Tortola is, in a word, incredible! Unlike some of the other islands that make up the Caribbean, Tortola is a true tropical paradise of lush mountains, dramatic seascapes, unspoiled beaches and friendly people. We’ve been told by a couple of our consultants who are die-hard, annual Tortola visitors and former St. Thomas residents that Tortola is what St Thomas used to be about 30 years ago – peaceful, quiet, untouched. There must be something to it.
Tortola is very, very mountainous with sweeping views of nearby islands on every side. So mountainous is Tortola that the airstrip had to be built on the neighboring Beef Island, the northern limits of which are flatter in comparison and largely coralline in make-up. Beef Island is connected to Tortola by toll bridge, the earliest in the entire Caribbean.
You can’t go wrong with the view, the beach or the lazy days of shuffling along the sugary white sands with your painkiller (Tortola’s official drink) in hand and nothing on your mind. Evenings are meant to be spent in a quiet, torch-lit, waterfront restaurant or local pubs with your traveling companions and/or newly found island friends – on Tortola you WILL find island friends. Tortola is civilized and refined, a testament to its British history.
Christopher Columbus discovered the British Virgin Islands and named the entire group of islands Las Once Mil Virgenes, after St. Ursula and her legendary 11,000 martyred companions.
In later years, the Spaniards passed through these waters seeking treasure, followed by the pirates who found the islands’ hidden coves and treacherous reefs to be the ideal base from which to prey on passing ships filled with riches. Later yet, the British established a plantation economy and developed sugar. The original sugar cane rum distillery is still operating in Cane Garden Bay and is well worth a visit. Today cacti, mango trees, hibiscus, bougainvillea, frangipani and wild tamarind dominate the arid hillsides, while mangroves and palm trees are found around the shores.
There are now around 14,000 inhabitants on the island. Even as the population grows and modern conveniences become more commonplace, the island’s people remain consistently warm and welcoming.
The British Virgin Islands, including Tortola, enjoys a stable government with both the United Party and the Virgin Islands Party dedicated to a democratic government. The British Virgin Islands are a Dependent Territory (colony) of Britain with self-governing status.
The government gives firm respect to the beaches and protection of the environment, which is supported by the residents and their conservation efforts. The governor, appointed by the queen of England, has limited powers, and these are concentrated on external affairs and local security. The local legislative council, with representatives from nine districts, administers all other matters. General elections are held every four years, and the political mood is serene.
Luxury villa options are fabulous and abundant in lush mountainside locations, while some are closer to the beach. Beachfront homes are much less common on Tortola. Some of the best villas in the VI are found here and the lack of resort growth affords villa travelers some of the best views in the Caribbean from mountainside perches surrounded by lush, green vegetation, colorful flora and cooling tradewind breezes. You’ll also find markets catering to the needs of the villa traveler (See Ample Hamper in the Tortola Shopping section).
Excellent private chefs are available, as are well-trained nannies. As an island that serves as the yachting capital of the VI, there’s surely no shortage of wonderful restaurant and nightlife options. Diving and snorkeling options will make your underwater experience just as magnificent as your land-based opportunities. Scuba divers come here to explore the RMS Rhone, a mail ship that sank off Salt Island in an 1867 hurricane. There’s even a “Dolphin Experience” option (swim with the Dolphins). Please give careful consideration to the environmental ramifications of such an activity before you decide to participate. We offer the following New York Times article for consideration : http://www.oceania.org.au/soundnet/features/peace.html and this article detailing the sewage (yes, sewage!) problems at the facility: http://www.dolphinproject.org/?pageid=21315 We suggest that if you really want to swim with the Dolphins while in the BVI, simply don a mask and fins and head out into the deeper waters to enjoy the experience of swimming with non-captive dolphins. Both you and the dolphins will have a happier and healthier experience.
The currency of the B.V.I. is the U.S. dollar. Major credit cards and traveler’s checks are widely accepted as well. Please note that there is a 10 Cent stamp duty on all checks and traveler’s checks. The island offers one ATM in Spanish Town
The British Virgin Islands, including Virgin Gorda, enjoys a stable government with both the United Party and the Virgin Islands Party dedicated to a democratic government. The British Virgin Islands are a Dependent Territory (formerly referred to as a colony) of Britain with self-governing status. The government gives firm respect to the beaches and protection of the environment.
The U.S. dollar is the main currency in use on the islands, including the British Virgin Islands.
Weather:
The islands have a sub-tropical climate with high humidity, although temperatures are moderated by trade winds. Temperatures in summer average from 79 to 88° F (26 to 31°C) and between 72 and 82° F (22 and 28°C) in winter. Rainfall is erratic with occasional droughts.
About rain: the VI islands (both BVI and USVI) usually get a brief shower at least once a day, typically in very early morning hours while most people are still sleeping. Rain showers usually last only a few minutes at a time and can be a welcome respite to a hot, sunny day. Watching weather forecasts in anticipation of your trip is probably more frustrating than useful. Weather reports tend to show rain for every day of the week. This causes most travelers to panic with thoughts of a washed out vacation. You need to realize that the rain being forecasted is the 5 minute passing shower variety and you BVI vacation is very likely to be filled with warm, sunny days.
During the months of September and October, you should pay attention to weather reports in case of hurricane advisories. Hurricanes are usually predicted well in advance. Due to the chance that a hurricane could ruin your vacation during hurricane season, we recommend purchasing travel insurance if you will be traveling to the BVI during this time of year. If a hurricane strikes during your villa vacation, you will usually not be allowed to stay in your villa and are likely to be on your own in terms of determining where to take shelter or how to evacuate the island. For this reason, we recommend that you take the time to research shelter options in advance of your arrival if you plan to travel during hurricane season.
Although there is no way of flying directly into the British Virgin Islands (thankfully) on major North American carriers, airport landing strips do exist on the islands; combined with a few ferry services and private water taxi options, it is not difficult to get around. To get to Tortola , most travelers from North America and Europe connect via Puerto Rico or St. Thomas, US Virgin Island. From there, small island-hopper planes run by Air St. Thomas, Air Sunshine, American Eagle, Cape Air, and others, will take you directly to the airport on Tortola (Beef Island Airport).
From St Thomas to Tortola, ferry connections are efficient and run pretty much on schedule. Ferry options from St Thomas include:
Ferry services also operate amongst the BVIs. It’s easy and convenient to travel between islands on ferries. The link http://www.bviwelcome.com/ferries.html will provide inter-island ferry schedules and some rates. In order to board any of the ferries traveling between the USVI and BVI you must produce proof of Citizenship, such as a passport. In the absence of a passport, American & Canadian citizens may use either an original Birth Certificate, Voters Registration Card or a Green Card, plus one piece of photo ID.
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes to 1/2 hour before the scheduled departure time.
Departure times should be double checked with the ferry service to ensure that the run is scheduled for that day. (They may only run when traffic warrants and schedules will adjust for festivals, etc). Trip durations are sometimes slightly longer than listed on ferry company websites or quoted over the phone. Keep this in mind, especially when scheduling a ferry trip to connect with a flight. If you are running slightly late for your ferry, ask your taxi driver to radio to the ferry and ask if it can wait (if this works, tip your driver well). Taxi drivers and ferry operators are well connected
Senior Citizen Discounts apply in some cases. Your senior Citizen Card is required to receive any discounts offered.
Private water taxi service is an option to consider – check with Glenn at Cane Garden Bay Water Sports on the BVI Island of Tortola.
Consider Dohm’s Water Taxi (340-775-6501 or Email at
) for efficient, comfortable service between St Thomas and Tortola:
*Customs Fees not included in rates quoted. Rates are subject to change, so call for an up to date fare schedule. Standby/Waiting is $150 per hour. Fares listed below are based on one-way transfer.
West End, Tortola $200 5 person minimum $40 each additional person
Jost Van Dyke $200 5 person minimum $40 each additional person
Sandy Ground Jost $225 5 person minimum $45 each additional person
Nanny Cay Tortola $250 5 person minimum $50 each additional person
Road Town, Tortola $325 5 person minimum $65 each additional person
Guana Island $350 5 person minimum $70 each additional person
Peter Island/Norman $350 5 person minimum $70 each additional person
Maya Cove/Hodges Creek $375 5 person minimum $75 each additional person
Beef Island/Marina Cay/Cooper $400 5 person minimum $80 each additional person
Spanish Town, Virgin Gorda $450 5 person minimum $90 each additional person
Bitter End, Virgin Gorda $550 5 person minimum $110 each additional person
For current rates to the following destinations, please contact us directly at 284.495.2538 or 284.499.2663 or Email :
Helicopter Fleet Includes: The B222SP Twin Engine... is the Bell 222 "Special Performance" version of the well known "Airwolf" helicopter. It has two engines and has the capability to be flown at night and in all weather conditions (IFR) by a single pilot. It has luxury leather seating for 6 passengers and can travel at speeds up to 150 knots. Bell Helicopters are made in the USA.
The B206L LongRanger... can carry up to 6 passengers and because of its smoothness and reliability it offers an excellent photographic platform. Bell Helicopters are made in the USA.
Private airplane charter transfer:
Private Charter Flights to and from Tortola are available from (each way):
Island Birds, Inc. – 284-495-2002 : Offers choice of 2 Piper Aztecs and a Piper Navajo. The Aztec carries 5 passengers and has 2 large carpeted baggage compartments, each holding up to 150 pounds of luggage. The Navajo carries 7 passengers and has a carpeted luggage compartment in the nose. Luggage can also be stored in the cabin, behind the rear seats as well as the wing lockers. Our aircraft are equipped with first class interiors including leather seats and curtains. The Navajo is fully air conditioned.
Both aircraft have twin Lycoming engines and cruise at 160 knots (184 mph). All are fully radar and GPS equipped. Island Birds operates under a certificate and is closely checked by the FAA (U.S. Federal Aviation Administration). Safety briefings and briefing cards are as required by the FAA, and, although not required, all aircraft are equipped with life rafts.
Flights are also available to and from a variety of other islands.
No matter how you arrive into the BVI:
Entry requirements for Americans: US passport holders require a valid passport or a birth certificate together with an official photo ID. No visa is required for stays of up to six months. Entry requirements for UK nationals: UK passport holders need a passport, but no visa is necessary for a stay of up to three months.
Entry requirements for Canadians: Canadian passport holders require a valid passport or a birth certificate together with an official photo ID. No visa is required for stays of up to three months. Entry requirements for Australians: Australian passport holders need a passport, but no visa is necessary for a stay of up to three months.
Entry requirements for South Africans: South Africans need a passport, but no visa is necessary for stays of up to 14 days.
Entry requirements for New Zealanders: New Zealand nationals require a passport, but no visa is necessary for stays of up to three months.
Entry requirements for Irish nationals: Irish nationals need a passport, but no visa is necessary for stays of up to 14 days.
Passport/Visa Note: Travelers need a return or onward ticket and all the documents required for their next destination, as well as sufficient funds.
Note: Passport and visa requirements are liable to change at short notice. Travellers are advised to check their entry requirements with their embassy or consulate.
Local Customs:
It is considered impolite to take photographs of the local people without asking their permission beforehand. Every conversation should begin with the greeting “good day” or “good morning” or “good afternoon” or “good night” (as opposed to good evening, which isn’t typically used) and a friendly smile. Conversations are slow and relaxed. Due to the islands conservative British heritage, there is a dress code of conservative clothing. Light cotton dresses and light jackets and ties for formal wear and typical tropical wear during the day.
Transportation:
Renting a car is a good way of exploring Tortola for a day or for maintaining your own easy schedule for the duration of your visit to the island. Though taxi service on Tortola is generally reliable, it is an impractical way of seeing the island if you plan on making frequent sightseeing or beach stops. With an abundance of secluded coves and peaceful beaches flanking the main Tortola route to entice you, the draw of these stops may make you wish you had rented a car, if you didn’t. Renting a car on Tortola will allow you to discover all of the island's hidden jewels at your own leisurely pace without the worry of depleting your budget with taxi service fees. And, since you are planning to rent a villa and “live like a local”, you should seriously consider continuing this theme with car rental. Go for it!
A variety of rental options are available on Tortola, including compact cars, four wheel drives and open-air jeeps. Check with your villa agent to see if they have negotiated discounts with rental agencies. Upon arrival on Tortola, your local rental representative will usually meet you at the ferry dock or airport and can then take you to the rental car agent before escorting you, in you rental car, to your villa.
Car Rental Agents:
D & D Car Rental Free delivery & pick-up available from villas, ferries & airport Tel: 1 284 495 7676 Tel: 1 284 495 4765 Tel: 1 284 494 0774 East End Fax: 1 284 494 8241 Email:
Dollar Rent A Car Tel: 1 284 494 6093 Fax: 1 284 494 7837 E-Mail:
Http:// rentacarbvi.com
International Car Rentals Tel: 1 284 494 2516 Fax: 1 284 494 4715 E-mail:
http:// www.carrentals.vg
Denzil Clyne Jeeps & Car Rentals Free pick up & delivery to surrounding areas. Tel: 1 284 495 4900 Tel: 1 340 776 6715 St. John Fax: 1 284 495 3399 E-Mail:
National Car Rental : located at the airport. Tel: 1 284 494 3197 Fax: 1 284 494 4085 E-mail:
Speedy’s Ferry Service & Car Rental: Tel: 1 284 494 6154 Tortola Fax: 1 284 495 5755 Email:
ITGO Car Rental Tel: 284 494 5150
Limousines:
Royal Rides Limousines Road Town (284) 494-8342
Driving Requirements:
Valid BVI driving licenses are required by all those seeking to drive in The BVI.
A temporary BVI driving license can be obtained from the Traffic Licensing Office or Car Rental Agencies provided a valid Driver's License from another country can be produced. If a person cannot produce a valid driver's license he/she must apply to take the driving tests, practical and written, which may take some weeks to be scheduled. Persons eighteen and over may drive a private car, after passing the driver's tests, and they should be covered by the appropriate insurance.
A driver's license can be obtained for three years for $35, and for one year for $15. Drivers over the age of seventy must provide the completed health certificate, signed by a medical practitioner, before their driving license is renewed, each year.
If a person cannot produce a valid driver's license he/she must apply to take the driving tests, practical and written, which may take some weeks to be scheduled. Persons eighteen and over may drive a private car, after passing the driver's tests. They should be covered by the appropriate insurance.
A driver's license can be obtained for three years for $35, and for one year for $15. Drivers over the age of seventy must provide the completed health certificate, signed by a medical practitioner, before their driving license is renewed, each year.
Remember, you must be at least 21 years old to rent a car and driving is on the left side of the road in The BVI.
Taxis are also readily available and are a good way to get a tour of the island and make friends with a local, your driver. Local taxis drivers are one of the best resources for island information and activity information. Your taxi driver can also make arrangements for activities, usually done by simply calling his/her relative. In the BVI, it feels like one big, happy family! Taxi services are available, and there are set fares. Drivers are required to display, in a conspicuous place in their vehicles, a copy of the schedule of fares. There are taxi associations which operate a dispatch system, which the hirer is requested to abide by, but in some cases the hirer may ask for a specific driver or vehicle, at a specific time.
Typical Villa Arrangements:
Security Deposits:
The majority of the villas do require a security deposit to be paid along with payment for the actual villa. However, this policy can vary according to the villa, the agent or the location. In the BVI, we have discovered that the policis tend to vary, so you are best instructed to check with your rental agent. Your security deposit covers telephone usage, which takes longer to reconcile for international locations, such as the BVI. For this reason, it may take 2 months for your deposit to be returned to allow for the international carriers to submit bills to the agent for phone usage.
Staff:
The majority of the villas on Tortola do not include in their rental rates the services of a full staff (chefs, full-time maids, drivers, etc.). A few villas, however, do have chefs included. Private chefs and provisioning services are widely available on Tortola, whether for one night’s meal or full service for the duration of your trip. Visit our section on this option for more detail.
Tipping of the staff:
It is appropriate to tip the villa’s housekeeper for excellent service. General guidelines call for $2 to $4 per guest/ per day.
Tortola’s villas are not fully staffed and are usually only services by limited maid service once or several times per week. Gardeners and pool service teams may make an appearance at some point during your visit, but they’ll announce their arrival prior to entering the property and will make haste so as not to interfere in your enjoyment of your luxury villa. If the arrival of pool service staff comes at a bad time and you would like for them to return at a different time, please call your agent and advise of such. You may also politely ask the staff to return later. This is usually not a problem.
If you are interested in augmenting the staff with a chef, driver or other staff member, consult your villa agent for suggestions or visit our villa forums for suggestions from other travelers or locals.
Villa rentals in the BVI are subject to a 7% Government Hotel Tax.
Villa Agents/Property Managers:
Luxury villas on Tortola may be rented by more than one rental agent. In some cases, rentals are handled directly by the owner. We are delighted with the number of luxury properties and professional rental agents representing. Please visit our Villa Agent review section for reviews on services offered by Tortola agents or those representing Tortola properties. Also visit our forum to have your questions answered by travelers who have gone before you.
Private Chefs/Catering/Provisioning:
Here is a list of recommended chefs on Tortola:
Chef Steph (Ms. Stephanie Shaw): Phone: 284.494.8669 or e-mail
Donna Arter: Phone: 284.495.1677 or e-mail
Diana Flynn: Phone: 284.495.4348 or e-mail
or www.di-namiccatering.com Diana is the former chef of the exclusive private island of Little Thatch.
Lisa Mead: Phone: 284.499.8356 or Fax 284.495.9348 or e-mail
Shyril Smith: Phone: 284.494.1946 or e-mail
Note: it is imperative that you let your agent know about any catering, provisioning arrangements you have made in order for your chef to have access to the villa prior to you arrival, if warranted.
Restaurants:
On Tortola, local seafood is plentiful, and although other fresh ingredients are scarce, the island's chefs are a creative lot, who apply genius to whatever the weekly supply boat delivers. Contemporary American dishes prepared with a Caribbean influence are very popular. The fancier, more expensive restaurants have dress codes: long pants and collared shirts for men, and elegant, casual resort wear for women. Though outdoor dining is a lovely way to enjoy an evening, remember to consider the mosquitoes and spray yourself with repellant before leaving your villa. Also, don’t wear perfume if you’ll be dining al fresco.
Check with each restaurant regarding credit card acceptance and make dinner reservations prior to 4:00pm.
Brandywine Bay (Italian $20 to $30 ) Address: Sir Francis Drake Hwy.,east of Road Town, Brandywine BayPhone: 284/495-2301 Candlelit outdoor tables have sweeping views of neighboring islands, and owner Davide Pugliese prepares foods the Tuscan way: grilled with lots of fresh herbs. The remarkable menu can include homemade mozzarella, beef carpaccio, grilled local swordfish, and a grilled veal chop with ricotta and sun-dried tomatoes; it always includes duck with a berry sauce. The wine list is excellent, and the lemon tart and the tiramisu are irresistible. Reservations essential. AE, MC, V. Closed Sun. No lunch.
C&F Restaurant (Caribbean $12 to Over $30) Address: Off Canaan Rd., Purcell Estate, Road Town Phone: 284/494-4941 Crowds head to this casual spot for the best barbecue in town (chicken, fish, and ribs), fresh local fish prepared your way, and excellent curries. Sometimes there's a wait for a table, but it's worth it. The restaurant is just outside Road Town, on a side street past the Moorings and Riteway. Reservations not accepted. AE, D, MC, V. No lunch.
CafeSito (Eclectic $8 to $30) Address: Wickhams Cay I, Waterfront Dr., Road Town Phone: 284/494-7412 Don't be put off by the pedestrian decor. The chef at this shopping-center spot conjures up delicious dishes that run from burgers to fresh lobster to chicken alfredo over pasta. It's the place to go for pizza smothered with everything from the usual cheese, tomato, and fresh herbs, to chicken and bacon. In the winter season, the staff delivers anything from its menu straight to your hotel. D, MC, V.
Calamaya (Eclectic $8 to $20) Address: Hodge's Creek Marina, Blackburn Hwy Phone: 284/495-2126 Casual fare is the special of the day at this waterfront restaurant. You can always order a burger or lobster salad, and the grilled Cubano sandwich -- shrimp, ham, and pineapple on a baguette -- provides a tasty alternative. For dinner, try the spaghetti with Jamaican pesto, a new twist on an old favorite with cilantro, almonds, and spicy shredded chicken. AE, MC, V.
Capriccio di Mare (Italian $8 to $20) Address: Waterfront Dr., Road Town Phone: 284/494-5369 The owners of the well-known Brandywine Bay restaurant also run this authentic little Italian outdoor café. Stop by for an espresso, fresh pastry, toast Italiano (a grilled ham and Swiss cheese sandwich), a bowl of perfectly cooked linguine, or a crispy tomato and mozzarella pizza. Drink specialties include a Mango Bellini, an adaptation of the famous cocktail served at Harry's Bar in Venice. Reservations not accepted. D, MC, V. Closed Sun.
The Captain’s Table (Seafood $12 to $30) Address: Wickham's Cay I, Road Town Phone: 284/494-3885 Select the lobster you want from the pool, but be careful not to fall in -- it's in the floor right in the middle of the dining room. The menu also includes traditional escargots, fresh local fish, filet mignon with béarnaise sauce, duckling with berry sauce, and creative daily specials. Ceiling fans keep the dining room cool, but there are also tables on a breezy terrace overlooking the harbor. AE, MC, V. No lunch Sat.
Eclipse (Contemporary $12 to $30) Address: Fat Hog's Bay, East End Phone: 284/495-1646 This popular waterfront spot isn't much more than a terrace filled with tables, but you'll be caressed by the soft ocean breezes while you are impressed with the cuisine. The menu can best be described as Caribbean fusion cuisine. Sample several small dishes, including the cracked calamari, chèvre salad, tuna carpaccio as you order from the two-page grazing menu. Or if you prefer, dig into the spicy curries, fusion chicken, fresh grilled Anegada swordfish, and vegetarian dishes on the regular menu. MC, V. No lunch.
Garden Restaurant (Contemporary $12 to $30) Address: Long Bay Beach Resort, Long Bay Phone: 284/495-4252 Relax over dinner in this open-air restaurant at Long Bay Beach Resort. Tables are well spaced, offering enough privacy for intimate conversation. The menu changes daily. Appetizers might include garlicky escargots in pastry, Caribbean fish chowder, and shrimp fritters. Entrées run to tuna glazed with tamarind and honey, pan-roasted duck with a tamarind glaze, or a filet mignon served with mushrooms. There are always at least five desserts to choose from, which might include Belgian chocolate mousse, strawberry cheesecake, and a fluffy lemon and coconut cake. AE, D, MC, V. No lunch.
The Jolly Roger Restaurant (Eclectic $8 to $30) Address: West End, near the ferry terminal Phone: 284/495-4599 This casual, open-air restaurant near the West End ferry terminal is as popular with locals as it is with visitors. The menu ranges from burgers to rib-eye steak to the island favorite, local lobster. Try the savory conch fritters filled with tender local conch and herbs for a good start to your dinner. End it with a slice of sweet key lime pie. D, MC, V.
Le Cabanon (French $12 to Over $30) Address: Waterfront Dr., Road Town Phone: 284/494-8660 Birds and bougainvillea brighten the patio of this breezy French restaurant and bar, a popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Herring salad or the French onion soup are good appetizer choices. Then move on to monkfish in rosemary sauce, roasted pigeon, or beef tenderloin with green peppercorn sauce. Save room for such tasty desserts as chocolate mousse, coconut mousse, cherry cheesecake, or a platter of French cheeses. D, MC, V. Closed Sun.
Mrs. Scatliffe’s (Caribbean $12 to $20) Address: Carrot Bay Phone: 284/495-4556 The island's best West Indian cooking is served on the upstairs terrace of Mrs. Scatliffe's home. The food is freshly prepared; the baked chicken in coconut is meltingly tender, and the price includes side dishes like stewed okra. If you're lucky, after dinner you'll be treated to a lively fungi (bands that make music using household items -- washboards, spoons, and the like -- as instruments) performance by members of Mrs. Scatliffe's family. Reservations essential. No credit cards.
Myette’s (Caribbean $12 to $30) Address: Cane Garden Bay Phone: 284/495-9649 Right on the beach, this bilevel restaurant and bar is hopping day and night. Chowder made with fresh Anegada lobsters is the specialty, though the menu includes everything from hamburgers to fruit platters and vegetarian dishes to grilled shrimp, steak, and tuna. There's live entertainment on Friday, Sunday, and Monday nights. AE, MC, V.
The Pub (American/Casual, $8 to $30) Address: Waterfront Dr., Road Town Phone: 284/494-2608 At this lively waterfront spot tables are arranged along a terrace facing a small marina and the Road Town harbor. Hamburgers, salads, and sandwiches are typical lunch offerings. In the evening you can also choose grilled fish, steak, chicken, sautéed conch, or barbecued ribs. There's entertainment on weekends, and locals gather here nightly for spirited games at the pool table. Reservations not accepted. AE, D, MC, V. No lunch Sun.
Pusser’s Landing (American/Casual, $12 to $30) Address: Soper's Hole Phone: 284/495-4554 Yachters flock to this waterfront restaurant. Downstairs, from late morning to well into the evening, belly up to the outdoor mahogany bar or choose a waterside table for drinks, sandwiches, rotis, fish-and-chips, and pizzas. At dinnertime head upstairs for a harbor view and a quiet alfresco meal of grilled steak or local fish. AE, D, MC, V.
Pusser’s Road Town Pub (American/Casual, $8 to $20) Address: Waterfront Dr., Road Town Phone: 284/494-3897 Almost everyone who visits Tortola stops here at least once to have a bite to eat and to sample the famous Pusser's Rum Painkiller (fruit juices and rum). The menu includes cheesy pizza, shepherd's pie, fish-and-chips, and hamburgers. Dine inside in air-conditioned comfort or outside on the verandah, which looks out on the harbor. Thursday is nickel beer night. AE, D, MC, V.
*Quito’s Gazebo (Caribbean, $12 to $30) Address: Cane Garden Bay Phone: 284/495-4837 This rustic beachside bar and restaurant is owned and operated by Quito Rhymer, a multitalented BVI recording star, who plays the guitar and sings on Tuesday and Thursday; he performs with his reggae band on Friday and Saturday. The menu is Caribbean with an emphasis on fresh fish. Try the conch fritters or the chicken roti. Wednesday is fish-fry night, an event that brings out locals as well as tourists. AE, MC, V. Closed Mon. (*VV top pick for island atmosphere)
Sebastian’s Beach Bar and Restaurant (Contemporary, $12 to $30) Address: North Coast Rd., Apple Bay Phone: 284/494-4212 The waves practically lap at your feet at this beachfront restaurant on Tortola's north shore. The menu runs to seafood -- especially lobster, conch, and local fish -- but you'll also find dishes like ginger chicken and filet mignon. It's a perfect spot to stop for lunch on your round-the-island tour. Try the grilled dolphinfish sandwich, served on a soft roll with an oniony tartar sauce. Finish off with a cup of Sebastian's coffee spiked with home-brewed rum. AE, D, MC.
Skyworld (Contemporary, $20 to Over $30) Address: Ridge Rd., Joe's Hill Phone: 284/494-3567 The top of a mountain is the location for this casually elegant dining room. The filet mignon with a lemon grass and basil hollandaise sauce is an interesting and tasty combination. Other specialties include chicken with a passion-fruit sauce, grilled local fish, roast duck, rack of lamb with port wine sauce, and key lime pie. The very simple lunch menu is mostly hamburgers and sandwiches, though the restaurant can be crowded at this time when cruise ships dock. AE, MC, V.
Spaghetti Junction at Beach Club Terrace (Italian, $8 to $30) Address: Wickhams Cay 1, Road Town Phone: 284/494-4880 Popular with the boating crowd, this well-known island favorite is right near the cruise-ship dock. Join the crowd outside on the deck overlooking the marina or inside, where it's bustling. The menu includes fresh seafood and many nightly specials, but also house specialties such as penne with a spicy tomato sauce, spinach-mushroom lasagna, angel hair pasta with shellfish, and spicy jambalaya pasta. AE, MC, V. Closed Sun.
Sugar Mill Restaurant (Contemporary, $20 to $30) Address: Apple Bay Phone: 284/495-4355 Candles gleam, and the background music is peaceful in this romantic restaurant inside a 360-year-old mill. Well-prepared selections on the à la carte menu, which changes nightly, include pasta and vegetarian entrées. Roasted pumpkin soup or a curried lobster patty are good starters. House favorite entrées include the Jamaican jerk pork roast, the beef curry with poppadoms (Indian popovers), pan-seared roast duck, and fresh fish with spicy creole sauce. AE, MC, V. No lunch.
Virgin Queen (Eclectic, Under $8 to $20) Address: Fleming St., Road Town Phone: 284/494-2310 The sailing and rugby crowds head here to play darts, drink beer, and eat Queen's Pizza -- a crusty, cheesy pie topped with sausage, onions, green peppers, and mushrooms. Also on the menu is excellent West Indian and English fare: barbecued ribs with beans and rice, bangers and mash, shepherd's pie, chili, and grilled sirloin steak. MC, V. Closed Sun.
Drinking Water:
Tortola, like most other Caribbean islands, uses a cistern system to collect rain water at each home. Water is then filtered or chlorinated via the home’s private purification system and dispersed throughout the home’s taps. It is often said that a home’s water is only as good as the maintenance on the filtration system. As such, we always recommend using bottled water for drinking. We believe BVI systems to be adequate for ice making (drinking in restaurants) and produce washing. If you drink bottled water in the BVI, you are taking fair precaution and should be fine to drink iced/frozen drinks and eat salads without worry.
Communications/Tech Infrastructure:
Cable Modems are not used in the BVI or USVI. Internet access is via DSL or dial-up.
It is best to check with your rental agent for the most up to date information on this area of interest, as the tech infrastructure is ever-changing. Most luxury villas all are equipped with telephone lines and some have DSL access. You can be advised of the particular phone number of the property prior to your arrival.
You may make a credit card call from the BVIs by dialing 111 from any phone and following the recorded instructions on completing your call. You may rent a Boat phone via CCT (phone: 284.494.3825) at $10/day-a credit card would be required for necessary security deposit. There are Internet cafes in Road Town, Nanny Cay, Sopers Hole (West End) & Trellis Bay (Beef Island)-they all have PC’s or visitors may use their own laptop.
Sopers Hole: Phone: 284.495.4137
Coconut Telegraph: Nanny Cay Phone: 284.494.2512
Cyber Café: Trellis Bay Phone: 284.495.2447.
Cyber Corner: Road Town Phone: 284.494.2974
* Guests with their own laptop, but no Internet connection at the villa may obtain temporary Internet hook-up Cable & Wireless at 284.494.4444.
Shopping:
The British Virgin Islands aren't really a shopper's delight, but there are many shops showcasing original items -- from jams and spices to resort wear to excellent artwork. Don't be put off by an informal shop entrance; some of the best finds in the BVI lie behind the least impressive doors.
Many shops and boutiques on Tortola are clustered along and just off Road Town's Main Street. You can also shop in Road Town's Wickham's Cay area adjacent to the marina. In West End there's an ever-growing number of art and clothing stores at Soper's Hole.
*Ample Hamper (Food) Address: Village Cay Marina, Wickham's Cay I, Road Town Phone: 284/494-2494 (*VillaVantage pick for Villa food supplies) Ample Hamper has an outstanding collection of cheeses, wines, fresh fruits, and canned goods from the United Kingdom and the United States. You can have the management here provision your yacht or rental villa. www.amplehamper.com. Other locations: Soper's Hole Marina, West End, PHONE: 284/495-4684. Hodge's Creek Marina, East End, PHONE: 284/495-2247.
Arawak (Clothing) Address: On the dock, Nanny Cay Phone: 284/494-5240 Arawak carries gifts, batik sundresses, sportswear, and resort wear for men and women, sandals, accessories, and children's clothing. Other location: Hodge's Creek Marina, Hodge's Creek, PHONE: 284/495-1106
The Ark (Gifts) Address: Wickhams Cay II, behind Tico, Road Town Phone: 284/494-9151 The Ark sells a potpourri of gift items imported from Bali. The shelves are stocked with nicely scented soaps, colorful batik sarongs, and attractive candles
Bamboushay (Ceramics / Glass) Address: Nanny Cay Marina, Nanny Cay Phone: 284/494-0393 Bamboushay sells lovely handcrafted Tortola-made pottery in shades that reflect the sea.
Best of British (Food) Address: Wickhams Cay I, Road Town Phone: 284/494-3462 Best of British has lots of nifty British food sitting cheek and jowl with more American fare. Shop here for Christmas pudding in a can, frozen meat pies and delightful Christmas crackers filled with surprises.
BVI Post Office (Books/Printed Matter) Address: Main St., Road Town Phone: 284/494-3701 The BVI Post Office is a philatelist's dream. It has a worldwide reputation for exquisite stamps in all sorts of designs. Although the stamps carry U.S. monetary designations, they can be used for postage only in the BVI.
Caribbean Fine Arts Limited (Art Gallery) Address: Main St., Road Town Phone: 284/494-4240 Caribbean Fine Arts Ltd. carries Caribbean art, including original watercolors, oils, and acrylics, as well as signed prints, limited-edition serigraphs, and turn-of-the-20th-century sepia photographs.
Columbian Emeralds (Jewelry) Address: Wickham's Cay I, Road Town Phone: 284/494-7477 Columbian Emeralds International, a Caribbean chain catering to the cruise-ship crowd, is the source for duty-free emeralds plus other gems, gold jewelry, crystal, and china.
Flamboyance (Perfumes/Cosmetics) Address: Palm Grove Shopping Center, Waterfront Dr., Road Town Phone: 284/494-4099 Flamboyance carries designer fragrances and upscale cosmetics.
K-Marks (Food) Address: Waterfront Dr. at Port Purcell, Road Town Phone: 284/494-4649 K-Marks carries the usual supermarket stuff -- albeit a much smaller selection than you might find in your hometown supermarket.
Latitude 18 (Clothing) Address: Main St., Road Town Phone: 284/494-7807 Latitude 18° sells Maui Jim, Smith, Oakley, and Revo sunglasses; Freestyle, Quiksilver, and Roxy watches; and a fine collection of sandals, beach towels, sundresses, and sarongs. Other location: Soper's Hole Marina, West End.
Pusser’s Company Store (Clothing / Gifts) Address: Main St. at Waterfront Rd., Road Town Phone: 284/494-2467 Pusser's Company Store sells nautical memorabilia, ship models, marine paintings, an entire line of clothes (for both men and women), and gift items bearing the Pusser's logo, handsome decorator bottles of Pusser's rum, Caribbean books, Cuban cigars, and luggage. Other location: Soper's Hole Marina, West End, PHONE: 284/495-4599
Samarkand (Jewelry) Address: Main St., Road Town Phone: 284/494-6415 Samarkand crafts charming gold and silver pendants, earrings, bracelets, and pins -- many with an island theme: seashells, lizards, pelicans, palm trees. There are also reproduction Spanish pieces of eight (coins -- old Spanish pesos worth eight reals -- from sunken galleons).
Sea Urchin (Gifts / Clothing) Address: Waterfront, Columbus Centre, Road Town Phone: 284/494-2044 Sea Urchin is the source for local books, island jewelry, sunglasses, and resort wear -- print shirts and shorts, colorful swimsuits, cover-ups, sandals, T-shirts -- for the whole family. Other locations: Mill Mall, PHONE: 284/494-4108. Soper's Hole Marina, West End, PHONE: 284/495-4599.
Sunny Caribbee (Art Gallery) Address: Main St., Road Town Phone: 284/494-2178 Sunny Caribbee has many paintings, prints, and watercolors by artists from throughout the Caribbean.
Zenaida’s Of West End (Clothing) Address: Soper's Hole Marina, West End Phone: 284/495-4867 Zenaida's of West End displays the fabric finds of Argentine Vivian Jenik Helm, who travels through South America, Africa, and India in search of batiks, hand-painted and hand-blocked fabrics, and interesting weaves that can be made into pareus (women's wraps) or wall hangings. The shop also sells unusual bags, belts, sarongs, scarves, and ethnic jewelry.
Nightlife and The Arts:
Like any good sailing destination, Tortola has plenty of excellent watering holes. Many offer entertainment; check the weekly Limin' Times for schedules. The local beverage is called "painkiller," an innocent-tasting mixture of fruit juices and rums. It goes down smoothly but packs quite a punch, so give yourself a moment before you order another.
Bing’s Drop-In Bar (Dance Club) Address: Fat Hog's Bay, East End, Tortola Phone: 284/495-2627 Bing's Drop In Bar is a rollicking local hangout that has a DJ nightly in season.
Bomba’s Surfside Shack (Bar) Address: Apple Bay Phone: 284/495-4148 By day Bomba's Surfside Shack, which is covered with everything from crepe-paper leis to license plates to colorful graffiti, looks like a pile of junk; by night it's one of Tortola's liveliest spots and one of the Caribbean's most famous beach bars. Sunday at 4 there's always some sort of live music, and Wednesday at 8 the locally famous Blue Haze Combo shows up to play everything from reggae to Top 40 tunes. Every full moon, bands play all night long and people flock here from all over.
BVI Music Festival (Music Festival) Address: Cane Garden Bay Phone: 284/494-3134 Every May, hordes of people head to Tortola for the three-day BVI Music Festival to listen to reggae, gospel, blues, and salsa music by musicians from around the Caribbean and the U.S. mainland.
Ceta’s Place (Bar) Address: Capoon's Bay Phone: No phone. There's a fish fry and a live band every Thursday night at the informal Ceta's Place.
Classics in the Atrium (Music) Address: The Atrium at the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, Paraquita Bay Phone: 284/494-4994 Musicians from around the world perform in the Classics in the Atrium series from October to February each year. Past artists have included Britain's premier a cappella group, Black Voices; New Orleans jazz pianist Ellis Marsalis; and Keith Lockhart and the Serenac Quartet (from the Boston Pops Symphony).
Jolly Roger (Music Club) Address: West End Phone: 284/495-4559 At the Jolly Roger an ever-changing roster of local, U.S., and down-island bands plays everything from rhythm and blues to reggae to country to good old rock and roll Friday and Saturday -- and sometimes Sunday -- starting at 8.
Myette’s (Music Club) Address: Cane Garden Bay Phone: 284/495-9649 Local bands play at Myett's on Friday, Sunday, and Monday evenings, and there's usually a lively dance crowd.
The Pub (Bar) Address: Waterfront Dr., Road Town Phone: 284/494-2608 At The Pub there's an all-day happy hour on Friday, and Ruben Chinnery on the guitar Friday evenings from 6 to 9.
Pusser’s Road Town Pub (Bar) Address: Waterfront St., Road Town Phone: 284/494-3897 Thursdays are nickel beer nights at Pusser's Road Town Pub, and crowds gather here for courage (John Courage, that is) by the pint. Other nights try Pusser's famous mixed drinks -- Painkillers -- and snack on the excellent pizza. Check out the Web Cam Live Feed from Pusser’s here: http://www.pussers.com/outposts/webcams - just remember, if you leave your children behind when you visit Tortola, they might be at home watching you have a blast at Pusser’s – so try to look like you miss home when you’re there!
Quito’s Gazebo (Music Club) Address: Cane Garden Bay Phone: 284/495-4837 BVI recording star Quito Rhymer sings island ballads and love songs, accompanied by the guitar at Quito's Gazebo, his rustic beachside bar-restaurant. Solo shows are on Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday nights at 8:30; Saturday night a reggae band performs.
Sebastian’s (Music Club) Address: Apple Bay Phone: 284/495-4212 There's often live music at Sebastian's on Sunday evenings, and you can dance under the stars.
Families:
The natural wonders of Tortola are a delight for families and children of all ages. Children will especially enjoy the opportunity to spend uninterrupted time with their parents, who will surely move at a much slower pace. Close proximity to the beaches and water sports makes family fun a much more relaxed experience, allowing family members the ability to each enjoy their own activities without the need to separate for long periods. Tortola has long been regarded as a family beach destination offering a safe environment and friendly, laid back attitude surrounded by powdery white sandy beaches and calm, crystal clear turquoise waters. Family Friendly Activities Include:
J. R. O'NEAL BOTANIC GARDENS : Take a walk through this 4-acre showcase of lush plant life. There are sections devoted to prickly cacti and succulents, hothouses for ferns and orchids, gardens of medicinal herbs, and plants and trees indigenous to the seashore. From the Tourist Board office in Road Town, cross Waterfront Drive and walk one block over to Main Street and turn right. Keep walking until you see the high school. The gardens are on your left. COST: Free. Mon.-Sat. 9-4:30.
Fort Burt : The most intact historic ruin on Tortola was built by the Dutch in the early 17th century to safeguard Road Harbour. It sits on a hill at the western edge of Road Town and is now the site of a small hotel and restaurant. The foundations and magazine remain, and the structure offers a commanding view of the harbor. COST: Free. Daily dawn-dusk.
Mount Healthy National Park : An excellent symbol of the sugar plantation era in BVI, this park above Brewer's Bay features the intact remains of a stone windmill, once part of an 18th-century sugar plantation.
North Shore Shell Museum : On Tortola's north shore, this casual museum has an informal exhibit of shells, unusually shaped driftwood, fish traps, and traditional wooden boats. COST: Free. Daily dawn-dusk.
Sage Mountain National Park : The highest point in the Virgin Islands is Sage Mountain on Tortola at 1,740 ft. This is now a 92 acre National Park and trails through the area have been created. Some original Mahogany Forest still exists as well as relatively newly planted areas. Trails lead through the forest or to the highest point. Interesting flora is signed and explanations are given at the entrance to the Park. Bring some sturdy shoes as some of the trails can be physically taxing and can also be muddy if it has rained recently.
At 1,716 ft, Sage Mountain is the highest peak in the BVI. From the parking area a trail leads you in a loop not only to the peak itself (and extraordinary views) but also to a small rain forest, sometimes shrouded in mist. Most of the forest was cut down over the centuries to clear land for sugarcane, cotton, and other crops; to create pastureland; or to simply utilize the stands of timber. In 1964 this park was established to preserve what rain forest remained. Up here you can see mahogany trees, white cedars, mountain guavas, elephant-ear vines, mamey trees, and giant bullet woods, to say nothing of such birds as mountain doves and thrushes. Take a taxi from Road Town or drive up Joe's Hill Road and make a left onto Ridge Road toward Chalwell and Doty villages. The road dead-ends at the park. COST: Free. Daily, dawn to dusk.
Virgin Islands Folk Museum : has some Arawak and Carib pottery and stone tools, including a decorated spindle, wreck of The Rhone and H.M.S. Nymph artifacts, plantation items and reef conservation info. This small museum sells some t-shirts, paintings, maps and gifts.
Childcare:
Please consult your villa agent for best recommendations on child care options in Tortola and then complete a careful check of the nanny or au par your select. Tropical Nannies is a personalized baby-sitting service catering to your in-home childcare needs on Virgin Gorda and Tortola in the British Virgin Islands. www.tropicalnannies.com.
Golf:
There are no golf courses on the island of Virgin Gorda, or anywhere else in the BVI. That doesn't mean golf fanatics should cross the BVI off their list of dream destinations. Concentrated within a large grouping of Caribbean islands, the BVI is only a short distance from some fabulous golf courses; a quick island-hopper or ferry ride makes a morning or afternoon on the fairways easy.
The most convenient location to golf while staying in the BVI is St. Thomas, whose spectacular Mahogany Run Golf Course could compete with any in the Caribbean. This 18-hole championship course was recently renovated to add to its already superb facilities, which include a large outdoor clubhouse, restaurant, and pro shop. Mahogany Run lies right on the water, and offers breathtaking views of Tortola and the rest of the BVI. St. Thomas can be reached from Tortola by ferry or by flying.
Fishing/Watersports/Sea Excursions:
No jet skiis are allowed here, keeping Tortola's beautiful beaches quiet and tranquil.
Beaches:
Tortola's north side has several perfect palm-fringed white-sand beaches that curl around turquoise bays and coves. Nearly all are accessible by car (preferably one with four-wheel-drive), albeit down bumpy roads that corkscrew precipitously. Facilities run the gamut, from absolutely none to a number of beachside bars and restaurants as well as places to rent water-sports equipment.
If you want to surf, the area of Apple Bay (North Shore Rd.), which includes Little Apple Bay and Capoon's Bay, is the spot -- although the beach itself is pretty narrow. Sebastian's, the very casual hotel here, caters to those in search of the perfect wave. Good surf is never a sure thing, but you're more apt to find it in January and February.
The water at Brewers Bay (Brewers Bay Rd. W or Brewers Bay Rd. E) is good for snorkeling, and there are a campground and beach bar here. The beach and its old sugar mill and rum-distillery ruins are just north of Cane Garden Bay, past Luck Hill. There's another entrance east of the Skyworld restaurant.
The enticing Cane Garden Bay (Cane Garden Bay Rd.) has exceptionally calm, crystalline waters and a silky stretch of sand. It's the closest beach to Road Town -- one steep uphill and downhill drive -- and is one of the BVI's best-known anchorages (unfortunately, it can be very crowded when cruise ships are in town). You can rent sailboards and such, stargaze from the bow of a boat, and nosh or sip at a variety of places, including Quito's Gazebo.
Lined with palm trees, wide, sandy Elizabeth Beach (Ridge Rd.) is accessible by walking down a private road. However, the undertow can be severe in winter. The oft-deserted Josiah's Bay (Ridge Rd.) is a favored place to picnic or hang ten, although in winter the undertow is often strong.
The scenery at Long Bay, Beef Island (Beef Island Rd.) draws superlatives: you can catch a glimpse of Little Camanoe and Great Camanoe islands, and if you walk around the bend to the right, you can see little Marina Cay and Scrub Island. Long Bay is also a good place to find seashells. Take the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge to Beef Island and watch for a small dirt turnoff on the left before the airport. Follow the road that curves along the east side of the dried-up marsh flat; don't drive directly across the flat as you can damage it.
Long Bay West (Long Bay Rd.) is a stunning 1-mi (1½-km) stretch of white sand. Have your camera ready for snapping the breathtaking approach. Although Long Bay Resort sprawls along part of it, the entire beach is open to the public. The water isn't as calm here as at Cane Garden or Brewers Bay, but it's still swimmable.
After bouncing your way to the beautiful Smuggler's Cove (Belmont Rd.), you'll feel you've found a hidden piece of the island, even on semi-crowded weekends. There's a fine view of Jost Van Dyke Island, and the snorkeling is good.
About the only thing you'll find moving at Trunk Bay (Ridge Rd.) is the surf. It's directly north of Road Town, midway between Cane Garden Bay and Beef Island, and to reach it you have to hike down a ghut (gully) from Ridge Road.
Snorkeling & Diving:
Tortola offers exceptional close in snorkeling directly off its spectacular white sand beaches where snorkelers will see plenty of brilliantly colored parrotfish as well as lots of other marine life.
The diving is well known among scuba divers for the areas colorful coral formations, abundant marine life and wreck diving. Indeed, the nearly translucent waters make for wonderful visibility and the rock formations provide plenty of nooks and crannies to explore.
The most popular dive site is the RMS Rhone, a 310-foot royal mail steamer that sank in 1867. Featured in the movie, “The Deep”, the ship’s four parts rest at depths from 15-75 feet. Another favorite dive site are the four caves located at Norman Island, the setting for Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island.
SAILING:
Waking up to sunshine and blue skies, choose your day’s destination by line-of-sight and set sail across crystal clear waters in comfortable trade winds. Step ashore to a warm welcome and indulge in Caribbean cocktails and tasty cuisine, or enjoy a barbecue on board as the sun goes down.
Even if you don’t plan to sail on this upcoming visit, you’ll surely be lured by the sight of beautiful sailboats moored in the bay and may be convinced to try sailing on your next BVI visit. If you aren’t a sailor, haveno fear. Charters are available in bareboat style (without a captain and crew) and “crewed” (usually including a captain and first mate/chef). The BVIs many sheltered moorings allow you to explore on a variety of day sails without making any long overnight sails. The area boasts minimal currents and well-marked reefs and shoals, making these placid waters some of the best in the Caribbean.
Powerboat charters are also available and are pretty reasonably priced. Consider renting a powerboat for the day and cruising to the nearly British Islands of Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda and Anegada. For those who are looking for even more of a change of pace, consider powerboating to the USVI islands – perhaps some world-class shopping on St. Thomas.
DIVING:
Dives off the Sir Francis Drake Channel islands deliver sinkholes and ledges as well as a wide repertoire of caves and canyons. Another feature of the area is some of the finest sponge encrusted walls we have some across in the region. By “walls”, we are referring to the sides of tunnels, the underside of arches and inside caves. The site known as “Painted Walls”, where the radiance of the sea off of the colorful walls is breathtaking, is the most obvious example, but there are many other equally colorful scenes.
Of the Sir Francis Drake Channel dives, the R.M.S. Rhone tends to dominate the reputation of the B.V.I. but there are several other interesting wrecks, though none as old or with such a dramatic story. However, they are all within the ability level of most divers, so novices or those who have not dived a wreck before can gain some experience of wreck diving.
If you can travel to the area in August you can witness the other great spectacle—coral spawning. Check on operators offering special “spawning packages”, which occur 1 week after the first full moon in August. The sites to the north of Tortola are primarily summer sites because in the winter months northerly swells make conditions, at best, uncomfortable. None of the dive operators are based on the north coast so it makes it a long boat ride, but worth it when conditions are good. Operators based in Sopers Hole make these sites more accessible.
The Chikuzen is northern Tortola's best known dive site and it is increasingly earning the respect of avid divers. It would be a more popular and famous site if it was a little more accessible. It is too far for dive operators based on Tortola’s south coast to reach. Only the Virgin Gorda operators can make the trip in a reasonable time (45 minutes or less). Being to the north of Tortola, the Chikuzen has no shelter from the islands and is exposed to northerly swells. The dive operators dive the Chikuzen on only about 50 percent of their scheduled days because of the swells, so call early on the day of your interest.
SNORKELING: To snorkel Tortola, there are operators that will charter a boat for the day and offer lessons and rent equipment to your group. Day or night trips can be arranged through the various snorkel and dive operators. The Rhone, a royal steamer sunk in 1867, offers a chance to shallow scuba and snorkel its delightful underwater maze. Don't miss it.
Weddings:
The largest luxury rental villas on the island of Tortola have 6 bedrooms and sleep 12 - 14. For those seeking a place to hold a small, intimate destination wedding and/or weddingmoon, these options should be explored. Please seek your agent’s approval to hold a wedding or reception at your villa. As long as you aren’t inviting guests who are not listed on your villa’s rental agreement, no additional costs relative to your villa should be involved.
The British Virgin Islands is a perfect romantic setting, not only to exchange your vows in a romantic Caribbean setting, but also to enjoy a secluded honeymoon holiday in one of the Caribbean's most interesting cluster of islands. If you have never been married before, the only necessary paperwork required is your passports to begin the process.
If either or both of you have been previously married, an original copy of your divorce decree(s) (or spouse's death certificate) is necessary. If these decrees or certificates are not already in English, a certified translation in English is also required.
A three (3) business day residency requirement from the time your paperwork is filed is also mandated, which means that if you file your paperwork on a Monday, the earliest you may be married is on that Thursday. There are then three easy steps ... They involve visiting three separate government offices. It is necessary to pay the BVI government marriage tax. This is done by purchasing $110 in stamps. They actually have a $100 stamp & $10 stamp specifically for the marriage tax.
You will need your passports, the other paperwork mentioned above (ie. divorce decree) and the stamps. All these items are handed over to the Attorney General to be sent for the Governor's approval, and are returned to you on the day of your wedding (except the tax stamps of course). In addition, you will need two witnesses to sign at the time you are filling out the proper paperwork in the Attorney General's chambers. The paperwork takes about 10 minutes and at this time you will need to have decided on a location for your wedding.
Finally you will fill out a small form and confirm the location, time, and date of your wedding ceremony with the Registrar. Additionally, you will have to name two "witnesses of record" for your marriage license. These witnesses may act as your attendants at your wedding and need to be present at the wedding to sign the legal documentation.
The Registrar of Marriages performs all civil ceremonies. The fee for the Registrar is $100 (plus any expenses) for weddings outside the office and $35 for marriages performed inside the Registrar's Office. If you are living in the US, Britain, or Canada, the marriage license is enough for proof of marriage. In other areas or in certain legal situations, an "Apostille" license may be required. It will be necessary to request this upon filling out your paperwork with the Registrar's Office and normally is subject to an additional $45 fee.
On your wedding day, the Registrar will meet you at your wedding location, perform the civil ceremony and then return all your documentation to you.
· A & A Weddings in Paradise (Tortola) · Contact Altagracia and Allington Hodge 284-494-2282 · BVI Wedding Planners & Consultants (Tortola) 284-494-5306 · Exquisite Weddings (Virgin Gorda) Contact Sandra Leonard. 284-495-7222 · Fort Recovery Estate Beach Villa Weddings (Tortola - West End / Soper's Hole) 284-495-4354 · In The Islands (Tortola) 284-495-2763 · Island Concierge (Tortola) 284-495-6382 · Janise E. Braithwaite-Edwards (Tortola) 284-494-2487 · Myett's, Cane Garden Bay (Tortola - Cane Garden Bay) 284-495-9649 · New Beginnings (Virgin Gorda) 284-499-4579 · Occasions, Ltd. (Virgin Gorda) 284-495-7313 · Passion In Paradise "The Love Story" (Virgin Gorda) 284-495-5252 · Saba Rock Resort (Virgin Gorda - North Sound) 284-495-9966 · Trinity Collections (Tortola) 284-495-1786
Event Planners:
Whether you are planning a party, destination wedding, seminar or meeting and you require a chef, catering, entertainment or photography, the sheer logistics of a foreign country top the list of reasons for professional event planning services.
Island Concierge (Tortola) 284-495-6382 Full service comprehensive planning company in the British Virgin Islands.
Occasions, Ltd. (Virgin Gorda) 284-495-7313 Offers event planning and coordination services throughout the British Virgin Islands.
Villas for Special Interests:
Tortola luxury villas offer an opportunity to connect to the unspoiled environment of the BVI. The close proximity to the beach allows travelers easy access to the sea and sand.
Spa Treatments:
Spa treatments at your private villa are popular in the BVI. Please consult your villa agent for recommendations on private spa services. Popular BVI spa treatments include massage (especially upon arrival after a long journey. Ask your agent or owner if this can be arranged in advance), flower bath, seaweed wrap, body scrub and manicure.
Villa Destinations 
