British Virgin Isles

The best way to see the islands is by boat and both sailboats and motorboats can be hired with or without a crew. Sailors should be experienced as sailing can be difficult in certain so hiring a crew for most people is the safest option.

Cars are available for rent on the larger islands and on Jost van Dyke island one scooter is for rent.

The islands main attractions are the coral reefs and white sandy beaches. Seaside villages also attract the tourists. There are also historic villages and churches plus the Botanic Gardens or rain forests are also popular places of interest.

It is illegal for any non-British Virgin Islander to take any organism from the waters without first obtaining a recreational permit. Those wishing to fish whilst visiting the islands can obtain temporary fishing permits from the Department of Conservation and Fisheries but should be aware that the Department closes early on a Friday and does not open again until Monday. Anyone arriving at the weekend may have to wait two to three days before being able to fish.

Horse riding is another popular sport on the islands especially for those not wanting to dive.

Shops on the islands sell spices, clothes and hand made items many of which are from Haiti. There is a craft market near the cruise ship dock that sells mostly jewellery and T-shirts. Genuine goods made on the islands are crocheted items, straw hats and rum.

Seafood is the most popular choice of food with lobster rating highly along with other fish. Restaurants on the islands include Italian, French and Asian.

Rum is the favourite drink and rum punch is sold everywhere. Beaches seldom have refreshment stands so sunbathers should at least take water with them when visiting beaches.

Nightlife is good with many bars and restaurants. Only the tourist attractions get advertised so it always a good idea to ask the locals if they are aware of anything going on in other places. Live music is featured in several restaurants and bars.

The islands are famous for their fantastic sunsets and many people like to have a drink on the beach and watch the sun go down.