Welcome to British Virgin Islands

Unique Facts

• Pirates loved the British Virgin Islands. It is said that Norman Island inspired “Treasure Island” and Blackbeard is believed to have marooned 15men on an island now named Dead Chest.
• The British Virgin Islands consist of approximately 60 islands, but just 16 of them are inhabited. The largest island is Tortola.
• The British Virgin Islands were originally inhabited by the Arawak, Carib and Cermic people.
• The highest point in the British Virgin Islands is Mount Sage, standing 1,709 feet high, on Tortola.
• In 2002, the British Overseas Territories Act granted British citizenship to the residents of the British Virgin Islands.

Language

The British Virgin Islands’ official language is English.

When To Go

The best time to go to the British Virgin Islands is between September and November, before the winter holidays. The driest months are February to May. If you are planning on diving, keep in mind that the underwater visibility declines during the summer.

Airports

Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid at time of entry.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

None for stays of up to one month

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccines for most travelers when visiting Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba: Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Depending on where you are traveling, you may also need Hepatitis B, Rabies and Yellow Fever vaccines.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types A and B. Standard voltage: 110V. Frequency: 60Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: United States Dollar

Getting Around

Use caution when driving due to limited road signage. Consider renting a four-wheel-drive vehicle for steep and slippery road conditions.

Public transportation consists of minibuses and taxis.

Driver’s License

A temporary driver’s license is required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Bridgetown
Wildey Business Park
Wildey
St. Michael BB 14006
Barbados, W.I.
Telephone: +(246) 227-4399
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(246) 227-4000
Fax: +(246) 431-0179
BridgetownACS@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

Tourism Board Offices
3rd Floor, Eureka Geneva Building
Road Town, Tortola
British Virgin Islands
Tel: 284-852-6020
inf@bvitourism.com

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

General Emergency: 999

Safety and Security

The crime rate is low in the British Virgin Islands. Occasional crimes include petty larceny, burglary and car break-ins. Use standard precautionary measures.