• Capital: Road Town, Tortola
• Population: 21 730
• Area: 59 sq mi
• Main Islands: Jost Van Dyke, Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada
• Language: English

This narrow constellation of more than 40 islands and cays, many uninhabited, which comprises the British Virgin Islands, was first explored by Columbus in 1493. In the 1600’s they became a favorite lair of pirates lying in wait to pounce upon lumbering Spanish galleons laden with the gold and silver of the New World. Road Town became infamous as a virtual pirate community – much like Port Royal in Jamaica. By 1672 the English had consolidated their rule in the islands, introducing a prosperous plantation economy based on sugar and cotton. This prosperity ended with the abolishment of slavery in 1834. In 1956 the islands became a Crown Colony. Today tourism is the economic mainstay of the islands. 

 Anegada Here is the third largest reef in the world, Horseshoe Reef, extending 11 miles and the site of hundreds of shipwrecks, making it a diver’s paradise. Twelve miles long, there are hotel accommodations and campgrounds. Transportation to the island is by air or water taxi. Four miles northwest of Tortola is the sleepy settlement of Jost Van Dyke – sleepy by day but a favorite of party-goers from nearby islands at night with numerous beach bars and pig roasts.  Close by are excellent swimming and snorkeling spots for daytrips – Little Jost Van Dyke, Green Cay, and Sandy Cay.

 Virgin Gorda is where the luxury trend in the BVI began with the Rockefeller backed resort Little Dix Bay. Yachtsmen are drawn to Virgin Gorda because of its ideal harbors and superb sailing conditions.

 The British Virgin Islands offer the visitor a choice of accommodations from small informal get-away-from-it-all hotels and cottages to the most upscale luxury resorts.

Its tranquil  beaches, cays, and crystal waters are ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling, presenting a spectacular view of colorful coral and tropical fish.

 Always a sailor’s paradise, rental boats are available at the various marinas located throughout the islands.

 Restaurants offer excellent local and international cuisine, fish being a speciality.