The British Virgin Islands (BVI) are territories of Her Majesty’s land, but aside from scattered offerings of fish and chips, there’s little that’s overtly British. Most travellers come to hoist a jib and dawdle among the 50-plus isles. With steady trade winds, calm currents, protected bays and pirate-ship bars, this is one of the world’s sailing hot spots.
Main island Tortola is known for its full-moon parties and sailing prowess. Billionaires and yachties swoon over Virgin Gorda and its magical rocks. Anegada floats in a remote reef and has a hammock waiting for those serious about unplugging. And who can resist little Jost Van Dyke, the ‘barefoot island’ where Main St is a calypso-wafting beach?
The islands have a quirky edge, and despite all the fancy boats and celebrity visitors, they remain relatively undeveloped.