once they hook you to one of the seven zip lines, you will be whizzing over and through a canopy of tree lines with spectacular Road Harbour and outer-island views. Photo ops abound on this adventure with the “I can’t believe I just did that” look on your face captured for posterity.

Beach volleyball nets are often set up around the islands’ beaches.

This is a fun competition with a splashy cool-off in the ocean.

Tennis in the BVI is generally limited to courts offered to guests of resorts or public courts associated with local programmes.

However, the BVI Sports Club on Tortola has a clubhouse with a restaurant that boasts a big-screen TV. They often feature international tennis and Rugby World Cup events, as well as other sports.

WRITTEN BY JANE BAKEWELL

Take a Hike DISCOVER NATURE’S LITTLE SECRETS ON AN EXHILARATING AND SCENIC HIKE.

From top: Cleave Michael Farrington, courtesy of Mervin Hastings

H

iking is one of the healthiest, most rewarding ways to explore the hilly islands that make up the British Virgin Islands archipelago.

A sun hat, sunscreen, water, sturdy walking shoes, and bug repellent are all you need to kick off your adventure. In addition, you might bring along hiker Ron Beard’s book, Trails and Tales: The BVI Hiking Guide. Small and compact with informative gems, it is replete with maps and other useful information.

Sage Mountain National Park is well known as the highest point in the BVI, and with 92 acres to explore, you’re bound to find a trail that’s right for you.

What’s more, the trails here are marked and some signs will even provide information about the varieties of plants that grow here. But there’s so much more to discover throughout the BVI. Ready to set out on a hiking trail?

Here are some island favourites.

Beef Island: A fairly easy hike on Tortola’s Beef Island is the Mt. Alma hike. This bush trail starts on the flatland of Beef Island across from the airport and

Norman Island: This island is known for some of the best hiking trails in the BVI. The more challenging Bight to Money Bay trail is a three-mile hike that may take close to two hours. Again, stunning views are your reward. Don’t forget to snap some photos!

winds its way up the forested hillside. You’ll spend about an hour on the trail under shady trees with markers like bright ribbons and stacked rocks left as guides by other hikers. After you reach a small rock pinnacle at 736 feet, the unobstructed, panoramic view is breathtaking.

Virgin Gorda: At 1,370 feet, Gorda Peak is the island’s highest point. Two wellmarked trails lead to the summit off North Sound Road. The lower, longer trail is about 1.5 miles. It’s easier to begin at the higher-up trailhead, from where it’s a 20-minute, half-mile walk to the crest.

You’ll discover a fabulous vista from atop a boulder outcropping where the lookout tower used to stand.

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ECOTOURISM

WRITTEN BY CLIVE PETROVIC

Environmental Adventures with Gumption

A

llington Creque, better known as Gumption, is an energetic, enthusiastic lover of nature.

Growing up in North Sound, Virgin Gorda, Gumption comes from a family of fishermen. So, it is not surprising that he loves the ocean and cares about the environment. When it comes to nature, Gumption is all about the experience.

Sharing the experience with nature is what motivates Gumption to show residents and visitors what the BVI has to offer. As an entrepreneur, Gumption offers environmental experiences on land as well as in the ocean. His infectious enthusiasm for nature shows through in everything he does.

Gumption’s enthusiasm is displayed in his snorkel adventures on the shallow reefs of Virgin Gorda. His company, Sea It Clear Tours, offers glass-bottom boat tours. To ensure a memorable experience, snorkel trips are limited to 12 people. Gumption leads his guests through the reefs, introducing them to colourful fish, corals, and plenty of marine life.

Of course, for the landlubber who does not want to get wet, viewing the reef through underwater glass panels is an option. Sitting in the comfort of the glass-bottom boat, visitors hear Gumption describe the beauty of the underwater world and the importance of protecting our natural treasures.

True to his beliefs in protecting nature and sharing an environmental experience,

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Gumption offers land tours on Sir Richard Branson’s famous Necker Island. His company, Gumption’s Learning Adventures, is well named.

Small groups of 12 or fewer trek through the island to experience protected and restored natural habitats and projects to save endangered animals from other lands.

Visitors see parrots, giant tortoises, and rare lemurs from Madagascar.

Sharing the experience with nature is what motivates Gumption to show residents and visitors what the BVI has to offer.

Courtesy of Gumption’s Learning Adventures (4)

EXPERIENCE GUMPTION’S ENTHUSIASM FOR NATURE ON LAND AND AT SEA.

Allington Creque, known locally as Gumption

A highlight of the experience is a visit to the ponds where birds once found in the islands are making a comeback. Birds such as the white ibis, colourful scarlet ibis, and the iconic flamingo can be seen up close.

The flamingo is the great environmental success story in the BVI. Hunted to extinction by the early 1900s, the flamingo was reintroduced in the 1990s. The Necker flock now numbers over 300, and small groups are seen on islands as far away as Puerto Rico. The sight of dozens of honking flamingos flying overhead is a treat few visitors will forget.

Information on Gumption’s tours can be found on his website at www.seaitcleartours.com or at most hotels in the BVI. Experiencing the natural world on one of Gumption’s tours is a truly unforgettable experience.

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Tagging Turtles in the BVI WRITTEN BY CLIVE PETROVIC

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Despite some research in the past 20 years, there was still little information on where turtles congregate, their age structure, and key foraging habitats. It was not even clear which species were present and where they spent their time.

Dr. Shannon Gore is a marine biologist formerly with the Conservation & Fisheries Department. A California native who grew up in Texas, Gore arrived in the BVI in 2001 and immediately began studying turtles. She has been tagging turtles for two decades and pioneered the concept of citizen science in her environmental work.

Citizen science involves individuals not trained in ecology but keen to help wildlife.

Under the guidance of Gore, residents and visitors can participate in scientific research to help answer the questions about turtle ecology that are essential if we are to ensure their survival.

The process involves a small team of individuals going out in a powerboat to locations where turtles are found. Either Gore or athletic participants jump into the shallow water to capture a turtle. Once

captured, the turtle is brought to a portable floating platform where measurements and basic data are collected. Depending on the species or research needs, blood and tissue samples may also be collected. Then the turtle is given a tag so it can be identified when caught in the future. Watching the turtle swim away unharmed is the best part.

Capturing and tagging turtles is the least invasive way to collect vital biological data.

The point of this research is to identify key foraging areas in the BVI, determine the species and age structure of island

Alton Bertie (2)

S

ea turtles are iconic marine animals in the Caribbean. People love to see them, and they are a special treat, especially when viewed underwater in their natural element. The thrill of snorkelling next to a 200-pound green turtle or hawksbill turtle is an experience to be remembered.

There are seven species of sea turtles in the world. Nearly all are found in the tropics.

Of the four species regularly seen in the Caribbean, the green turtle or hawksbill turtle are most common. They nest on sandy beaches, and when they hatch, the young scurry into the water and out to sea to hide and grow in floating patches of seaweed.

Many years later, the adult females return to lay eggs on the beaches where they hatched; and the cycle begins anew.

Unfortunately, sea turtles have suffered at the hands of man. Adult turtles were caught at sea for food. Eggs were harvested from beaches. Centuries of exploitation took a toll on populations. More recently, coastal developments have damaged nesting beaches, and shoreside lights disoriented hatchlings so they could not find their way out to sea. As a result, most turtles are listed as endangered; and conservation efforts are desperately needed.

Monitoring turtles in the BVI began several decades ago. Initially, it was sporadic and mostly anecdotal, with concerned individuals walking nesting beaches to locate and protect the eggs. As time went on, it became clear that much more data was required to improve management of the threatened animals.

From left: Alton Bertie, Cleave Michael Farrington

WRITTEN BY APRIL TIA GLASGOW

populations, and gather basic life history data that can be used to develop effective management plans.

Individuals interested in joining a turtle-tagging trip and participating in the vital citizen science research can contact Gore through the Association of Reef Keepers (ARK) website at www.bviark.org. Gore is the executive director of ARK and the country coordinator of WIDECAST, a nongovernmental organisation dedicated to the conservation of sea turtles. As a member of the Marine Turtle Specialist Group, Gore has a wealth of knowledge and experience to share with project participants.

Of course, participating in a turtletagging trip is a thrill. Going out on a boat with a scientist, getting in the water, and being up close with endangered marine life is an experience to be treasured and the highlight of a visit to the BVI. But there is something more important to remember: A turtle-tagging trip is science. It involves people who are not trained scientists but care about the environment and are willing to work under the guidance of an expert to help ensure the survival of these iconic animals. It can be challenging work and demand concentration, but the experience will be the high point of a visit to the BVI.

Courting Mother Nature

M

ervin Hastings does what he loves and loves what he’s doing. His story begins in Brewer’s Bay, Tortola, his “backyard,” as he describes it.

As a child, Hastings liked to hike, snorkel, and dive. That’s how he fell in love with nature.

For 32 years, Hastings has worked as a conservationist and marine biologist for the BVI government. He’s led guided tours in Brewer’s Bay for over two decades, so it wasn’t a surprise when he took the next step by establishing Eco Adventures BVI.

Eco Adventures is a hiking and educational tour experience whose tagline is “A Nature and Cultural Escapade.” Hastings takes guests along established and new paths where he not only teaches them about the environment and history but also shares tips on using some of the local plants for medicine and, in some cases, to keep pesky insects at bay.

Hastings founded Eco Adventures during the COVID-19 lockdown. What began as just a few fun hikes and live-stream sessions on Facebook led to many followers who asked him to let them tag along on his next tour. That’s when Hastings decided to turn his passion into a business. Now he offers tours across the islands, including sites like Pineapple Farm and New Bush Ghut, Bat Cave and Anderson Point, Lormer Bay, Hell Hole Loop, Shark Bay, Bamboo Meadows, and the Anderson Point Coastline.

He says he loves educating residents and tourists about the rich history, culture, and ecosystem of these Virgin Islands. “These tours are my life, if one would say.”

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SHOPPING

SHOPPING

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ANDREA MILAM

VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

Maaike Bernstrom Photography

IN PARADISE WRITTEN BY

HIHO

Infinity Jewelry

Courtesy of Infinity Jewelry

DISCOVER STORES AS WELL AS SHORES WHEN YOU VISIT THIS SUN-KISSED ARCHIPELAGO. SHOPPING IS AN INTEGRAL PART OF ANY HOLIDAY. It’s a way for visitors to feel the tempo of their chosen destination and immerse themselves in local sights, sounds, tastes, and aromas. That’s certainly true of the British Virgin Islands. Perusing the shops here connects you with locals, and every dollar you spend helps to keep the local economy healthy. What can you buy in the BVI? More than you might imagine.

Timepieces, Gems & More Select a classic Rolex timepiece at A.H. Riise, one of the oldest businesses in the islands. The company got its start in 1843 when the Danish government, which owned

Duty-free pricing means you can find stunning forever pieces that won’t break the bank.

St. Thomas at the time, gave Albert Heinrich Riise a special concession to produce spirits and to serve as the island’s only pharmacist. In the more than 150 years since then, A.H. Riise has expanded to offer apparel and fragrances; and it’s the only official Rolex retailer in the BVI. You’ll find the store at Tortola Pier Park in Road Town.

Infinity Jewelry, a decades-old family business established in Puerto Rico and New York, is a newcomer to the Tortola shopping scene. In the year it’s been in business at Tortola Pier Park, the Infinity diamond ring has proven to be a popular choice. Duty-free pricing means you can find stunning forever pieces that won’t break the bank.

Infinity carries a wide array of brands. In-house jewellery purchases come with a limited warranty and lifetime upgrade policy. Work one-on-one with Infinity Jewelry to personalise a piece by having it engraved or adding stones or find a wedding ring setting to commemorate your union.

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SHOPPING

Perusing the shops here connects you with locals, and every dollar you spend helps to keep the local economy healthy.

Every item at House of Luxury is carefully chosen by husband and wife Sanjay and Veera Surtani, and the friendly service here is as top-notch as the store’s selections.

During their three decades in the jewellery industry, Sanjay and Veera have learnt a thing or two about keeping up with trends; so you know the high-end handbags and jewellery at House of Luxury are amongst the latest fashions. From bracelets to sunglasses to watches and more, House of Luxury’s offerings range from budgetfriendly to splurge-worthy.

Caribbean-Inspired Collections Style yourself in cool Caribbean colours and breezy, lightweight fabrics with HIHO’s collection of casual, comfortable shirts and

House of Luxury

CONTINUED ON PAGE 86

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CAPTURING YOUR HEART SINCE 1975

Made in the USA

I www.kabana.com

Cyril B Romney Tortola Pier Park

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British Virgin Islands

SHOPPING

ISLAND-INSPIRED STYLE

HIHO CONTINUED FROM PAGE 84

sun-protection wear. For years, HIHO has been a mainstay of resort wear for men and women in the BVI. You’ll find shirts suitable for beach gatherings as well as cocktail hour. A line of ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) clothing has the added bonus of protecting your skin from the sizzling Caribbean sun. There’s even soft, flowy dresses and jumpsuits for day and evening wear along with linen shirts for men.

In addition to apparel, the HIHO brand features beach bags, totes, and handbags, as well as scarves, that are both beautiful and practical. Think plumerias, sea life prints, chambray, and blue deck stripe prints. Find HIHO apparel at two locations on Tortola: HIHO at The Moorings Marina, and House, a home and kitchen accessories shop at Wickham’s Cay with a HIHO boutique.

100% CARIBBEAN CLOTHING DESIGNED IN TORTOLA www.go-hiho.com | +1.284.494.0337

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Maaike Bernstrom Photography

Take a piece of the Caribbean home with you.

Born in the islands, the HIHO brand originated with the 1979 eponymously named windsurfing race. The brand’s owners won the event in 1982, then bought the race a few years later.

From the humble origins of a regatta T-shirt grew the HIHO brand of islandinspired clothing and accessories.

Best known for great linen dresses, tops, and bottoms — plus easy-towear cotton dresses — the brand also incorporated sweaters, accessories, and the best UPF apparel into their collections. HIHO offers men’s and women’s designs, and some kids’ styles. Find HIHO in better stores in the BVI and in over 150 speciality retail stores and resorts on the East coast and the Caribbean, or shop online at www.go-hiho.com.

WRITTEN BY ANDREA MILAM

Shop, Dine, and Play TORTOLA PIER PARK offers much more than shopping — it’s an entertainment experience!

Along Road Town’s picturesque waterfront, you’ll find more than 70 businesses at the Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park; but this collection of shops, restaurants, and services is much more than a port shopping mall.

Framed by the shimmering sea, the park blends Old World style with modern amenities and festive entertainment.

With a focus on homemade organic products free of pesticides and dyes, Locally Yours BVI gives you the opportunity to nourish your body whilst supporting a local business. After a day at the beach, a Locally Yours popsicle with sweet tropical flavours like guava, soursop, or pineapple is sure to hit the spot. Fruits, spices, and aromas of the

Tortola Pier Park

BVI are captured in delectable tarts, jams, juices, and more.

Come for the shopping and dining and stay for the fun-filled events. Enjoy a family-friendly movie night under the stars, play a friendly game of Family Feud, or learn a new skill at a pizza-making workshop. Bouncy houses and face painting delight the kids, and grown-ups enjoy happy hour specials and music by local DJs. Tortola Pier Park is the island’s entertainment hub for all ages. Shop, dine, and play as you make lasting memories of your magical time in the British Virgin Islands.

Come for the shopping and dining and stay for the funfilled events.

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SHOPPING

WRITTEN BY ANDREA MILAM

A

rtists and artisans in the British Virgin Islands keep traditions alive, from distilling rum to capturing whimsical beach scenes on canvas. Buying local, moreover, allows you to bring home a unique reminder of your BVI holiday whilst supporting those who live and work in the community.

Shopping at Nutmeg & Co. is a feel-good experience. The Road Town shop’s repurposed sailcloth totes are sturdy, and they tell a story. Bring the aromas and flavours of the islands into your kitchen with Nutmeg & Co.’s spice blends or pamper yourself with soaps and body lotions made here in the BVI. You’ll also find original artwork and prints by local BVI artists.

Also in Road Town, Craft Alive is a collective of vendors and artisans with islandthemed wares on display in breezy, brightly coloured huts. This is the place to stock up on souvenirs like shot glasses, T-shirts, dolls, magnets, and more. Many vendors here only accept cash, so be sure to have plenty on hand.

Just across from Craft Alive is Bamboushay Pottery, where you’ll find souvenirs reminiscent of the islands. The tiny lizards that skitter about are depicted on coffee mugs, plates shaped like sea grape leaves serve up fond memories of the shore,

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Craft Alive is a collective of vendors and artisans with island-themed wares on display in breezy, brightly coloured huts.

Craft Alive

Repurposed sailcloth totes from Nutmeg & Co. ©Matt Clarke “Cane Garden Bay” from Nutmeg & Co.

Clockwise from top: The BVI Tourist Board, Matt Clark photos courtesy of Nutmeg & Co (2)

Made in the BVI

and handmade sconces with palm tree cutouts bathe your home in a cheery island glow.

At Tortola’s charming Cane Garden Bay, immerse yourself in history whilst sampling the spirit that’s synonymous with the Caribbean — rum. At the Callwood Rum Distillery, a sugarcane plantation and distillery that’s been around for more than 400 years, you can learn more about the rummaking process as you select from amongst spirits to sample and bring home with you.

Arundel Cane Rum, named for the English family that built the distillery in the 17th century, comes in four varieties. Bring home a bottle of each to keep the cool Caribbean vibe going long after your holiday has come to an end.

If you love getting lost in a bookshop, head to Nook in the heart of Road Town.

International best-sellers and classics in all genres are paired with locally made gift items like zippered pouches, island-themed bookmarks, and handcrafted soy candles from Bella’s Sparks Co. soy candles. BVI signs and maps as well as books about the region appeal to collectors and other readers.

PROVISION BAR & GRILL SHOWERS AND MORE!

The shopping village is home to stores selling gifts and souvenirs, footwear, sportswear, men’s and women’s fashion, swimwear, electronics and technology, health and beauty supplies, sunglasses, and optical eyewear, with an international food and beverages flair for the discerning palate.

SHOPPING GUIDE BEACH HOUSE Little Dix Bay, Virgin Gorda Tel: 494-0337 The Beach House boutique at Rosewood Little Dix Resort offers casual and elegant resort wear, plus gifts and home décor. The store’s curated collection features the well-known HIHO brand plus Pranella, Skeemo, Melissa Odabash, Havaianas, Lola, and more.

Besides clothing you can find great gifts, decorative accessories, sunglasses, sun care, and Virgin Gorda–branded apparel. The Beach House boutique is open daily.

CYRIL B. ROMNEY TORTOLA PIER PARK Wickham’s Cay 1, Road Town, Tortola Tel: 494-TPPL (8775) www.tortolapier.com Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park houses over 60 businesses replete with shopping, restaurants, various services centres (medical, banking rentals and telecommunication), offices, and outdoor entertainment/ event areas. The shopping centre features internationally branded jewellery stores located in between designer boutiques and independent retailers.

DIAMONDS INTERNATIONAL Merchant Walk, Tortola Pier Park Tel: 541-5807 They say that diamonds are a girl’s best friend. Enjoy duty-free shopping at Diamonds International at Tortola Pier Park, where you’ll find a breathtaking selection of fine jewellery and watches. Diamonds International is the exclusive agent for Cartier and Bvlgari.

HIHO Road Town, Tortola Tel: 494-0337 www.go-hiho.com Island-inspired apparel design in Tortola. The HIHO brand makes easy-wearing women’s and men’s collections. Perfect for island life, HIHO is best known for great linen, woven dresses, men’s shirts and swimwear, and perfect-weight sweaters. The brand is inspired by the colours of the Caribbean, and these are evident in the brand’s colours and prints. Buy something from the HIHO collection and take a piece of the islands home with you.

HOUSE OF LUXURY Tortola Pier Park Road Town, Tortola Tel: 443-3030 Being the third generation of this family-run lifestyle boutique, Sanjay and his wife, Veera, invite you to the House of Luxury for a shopping experience like no other! To them the equation is simple — when you look good you feel good, and that’s exactly

what they promise you! With brands such as Chopard, Tudor, Longines, Montblanc, Tissot, Hearts on Fire, and Pandora (just to name a few!), you are guaranteed to find something that you love. After all, everyone deserves life’s little luxuries!

INFINITY JEWELRY Road Town, Tortola Tel: 494-8419 www.infinityjewelry.net This is a family-owned business with six stores located in Alaska, Bahamas, Puerto Rico, and Tortola. Infinity Jewelry offers a wide range of exclusive fine jewellery specialising in their stunning private collection of diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, rubies, precious gemstones, and gold. Find a variety of unique luxurious jewellery brands from Hulchi Belluni, Mark Henry, Kabana, Alor, and more. Infinity Jewelry offers a relaxing atmosphere whilst you shop and wants to help create memories for a lifetime.

ROLEX BOUTIQUE AT A.H. RIISE Tortola Pier Park, Road Town Tel: (340) 777-6789 www.rolex.ahriise.com A.H. Riise is proud to be part of the worldwide network of Official Rolex Jewelers allowed to sell and maintain Rolex watches. A.H. Riise is at your service to help you choose the Rolex watch that best suits you, within the wide range of Rolex timepieces.

Their stores in the Virgin Islands are recognised as Official Rolex Jewelers, as they only sell guaranteed Rolex timepieces. As a Rolex Authorised Service Centre, A.H. Riise is committed to offering you first-class after-sales service. From adjusting the length of a bracelet to restoring a historical watch, every type of servicing operation for a Rolex watch can be entrusted to A.H. Riise.

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MEMORABLE TAKE YOUR TASTE BUDS ON A GLOBAL EXPLORATION AS YOU SAVOUR THE MYRIAD DINING CHOICES THAT ABOUND IN THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS.

Chez Bamboo

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VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

Photo on right: Marta Garraus, courtesy of Dove Restaurant

DELICIOUS DIVERSITY IS THE PERFECT WAY TO DESCRIBE THE DINING SCENE throughout the islands. You’ll find European favourites, from Italian pasta and pizza to French escargot, Spanish tapas, and U.K.-style fish and chips. East Indian roti, Asian-style sushi, and Latin tacos are here, too. Local cuisine rules as well, with spiny lobster, Anegada conch, and pot fish caught fresh daily. The Territory’s menu of choices takes your taste buds on a trip around the world every day.

Exploring the destination is another way to enjoy the BVI’s soup-to-nuts offerings. There are mountaintop restaurants with panoramic views and eateries tucked into scenic bays. Historic buildings house elegant restaurants, or you may opt for a tropical fruit smoothie or johnnycake at a roadside food truck. In addition, there are children’s favourites, vegetarian offerings, chefs’ tasting menus, and more. Getting hungry? Let’s eat!

MEALS

WRITTEN BY CAROL M. BAREUTHER, RD

Dove

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THE DOVE AND DRAGONFLY LOUNGE: ANGLO-ASIAN FUSION

Marta Garraus, courtesy of Dove Restaurant

Imagine yourself sitting in a historic West Indian Cottage or on one of many decking areas enjoying a cool ocean breeze.

You’re sipping a glass of fantastic wine or trying a new craft cocktail like the Chili Paloma, all whilst feasting on contemporary cuisine created with internationally sourced ingredients and local produce. This is what you’ll find at the Dove Restaurant, nestled in Main Street, Tortola.

The Dove restaurant offers an exquisite gastro, a la carte dining experience where you can partake in a full meal with a seasonal menu or delight in small plates to accompany an array of cocktails made with homegrown herbs and syrups. If wine is your preference, choose from one of the carefully selected varietals from an extensive wine list and experience a tranquil night

on the patio or inside the airconditioned dining room.

For smaller bites and fantastic beverages, head upstairs and visit the Dragonfly Lounge, featuring inventive cocktails and snacks.

This is a great place to “lime,” or meet up with friend, take a break from sightseeing, or simply wait for your ferry to Virgin Gorda or the U.S. Virgin Islands.

At the Dragonfly Lounge, treat yourself to happy hour — make sure to ask about the cocktail of the week — and the artful bar snacks, such as the sriracha battered fish bites or the house favourite, fried cauliflower tossed in peanut sauce.

Make your visit special by spending an evening at the Dove Restaurant or Dragonfly Lounge, where the staff is dedicated to ensuring you leave with good memories and a satisfied palate.

Dove

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RESERVATIONS: +1 (284) 494 0313

TORTOLA, BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

67 MAIN STREET, ROAD TOWN

THIS LARGEST OF THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS boasts the most restaurants, from Soper’s Hole in the west to Beef Island in the east. There are restaurants serving West Indian fare and international specialities, as well as the all-American hamburger and British-style fish and chips.

WWW.DOVE-RESTAURANT.COM

DINING IN TORTOLA

RESERVATIONS: +1 (284) 494 0313

There are restaurants serving West Indian fare and international specialities, as well as the all-American hamburger and British-style fish and chips.

OPEN FROM TUESDAY - SATURDAY

Omar’s Nanny Cay

If the saying is true that we “eat with our eyes,” then the feast at the Bananakeet Café, perched atop Windy Hill, starts with the view. Try the fork-tender rack of lamb seasoned with a house blend of herbs and spices. Down at sea level, come for lunch and stay for dinner at one of the many beach bars and restaurants that line Cane Garden Bay. Quito’s Gazebo serves cracked conch as a starter, followed by wraps and pizza mainstays. Live music on the weekend stars reggae artist Quito Rhymer. Paradise Club offers everything from daily burgers to special pig roasts. Next door at the ELMS, barbecue and a Bushwhacker make for a perfect combination. At Myett’s, Happy Hours, Sunday Fundays, and Full Moon parties are a perfect mix of food and drink with a beach vibe.

Photo on right: Marta Garraus, courtesy of Dove Restaurant

Dove

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Tempt your taste buds with Caribbean and international cuisine and party after dark with iconic cocktails, hand-rolled cigars, and lively tunes.

Paradise Club

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Road Town, the capital, serves up eclectic cocktails, creative cuisine, and more. Start at Aromas Cigar & Martini Bar at Tortola Pier Park. Handcrafted cocktails rule, including the signature Tortola Smash, a mix of three rums and tropical fruit juices. There’s the largest selection of cigars in the BVI here, from rare Cubans to in-house hand-rolled stogies. DJs bring a party vibe, and Tuesday is Taco Night.

Cocktail connoisseurs also will want to stop on Main Street at the Dove Restaurant in an elegantly restored West Indian cottage.

DINING & NIGHTLIFE

A UNIQUE BVI NIGHTSPOT Aromas Cigar & Martini Bar was

DINNER SERVED FROM 5 PM DAILY, 7 DAYS A WEEK Weekend lunches Saturday - Sunday starting at noon

FOR RESERVATIONS CALL: 284-545-6510

Tortola's Delicious Seaside Dining Experience Rt 1, Shore Road, Carrot Bay, West End, Tortola, British Virgin Islands, VG1130 e: dcoalpotbvi@gmail.com | dcoalpotbvi.com

The second-floor bar serves handcrafted cocktails like the Santa Muerte, tequila mixed with pineapple, lime, and passion fruit juices. Downstairs, try braised lamb shank, and Pimm’s cheesecake for dessert.

At the Village Cay Marina, The Village Cay Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Eggs any style, burgers and pizza, rib-eye steaks, baby back ribs, and Cajun fried shrimp appeal to a broad range of tastes. Daily specials may include local favourites

Steve Simonsen

Kingston, Tortola BVI (across from Cedar Int. School)

borne out of a chance trip to a Florida cigar bar during a family vacation. “I happened on a very upscale, nice bar in a tourist area and upon entering, I realised it was a cigar bar and that’s when the idea hit me,” says Sean Palmer. “I knew it would be a great concept in the BVI, as there was none of its kind at that time.”

The announcement of Tortola Pier Park’s development was just the inspiration Palmer needed. He knew it would be the perfect location for the BVI’s first cigar bar, so he set to work researching the ins and outs of running such a business, an effort that led him to Aromas Cigar Bar in Jacksonville, Florida.

“They didn’t hesitate to assist me when I explained what I was planning to do in the BVI,” says Palmer. “The necessary arrangements were put in place for me to use the name and logo,

and in February 2016, Aromas Cigar & Martini Bar BVI was born.”

The only cigar bar in Tortola featuring a cigar smoking lounge, hookah with a wide range of flavours, the largest selection of liquor on island, and an extensive cocktail menu with martinis, mojitos, and other signature frozen cocktails, Aromas’ high level of service and speciality offerings make it stand out from the rest. They now offer in-house hand-rolled cigars and are available for cigar-rolling events.

“We aim to offer our clientele a unique experience in the BVI and ensure that great customer service is always at the forefront of anything that we do,” says Palmer.

“I’m very proud that six years later, Aromas still remains one of the prime locations in the BVI for visitors and locals alike to unwind, relax, and have a great time,” says Palmer. “Our staff is awesome, and I really appreciate their hard work in making Aromas what it is today in the BVI. It would not be possible without them.”

OPEN DAILY

BREAKFAST 8am-11:30am Weekends only LUNCH & DINNER 11am-10pm daily BEACH BAR 11am-11pm

Al fresco dining on the beach, and our famous Beach Bar, at the entrance to the inner marina. Serving lunch and dinner 7 days a week, breakfast on the weekend.

For menus, specials and events please visit Facebook.com/NannyCayRestaurantsAndBars

(284) 394-2518 96

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www.nannycay.com

VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

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Trellis Bay, Tortola www.jeremyskitchen.com 284-345-5177

It’s the ability to take your taste buds on a tour of the world all within this British territory that makes the cuisine scene in the BVI so special.

Jeremy’s Kitchen

like curry goat, stewed peas with pigtail, and Dove pork. On Waterfront Drive near the ferry pier, keep your appetite for BVI fare going with a trip to Naturally Tasty by RotiMan. Grab and go with roti, an East Indian–style flatbread stuffed with seasoned chicken, veggies, or seafood. Also on the menu are fruit- and vegetable-infused breads, vegan takes on shepherd’s pie, desserts like tamarind balls, and local juices including sorrel and passion fruit. Two miles west of town, moreover, Peg Legs

at Nanny Cay Marina offers breakfast sandwiches to go, along with salads, sandwiches, and pizza.

Head to the West End Marina in Soper’s Hole for a java jolt at Omar’s Coffee House. You’ll find iced latte and cappuccino, as well as smoothies, freshly squeezed fruit juices, and an all-day brunch menu. Omar’s Fusion offers Caribbean-Indian fare for lunch and dinner. Think stewed oxtail and chicken tikka masala. Local cuisine is at its best at D’Coal Pot and Sebastian’s Seaside Grille on the northwest shore at Carrot and Little Apple Bays, respectively.

Omar’s Nanny Cay

2 LOCATIONS

OMAR’S CAFE & OMAR’S DOCKSIDE FUSION WEST END AT NANNY CAY Village Cay Marina in Tortola provides sailors a picturesque shoreside getaway.

Road Town, Tortola Phone: (284) 494-2771 Email: info@villagecaybvi.com Web: villagecaybvi.com

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Conveniently berth your vessel at Village Cay BVI and enjoy staying close to your boat. Best Price Guaranteed!

Contact us today to book a room.

+ 1 (284) 345 4771

+1 (284) 440 7172

Soper’s Hole Marina West End, Tortola

Waterfront Drive Sea Cow Bay, Tortola

WWW.OMARFUSION.COM | WWW.OMARSBVI.COM WWW.OMARSCAFEBVI.COM @omarsnannycaybvi

Omar’s Dockside at Nanny Cay

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Paradise Club

Grilled mahi, tuna, and catch of the day are always winners at D’Coal Pot; and at Sebastian’s, try the Anegada conch stew.

At gorgeous Long Bay Beach, Tropical Fusion offers grilled lobster daily and a Friday Night Buffet. A scenic drive east brings you to Jeremy’s Kitchen in Trellis Bay on Beef Island. The star of the casual all-day menu is Jeremy’s Awesome Sandwich — seven-grain bread stuffed with veggies, cheese, peppers, and a mango-flavoured hot Trinidadian-style relish called kuchela, with your choice of veggies, chicken, ham, mahi, or lobster.

Steve Simonsen

Take a selfie next to the “I love BVI” sign at Paradise Club to share with friends back home.

Sebastian’s on the Beach Hotel and Restaurant Little Apple Bay, Tortola, BVI

Tel: 284-495-4212 or 1284-495-4206 | www.sebastiansbvi.com | info@sebastiansbvi.com

Beach chic dining in an ocean front setting with unparalleled views of Cane Garden Cane Garden Bay,

(284) 495-4837

British Virgin Islands

quitosltd.com

@QuitosGazebo

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Long Bay, Tortola (284) 346-3551, (284) 495-3435 www.tropicalfusionbvi.com tropicalfusionbvi@gmail.com

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places to eat in Tortola 101

DINING & NIGHTLIFE

Serving Smiles

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MEET HEZIKIAH MADDOX OF MANJACK CREAMERY. WRITTEN BY APRIL TIA GLASGOW

AT MANJACK CREAMERY on Tortola, founder Hezekiah Maddox offers more than delicious ice cream. “We serve smiles,” he says. “It’s a ‘feel good’ business. Ice cream makes people feel good. It’s not hard to be in a good mood selling ice cream.

When you serve people ice cream, they smile.”

Making people happy, he says, is what ManJack is all about. The business’s name, in fact, derives from the colloquial expression, “Every man, Jack,” meaning everyone.

The idea for the business originated with his late brother, Glen “Shariff” Maddox, who began selling shaved ice and ice cream from a truck in 2012. Shariff teamed up with his brother to create a homemade ice cream brand, but sadly he passed away before they were able to bring the idea to fruition. Hezekiah, nevertheless, was determined to follow the brothers’ dream.

He attended classes and workshops in Florida and Colorado to perfect his ice cream–making skills and learn all he could about the ice cream business.

Thus was born ManJack Creamery, which opened

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www.naturallytastybvi.com

Hezekiah Maddox

at White Bay on Jost Van Dyke in 2015. That location closed, but in 2019, ManJack found its home in Tortola at the Cutlass Building on Waterfront Drive.

Through trial and error, Hezekiah and his team perfected 36 flavours that fill the cases at Cutlass Tower and the shelves of local supermarkets. One of ManJack’s most popular flavours is Crazy Rum

VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

Making people happy, he says, is what ManJack is all about.

Raisin, which uses raisins soaked in rum for five days. For children, Hezekiah suggests his mango ice cream, made from Cane Garden Bay grafted mangoes.

What’s next for ManJack Creamery?

With the upcoming reopening of the Jost Van Dyke location on White Bay, Hezekiah plans to launch “Ancient Fruit,” a magic mushroom ice cream that will only be available at this location.

“In a short space of time, Jost Van Dyke will also be known for ManJack. It’s going to be a love affair. It’s going to be an epic time,” he says, adding that he has found happiness and contentment through hard work and dedication.

www.Myetts.com e: thebeatgoeson@myetts.com

284.495.9649

Nestled in lush tropical gardens with open air dining, spectacular sunsets overlooking the bay, delicious food sunset Happy Hour specials and live entertainment several nights a week

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A Taste of the BVI

their eyes to heaven, made the sign of the cross, and blessed the spot. They thought their secret had to be guarded. However, some months later, whilst walking through one of the compounds, the planters smelt the same aroma. The villagers were preparing for the Christmas festivities. “Want some Guavaberry, Sah?” one of them asked the taken-aback planters.

Guavaberry liqueur is the traditional Christmas drink of the Virgin Islands. Villagers pick the berries (red or yellow) in September. The fruit is cleaned and put in a demijohn or gallon bottle of the strongest, oldest rum available. A mixture of sugar, spices, and a few berries are boiled into a syrup. When cooled, it is added to the rum and fruit, according to taste, then corked and stored in a cool, dark cupboard until Christmastime, when it is served to family and visitors. It’s also excellent on plum pudding, fruitcake, and ice cream. Take some home.

Rotis: This flatbread of Asian origin is eaten in the Caribbean wrapped around savoury fillings like curried potatoes, meat, poultry, and vegetables. Rotis are on the menu at most restaurants, but you will lick your fingers when you taste the ones at Red Rock at Penn’s Landing Marina on the East End of Tortola.

You’ll also find rotis at street stalls and on food carts and trolleys.

DISCOVER THE FOODS THAT ISLANDERS SAVOUR. PENN MOLL

TO REALLY APPRECIATE the culture and character of British Virgin Islanders, eat like a local. From the cassava bread of the ancient Taíno Indians to the rotis of East Indian migrants, island cuisine is a melting pot of flavours. Be sure to treat your taste buds to some of these BVI favourites.

Pates: Similar to empanadas, these crispy golden pastries are filled with a variety of savoury fillings: beef, chicken, conch, salt fish, or vegetables. They’re perfect for a lunch on the run or an any-time pickme-up. Try a pate for yourself at Crandall’s and Josh’s Bakery on Tortola.

Fish and Fungi: The BVI’s national dish is a must for any visitor. The dish

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Roti from Hendo's Hideout

Making cassava bread

features any sort of fish, boiled or steamed, and served in a mayonnaise or butter sauce alongside fungi, cornmeal that has been stirred in boiling salted water. Anegada fishermen supply restaurants and locals with fresh fish and succulent lobsters.

Johnnycake: This tasty treat was originally known as “Journey Cake” because it could be made quickly and carried easily on long journeys. The recipe is simple: flour, salt, shortening, and water, fried or baked.

Whether African ancestors met the Journey Cake here or brought it with them, it was a staple in the 17th and 18th centuries and has remained a popular snack or accompaniment to fried or salted fish.

VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

Cassava Bread: The Taínos left us with this gluten-free crisp bread made from grated cassava root that has been washed free of starch and dried, then salted and baked on a griddle.

The bread is served at breakfast with avocado or warmed up in the toaster and eaten with soup. Want to learn more?

The ancient art of making the bread is kept alive by Colmie Thomas and Olive Vanterpool of Jenesis Studio/Museum, who regularly demonstrate the process.

PERFECT PRODUCE

Mauby: Quench your thirst with a refreshing glass of cold, frothy mauby. The drink is made by boiling pieces of bark from the native mauby tree with cinnamon sticks, cloves, aniseed, and sometimes bay leaves, along with ginger and orange peel. After the mixture cools, it’s sweetened, strained, and bottled.

THE LATE BERTRAND “WASHASHA X” LETTSOME, a local conservationist and organic farmer, once said: “There’s something almost spiritual about eating what you grow.” Many in the BVI agree. Local farmers are changing the way residents think about what they eat.

Many, in fact, believe that farm-to-table eating is a way to heal the planet.

Visit the Saturday Farmers Market in Road Town and surprise and delight your senses with the vast selection of fruits, roots, vegetables, and

Bush Tea: If you’re feeling out of sorts, you may benefit from a cup of bush tea, a ubiquitous herbal brew long cherished as an island medicine. The tea is made by brewing a combination of local leaves, including eucalyptus, lemongrass, soursop, rock balsam, and lime. The tea is readily available, already brewed, at local snack places and some restaurants.

Guavaberry Liqueur: According to an 18th-century legend, two planters were attracted by a pungent aroma. Some berries steeped in their pulp had collected in the crevice of a rock.

When they tasted the liquid, they fell on their knees, turned

Cleave Michael Farrington

WRITTEN BY VERNA

flowers offered year-round.

Traditional agriculture is the norm in the BVI, but organically grown farms are gaining ground. The main ones on Tortola are Good Moon Farm, Turnbull Estate, Full Belly Farm, and Tidal Roots Farm.

They supply organically grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs to hotels, villas, restaurants, supermarkets, and high-end boats and yachts. Agri-Paradise on Virgin Gorda supplies a fivevariety mixture of leaf lettuce.

Other endeavours, like Movine, Arona’s Market Place, and Clint Organic Foods, offer their produce at booths around town and in the villages.

Poultry farms are growing, too. Steakation, a first-rate butchery at Arosa House in the heart of Road Town, brings fresh, delectable meats and seafood to the table.

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You’ll find everything from beachfront to mountaintop dining, romantic settings for two to family-friendly eateries with children’s menus.

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DINING IN VIRGIN GORDA THE RESTAURANT SCENE in this third-largest island is concentrated in Spanish Town. Along Lee Road through this quaint village are several choices for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There’s a whole other dining scene reachable only by boat, including restaurants in North Sound and Oil Nut Bay.

WORLD-CLASS MARINA VILLAGE IN THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS The third-largest island in the British Virgin Islands (BVI), Virgin Gorda lures

Courtesy of Oil Nut Bay (2)

Nova

The aroma of fresh coffee at the Bath & Turtle in Spanish Town draws you into a tropical garden setting where flora and fountains keep the scene serene. Enjoy a hot brew with a breakfast burrito. At sister eatery Chez Bamboo, tuck into sushi, sesame-crusted seared tuna, or a chicken Caesar wrap served on linen-covered tables surrounded by brightly coloured murals and neon-lit palms.

Satisfy a craving for something local at the open-air, oceanfront Reef Restaurant at Fischer’s Cove. At breakfast, order a pot fish–topped omelette, fried johnnycakes, and just-picked lemongrass tea for a true West Indian breakfast. There are conch fritters and curried goat at lunch, with more continental selections at night like baby back ribs, baked chicken, and curried shrimp. An appetite for local fare is also well served at Island Pot, and Mermaids and Pirates. Lunch specials at the former might be bull foot soup or pot fish your way. Dishes at the latter include jerk pork and conch in butter sauce, with sides like pumpkin rice and coconut dumplings. CocoMaya serves up

visitors year after year to discover the island’s stunning beaches, quiet coves, and unparalleled beauty, and is quickly becoming the new St. Barts with its pristine waters, annual regattas, and reliable trade winds.

Tucked away on the tranquil eastern peninsula of this stunning island is the 400acre, multigenerational resort and residential community of Oil Nut Bay, which boasts a marina and Marina Village in addition to its superior luxury resort accommodations and amenities.

Oil Nut Bay’s stateof-the-art marina has been designed to make yachting and boating a

convenient part of everyday life and is part of the larger vision of Oil Nut Bay’s developer David V. Johnson. Providing excellent access to the Caribbean Sea, Atlantic Ocean, islands, and anchorages of the Virgin Islands, as well as the Leeward and Windward isles, the marina encourages exploration of the many wonders in the BVI, granting guests the freedom to head out by boat or helicopter with ease.

With an eventual 93 berths available and perfectly situated in the natural harbour of Deep Bay, the marina at Oil Nut Bay offers secure alongside mooring that can accommodate yachts up to 100 feet and a draft of up to 8 feet. An

experienced Marine Services team delivers yacht management services customised and tailored to individual needs, along with a dedicated Marine Services team providing concierge services and reliable utilities that exceed industry standards.

Amenities include highcapacity shore power, Wi-Fi, double reverse osmosis potable water, tender and fuel docks, showers, and provisioning services.

The Marina Village includes Oil Nut Bay’s signature over-the-water restaurant, Nova, as well as a café, provisions market, boutique clothing stores, and a watersports centre for bespoke lessons and rentals. Open seven days a week, arrange your visit to Oil Nut Bay Marina Village and experience firsthand its spectacular amenities and marine services.

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BATH & TURTLE: A LOCAL FAVOURITE Nestled in a tropical garden area,

CocoMaya

Asian-Latin fusion fare like Tuna Tostadas — fresh tuna ceviche, flavoured with jalapenos, ginger, and mango, and served on crispy gyoza skin. You’ll also enjoy private beach dinners and weekly events like Friday Fire Night.

The Beach Club Restaurant at Oil Nut Bay is open for lunch. It’s reachable by water taxi from the resort’s marina or Gun Creek. Try lobster poppers or pulled pork panini, plus artisan pizza and hand-rolled sushi. Also on the property are Nova, The Pavilion, and the Coffee Shop.

Bath & Turtle restaurant is an oasis in Spanish Town, Virgin Gorda. You will want to spend hours in this little piece of paradise with a captivating décor that features Caribbean flora such as bougainvillea vines and palm trees peeping through a bamboo wall.

Bath & Turtle was purchased in 1988 from Tony and Mary Velleck by Rose and the late Michael Giacinto.

Rose continues the business and is now running the operation of Bath & Turtle/Chez Bamboo at one location.

The homemade baked goods, local produce and seafood, gourmet coffee, and fresh cocktails are what keep customers coming back. The lunch menu features individual dishes or family-style meals. Some highlights of the menu include a whole roasted chicken, a mahi-mahi burger, sushi platters, or an entire

beef and spinach lasagne.

You’ll find fresh pizza dough every day for your selection of pizza toppings. However, if you’re looking for something lighter, Bath & Turtle/ Chez Bamboo offers West Indian soups and fresh salads topped with a choice of fish or chicken.

You’ll also find sumptuous cocktails. Happy hour is from 4 to 6 p.m. every day with cocktail specials, $8 appetisers, and three beers for $10. The cocktails are made from local ingredients such as mango, mint, banana, key lime, and passion fruit.

The inviting atmosphere, mouthwatering menu, fresh cocktails, divine desserts, and dedication to the community are only a few of the reasons why Bath & Turtle/ Chez Bamboo is an institution on Virgin Gorda.

The Valley, Spanish Town, British Virgin Islands T: +1 284-540-0412 E: Islandpotrestaurantbvi@gmail.com

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Meet Mac Beauchamp MAC BEAUCHAMP KNOWS A THING OR TWO ABOUT FUSION FARE. THE ASIAN-LATIN DISHES HE SERVES UP AT COCOMAYA ON VIRGIN GORDA ARE TRUE CROWD PLEASERS.

CocoMaya

“BOTH ASIAN and Latin cuisines mix perfectly, from the spicy, citrusy, light crispy Latin flavours to the umami tastes of Asian cuisine,” Beauchamp says. “I’ve been able to travel to Mexico, New Zealand, and Thailand in

the past year and am excited to bring even more of these bold colourful flavours back to our menu and also to a few of our new interactive dining experiences.”

Born in New Zealand, Beauchamp lived for a year in Thailand when he was 11. That experience, he says, cemented his love affair with food and culture. Beauchamp fondly remembers getting up early to watch his grandmother cook breakfast over an open fire, helping her gather the herbs and vegetables for a traditional Thai lunch, and sitting cross-legged on a mat whilst forking into authentic dishes.

“I enrolled in culinary school at age 18,” says Beauchamp. “After that, I ran restaurant kitchens in New Zealand and Australia, serving everything from fine dining to modern-day gastro fare.

But I always wanted to get back to my Thai roots and incorporate this with modern western cuisine.”

That chance came when Beauchamp accepted a chef’s position at the Dove Restaurant in Road Town. Soon after, the Dove’s owner asked Beauchamp to run his other eatery, CocoMaya.

Menu selections like Peking duck, tuna tostadas, and gaucho steak, to name a few, show it’s a match made in culinary heaven.

LOCATED ON THE BEACH OF VIRGIN GORDA, A SHORT RIDE FROM THE FERRY DOCK

OPEN EVENINGS 7 DAYS LOCATED IN FORT POINT, SPANISH TOWN, VIRGIN GORDA

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WWW.COCOMAYARESTAURANT.COM | 284-495-6344

DINING & NIGHTLIFE

The BVI Tourist Board

LEGENDARY BEACH BARS BEACH BARS ARE BETTER IN THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS. The atmosphere at these iconic establishments, often sandy-floored and open to the ocean breeze, is casual, to say the least. “No shoes, no shirt, no problem,” as country singer and island lover Kenny Chesney puts it.

You’ll find many beach bars on Jost Van Dyke.

Hendo’s Hideout in White Bay serves its signature Hendo’s Helldiver: spiced rum with citrus juices and a splash of pomegranate liqueur. Enjoy Sunday Brunch, Thursday Sushi, and a lunch and dinner menu starring fresh grilled lobster.

Cornhole, volleyball, and beach balls are here if you want to play. Next door, the Soggy Dollar Bar is the birthplace of the Painkiller, a potent rum cocktail made with citrus juices, coconut, ice, and a dusting of nutmeg. Over in Great Bay, famous calypsonian Foxy Callwood entertains at Foxy’s Tamarind Bar. Try his signature Dread Fox, firewater rum on the rocks with lime and cranberry juice. Beach barbecues featuring ribs, chicken, and fish are a tradition at Foxy’s Taboo on Diamond Cay; and you won’t want to miss Foxy’s annual New Year’s Eve party.

Soggy Dollar Bar

Cane Garden Bay on Tortola’s north coast is another favourite beach bar destination. Enjoy a Painkiller at Quito’s Gazebo, rum punch at Myett’s, or lime and rum in a freshly opened coconut at Paradise Club. Stay after the sun goes down for the monthly full moon party, with live music, glow sticks, and plenty of rum.

Full moon parties also rock at CocoMaya in Virgin Gorda.

Sip a craft cocktail at this island-chic beach bar, watch

the sunset, or sit a spell by a fire pit. There are several beach bars on Virgin Gorda’s North Sound as well.

The Big Bamboo on Anegada is an awesome edge-of-the-earth place to sip a rum punch and fork into a Caribbean lobster.

Several other beach bars also dot the island. Smaller islands and cays boast beach bars, too. Try Norman, Cooper, Beef, Little Jost, Scrub, Saba, and Prickly Pear, to name a few. Cheers!

f o x y’s t a b o o at Diamond Cay

Foxy’s Beach Bar

The main settlement of Great Harbour, as well as White Bay, Little Harbour, and Diamond Cay, are all bordered

by Caribbean-style beach bars serving lively libations along with lobster, fish, and steaks.

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DINING IN JOST VAN DYKE IT’S IMPOSSIBLE NOT TO DINE OCEANFRONT on this fourth-largest island. That’s because all bars and restaurants are on beaches lining popular bays. In White Bay, check out Hendo’s Hideout and try a lobster wrap, chicken roti, or pulled pork taco.

In Great Harbour, Foxy’s Tamarind Bar hosts beach barbecues on Friday and Saturday nights. At Foxy’s Taboo on Diamond Cay, moreover, the menu includes favourites like fish and chips, conch fritters, and jerk chicken.

FOXY’S TAMARIND BAR

FOXY’S TABOO

Lunch & dinner • entertainment

Lunch & dinner • entertainment

284.442.3074 foxysbar.com

284.442.3074 foxysbar.com

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RESTAURANT & NIGHTLIFE GUIDE TORTOLA

AROMAS CIGAR & MARTINI BAR Building 4, Tortola Pier Park, Road Town, Tortola Tel: 544-4665 www.aromasbvi.com Aromas Cigar & Martini Bar was born out of love of fine wines and good music. It is the most luxurious and distinctive locale on the Islands, created for you to enjoy a fine hand-rolled cigar and a spirited adult beverage. Make your selection from the fully stocked bar, choose your favourite cigar, and listen to live music from wellknown local talent. Sit back and relax in the air-conditioned leather seating lounge and take in the oceanfront view from the Aromas balcony.

D’COAL POT RESTAURANT Rt. 1, Shore Road Carrot Bay, West End, Tortola Tel: 545-6510

Come and enjoy an island-style ambience with authentic Caribbean spices for your palate’s delight.

Delicious roti, ribs, pork chops, lobster, steak, chicken, pasta, and vegetarian dishes. Sides include homemade coleslaw, garlic mashed potatoes, and fresh, flavourful cooked-to-perfection vegetables.

ELM’S RESTAURANT Cane Garden Bay, Tortola Tel: 442-2049 ELM’s Beach Bar and Restaurant has a relaxing and laid-back atmosphere set just a tad back from the beach. It can get full quickly for Sunday night music. With excellent barbecue and quality service, ELM’s offers fun and good food for the entire family. Serving lunch and dinner, and the bar is open late.

ISLAND POT Spanish Town, Tortola Tel: 540-0412 With a truly delicious menu that includes pasta, chicken, pork, and barbecue, this family-style restaurant has something for everyone in your group. Come in and relax, sip a succulent cocktail, and have a

great meal with the family. Choose from indoor or outdoor dining.

JEREMY’S KITCHEN Trellis Bay, Tortola Tel: 343-7406 Email: jktrellisbay@gmail.com Jeremy’s Kitchen is a well-known relaxed casual restaurant with a Caribbean Fusion menu. Their eggs Benedict is possibly the best on the island. Or try the famous Full Monty breakfast. The Awesome Sandwich is their signature lunch sandwich made from chunky seven-grain bread. They also serve wraps, rotis, burgers, Caribbean curry, and healthy salads. Dinners vary nightly. There are always vegan and vegetarian choices on the menu.

Walking distance from the airport makes it easier to get a smoothie or Painkiller before your flight.

MYETT’S GARDEN GRILL Cane Garden Bay, Tortola Tel: 495-9649 Situated on the beach in the breezy best spot of Cane Garden Bay, this family-owned little oasis with tropical gardens and trees is a place not to miss. Experiencing a

sunset here is absolutely magical!

Celebrating 30 years, Myett’s is open daily and serves delicious food and drinks and has live local entertainment most days of the week. Enjoy the complimentary beach lounges and umbrellas during the day and quintessential Caribbean dining at night. There are two gift shops on-site, a coffee shop, a boutique hotel, and spa services available upon request.

NATURALLY TASTY

BY ROTIMAN Waterfront Drive, Tortola Tel: 544-1071 Philip started making six vegetable rotis in a basket, which sold like wildfire. So, he went home and made another eight and never looked back. Enjoy the best rotis, wraps, pizzas, pastries, cakes, local juices, salads, vegan desserts, vegan meals, daily signature meals, and lots more.

OMAR’S COFFEE HOUSE Soper’s Hole, Tortola Tel: 344-0514 www.omarscoffeehouse.com Enjoy an epic brunch from Thursday

Sid’s Pomato Point

Dig into the delicious local seafood and more at a half-dozenplus casual bars and restaurants that rim the island.

DINING IN ANEGADA

Sid’s Pomato Point

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THIS 15-SQUARE-MILE ISLAND IS THE SECOND LARGEST OF THE BVI, but with fewer than 200 residents, it’s the smallest in people per mile. It’s a best-of-both-worlds, Robinson Crusoe ambience with creature comforts like good drinks and eats. Take a taxi west from the ferry dock to the Pink Flamingo for a jerk chicken, pork, or fish barbecue. Down the street is Sid’s Pomato Point Restaurant. There’s something for everyone. Lovers of fresh Anegada lobster will be especially happy with choices like lobster fritters, lobster pasta, lobster tacos, whole grilled lobster, and lobster surf and turf. Local lobster also stars on the menu at Big Bamboo, to the north. Conch, crab, and shrimp are here, too, with all the fixings.

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DINING & NIGHTLIFE chic dining in Quito Luxury Inn’s beachside restaurant. There’s happy hour music daily, and The Edge plays Fridays at 8:30 p.m.

Quito’s food is amazing, and the ambience is second to none. The sunsets are beautiful every night, and you might even spot dolphins in the bay if you’re lucky.

through Tuesday. Open from 7 a.m., this is the place to go for a delicious homemade breakfast, brunch, and yummy drinks for everyone. You’ll also find a nice variety of healthy options, fluffy pancakes, avo on toast, full English brekkies, and unlimited drinks. Head on down to savour their weekday or weekend bottomless brunch.

service are stellar, and the attentive staff is ready to help make your choice of food a good one.

This venue has a very loyal following, especially amongst the local population, which you can see on any given weekday, when residents recline on lounge chairs whilst sipping wine, eating crackers, and taking in the sunset from the beach.

OMAR’S DOCKSIDE @ NANNY CAY Road Town, Tortola Tel: 495-8015 www.omarfusion.com Omar’s Dockside serves up unique, Eastern/Western cuisine that can easily be described as the food lover’s paradise. Nestled on the beautiful waterfront dockside, their mission is to keep to the flavours whilst elevating the palate.

PEG LEGS RESTAURANT AND BEACH BAR Nanny Cay, Tortola Tel: 394-2518 Peg Legs Restaurant and Beach Bar are located on the beach at Nanny Cay. Famous for the Friday night beach barbecue, this vibrant restaurant is the place to go for great food, great service, and a stunning location.

Enjoy happy hour every day and choose from a wide selection of delicious food with daily specials.

TRADEWINDS MEXICAN GRILL Tel: 344-2661 www.tradewindsmexicangrill.com Tradewinds Mexican Grill offers a wide variety of Mexican food with a Caribbean twist in the British Virgin Islands. The great thing about these tasty selections is the homemade tortillas, made with chickpeas and flour, giving all meals a unique flavour. All items are made fresh daily and sometimes picked from their mini garden. They take much pride in everything that is served to their customers.

QUITO’S GAZEBO Cane Garden Bay, Tortola Tel: 495-4837 www.quitosltd.com Enjoy the music and beach

TRELLIS BAY MARKET Tel: 540-1421 www.trellisbaymarket.com Trellis Bay Market, located in the heart of Trellis Bay, is the home

PARADISE CLUB LOUNGE, BAR & RESTAURANT Cane Garden Bay, Tortola Tel: 495-9910 Paradise Club is a lovely restaurant with a great variety of food.

The ambience and customer

for all your bareboat provisioning needs whilst visiting the BVI. Nestled between coconut palms and sea grape trees, “The Mini Market” has been serving the BVI since 1990 and has since expanded into a Funky Island Bar “Trellis Bar & Grill.”

The mini market offers a variety of products for the entire family, including ice, water, fresh meats/ vegetables, fresh bread, wine, beer, and liquor. If you’re in need of a few snacks before heading to the neighbouring destinations (Great Camano, Scrub Island, Virgin Gorda, Anegada), make sure to stop by and stock up on all your necessities.

TROPICAL FUSION BEACH BAR & GRILL Long Bay, Tortola Tel: 346-3551 or 495-3435 www.tropicalfusionbvi.com Tropical Fusion strives to maintain the highest standard of customer service. Their talented chefs provide you with world-class cuisines.

With breathtaking seaside views and tantalising food, Tropical Fusion also provides top-quality catering services and is a TripAdvisor favourite.

284-342-8069

VILLAGE CAY RESTAURANT Wickham’s Cay 1, Road Town, Tortola Tel: 494-2771 www.villagecaybvi.com Village Cay Marina in Tortola provides sailors a picturesque shoreside getaway. After a day of sportfishing, sailing, or simply enjoying the sun and tranquil waters of the Caribbean, Village Cay Hotel & Marina awaits you. Dockside, you’re just steps away from a cool drink at the bar, a fabulous meal at the restaurant, a refreshing dip in the pool, as well as an array of boutiques and provisioning options. Plus, its 23-room hotel is the perfect complement to your exceptional yachting experience.

VIRGIN GORDA

BATH & TURTLE / CHEZ BAMBOO Lee Road Valley, Virgin Gorda Tel: 545-1861 www.bathturtle.com Just a five-minute walk from the main Government Dock and five-minute walk from the Yacht Harbour, enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Takeout and delivery available for sandwiches, burgers, pizzas, pastas, and fresh fish. You’ll find a large variety of local and international items, as well as cold drinks, beer, and a special cocktail menu. There’s also music on Fridays and Sundays in season! The new Coffee Bistro serves delicious smoothies and coffee drinks.

COCOMAYA RESTAURANT Spanish Town, Virgin Gorda Tel: 495-6344 www.cocomayarestaurant.com At CocoMaya, enjoy Asian-Latin fusion cuisine served beachfront in an open-air restaurant that faces west to the Sir Francis Drake Channel. Sip on a carefully crafted cocktail at the bar or recline on the comfy beach loungers and watch the sun melt into the ocean after your day at The Baths, just a five-minute drive away. CocoMaya is a must-stop when in the BVI. Beach chic.

DOVE RESTAURANT Spanish Town, Virgin Gorda Tel: 494-0313 www.thedovebvi.com Sip on perfectly blended craft cocktails on the patio under the mango tree. Take in the ocean breeze on the upper deck next

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to the Dragonfly Lounge at the Dove before moving down to the chandelier-lit dining room for dinner. Dove Restaurant serves contemporary cuisine with a seasonal menu showcasing creatively delicious dishes featuring the finest internationally sourced ingredients alongside fresh, local produce. It’s a must-visit.

FISCHER’S COVE BEACH HOTEL & RESTAURANT The Valley, Virgin Gorda Tel: 495-5253 www.fischerscove.com Satisfy that hearty appetite in an open-air restaurant facing the ocean. At lunch they feature conch fritters, curried goat, and other island specialities. At dinner, choose from West Indian and Continental cuisine that has earned Fischer’s Cove the Golden Award of Famous Restaurants International and the Grand Prix Award for Best Quality and Service. This restaurant features live entertainment and dinner specials twice weekly in season.

JOST VAN DYKE

FOXY’S TAMARIND BAR Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke Tel: 442-3074 www.foxysbar.com Foxy’s is the main attraction in Great Harbour, where the ferry docks. Foxy’s has been serving food and strong rum drinks to sailors and visitors since 1968.

Enjoy lunch and dinner daily.

On Friday and Saturday nights, Foxy and Tessa host their famous Beach BBQ. The bar closes when the party stops! The Foxhole Boutique features a wonderful selection of Foxy-branded wearables, gift items, and beachwear where you can find just the right item.

FOXY’S TABOO Diamond Cay, Jost Van Dyke Tel: 442-3074 www.foxysbar.com Grab a taxi from Great Harbour, or sail around to Diamond Cay on Jost Van Dyke’s East End to get to Foxy’s Taboo. It’s a short walk from the famous Bubbly Pool and just the place to have a beverage and a local special. Foxy’s Taboo has been serving Mediterranean fare with flair since 2003. Dinner, available during season, also features live local entertainment in an unforgettable setting.

HENDO’S HIDEOUT White Bay, Jost Van Dyke Tel: 393-9200 www.hendoshideout.com Hendo’s beachfront restaurant has been consistently ranked amongst USA Today’s Top 5 Caribbean Beach Restaurants & Bars. Kick back and relax as you sip on one of their signature Painkillers paired with Chef Roger’s Caribbean-inspired lunch and dinner options. The open-air restaurant is situated just steps from the beach and serves lunch daily.

Dinner is available from Thursday to Saturday, with a sushi night on Thursday. Sunday brunch features bottomless mimosas and the best beach views in the BVI.

including chicken, steak, ribs, and hot wings. Top it all off with a refreshing drink at the Beach Bar.

ANEGADA

SID’S RESTAURANT Pomato Point, Anegada Tel: 441-5565 Sid’s serves lunch and dinner with an international, Caribbean flair in an open-air, casual atmosphere.

Savour delicious Anegada lobster, conch, shrimp, and fresh fish.

Vegan dishes are also available.

Sid’s is the place to be to enjoy an amazing meal with great service whilst watching the beautiful sunsets.

BIG BAMBOO BEACH BAR & RESTAURANT Loblolly Bay, Anegada Tel: 346-5850 www.bigbambooanegada.com Located on the northern shores of Loblolly Bay, Big Bamboo offers a taste tempting tropical menu that includes a variety of fresh seafood — lobster, conch, fish, shrimp, and crab cake salad — as well as other great options,

PINK FLAMINGO Pomato Point, Anegada Tel: 342-8069 The Pink Flamingo Bar & Restaurant is located on the beautiful island of Anegada. This familyowned and -operated business has amazing dishes and drinks with a welcoming atmosphere, providing customers with great service and a touch of Caribbean flavour.

Menu offerings include seafood, oxtail, barbecue, and much more made with their original Caribbean spices. Food is prepared fresh daily for the best quality and taste.

the British Virgin Islands

Tortola Virgin Gorda Jost Van Dyke Anegada

Did you know you can search for dining options on the go?

Scan the QR code above to download the Visit BVI app and learn more about our dining offerings.

Deals & Specials COVID-19 Info

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LINGER LONGER WRITTEN BY VANESSA MOLINA

The Hideout BVI

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Mango Media

SANTAMARIA

Inn at Cornucopia

IN THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS, YOU’LL FIND EXTRAORDINARY ACCOMMODATIONS FOR EVERY TYPE OF ADVENTURE YOU CAN IMAGINE. WITH ITS TURQUOISE WATERS AND PRISTINE SANDY BEACHES, the British Virgin Islands offers the perfect getaway for couples, families, and those simply looking for some rest and relaxation.

Whether you prefer to stay in a colonial villa or luxury beachside retreat, the accommodations here are diverse and plentiful.

Tortola On the south side of Tortola, Nanny Cay Resort & Marina offers 52 charming rooms and several

Even if you don’t plan on spending that much time in your accommodations, where you stay is still a crucial part of your experience.

Fortunately, BVI accommodation options offer many different ways to stay.

contemporary townhome apartments that accommodate up to six guests. Enjoy the pool overlooking the Sir Francis Drake Channel or relax on a lounger by the beach. Savour a meal at Peg Legs on The Beach or grab a quick snack from Island Roots, a café serving coffee, baked goods, smoothies, and light meals.

Nestled between palm trees and mangroves, the brightly coloured ELM Beach Suites has six condo-style suites and a sprawling apart-hotel above the bar and restaurant, each featuring a cosy living area, kitchenette, and private balcony.

Also in Cane Garden Bay, just steps from the beach, is Quito’s Luxury Inn. This chic hotel offers 21 suites named after local musician Quito Rymer’s songs, a pool, spa, and dining options, as well as access to nearby beach activities.

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Enjoy spectacular views and colourful sunsets, as well as an array of watersports.

Big Bamboo Villas

Big Bamboo Villas

In Road Town, the BVI’s capital, Maria’s by the Sea boasts convenient accommodations with sweeping views of the harbour and surrounding hills. The hotel has 76 guest rooms, a pool, and a restaurant/bar where you can enjoy meals overlooking the Sir Francis Drake Channel.

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Nearby are marinas, parks, museums, superb shopping, and delicious dining opportunities.

For those looking for a more adventurous waterfront experience, consider VOYAGE Charters. Enjoy an unforgettable stay aboard a luxury all-inclusive catamaran complete with a professional crew ready to provide the ultimate travel experience as you island-hop and explore the BVI. VOYAGE Charters also offers bareboat options, which allows you to create your own itinerary.

In Little Apple Bay on the island’s north shore, meanwhile, Sebastian’s on the Beach is a charming 35-room hotel offering the ultimate in breathtaking scenery and total relaxation. Enjoy spectacular views and colourful sunsets, as well as an array of watersports arranged by the staff.

Virgin Gorda Take in the panoramic view of the North Sound from one of the balconies included with every room at the Leverick Bay Resort.

Choose from one of 14 spacious, tropically decorated guest rooms or one of the resort’s suites, each named after a different local spice.

Here you can enjoy the freshwater pool, the nearby beach, and the Restaurant at Leverick Bay. Sample wines from an internationally

Oil Nut Bay

Leverick Bay Resort

stocked wine cellar or pamper yourself at the spa.

If you’re looking for a little privacy, consider booking Sol y Sombra. This British colonial beachfront villa has five suites furnished with custom teak furniture. Start your day with a spin class on the gym’s Peloton or a chef-cooked meal right in your suite. Then enjoy a walk on the private beach, swim in the 45-foot oceanfront infinity pool, or head to the observation deck for sweeping views of the crystalline waters and tropical landscape surrounding the villa.

The Inn at Cornucopia, with a Country French–Caribbean décor, features four deluxe

rooms and a superior suite, each with a balcony or garden patio where you can sit back and sip a glass of bubbly.

Rooms feature handcrafted furniture, antiques, and luxury linens and bath products, as well as high-speed Wi-Fi. The inn’s small size offers maximum privacy for guests hoping to relax.

A European gourmet breakfast is included with your stay, as well as full concierge and daily housekeeping services.

Nestled in a hillside tropical oasis not too far from the famous Baths, you’ll find Virgin Gorda Village, featuring condos with one to four bedrooms that can accommodate up to eight people and are perfect for

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groups and families. All condos come with air-conditioning, high-speed Wi-Fi, and fully equipped kitchens with topof-the-line appliances. Get in a round of tennis at one of the resort’s tennis courts, take a dip in the pool, or indulge yourself at the Solitude Spa.

Jost Van Dyke Hendo’s Hideout, a renowned beachfront bar and restaurant in White Bay, recently opened The Hideout BVI on White Bay. This luxury boutique resort on Jost Van Dyke features seven one- and two-bedroom villas with private plunge pools for a one-of-a-kind experience. If you miss out on reserving your villa, the bar and restaurant are worth visiting. Try Hendo’s signature cocktail, “The Delirious

Donkey,” whilst you lounge in a hammock or take a dip in the crystal-clear water, which has been consistently ranked amongst the top beaches in the Caribbean.

Anegada Neptune’s Treasure is a favourite family accommodation.

Private cottages sleep up to four and include a full kitchen and living space. Also consider a stay at Anegada Reef Hotel, where you can enjoy a serene island getaway with your toes in the sand, refreshing drink in hand, and gorgeous blue water stretching in front of you as far as you can see. Anegada Beach Club, meanwhile, offers beachside “glamping” with thatched roof accommodations and luxury amenities.

the British Virgin Islands

Tortola Virgin Gorda Jost Van Dyke Anegada

Did you know you can search for accommodations options on the go? Scan the QR code above to download the VISIT BVI app and learn more about lodging offerings.

• Set amidst tropical gardens around a hillside, Virgin Gorda Village Hotel is a charming condominium community with over thirty spacious one, two, three- and four-bedroom condominiums offering nightly guest rentals, short term (up to six months) and long term rentals.

• Generously proportioned patios, full kitchen, a/c, television, Internet and access to all our facilities!

• Enjoy a cocktail or a meal at The Village Café, an informal, pool side restaurant.

• Set on a gently sloping hillside facing the ocean.

• A 10-minute walk to the Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbor and Shopping Center, a 3-minute ride to Savannah Bay Beach, 1 mile away from Virgin Gorda Airport and the Ferry Dock Terminal.

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Deals & Specials COVID-19 Info

virgingordavillage.com 1 284-495-5544 Located in the Valley, Virgin Gorda, BVI virgingordavillage @virgingordavillage @VGvillage

How many reasons

do you need to visit paradise?

Here, we offer them all!

Welcome to the marina and resort where a true Caribbean vacation is made to suit you.

A treasure of salty heart and a pirate soul inspired by all those who want to live twice.

OUR AMENITIES INCLUDE: Virgin Gorda Villa Rentals, Jumbies Beach Bar & The Cove, The Restaurant, Pusser’s Store, The Spa, Power Boat Rentals, BVI Snuba, Michael Beans Show, Moko Jumbies, Chef’s Pantry Supermarket, Blue Rush Watersports, Arawak Store.

www.leverickbay.com • Tel.: 1 (284) 542 4014 • letica.paul@leverickbay.com MARINA • HOTEL •

ACCOMMODATIONS

ACCOMMODATIONS GUIDE BIG BAMBOO Loblolly Bay, Anegada Tel: 346-5850 www.bigbambooanegada.com At the Big Bamboo, their goal is to accentuate the natural charm of Anegada’s north shore with an idyllic island getaway. Enjoy the quiet secluded Caribbean beach you’ve been dreaming about, where the whispers of waves whet your appetite for the fresh lobster being grilled at the restaurant. Located a few steps away from your beachside cottage, it does not disappoint.

ELM’S RESTAURANT Cane Garden Bay, Tortola Tel: 442-2049 ELM’s Beach Bar and Restaurant has a relaxing and laid-back atmosphere set just a tad back from the beach. It can get full quickly for Sunday night music. With excellent barbecue and quality service, ELM’s offers fun and good food for the entire family. Serving lunch and dinner, and the bar is open late.

THE INN AT CORNUCOPIA Little Trunk Bay, Tortola

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Leverick Bay Resort

Tel: 541-6888 www.theinnatcornucopiabvi.com The Inn at Cornucopia is in Little Trunk Bay on beautiful Virgin Gorda. This adult-only, pet-friendly Country French– Caribbean inn boasts just five luxurious rooms featuring a classic European gourmet breakfast and all amenities

VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

included in our room rate. Book a room or two, or the entire property.

The inn is service oriented, visually elegant, tranquil, and peaceful — a one-of-a-kind destination. Visit the inn and take a tour!

LEVERICK BAY RESORT & MARINA North Sound, Virgin Gorda Tel: 542-4014

www.leverickbay.com Leverick Bay Resort & Marina is a place that offers it all to make your Caribbean vacation suit you, a treasure of salty heart and a pirate soul inspired by those who want to live twice.

Amenities include but are not limited to Virgin Gorda villa rentals, powerboat rentals, spa,

Sebastian’s on the Beach Hotel and Restaurant Little Apple Bay, Tortola, BVI

Tel: 284-495-4212 or 1284-495-4206 www.sebastiansbvi.com | info@sebastiansbvi.com

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Book your own private oasis in Cane Garden Bay!

Quito’s Luxury Inn Cane Garden Bay, Tortola British Virgin Islands

(284) 495-4837 www.quitosltd.com reservations@quitosbvi.com

Chef’s Pantry Supermarket, Blue Rush Water Sports, and snuba, to name a few.

MARIA’S BY THE SEA Road Town, Tortola Tel: 852-6600 www.mariasbythesea.com Discover Maria’s by the Sea Hotel and delight in the sweeping views of the harbour, central views of Road Town — the capital of the British Virgin Islands — and the lush green backdrop of the surrounding hills. This hotel is a premier location for your stay, whether for leisure or business. Maria’s provides top-of-the-line meeting and business facilities and professional courteous services to make your next business or social event a memorable one.

OIL NUT BAY Virgin Gorda Tel: 393-1000 www.oilnutbay.com On the eastern tip of Virgin Gorda, in the coveted North Sound neighbourhood, lies Oil Nut Bay — a British Virgin Islands resort where life is spent in perfect harmony

with the ocean tides. Where world-class architecture rests against a backdrop of whitesand beaches, rolling hills, and unspoilt terrain. Oil Nut Bay offers freehold property ownership and vacation villa rentals in one of the most beautiful places on earth. Spread across 400 pristine acres and surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, this British Virgin Islands resort is the leading luxury, multigenerational community in the Caribbean. Accessible only by boat or helicopter, it’s an exclusive, protected paradise for those seeking a private island getaway.

QUITO’S LUXURY INN Cane Garden Inn, Tortola Tel: 495-4837 www.quitosltd.com Newly refurbished after hurricanes Irma and Maria in early 2019, all of Quito’s room rates include breakfast at Quito’s Gazebo and a manager’s welcome cocktail party weekly. The inn offers a swimming pool with poolside bar, conference room,

spa, exercise room, gift shop, and car rental. Free Wi-Fi, beach chairs, and umbrellas are also available.

SEBASTIAN’S ON THE BEACH HOTEL & RESTAURANT Apple Bay, Tortola Tel: 544-4212 www.sebastiansbvi.com This charming 26-room hotel offers the ultimate in breathtaking scenery and total relaxation.

Tortola is an ideal location for all types of watersports and activities — from sailing, diving, and snorkelling, to surfing. The hotel is located on one of the popular surfing spots in Tortola. They will also arrange hiking excursions and car rentals.

SOL Y SOMBRA 135 Main Street, Tortola Tel: 494-2446 www.solysombrabvi.com Steps away from Little Trunk Bay, this classic and timeless British colonial beachfront villa has six suites, each furnished with custom-made teak furniture. A great room, office/library, dining room,

and fully outfitted kitchen offer spacious and elegant entertainment areas. A 45-foot oceanfront infinity pool and lighted tennis court are set within more than an acre of tropical gardens.

A private movie theatre, gym, and a chef upon request complete the villa’s offerings.

VIRGIN GORDA VILLAGE HOTEL North Valley Rd., Virgin Gorda Tel: 495-5544 or 542-5544 Email: info@virgingordavillage.com www.virgingordavillage.com Set amidst tropical gardens around a hillside, Virgin Gorda Village Hotel is a charming condominium community with more than 30 spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom condominiums, all with oversized patios, air conditioning, and access to all facilities. Enjoy a cocktail or a meal at The Village Café, an informal, poolside restaurant.

A perfect getaway for families, groups, and couples, Virgin Gorda Village Hotel is your piece of Nature’s Little Secrets.

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WRITTEN BY VANESSA MOLINA SANTAMARIA

RELAX AND REJUVENATE THE SPAS IN THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS OFFER EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR AN OOO STATE OF MIND.

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Courtesy of Virgin Gorda Village Spa

HOLIDAYS ARE A TIME TO GET AWAY from the everyday grind, but that doesn’t mean you have to abandon your health and wellness routines. Many accommodations in the British Virgin Islands offer plenty of options to stay active and look after your well-being.

If you’re seeking a world-class spa experience with a holistic approach, look no further than Driftwood Spa on the West End of Tortola. Choose from a wide selection of therapeutic, relaxing treatments that include massages, acupuncture, facials, body scrubs, mud wraps, manicures, and pedicures.

Driftwood Spa also offers mobile spa services for hotels, villas, and yachts.

Nanny Cay on Tortola features access to a stunning freshwater pool overlooking the Sir Francis Drake Channel, or you can enjoy a game of volleyball on the nearby beach. For those looking to stay active whilst lodging at the Leverick Bay Resort on Virgin Gorda, you can take a few laps in the freshwater pool, play a game of tennis, or enjoy watersports such as flyboarding, kayaking, and

stress — to Body Bliss with Aloe, featuring a sugar salt scrub followed by an aloe wrap and a deep-tissue massage. You can even arrange for them to come to your villa or yacht so you can truly relax and unwind.

In addition, be sure to visit the famed Bubbly Pool on Jost Van Dyke for some Insta-worthy photos. It’s been dubbed Mother Nature’s Jacuzzi!

SPA GUIDE stand-up paddleboarding at nearby Blue Rush Water Sports located at Leverick Bay Marina. Then pamper yourself at The Spa at Leverick Bay with massages, facials, Ayurvedic treatments, yoga, and more.

Sol y Sombra, also on Virgin Gorda, showcases a fully equipped gym complete with a Peloton bike. If you prefer some outdoor activity, you can challenge your partner to a tennis match or go for a swim in the 45-foot infinity pool. Additionally, Sol y Sombra offers guests en suite spa services and a private chef to prepare delicious, healthy meals.

Virgin Gorda Village, meanwhile, features a pool, two tennis courts, and a gym. The Solitude Day Spa offers a tempting variety of services, including massages, body treatments, facials, manicures, and pedicures. Special spa packages range from the Traveller’s Massage — with a hot stone back massage and foot reflexology to wipe away workaday

DRIFTWOOD SPA West End, Tortola Tel: 540-1526 www.driftwoodspabvi.com Their vision is to establish Driftwood Spa as the primary source of holistic well-being in the British Virgin Islands by providing a comforting, soothing atmosphere where guests will be able to relax and harmonize their body and mind. Driftwood’s staff is professionally trained; they understand the demands of daily life and the need to maintain a healthy equilibrium between mind and body.

R S YOU E U E V W GI AND BODY IVE YOU G !

WILL OUR MIND Y BACK

DRIFTWOOD SPA

WEST END, TORTOLA and SOPER’S HOLE WHARF and MARINA driftwoodspabvi@gmail.com

284.540.1526 Massages, Facials, Waxing, Body Scrubs, Body Wraps, Nails, Reflexology & lots more

Open Daily 8am - 7pm

Walk-ins welcome

We provide outcall services island-wide

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Sol y Sombra

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Courtesy of Sol y Sombra (2)

REAL ESTATE

WRITTEN BY SYLVIA MOSES

FIND A TROPICAL HOME OF YOUR OWN AND MAKE THIS A PERMANENT VACATION. IF YOU’RE DREAMING ABOUT LIVING IN AN IDYLLIC DESTINATION, wake up to the British Virgin Islands. No doubt you’ve fallen in love with the BVI whilst on holiday, staying at one of the many boutique resorts, in a private villa or on a sailboat. Perhaps you’ve gone island hopping, enjoyed White Bay at Jost Van Dyke, explored the caves at Norman Island or the massive boulders at The Baths. But what if you want to live on one of these magical islands? Where do you start? What can you buy? Which island is right for you?

FOUND

PARADISE

Sol y Sombra

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REAL ESTATE

For many people, the decision to invest comes after years of visiting the BVI, when you’ve made friends with locals and you know which restaurants serve the best meals. Chances are you will also have decided which island is right for you. Now it’s just a matter of purchasing a house. But if you are new to the BVI, the process can be more daunting. Unlike many Caribbean destinations, this archipelago is made up of several inhabited islands, each with its own unique character and services.

Tortola, the largest island in the BVI, has a range of shops and restaurants. It also is the seat of government and the most densely populated, although that statistic is relative, given that the total population of the BVI is only about 30,000.

Virgin Gorda is known for its upmarket resorts such as Little Dix Bay and the iconic Bitter End Yacht Club. It is also home to Oil Nut Bay Resort, the most recent residential resort development in the BVI. There aren’t as many shops and restaurants on Virgin Gorda, but there are many white-sand beaches and a slower pace of life. You’ll find villas in a resort environment or within a residential subdivision.

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With its spectacular views and open layout, the immaculate fourbedroom villa has been masterfully designed to capture the trade winds, providing natural air conditioning throughout living areas overlooking lush, landscaped gardens.

For those really wanting to get away from the rat race, the sister islands are an option. Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, and Great Camanoe all offer options for residential investment, although barefoot tourism best sums up life on these islands. If you’re a boater, you’ll surely want to consider a purchase in one of the BVI’s family islands. Scrub Island Resort also offers investment opportunities in an outer island location but with the benefit of additional resort services.

From top: Courtesy of Sotheby’s, courtesy of Smiths Gore

Location, Location, Location

REAL ESTATE

Investment benefits in the BVI include a U.S. dollar economy, strong links to the United Kingdom, and no capital gains or estate taxes.

Investment Benefits

The BVI real estate market, like many Caribbean islands, has enjoyed a postCOVID renaissance as overseas investors look to tropical climes for a vacation home.

Investment benefits in the BVI include a U.S. dollar economy, strong links to the United Kingdom, and no capital gains or estate taxes. A foreign investor will be required to first obtain a landholding licence before acquiring a parcel of land or a home, but this is a straightforward process that a local attorney can handle.

One thing that sets the BVI apart from other islands is its low crime rates and an overall feeling of safety that most visitors have when staying in the BVI. This is reflected in the way houses are designed with few security features. For instance, it is rare to see houses with bars on windows or high security fences, which are a staple on many other islands.

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Whether you’re seeking a plot of land at Oil Nut Bay or a townhouse at Nanny Cay, there are opportunities available within a few resort developments. You’ll also find individual villas, if that’s what you prefer.

Here are a couple of suggestions to start your search.

The perfect island oasis is located on Cooper Island, sitting atop a cliff at the northern tip overlooking the Sir Francis Drake Channel. With spectacular 180-degree views, Quart-A-Nancy sits on 2.75 acres and faces west, with panoramic views of Salt Island, Peter Island, and Tortola. Only accessible by boat, Quart-ANancy provides unparalleled privacy and seclusion, as well as access to world-class sailing, diving, and snorkelling at nearby Cooper Island Beach Club.

Another option is Villa Rosa, overlooking Soper’s Hole Marina at the West End of Tortola. This beautifully designed family home sits on just over an acre of land. It features a well-equipped kitchen and living area that open up to a pool terrace, where a large, shaded deck allows for alfresco dining and true indoor-outdoor living.

With its spectacular views and open layout, the immaculate four-bedroom villa has been masterfully designed to capture the trade winds, providing natural air conditioning throughout living areas overlooking lush, landscaped gardens.

Alton Bertie, courtesy of Smiths Gore (2)

Finding the Perfect Property

baraka point For Sale / For Rent

coldwellbankerbvi.com bvivillarental.com +1 (284) 340 3000

Coldwell banker british virgin islands

real estatE

Every property has its own unique story. Should you decide to invest in property in the BVI, there are several real estate professionals who can guide you through the process of acquiring land or buying a home and attorneys that can represent you during the purchasing process. They can answer your questions about the landholding licence process, the advantages of renting to cover annual operating costs, or the process involved in constructing your own home. For many potential buyers, property management is a major concern to ensure all aspects of their investment are cared for, from paying staff to ensuring a property is properly maintained.

No matter what type of property you choose to invest in, be sure to select an industry leader who will strive to deliver personalised, trusted service.

Sylvia Moses is part of the Smiths Gore BVI Limited team, which has been delivering dynamic and bespoke real estate services since 1965. If you have any questions, you may reach out to a real estate professional by calling 284-494-2446 or emailing info@smithsgore.com.

REAL ESTATE GUIDE COLDWELL BANKER REAL ESTATE BVI Nanny Cay Marina, Tortola Tel: 495-3000 With offices in Tortola and Virgin Gorda and representation in Anegada, Coldwell Banker BVI has consistently grown year over year.

They introduced the Coldwell Banker name to the British Virgin Islands in 2005 because, historically, most of the interest in buying vacation homes in the BVI came from U.S. buyers.

Exclusive agents for Rosewood Little Dix Bay, Scrub Island, and Long Bay Resort, Coldwell Banker is one of the largest real estate groups in the world. with over 3,000 offices in 49 countries worldwide.

SMITHS GORE BVI Britannic Hall, Main Street Road Town, Tortola Tel: 494-2446 Smiths Gore BVI has been

delivering dynamic and bespoke BVI real estate services to buyers and sellers since 1965. They are industry leaders in the BVI and the Caribbean and offer commercial and residential sales, vacation villas, long-term rentals, property appraisals, and real estate consultancy. Smiths Gore BVI are your trusted experts!

SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY Road Town, Tortola Tel: 494-5700 or 340-5555 www.bvisir.com or www.luxuryvillabvi.com Sotheby’s International Realty is the leading local real estate services provider in the BVI that can truly provide unrivalled access to qualified people and distinctive properties around the world. BVI Sotheby’s International Realty has been serving the property needs of the British Virgin Islands since 1991, and it is this extensive local expertise and knowledge combined with their international reach that sets them apart.

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USEFUL INFORMATION

HELPFUL TIPS FOR NAVIGATING YOUR WAY AROUND OUR ISLANDS.

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BUSINESS HOURS

Bathing suits and other beachwear are only considered appropriate on the beaches, at the pool, or on a boat. Topless bathing and nudity on the beach are frowned upon. In general, day and evening dress is casual.

Most businesses open at 9 a.m. and close at 5 p.m. Some stores, including pharmacies, are closed after 1 p.m. on Saturday and all day on Sunday, but a few open if cruise ships are in port. Supermarkets open earlier and close later; most open on weekends and holidays. It’s best to call or email a specific business for its hours of operation.

BANKING There are several central banks in the British Virgin Islands: Banco Popular; FirstBank; Republic Bank (BVI), formerly Scotiabank; and FirstCaribbean International Bank. Hours vary, but most are open Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. They all have extended hours on Fridays. Banco Popular opens a teller drive-through window from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays. First Bank is open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon.

CREDIT CARDS Many BVI establishments accept credit cards: generally, MasterCard or Visa; some, but not all, take American Express, Apple Pay, PayPal, and ATH Movil. You will find several ATM machines on Tortola, including the Road Town Ferry Dock, Cane Garden Bay, Clarence Thomas Home Center, and at the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport on Beef Island, as well as in The

The BVI Tourist Board

VISITORS GUIDE

ATTIRE

Valley on Virgin Gorda. There are no banks or ATM machines on Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, or Peter Island.

CURRENCY The U.S. dollar is the only legal tender in the BVI. Major credit cards are accepted in many, but not all, establishments.

DEPARTURE TAX After you have checked in at the airport or at any seaport, look for the departure tax window. Every air travel passenger must pay a $20 departure tax in cash or by Visa or MasterCard (cheques are not accepted). Nonresidents leaving by sea pay $20, whilst residents pay $15, and anyone under 5 years old is exempt from the departure tax. Visitors to the Virgin Islands must pay the Environmental and Tourism Levy of $10 upon arrival at all ports of entry. The levy became effective on September 1, 2017. All visitors arriving to the Territory via air or sea are required to pay the levy.

DIGITAL RESOURCES You can view the digital edition of Visit the British Virgin Islands on the BVI Chamber of Commerce & Hotel Association (BVICCHA) website, www.bviccha.org, and don’t forget to download the VISIT BVI app, available in the Apple and Google Play store. The BVI Tourist Board’s website (www.bvitourism.com) offers printable online information about each island, helpful schedules, and more. The BVI Government, BVI Welcome Magazine, VI Property and Yacht Magazine, VI Life & Style Magazine, Superyacht Services Guide BVI, and two local newspapers, The BVI Beacon and The Island Sun, also provide helpful information.

DRINKING WATER Tap water on Tortola and Virgin Gorda is generally desalinated and safe for consumption. Some hotels have their own desalination plants and cisterns. Other islands rely on private supplies from cisterns, but bottled water is available throughout the Islands.

DRUGS Recreational drugs are strictly forbidden. Their possession, sale, use, or distribution is a criminal offense punishable by law. Conviction can lead to heavy fines and jail time.

ELECTRICITY Electricity is supplied by the BVI Electricity Corporation. The standard electrical current is 110 volts on all the islands.

EMERGENCIES Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital is the main general hospital in Road Town, Tortola. On Virgin Gorda, the main medical facility is the Nurse Iris O’Neal Clinic.

Ambulance .......................................... 999 or 911 Fire .................................................................... 999 Police .................................................................999 Hospital............................. 494-3497/820-7500 VISAR (Virgin Islands !Search & Rescue) ........ 494-435 or 767 (SOS) To report a complaint to police, call 311.

INTERNET Several places throughout the Islands offer

internet access. Most have free wireless connections and can be found at the following locations: Lambert Beach Resort, Tortola; Nanny Cay Marina, Tortola; Village Cay Marina, Road Town; Myett’s Garden Inn and Grill, Cane Garden Bay; Foxy’s, Jost Van Dyke; The Watersports Centre, Jost Van Dyke; Anegada Reef Hotel, Anegada; Trellis Bay Market Bar & Grill, Beef Island.

LANGUAGE English is the official language, and communication is fairly easy around the Islands.

Spanish is also spoken by many members of the growing immigrant population.

MONEY TRANSFERS MoneyGram and Western Union provide services to receive and send money worldwide.

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NATURAL HAZARDS There are no poisonous snakes or other dangerous animals in the BVI. The leaves of the oleander and elephant ears are poisonous. Be careful of the manchineel tree (or poison apple tree), which grows near beaches. Its leaves, fruit, and sap are dangerous to the eyes and poisonous when ingested. Underwater, fire coral can cause a nasty sting and subsequent rash if touched.

The spiny black sea urchin is very painful if stepped on or brushed against, and jellyfish and lionfish should be avoided, as both can cause serious injury.

NEWS, NEWSPAPERS, AND MAGAZINES Several weekly and monthly publications are available in the BVI and by subscription. The Island Sun and The BVI Beacon keep readers updated on events and general news occurring locally and regionally; they’re also available online or have a Facebook presence.

For news at your fingertips, please visit 284Media, Virgin Islands News Online, BVI News, and BVI Platinum. BVI Welcome Magazine offers information for tourists, and The BVI Marine Guide is a definitive reference that keeps boaters updated annually. Business BVI, a business and investment magazine, is published annually. Also, BVINews.com, VirginIslandsNewsOnline.com, and BVIPlatinum.com are websites that provide daily news updates in the Territory. You can also check out VI Property and Yacht Magazine, VI Life & Style Magazine, Superyacht Services Guide BVI, and the BVI NOW App.

PETS Pets are allowed into the Territory only after an import permit is obtained from the Department of Agriculture. For regulations concerning animal importation, contact the Department of Agriculture, Paraquita Bay, Tortola; tel. 468-6123 and fax 468-6102.

PHARMACY Several pharmacies offer prescription and over-the-counter services in Road Town. These include Medicure at Omar Hodge Building (with another location on Virgin Gorda); Vanterpool Enterprises on Wickham’s Cay I; B&F Medical Complex on

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Nibbs Street (with another in East End); and Qwomar Trading, Ltd., Blackburne Road.

POST OFFICES The main post office in Road Town (4943701) near the roundabout has a philatelic counter. There is also a post office on Virgin Gorda. Most hotels and resorts offer daily mail pickups. Virgin Islands stamps are worldwide collectors’ items. The BVI Philatelic Society (494-7789) organises an annual stamp exhibition, usually held in the spring, that attracts a wide range of enthusiasts.

2023 PUBLIC HOLIDAYS January 1 ..................................New Year’s Day January 2.......................... New Year’s Holiday March 6 ............. Hamilton Lavity Stoutt Day April 7 ............................................ Good Friday April 10 ..................................... Easter Monday May 29 .........................................Whit Monday June 9 ............................. Sovereign’s Birthday July 3...................................Virgin Islands Day

August 7–9 .... August Emancipation Festival October 16 .........Heroes and Forefathers Day November 27 ....................................................... .....The 1949 Great March and Restoration Day December 25 ............................Christmas Day December 26 .................................. Boxing Day

RADIO AND TELEVISION Local radio stations, most of which are available online, include ZBVI (780 AM), ZKING (100.9 FM), ZROD (103.7 FM), ZCCR (94.1 FM), TOLA Radio VI (100.5 FM), and LET’S FUZE VI (106.9 FM). Local cable channels include 1, 51, 52, and 55. Public service channels include 12 (WCJX, St. Thomas, USVI) and 25 (BBC World). A few channels broadcast in Spanish, including Channel 4 (Azteca). News and entertainment are also available on cable channels beamed from numerous U.S. cities and satellites.

RELIGION There are Methodist churches throughout the BVI. Other Christian

denominations represented include the Anglicans (Episcopalians), Baptists, Roman Catholics, Seventh-day Adventists, and Pentecostal sects. Many churches are located in Road Town, but there are churches throughout the Islands. There is also an Islamic Center in Road Town, and the Hindu faith is also represented.

SERVICE ORGANISATIONS Several service organisations and clubs operate in the BVI. Amongst them are Lions, Interact, Toastmasters, Rotaract, and various Rotary Clubs, including the Rotary Club of Tortola and Rotary Sunrise Club of Road Town. Fellow club members visiting the Territory are always warmly welcomed. Check the organisations’ websites or enquire at your front desk for more information on the clubs and meeting times. To reach the BVI Red Cross, call 494-6349.

SMOKING Smoking in public places such as restaurants, bars, shopping malls, recreational facilities, offices, public transportation

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USEFUL INFORMATION

terminals, etc., is illegal in accordance with the Tobacco Products Control Act of the BVI. It’s also illegal to smoke within 50 feet of these public spaces. A person found smoking tobacco in a public place will be subject to a fine. It’s illegal to sell cigarettes to people under 18 years old.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS The area code in the BVI is 284.

FLOW (formerly LIME and Cable & Wireless [West Indies], Ltd.) provides digital, national, and international telecommunications services, fibre, and broadband internet access. Full IDD (international direct dialling), facsimile, and data services, including IDAS (global database access) and private leased circuits, are available. Inbound 800 numbers accessible from the United States, Canada, and the rest of the Caribbean are also available. FLOW also offers competitive wireless services, and you can purchase SIM cards, handsets, and TopUp credits at locations throughout the BVI. Caribbean Cellular Telephone Ltd. (CCT BVI), the first provider of wireless communications in the BVI, offers 4G wireless broadband internet service throughout the Islands and provides CDMA and GSM roaming services with more than 140 roaming partners worldwide. CCT SIM cards are available from authorised resellers throughout the BVI. CCT now offers Fibre Ultra-High-Speed Internet (FIYAH), and Digicel offers Fibre Internet. Digicel also offers a range of wireless and landline services throughout the BVI. Digicel SIM cards and TopUp credits are available at locations throughout the BVI. All providers offer Fibre internet

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in select areas; please call the provider of your choice for more information.

TIPPING A 7 percent tax is usually added to your hotel bill and a 10 percent hotel service charge.

Additional tipping is optional.

It’s customary to include a 15 percent tip when dining out.

Most restaurants automatically include this on the bill as a service charge.

TRANSPORTATION Air: Regional airlines connect Beef Island with international hubs (e.g., San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Antigua) and other Caribbean Islands. Small planes fly between Beef Island, Virgin Gorda, and St. Thomas, USVI. Charter planes are also available to sister islands and the U.S. Virgin Islands from the airport on Beef Island.

VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

Land: The main highways on Tortola are Sir Francis Drake Highway, which runs from the western end of the island to Road Town, and Blackburne Highway, which runs from the eastern end of the island to Road Town along the southern coast. Buses also run to West End for the same price as to East End. Buses: Mini and safari bus outings are usually arranged by the hotels and are also available for other long group trips and scenic sightseeing. There is also a bus that runs from Road Town to East End and costs about $3 to $5. The bus turns around before reaching Beef Island, but an additional option will offer their service to Beef Island (please ask the bus driver upon entering the vehicle).

Car Rentals: Renting a car is both economical and

convenient. Several agencies offer reasonable rates, unlimited mileage, emergency services, and additional insurance. If visiting for more than a month, a temporary licence must be obtained from the Department of Motor Vehicles in Pockwood Pond. The cost is $10. Bring your passport and a valid driver’s licence from your country of origin. Driving is on the left-hand side of the road.

Ferry Services: The main ferry docks on Tortola are in Road Town and at the West End. Boat services operate daily between Tortola and several other islands in the BVI (Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke) and the USVI (St. Thomas). Trellis Bay and Beef Island ferries also provide service to Virgin Gorda and nearby smaller islands and resorts. Ferry services to Anegada from Road Town are

available on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Ferry Services include Ocean Dreams, Road Town Fast Ferry, Smith’s Ferry Services, Native Son, Sensation Ferries, Virgin Gorda Transport (Speedy’s), Aquatic Rentals VI, and New Horizon Ferry Service.

Departure and arrival information can be obtained at the front desk of your hotel. Some ferries charge extra for additional baggage. Check with the ferry operator to see if any fees apply.

Post COVID-19, water taxis have become a luxury service for all. Please visit the BVI Tourist Board website for additional information on this convenient service.

If you prefer to take your vehicle to Virgin Gorda, you can depart Beef Island with Global Ocean Transport (Virgin Gorda Car Ferry) Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. Please call 495-6256 for the departure times.

Taxis: Taxis are available at the airport, hotels, taxi stands, and other venues throughout the Islands. Some hotels have a franchised taxi arrangement for guests or will quickly order a taxi from the front desk. Island tour taxis usually provide commentary on local history and other helpful information. New government rates are now in effect.

It’s a good idea to check the fare with your driver in advance.

WEATHER The Islands benefit from the trade winds that keep humidity low, but temperatures rarely go above 95°F or below 75°F. The wettest months are between September and November, coinciding with the height of hurricane season.

TRAVEL SERVICES GUIDE ADVANCE AUTO RENTALS & REPAIRS Road Town, Tortola Tel: 499-9997 Whether you’re on the island for the day or an extended vacation, Advance Auto Rentals & Repairs can assist with your transportation needs. The company offers a wide range of vehicles, and they offer pickup from any location.

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS TOURIST BOARD P.O. Box 134 DeCastro Street, Road Town, Tortola Tel: 494-3134 www.bvitourism.com Located in the northeastern Caribbean, the British Virgin Islands is an archipelago of 60 islands and cays dotted on a pallet of clear aquamarine waters. Renowned worldwide for its sailing and watersports, each island beckons visitors to unique experiences that inspire them to write their own Virgin Islands stories.

GOLDEN JOURNEY CONCIERGE Road Town, Tortola Tel: 440-4653 (GOLD) www.goldenjourneyconciergeservices.com Experience all Nature’s Little Secrets has to offer with Golden Journey Concierge Services. Whether you desire a day, a weekend, or a weeklong getaway, transforming your trip into a golden journey is the goal. They’ll arrange your accommodations, excursions, transportation, and activities. You are on vacation, so unwind, unplug, and reset and leave the rest to them.

HERTZ DOLLAR THRIFTY

Road Town, Tortola Tel: 440-3407 With a variety of cars to suit your vacation needs at two

Golden Journey Concierge Services Carrot Bay, Tortola British Virgin Islands (284) 440-4653 (GOLD) info@goldenjourneyconciergeservices.com

www.goldenjourneyconciergeservices.com

convenient locations, the airport and Road Town, let Hertz pick you up and give you the freedom to explore the beautiful British Virgin Islands at your own pace.

OCEAN DREAMS Tel: 345-1242 www.oceandreamswatertaxi.com Whether you’re looking for a private land taxi, water taxi, ferry service, island tour, beach trip, half- or full-day trip, cargo transfer, or want to island-hop, Ocean Dreams has you covered! Simply tell them your needs or where you want to go, and they’ll take care of the rest! Their captains have over 50 years of experience between them and are well

versed in the fun and rigours of navigating the ocean safely.

ROAD TOWN FAST FERRY Ferry Dock Road Town, Tortola Tel: 494-2323 The fastest, most reliable fleet from Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, to Road Town, Tortola.

Enjoy the comfort and speed of the Road Town Fast Ferry as they take you from the heart of St. Thomas, Charlotte Amalie, to the heart of Tortola, Road Town.

Other ferries bring you to the fringe of Tortola, West End, then require you to take a 15-minute, $15 cab ride into the centre of the island. Road Town Fast Ferry will save you time and money.

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DIRECTORY OF BVICCHA MEMBERS

The BVI Chamber of Commerce and Hotel Association (BVICCHA) has been serving the Virgin Islands’ business community for over 50 years. Its vision is to be the proactive voice of business and driving force for economic growth. The BVICCHA has made significant contributions over the past five decades through advocacy efforts, programmes such as Junior Achievers and the National Culinary Team, and signature events like the BVI Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival and the BVI Trade Show to facilitate the growth of small businesses. Members get access to member-only perks, exclusive advertising and networking opportunities, and exposure for their organisations. Resources include the Members-2-Members Discount Programme and business training, as well as development seminars to empower them for success.

info@bviccha.org www.bviccha.org

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY Accommodations & Travel • A Dream Come True Villa • Eustatia Corporation Ltd. • Hendo’s Hideout • Nanny Cay Resort & Marina • N.H.P. Limited • Peter Island Resort • The Property Network • Rosewood Little Dix Bay Resort • Saba Rock Company Resort Ltd. • Village Cay Hotel & Marina • White Bay Villas Advertising & Media • Adventures Unlimited Digital Image • Advertise It BVI • Belle Entertainment • Caribbean Printing Company Ltd. • Fresh Mango Technologies Limited

• Inside Out • Jahphix Designs • JTV Advertising & Broadcasting Network • Media One Production Company • Your Advertisement Sign Here Arts, Culture & Entertainment • AFLAIR Ltd. • Creative Creations • FAM Worldwide • Inside Out • Social Butterfly Automotive & Marine • Caribbean Image Tours Ltd. • Doyle Sailmakers BVI Ltd. • Erin Rentals • Kewl Water Charters • Manuel Reef Marina Ltd. • Offshore Sailing School, Ltd., Inc. • Peter Island Resort • Regency Yacht Vacations • VI Motors • Village Cay Hotel & Marina

The BVI Tourist Board

ABOUT BVICCHA

Business & Professional Services • A & A Services • ABM Corporate Services Ltd. • AIM Consulting • Analytyx Accounting Solutions • BDO Limited (BVI) • BVI International Arbitration Centre • Caribbean Arbitrators • Deliver VI • Golden Journey Concierge Services • Hire BVI • HR Solutions • IAM Jet Centre Ltd. • Incline Business Group • Integral Professional Services (BVI) Limited • Ivy George Global • Land & Sea Tours • Louis Potter & Associates • M&E Business Services • NorthStar Consulting • O’Neal Alexander Consulting Group Ltd. • Peter Island Resort • RKG Solutions Consulting Group • SILK Academy Ltd. • Smith & Associates Inc. • Synergy HR VI • VI Customs Brokers & Logistics • Village Cay Hotel & Marina Computers & Telecommunications • Caribbean Cellular Telephone • Digicel (BVI) Ltd. • Fresh Mango Technologies Limited • Infinite Solutions Ltd. • RKG Solutions Consulting Group Construction Equipment & Contractors • BCQS • General Group Services • Harris Construction • Innovative Design & Solutions • INTEGRAL Construction • JOMA (Properties) Ltd. • KAD Pool Services Limited • KDL Designs • OBM International Ltd. • Roger Downing and Partner Company Ltd. • Skelton Development Limited • Smith & Associates Inc. • STO Enterprise Ltd.

• Tiger Qi Architecture • Tortola Concrete Limited • Triple A Trucking Family, Community & Civic Organisation • The BVI Charter Yacht Society • BVI Finance • Marine Association of the BVI

Penn Medical Center Premier Dental Sage Roots Smile Dental Spa Therapy Works

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Home & Garden • Clarence Thomas Ltd. • Tortola Carpet

• • • •

• • • • •

Finance & Insurance • Abacus Trust & Management Services Ltd. • Aleman, Cordero, Galindo & Lee Trust (BVI) Ltd. • Alphonso Warner Insurance Agency Ltd. • Analytyx Accounting Solutions • Banco Popular de Puerto Rico • Bank of Asia (BVI) Ltd. • BDO Limited (BVI) • BVI Finance • Caribbean Insurers Ltd. • CIBC First Caribbean International Bank • Coralisle Insurance (BVI) Ltd. • Coverdale Trust Services Ltd. • Gold Leaf Consulting Limited • HLB Trinity (BVI) Ltd. • The Insurance Store Ltd. • Integral Professional Services (BVI) Limited • Intertrust Corporate Services (BVI) Limited • Kalo (BVI) Ltd. • Nagico Insurance • National Bank of the Virgin Islands Ltd. • Nerine Trust Company (BVI) Ltd. • Republic Bank (British Virgin Islands) Ltd. • S.S. Accounting & Consulting Services Ltd.

Legal • ABM Corporate Services Ltd. • Aleman, Cordero, Galindo & Lee Trust (BVI) Ltd. • BVI International Arbitration Centre • Conyers Dill & Pearman • Hunte & Co. • Kobre & Kim (BVI) LP. • Lanx Lancis BVI • Lavonna Burrows DBA Burrows & Co. BVI • Samuels Richardson & Co. • Silk Legal (BVI) Inc.

Government & Education • The Bookshelf • Green VI • H. Lavity Stoutt Community College • Mosquito Hill Holdings Ltd. • Save A Life CPR + First Aid Training • SkyRoMa Consultants • University of the West Indies

Real Estate, Moving & Storage • Erin Rentals • JOMA (Properties) Ltd. • REMAX Best Priced Properties • Tropic Aisle Development

Health Care • BrivaDerm Ltd. • Eureka Medical Clinic • Five Doctors Medical and Wellness Services • Medicure Ltd.

Manufacturing, Production & Wholesale • Caribbean Mountain Coffee • East Caribbean Salt & Soap Co. • P3, Paper Plastic Products • Supa Valu Ltd. • TICO Wine & Spirits Merchants Ltd. • Tropics Alkaline Water Personal Services & Care • Corea’s Business Services Ltd. • Crown Galore • Little Amaris Daycare • Mosquito Hill Holdings Ltd. • S & D Security & Alarm Systems • T’Jara’s Natural Beauty • Top Priority Security Company

Restaurants, Food & Beverages • Aromas Cigar & Martini Bar • Caribbean Mountain Coffee • The Chill Zone • Coconut Lounge • D’Coal Pot BVI Restaurant • The French Deli • Hendo’s Hideout • Island Eats, Treats & Sips • Island Flavours • Island Tacos

• • • • • •

JBlakxx Jerk BBQ Ltd. Koncepts Hospitality Consulting La Dolce Vita Ltd. ManJack Creamery The Mariner Yacht Club Hotel Ltd. Nanny Cay Resort & Marina Omar’s Café Peter Island Resort Road Town Wholesale Trading Ltd. Road Town Wholesale Trading Ltd./Riteway Food Markets Rosewood Little Dix Bay Resort Supa Valu Ltd. TICO Wine & Spirits Merchants Ltd. Tradewinds Mexican Grill Village Cay Hotel & Marina

Shopping & Specialty Retail • 5 Girls Ltd. • Aeropost • Bella Blooms • The Bookshelf • Building Blocks • Caribbean Cellars Ltd. • CaribSupply (Tortola) Ltd. • Clarence Thomas Ltd. • Fresh Start Office Solutions • House of Luxury • Infinity Jewelry Enterprises BVI Limited • Island Services (BVI) Ltd. • JLS Brokerage BVI • Khoy’s Mailing and Delivery Service • LJD VI BLOCK • Medicure Ltd. • My Island Hub • Nutmeg Designs • Quality Machine Services Ltd. • Road Town Wholesale Trading Ltd./Riteway Food Markets • Sage Roots • TICO Wine & Spirits Merchants Ltd. • Tortola Pier Park Ltd. • Trefle • Tropical Shipping (Tortola BVI) • Urban VI Ltd. • Vanterpool Enterprises Ltd. Sports & Recreation • Adagio Dance Studio Inc. • BVISUPCO Transportation • Bouncers Taxi & Transport Services • Burke’s Garage Ltd. • ITGO Car Rental

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

ACCOMMODATIONS ELM’s Restaurant ..........................................125 The Inn at Cornucopia .................................124 Leverick Bay Resort & Marina ................... 123 Maria’s by the Sea ........................................ 127 Oil Nut Bay ....................................................... 17 Quito’s Luxury Inn ........................................126 Sebastian’s on the Beach !Hotel & Restaurant .......................... 101, 125 Sol y Sombra .................................................8, 9 Virgin Gorda Village Hotel ......................... 122 ACTIVITIES & ATTRACTIONS Aristocat Daysails ........................................... 21 Blue Water Divers ......................................... 47 BVI Watersports ............................................ 45 Dive BVI ............................................................ 47 VOYAGE Charters.......................................... 53 DINING & NIGHTLIFE TORTOLA Aromas Cigar & Martini Bar ........................ 97 D’Coal Pot Restaurant .................................. 96 ELM’s Restaurant ..........................................125 Island Pot ....................................................... 108 Jeremy’s Kitchen ........................................... 98 Myett’s Garden Grill .....................................103 Naturally Tasty by RotiMan .......................103 Omar’s Coffee House.................................... 94 Omar’s Dockside @ Nanny Cay................. 99

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VISIT THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 2023

Paradise Club Lounge, !Bar & Restaurant ....................................... 95 Peg Legs Restaurant and !Beach Bar .................................................... 96 Quito’s Gazebo ............................................. 100 Tradewinds Mexican Grill ............................ 96 Trellis Bay Market .......................................... 89 Tropical Fusion Beach Bar & Grill .............101 Village Cay Restaurant................................. 98 VIRGIN GORDA Bath & Turtle/Chez Bamboo .................... 109 CocoMaya Restaurant ...................................111 Dove Restaurant ............................................ 93 Fischer’s Cove Beach !Hotel & Restaurant ................................. 108 JOST VAN DYKE Foxy’s Taboo...................................................113 Foxy’s Tamarind Bar ..............................64, 113 Hendo’s Hideout ............................................ 63 ANEGADA Big Bamboo.....................................................115 Pink Flamingo .................................................116 Sid’s Restaurant .............................................116 REAL ESTATE Christie’s International Real Estate/ !Smiths Gore ..................................................15

Coldwell Banker Real Estate BVI ............. 135 Sotheby’s International Realty ..................133 SHOPPING Beach House ....................................................84 Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park ...........6, 7 Diamonds International ..................................11 HIHO ...................................................................86 House of Luxury ................................................... .......................2, 3, 4, 5, 85, Inside Back Cover Infinity Jewelry .................................................13 Rolex Boutique at A.H. Riise ............................ ........................................... Inside Front Cover, 1 SPA & WELLNESS Driftwood Spa ............................................... 129 TRANSPORTATION Advance Auto Rental & Repairs............... 139 Hertz Dollar Thrifty Car Rental ................. 139 Ocean Dreams .................................................57 Road Town Fast Ferry...................................59 TRAVEL SERVICES British Virgin Islands !Tourist Board ..............................Back Cover Golden Journey Concierge ......................... 141