The British Virgin Islands has four main islands Tortola, Virgin Gorda,Anegada, and Jost Van Dyke.The BVI has remained an escape from the bustling souvenir shops and glittery nightlife associated with so many Caribbean islands. The BVI has miles of serene beaches, and is considered one of the best cruising spots in the Caribbean. The pure waters also provide a perfect setting for unparalleled Diving and snorkeling adventures.
JOST VAN DYKE, four miles long, is known as the barefoot island, known by travelers around the world for its casual lifestyle, protected anchorages, fine beaches and beachfront restaurants and bars. Jost Van Dyke adjoins the tropical isles, Green Cay and Sandy Spit. Also located on Jost Van Dyke is the spacious Great Harbour and, White Bay. Whit Bay is named for it's lovely white sand beaches and aqua blue water. Located on the sands of white bay is the ONE LOVE BAR AND GRILL, which is famouse for it's magic tricks.
TORTOLA, the main island of the BVI, Tortola means Turtle Dove, so-named for its shape and beauty. Of volcanic origin, a central mountainous ridge forms its core with a series of lesser ridges that lead down to the sea. Spectacular views with vistas opening up to outlying islands across the aqua blue sea and reefs. The scenery is enhanced by airplace rides, and sheer descents.
VIRGIN GORDA, the second largest island in the BVI, Virgin Gorda means Fat or Pregnant Virgin, so named by Columbus for its shape as seen on the sea's horizon. Of volcanic origin, Virgin Gorda has a mountainous center, the location of Gorda Peak National Park, that connects three very different worlds: the waterworld North Sound , its secluded Beach Coast and the boulder-strewn plains of The Baths and The Valley Virgin Gorda's main habitation.
ANEGADA,an island 10 miles long by 2 1/2 miles wide with extensive salt ponds, reaches its highest point at 28 feet, hence its name which means the drowned land. Of coral reef origins, Anegada has extruded sixteen miles of sandy beaches with a primeval quality. Anegada is guarded by the famous Horseshoe Reef which, at eighteen miles long, is one of the world's largest coral reefs.
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The British Virgin Islands culture is reflected in its many art forms including such indigenous music as fungi, a form of scratch band music. But music here also encompasses Caribbean imports such as steel band music, Reggae from Jamaica, and salsa from Latin America to add to the cultural mix. Local artists, whose works are sold in galleries around The BVI also celebrate the islands' culture. The Wall, a long and colourful mural along Tortola's Ridge Road, depicts many aspects of BVI heritage and has become a popular island attraction.
The greatest cultural celebration of the year is the August Emancipation Festival. Held during the end of July and the first few days of August, the carnival is a celebration of the day the Emancipation Declaration was read out at the Sunday Morning Well on the first Monday of August in 1834. Our modern-day celebration of the event includes parades, pageants and local musical competitions. Local foods and drinks are featured at the Festival Village, a collection of brightly painted wooden booths in the heart of Road Town. But then again, you can't have culture without people. Gracious and warm, BVIslanders take their heritage seriously, as they do their role in making sure that every visitor's stay is a special one. |