Short
Description Rising up like green gemstones out of the sparkling deep blue sea, you immediately know why the British Virgin Islands are known as the "cruising capital of the Caribbean."
Destination
Highlights Largely Rolling Hills and Beaches Dozens of Snorkelling Sites Scuba Diving Sailing Underwater Cliffs Sea Bird Sanctuaries
Local
Weather Climate: Subtropical; summer, 26-31°C, winter, 22-28°C. Average rainfall is 27 inches.
Other
Destinations
Description Rising up like green gemstones out of the sparkling deep blue sea, you immediately know why the British Virgin Islands are known as the "cruising capital of the Caribbean." From the highest peaks on Virgin Gorda of 1,400 feet and Tortola at 1,700 feet you descend through dense tropical foliage and blooming hibiscus to the lowland desert covered with boulders and huge cacti. Coming in for a landing at Beef Island Airport, white sails and bays with anchored cruisers dot Sir Francis Drake Channel as far as the eye can see. Once on the ground, you too will want to feel the wind in your hair and taste the salt spray in the air. Located 60 miles east of Puerto Rico and just a short sail from St. Thomas, Laurance Rockefeller and other wealthy Americans discovered the perfect weather, powdery sand beaches, and constant trade winds were ideal for sailing, launching the BVIs into the tourism industry.
Local Information The U.S. dollar is the main currency in use on the islands, including the British Virgin Islands. Most establishments honor major credit cards and travelers checks, some offer automatic teller machines compatible with stateside bank cards. When using travelers checks be sure to follow the guidelines from the issuing bank. Major banks with automatic teller machines can be found in the Virgin Islands, they include; Chase, Citibank, Scotia bank & Banco Popular.
Temporary driver's licences can be obtained by persons with valid licences from most countries. Driving is on the left, and there is a 40mph speed limit. Persons under 18 are not permitted to drive.
Airport
Information Beef Island airport, although small, receives aircraft from Antigua, Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, and the US. There are airports on Virgin Gorda and Anegada. Within the country, light aircraft ply between the islands.
Entry
Requirements Effective December 31, 2006, the U.S. Department of State and Homeland Security requires all travelers to and from the Americas, the Caribbean, and Bermuda to have a passport or other accepted document that establishes the bearer's identity and nationality. This information should be used only as a guideline and non-U.S. citizens should contact the airline they are traveling on, or their local consulate regarding the specific entry requirements that apply to their nationality.
