Destination
British Virgin Islands

 
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Overview

Some may be aware that Norman Island, one of over 50 idyllic islands that constitute the archipelago of the British Virgin Islands, was supposedly the location that Robert Louis Stevenson based Treasure Island on. Today’s visitors might not stumble across swashbuckling pirates or half-concealed troves of treasure, but they will find a highly prized booty of soft sand and gentle, teal waters.

The British Virgin Islands comprise sloping hills of green and the impressive Mount Sage National Park, but are really renowned for the nautical thrills on offer. Year-round winds provide exceptional conditions for sailing, and the British Virgin Islands happily celebrate this asset by staging frequent regattas and fairs. In addition, extensive coral reefs and famous shipwrecks are enough to entice anyone into the waters for a dive. For travellers who prefer to watch the sea rather than get into it, there is the breathtaking chance of spotting dolphins and whales criss-crossing the surface.

Jost Van Dyke is the party island, where holidaymakers and locals can shake their bodies to calypso and gulp down tasty cocktails.

Paradise does come at a cost. Overall, the British Virgin Islands are quite an expensive destination. But, for some, this is the necessary price of saving a Caribbean gem from over-commercialisation. If this is the intention, the British Virgin Islands are, for now, a resounding success.

 
eneral Information
 
Area

153 sq km (59 sq miles).

 
Population

22,200 (UN estimate 2006).

 
Population Density

176.5 per sq km.

 
Capital

Road Town, Tortola. Population: 9,400 (2004 estimate).

 
Government

British Overseas Territory since 1672.

 
Language

English.

 
Religion

Mainly Christian, including Methodist (45%), Anglican (21%) and Roman Catholic (6%).

 
Time

 
Social Conventions

The British Virgin Islands remain linked to the British Commonwealth, and the islanders reflect many British traditions and customs. The development of tourism proceeds with great caution; hence the unspoilt charm of these islands and cays remains the chief attraction. The pace of life is very easygoing. Shaking hands is the customary form of greeting. Dress is informal for most occasions apart from the formal requirements of some hotels. Beachwear should be confined to the beach or poolside.

 
Electricity

110 volts AC, 60Hz. American two-pin plugs are used.

 
Head of Government

Minister Orlando Smith since 2003.

 
Head of State

HM Queen Elizabeth II, represented locally by Governor David Pearey since 2006.