What put the British Virgin Islands on your destination radar? The tropical climate offers year-round highs in the 80s with plenty of sunshine and a moderating breeze! Picturesque beaches encircle the island, so one is always nearby. World-class sailing and diving are top things to do in the Virgin Islands. You’ll have the opportunity to mingle with visitors from around the world in a relaxed atmosphere.

All of these are great reasons for considering a vacation to the British Virgin Islands, aka the BVI.

The BVI are east of Puerto Rico and north of the US Virgin Islands. Made up of 60 Caribbean islands, the British Virgin Islands are an overseas territory of the UK. The dreary history of slavery is the backdrop to a majority population with African-Caribbean heritage. English is the national language, and a local dialect is also spoken.

Life is a Breeze in the British Virgin Islands

Temperatures average in the 80s (upper 20s C) with light winds to cool your shoulders, fill your sail and waft the intoxicating sea air to wherever you are. Tourism is one of the pillars of the economy along with financial services. Here’s a bit more about the culture of the BVI:

• British Virgin Islands Cuisine: Caribbean dishes featuring seafood and vegetables are most common, but the people here have diverse tastes that include other meats and vegetarian recipes too. BVI restaurants serve up dishes ranging from American to Continental to British to Asian. After a delicious meal, you can sample locally distilled rum.
• BVI Music: African and European music have collided in the British Virgin Islands to create a unique sound known as fungi – and we’re not talking mushrooms. Many other genres can be heard in the clubs and music venues of the BVI too.
• BVI Sports: Sailing in the British Virgin Islands is the favorite sport, and relatively calm waters and consistent breezes are ideal. Festivals, especially the Spring Regatta, blend sailing with the atmosphere of Carnival.

Things to Do in the British Virgin Islands

This overview of activities in the British Virgin Islands will help you prepare to make the most of your time vacation. The four largest islands offer most of the action. They are Tortola, Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda and Anegada.

• Take the Plunge: Snorkeling and scuba diving are huge attractions in the British Virgin Islands. There are many outfitters competing for your business. If you need diving instruction, it is available from certified PADI scuba pros. Diving establishments offer snorkeling guides too.
• Tour by Boat: A seat is waiting for you on a range of watercraft from a catamaran to motorized yacht. Make new friends during the adventure, or charter a boat for just yourself and family or friends.
• Take Pictures of Birds & Beasts You’ve Never Seen Before: There are 171 species of birds in the BVI. Some found there in winter might drop by your backyard in summer. However, many tropical species add variety. Wildlife parks allow you to observe other critters you might not see anywhere else.

• Trek the Hills of the BVI: Favorite hikes take you to Virgin Gorda Peak, Biras Creek and to the Trail of Palms, which a recent traveler from Scotland said provided, “A wonderful vista of Virgin Gorda.”
• Troll for Trophy Fish:  One seasoned angler of many seas called it, “The best fishing trip we’ve ever experienced.” The blue marlin is a treasured gamefish, but there are cooters, white marlin and other species ready to give you a tussle. The best part is that many of the local restaurants will cook your fish for you the same day! Fly fishing is offered by some outfitters too.
• Take it Easy – Take it Very Easy: Life is unhurried in the BVI. The best Virgin Island beaches for chilling include Apple Bay, Cam Bay, Little Jost Van Dyke and The Baths. Spas pamper and resorts render outstanding service with a sunny smile. When your highest priority is to get out of the grind and lose the stress, the BVI is a smart choice.

Who Should Consider Visiting the British Virgin Islands?

If you enjoy being where the action is, rather than a smaller destination that feels out of the loop, then the BVI will satisfy. All the best the Caribbean has to offer is yours to enjoy in the British Virgin Islands.

Helpful Links

British Virgin Islands Tourism Board: http://www.bvi.gov.vg/departments/bvi-tourist-board

British Virgin Island History: https://www.iexplore.com/articles/travel-guides/caribbean/british-virgin-islands/history-and-culture