US Virgin Islands. British Virgin Islands: economy, history, population and government

A group of islands located in the northeast caribbean, marked on the world map as Virgin Islands. After his memorable journey, H. Columbus marked the Virgin Islands on the map. Now on the world map you can see that this island group is located to the east of. Today these islands are one of the most cozy corners world, where both single tourists and families with children aspire.

Panoramic view of the British Virgin Islands

The Virgin Islands belong to two countries: the UK and the US. Therefore, to visit them, you will need or.

The British Virgin Islands are made up of sixty elements. The largest island is Tortola.

Location of the Virgin Islands on the world map

As the name implies, the main mistress in this beautiful corner The world is one country - Great Britain. It is for this reason that many of the customs and traditions of the British are reflected in the culture of the inhabitants of these islands.

When to plan your trip

The British Virgin Islands are always happy with tourists, but most attractive time to visit is considered the winter-spring off-season. A person who wants not only to swim in the gentle waters of the Caribbean Sea, but also to have fun, should come to the Virgin Islands in December - April.

It is important to take into account that this period is considered to be the real peak of the influx of tourists, therefore, the prices are not democratic.

Detailed map of the Virgin Islands showing all the islands

So, if you want to save money and relax in a relaxed atmosphere, then you need to go to the Virgin Islands in May - August.

Attractions

The British Virgin Islands have many interesting natural attractions. The richest in this regard should be called the city of Road Town and the island of Tortola.

The most remarkable place here is the island of Tortola. Translated from Spanish, the name of the island sounds like "Land of the Turtle Dove". Tortola is the largest island in this group. The nature of the island is very romantic and picturesque. "Purely English" green hills are in harmony with ancient volcanoes, cozy coves and pristine bays. North Tortola is incredibly attractive for beach holiday.

Hotel on the Caribbean Sea in the Virgin Islands

The sand here is surprisingly soft, white and clean. South Tortola is famous for its valleys and slightly gloomy shores. Here, too, there are many luxurious places for relaxing holiday. The coral sand here is of volcanic origin.
According to tourists coming to the Virgin Islands, a place like Tortola is great for a meditative or romantic getaway.

In Road Town, tourists will be pleased with the abundance of various shops, boutiques and restaurants, where you can have a good time and buy both souvenirs and clothes for very little money.

In the vicinity of the city, you can admire the ancient chapel and Thornton Plantation. In Carrot Bay you can find a huge collection of sea shells, among which the most unusual and bizarre specimens are often found. You can go on an eco walk in Sage Mountain National Park.

Panoramic view of national park Sage Mountain

Nutrition

The British Virgin Islands have a fairly rich, in literally of that word, the kitchen. Here you can find "potpourri" from a variety of world culinary trends.

You can have a good and inexpensive lunch, while enjoying excellent service, in any corner of this place. Restaurants and cafes serve both classic dishes and island dishes, which are a crazy, but incredibly tasty mixture of Caribbean flavor and European restraint.

Grocery store in the Virgin Islands

sports recreation

Also, the British Virgin Islands are extremely popular among fans. sports recreation. There are many schools of yachting, diving and windsurfing.

The British Virgin Islands is not only a paradise for fans of active and passive recreation, but also a recognized offshore background. It is here that there is a wide range of international financial services.
Thus, an offshore zone allows you to invest in the economy, accumulate construction savings and protect your assets.
Offshore background is relevant because in the current, hyper-volatile economic conditions, the need for strict control over one's capital is increasing. In the British Virgin Islands, a person can be sure that he will be able to significantly save on taxes and keep his business assets outside the country permanent residence.

The British Virgin Islands are distinguished by economic stability. The standard of living here is considered the highest among other countries in this region. Due to the offshore sector, an uninterrupted flow of finance to the state treasury is ensured. As a result, the unemployment rate here is extremely low.

Against this background, the crime rate is also quite low and there are almost no violent offenses. It is important to bear in mind that the British Virgin Islands considers the abuse of nicotine in public places to be a serious offense.

American dream

The US Virgin Islands were discovered by H. Columbus at the end of the fifteenth century. For many years, this corner of the world passed to a variety of owners, and only at the dawn of the twentieth century, the United States bought the islands.

The US Virgin Islands are considered to be a real paradise for tourists of all stripes. You can have a great rest here both in splendid isolation, and with your family or a noisy company.

Climate features

The US Virgin Islands are able to please lovers of the sun and the gentle sea with a soft tropical climate. Conventionally, two dry and the same number of wet seasons can be distinguished here. The dry seasons include winter and summer periods. The spring-autumn season is the season of heavy rains.
In July - October, it is undesirable to visit the Virgin Islands, since the probability of hurricanes is very high.

natural conditions

The US Virgin Islands boast more than six dozen reefs and a variety of islands. The world of fauna here today, unfortunately, is very poor.

What to visit

The US Virgin Islands are rich in historical and natural attractions. So, on the island of St. Thomas, tourists are attracted by Fort Kristjan. Particular attention should be paid to Blackburn Castle and the ancient market square. Climbing Mount St. Peter Greathouse, you can visit the luxurious botanical gardens and distilleries. In numerous souvenir shops you can buy a lot of interesting gifts.

Connoisseurs of marine life will probably be interested in visiting Coca Bay.

It is there that there is an aquarium with a variety of tropical animals. Those who value beach holidays the most should pay attention to Christiansted, cozy town, which still retains the medieval Danish spirit. Here you can visit the local beaches and enjoy a great vacation.

The Virgin Islands have many real natural pearls. One of these pearls is the small island of Buck. It is uninhabited and attracts all lovers of exciting adventures.

How to have fun

The US Virgin Islands are ready to offer tourists a wide variety of recreation for every taste.
So, on numerous beaches you can relax both with children and a big noisy company. The white sand here is surprisingly harmoniously combined with the turquoise waters of the sea. This place is considered a real paradise for diving.

Detailed map of the US Virgin Islands

Few can resist the temptation to explore underwater caves and coral reefs.

If a tourist plans to visit the US Virgin Islands in order to get acquainted with the unusual culture of these places, then he should definitely visit all the numerous carnivals, processions and masquerades. Arranged under the bright Caribbean sun, accompanied by a specific musical accompaniment, they can seem truly surreal.

Fans of outdoor activities will enjoy sport fishing.

Equipment can be rented on any island you like, but you will need to apply for permission in advance.

There are almost no nightclubs here. This is due to the fact that the Virgin Islands welcome mainly nature and sea lovers, and not notorious party-goers.

The Virgin Islands are a paradise for millionaires. The untouched tropical nature, combined with all the extras that a modern person needs, have turned this place into one of the most dreamy corners of the earth. People with great financial means really come here who want to spend the winter in some warm, sunny and exotic place where life is still heavily dependent on nature and at the same time without missing the luxury and comfort that characterize modern living.

Geographical position

The Virgin Islands are located in. They belong to the Lesser Antilles and are part of the mainland. They are located between 17 and 18 degrees north latitude and between 64 and 65 degrees west longitude. The archipelago covers an area of ​​505 sq. km. The nearest neighbor of the Virgin Islands is Puerto Rico. In terms of ownership, the islands are divided into the British Virgin Islands and the US Virgin Islands. The area of ​​the American Virgin Islands is 352 sq. km., and at the same time, the British Virgin Islands is only 153 sq. km. Although they are smaller in area and population, the islands that belong to the UK have more autonomy and the right to local self-government.

Climate of the Virgin Islands

The Virgin Islands fall into. Summer lasts all year round. The coldest months are January and February, when the average daily temperature is around 29°C. The hottest time is in August - about +32°C. There are two seasons - dry and rainy. The rainy season lasts from April to November and coincides with the hurricane season. The driest month is March and the rainiest month is September. Best time to visit these paradise islands the winter half of the year remains, when weather with more tolerable temperature, less precipitation and more sunny days generally. In addition to being wetter and hotter, summers coincide with the hurricane season. Their maximum is in August and September, when the days are the hottest and when the ocean water temperature is the highest.

Terrain and natural environment

Most of the Virgin Islands volcanic origin. This determines the mountainous forms of the islands. And yet the peaks are not particularly high. The highest point rises to less than 530 meters above sea level. The islands are covered in lush, lush tropical jungles that are home to hundreds of species of rare plants and animals. The islands have some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. There is white and fine coral sand. contribute to the waves breaking away from the shore. Thus, the lagoon near the beaches is always calm and transparent. The beautiful coral reefs are one of the biggest attractions of the island. Wealth underwater world makes the Virgin Islands one of the best places for diving.

Population and settlements

The US Virgin Islands are slightly larger in area and population. The total population of the Virgin Islands is 150,000, of which 125,000 live in the US Virgin Islands and 25,000 in the British. The three largest cities are Charlotte Amalie, Frederiksted, Christiansted (USA) and Road Town (UK).

Story

The Virgin Islands were discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493. In 1625, the first settlers from and came to live here. The islands were used as plantations for the production of sugarcane. In 1917, the United States bought the islands from Denmark for $25 million. Today the Virgin Islands is one of the most attractive tourist spots in the world.

Economy

The local economy is based on agriculture and tourism. Oil has been found on some of the islands. A wide variety of tropical fruits are grown here, such as bananas, which are among the most sought-after fruits in the world. The Virgin Islands have sugarcane plantations, animal husbandry is developing and fishing. Sugar cane is used to produce products such as rum, which is subsequently exported all over the world. As part of the UK, the islands have a high standard of living. The main currency is the US dollar, even on the islands that belong to the UK.

Location map of the US and British Virgin Islands.

The Virgin Islands are an island group in the Windward Islands of the Lesser Antilles archipelago, which is located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea east of the island of Puerto Rico. The name of the islands was given by their discoverer Christopher Columbus, calling them Islas Santa Úrsula y las Once Mil Vírgines, which in translation means the islands of St. Ursula and 11,000 virgins. Subsequently, this island group was given the short name Las Vírgines, which on Russian-language maps found its display as the "Virgin Islands".

According to geological features, experts consider the island group of the Virgin Islands as a separate archipelago as part of the Lesser Antilles ridge. It is a compactly located group of islands between the island of Puerto Rico in the west and the islands of Anguilla and Saint Martin in the east, washed by the waters of the Caribbean Sea in the south and the open Atlantic in the north. The Virgin Islands are divided into three groups based on their historical and territorial affiliation At the moment. These are the Spanish Virgin Islands (English version - Spanish Virgin Islands, Spanish - Islas Vírgenes Españolas), which in some sources are also called the Puerto Rican or Western Virgin Islands, the American Virgin Islands (the official English version is Virgin Islands of the United States) and the British Virgin Islands. islands (English version - British Virgin Islands, abbreviated - BVI).

Santa Cruz Island as seen from space, taken in 2004 by a NASA satellite.

General geographic coordinates of the Virgin Islands: 18°05′37″ s. sh. 64°49′49″ W d..

total area The land area of ​​all the islands and rocks that make up the Virgin Islands is about 650 square kilometers.

Each island group of the Virgin Islands belongs to a separate territorial or administrative entity. Thus, the Spanish Virgin Islands are territorially part of the unincorporated organized territory of the United States - the Freely Associated State of Puerto Rico and are controlled by the administration of this territorial entity. The US Virgin Islands have the status of a separate unincorporated organized territory of the United States with its own territorial administration. In turn, the British Virgin Islands is a British Overseas Territory with autonomous law and is officially governed by a governor general appointed by the British monarch.

North coast of the island of Tortola.

Story.

The Virgin Islands were discovered to Europeans in 1493 by Christopher Columbus, who gave the archipelago its name. During his expedition, Columbus visited almost all the islands, large in area and importance, giving them names.

In the pre-Columbian era, the large islands of the archipelago were inhabited by the tribes of the Caribs and Arawaks, and the islands adjacent to Puerto Rico, by the Taino Indians, who in the early years of the colonization of the islands by the Spaniards were either completely destroyed or taken out to work on the islands of the Greater Antilles archipelago, in particular Cuba and Puerto Rico.

In 1555, most of the Virgin Islands are captured by the Spanish fleet by Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor.

The Spaniards established themselves in the western part of the Virgin Islands, which were adjacent to their main colony on the island of Puerto Rico. At the same time, for the rest of the archipelago, a confrontation unfolded between the Danish West India Company, France, Holland and Great Britain. The confrontation ended with the modern American Virgin Islands falling under the rule of the Danes in 1684, and the modern British Virgin Islands under the rule of the British (after an attempt to colonize the island of Tortola by the Dutch in 1648, it was captured by England in early 1672, later, in 1680, the British also annex the islands of Anegada and Virgin Gorda to their possession).

The Hospitallers of the Knights of Malta of the Roman Catholic Church in 1651 acquired several islands in the Virgin Islands, including the island of Santa Cruz and even Saint Martin. However, in 1665 the Order sold all its possessions to the French West India Company, which after this period finally established itself on the island of Santa Cruz.

Boulders on the beach of Virgin Gorda Island.

In 1733, the French West India Company sold the island of Santa Cruz to the Danes, and in 1754, all of the present-day US Virgin Islands officially became a Danish colony.

In 1810, the Danish part of the islands was captured by the British during the Napoleonic Wars in Europe, but in 1815 it was returned to Denmark.

In 1898, after the American-Spanish War, the island of Puerto Rico, along with the adjacent Spanish (Western) Virgin Islands, came under US control.

In 1980-85, Russia considered buying St. John's Island from the Danes to build its naval base on it. After the Danes refused, the issue of seizing the island by force was also considered, but the principled position of the United States on this issue made it possible to prevent Russian aggression in this region.

After the outbreak of the First World War, there is a threat of occupation of the Danish part of the Virgin Islands by German troops in order to establish control over the eastern entrance to the Panama Canal in the future. Therefore, on January 17, 1917, Denmark sold its possessions in the US Virgin Islands for $25 million. On March 31 of the same year, the acquired territory officially becomes American.

In 1927, residents of both the Spanish and US Virgin Islands became eligible for US citizenship.

Beaches on the south coast of the island of Vieques.

During the Second World War, considering geographical position islands near the Panama Canal, the United States is strengthening its military presence both in its own part of the archipelago and in the British one. Until 1947, an American naval base operated on St. John's Island, near which two American destroyers sank a German submarine in 1943.

Since 1950, the Spanish Virgin Islands as part of Puerto Rico have received autonomy and the right to elect local authorities authorities, in 1954 the residents of the US Virgin Islands received the same right.

The British Virgin Islands at the end of the 19th century were administratively included in the British colony with the center in Saint Kitts and Nevis. In 1960, the British Virgin Islands received the status of a separate British colony, and in 1967 - an Overseas Territory of Great Britain, endowed with broad autonomous powers.

Currently, the issue of including the island of Puerto Rico (together with the Spanish Virgin Islands) into the United States as an independent and full state is being decided. At the same time, the US Virgin Islands continue to remain in the status of an unincorporated US territory with broad autonomous powers, being the largest offshore zone in the region. The British Virgin Islands is also still a British Overseas Territory, with legislative powers to allow another offshore zone to operate in the region. The British Virgin Islands is a member of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States, while not being a member of the monetary union of this organization.

One of the bays on the south coast of Santa Cruz Island.

Origin and geography of the islands.

By their origin, all the islands in the Virgin Islands are volcanic, which were formed approximately during the Middle Pliocene as a result of increased volcanic activity during this period when two geological plates collided. The exception is the island of Anegada, which experts attribute to the islands of volcanic-coral origin.

The Spanish (Western) Virgin Islands have common geographic coordinates: 18°13′36″ N.S. sh. 65°20′18″ W and include two major islands: Vieques and Culebra, as well as about 25 small islands and rocks.

Vieques Island (18°07′N 65°25′W) is located southeast of the coast of Puerto Rico Island at an approximate distance of 10-12 kilometers. The island has a strongly elongated shape from east to west and a hilly relief, which, closer to the central part of the island, turns into low mountains, the highest point of which is Mount Chivas, 311 meters above sea level. The coast line forms, especially in the south, several bays and bays convenient for parking ships. The shores of the island are rocky and impregnable in only a few places, and for the most part they are flat beaches with occasional low sand dunes. The total area of ​​the island of Vieques is approximately 135 square kilometers with a population of just over 9 thousand people.

Culebra Island (18°19′00″ N 65°17′25″ W) is located east of the coast of Puerto Rico at a distance of 27 km and northeast of Vieques Island at about 17 km . The name of the island is translated from Spanish as "viper". True to its name, the island has a complex geometric shape and hilly terrain, with the highest point at 198 meters above sea level in its central part. The coastline is strongly winding and forms many bays and bays deeply protruding into the depths of the island, among which Mosquito Bahia and Ensenada Honda stand out in the south of the island. The shores of the island are mostly beaches with white volcanic sand, which are closer to the central part of the island, turn into hills. Off the coast of Culebra is located a large number of small uninhabited islets and rocks, among which stand out to the northeast of the island of Cayo Norte, Culebrita, Cayo Bottela, Cayo Sambrerito, Cayos Geniculus, Cayo Belena, Cayo Tibura, to the southeast - Pela and Peleta, to the west through the Luis Pea Strait - Cayo Lobita, Cayo Lobo, Cayo Luis Pea and to the northwest - Los Carrequis, Piedra Stevens, Alcarraza, Cayo Botijula ​​and many others. The total area of ​​the island of Culebra is approximately 128 square kilometers with a population of approximately 1800 people.

Culebra Island.

The US Virgin Islands have common geographic coordinates: 18°20′00″ s. sh. 64°50′00″ W and includes three relatively large islands: Santa Cruz, St. Thomas and St. John, as well as about 25 small islands and rocks.

St. Thomas Island (18°20′N 64°55′W) is located to the east of Culebra Island at an approximate distance of 18-19 kilometers. The island has a shape very much like an ellipse, elongated in the direction from east to west. The relief of the island is hilly with an increase in height closer to its central part. The highest point of the island is Mount Jackson, 289 meters above sea level. The coast line is strongly winding and forms a large number of small bays and bays. The shores of St. Thomas are not replete with rocks, but on the contrary, they have quite a lot of low-lying sandy beaches. The total area of ​​the island of St. Thomas is almost 81 square kilometers with a population of more than 51 thousand people.

St. John Island (18°20′N 64°44′W) is located 5 kilometers east of St. Thomas. The island has an almost techno-coal shape. The relief on the island of St. John is hilly over almost its entire surface. The highest point of the island is a hill that does not exceed 189 meters in height. Coastline it is also winding and forms several small, but convenient for parking bays. The shores of Saint John are low-lying and covered with sandy beaches. The total area of ​​the island of Saint John is slightly more than 50 square kilometers with a population of only 4,000 people.

Santa Cruz Island (17°44′23″ N 64°44′20″ W) is somewhat removed to the south from the main ridge of the Virginia Archipelago. It is located to the south about 35 kilometers from the island of St. Thomas. The island has a slightly elongated shape from east to west. The relief of the island of Santa Cruz is hilly near the coast, and when moving towards its central part, it is more mountainous. The highest point of the island is Mount Albaretta, 355 meters high. The coastline of the island is more direct than that of its counterparts, but still forms several bays and bays. There are fewer beaches on Santa Cruz than on other islands in the archipelago, but they still exist, especially on its southern coast. The total area of ​​the island of St. Thomas exceeds 214 square kilometers with a population of 50 thousand people.

Bay and seaport on the island of St. Thomas.

The British Virgin Islands have common geographic coordinates: 18°29′04″ N. sh. 64°31′54″ W and include four relatively large islands: Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada and Jost van Dyck, as well as smaller islets and rocks.

Tortola Island (18°25′N 64°35′W) is located about 4 kilometers northeast of Saint John Island. The island has an elongated form from the southeast to the northwest, slightly curved in an arc with a length of 19 in length and 5 kilometers in width. The relief of the island of Tortola is mountainous over almost its entire area, decreasing in height only near the coast. The highest point of the island is Mount Sage, 530 meters high. The coastline of Tortola is winding, along its length it forms several bays and bays deeply protruding into the land, which are quite convenient for entering and mooring ships. On the coast of the island there are many beaches with white volcanic sand. The total area of ​​the island of Tortola is about 55 square kilometers, and the population is about 24 thousand people.

Anegada Island (18°45′ N 64°19′ W) is the second largest island in the British Virgin Islands and the most northerly island from the main Virgin Ridge. It is located northeast of the island of Tortola at about 27 kilometers. The island has a somewhat elongated shape from east to west with a slight arcuate bend. The relief of the island of Anegada is low and flat throughout its area, the highest point of the island is a hill 8-9 meters high in its central part. Anegada from the north is surrounded by a powerful coral reef stretching for 19 kilometers. The coral reef, combined with the fabulous beaches of the island, has always attracted a large number of tourists here - lovers of both beach holidays and diving. The coastline of Anegada Island is quite straight and does not form a large number of bays. It is worth noting that, in addition, in the southwestern part of the island there are a large number of salt lakes, which were previously sources of food salt, and at the moment are the basis of spa tourism. The total area of ​​Anegada Island is about 38 square kilometers, with a population of only 300 people.

Southeast coast of Anegada Island.

Virgin Gorda Island (18°28′55″ N 64°23′21″ W) is located east of Tortola Island across the Sir Francis Drake Strait (not to be confused with the Drake Passage between South America and Antarctica) approximately for 7 kilometers. The shape of the island is quite complex from a geometric point of view, and its coastline is so winding that it forms several small bays and bays along its length. The relief of the island is predominantly mountainous. The highest point of the island is a mountain 450 meters above sea level, called Gorda Peak. There are quite a few sandy beaches on Virgin Gorda that attract tourists from all over the world. The area of ​​Virgin Gorda Island is about 21 square kilometer with a population of approximately 3,000 people.

Jost van Dyke Island (18°27′N 64°44′W) is located about 6 kilometers north of Saint John and less than 5 kilometers northwest of Tortola. The island got its name in honor of the famous Dutch pirate Jost van Dyck. The shape of the island is slightly curved, with a total length of 6.5 and a width of 2.4 kilometers. The coastline is winding, while it forms a large number of bays and coves. The relief of Jost van Dyck is hilly with low mountains in its central part, its highest point is Mount Rauch Hill, 321 meters above sea level. The area of ​​Jost van Dyck does not exceed 8 square kilometers with a population of 260 people.

Great Bay on the island Jost van Dyck.

Climate.

On all the islands of the Virginia archipelago, the climate is classified as dry, tropical trade wind type. Almost all the islands in the Virgin Islands are always moderately hot and humid. Significant seasonal temperature fluctuations are not observed here, and average temperature air throughout the year is approximately from + 23 to +30 degrees. Precipitation falls on the islands in the form of torrential, but short-term rains, and their amount per year does not exceed 1000 millimeters. It is worth noting that in the summer-autumn period there is a high probability of tropical cyclones, which from time to time fall on the islands with destructive force, causing damage to buildings and objects of the national economy.

Panorama of the city and port of Road Town on the island of Tortola.

Population.

The total population living on all the islands of the archipelago of the Virgin Islands, according to 2009 estimates, exceeds 150 thousand people, of which about 11 thousand live in the Spanish Virgin Islands, 110 thousand in the US Virgin Islands and 29 thousand in the British Virgin Islands.

By ethnic composition The population of the Virgin Islands is heterogeneous. So, in the Spanish Virgin Islands, the population prevails, which for the most part descends from immigrants from their Spain, and in the American and British parts of the archipelago, the population descends from immigrants from the United States and the British Isles (besides them, quite a lot of immigrants from France, Holland still live here , Denmark and other countries). The descendants of slaves brought from Africa also make up a significant part total population Virgin Islands, mainly in the British and American parts of them. In the Spanish Virgin Islands, English is the official language, and Spanish is the official and most commonly used language, while in the American and British Virgin Islands, English is both official and used in everyday life.

largest settlements the islands of Vieques and Culebra are the cities of Isabel Segunda and Esperanza. The American Virgin Islands are home to the cities of Cruz Bay, Christiansted, Frederiksted and Charlotte Amalie. The latter is located on the island of St. Thomas and is the administrative center of this territorial entity. administrative center The British Virgin Islands is the city of Road Town, located on the island of Tortola and inhabited by about nine thousand inhabitants.

The monetary unit in circulation in all three territorial entities of the Virgin Islands is the US dollar (USD, code 840), consisting of 100 cents.

City and port Charlotte Amalie on St. Thomas.

Flora and fauna.

The pristine nature of the Virgin Islands was mostly destroyed by the people who first tried to colonize them. Therefore, now the vegetation and fauna are not as diverse as many tourists would like.

The flora in the Virgin Islands is represented mainly by herbs and shrubs, with small areas of surviving rainforest where woody plants predominate. Naturalists in the Virgin Islands identify about 30 species of emdemic plants, most of which have already practically disappeared.

The fauna of the islands, in addition to domestic animals and sea birds, is mainly represented by amphibians and reptiles, among which are the virgin cyclura (Cyclura pinguis) and several species of sea turtles.

The coastal waters of the Virgin Islands are unusually rich in fish, Caribbean lobsters (Metanephrops binghami), as well as strombus.

Yacht marinas and beaches south coast Jost van Dyke Islands.

Tourism.

Tourism is perhaps the main activity of the population of the American and British Virgin Islands, second only to offshore activities. In the Spanish part, this area of ​​activity is not developed and, conversely, the access of tourists to the islands is strictly limited. The reason for this is that on most of the islands there are protected areas: on the island of Vieques - Vieques National Wildlife Refuge), and on Culebra - Culebra National Wildlife Refuge.

The British Virgin Islands in the period of 2013 broke the record of tourist attendance. The number of those who visited the islands for tourism purposes exceeded 120 thousand people. The American part of the archipelago is somewhat behind in this indicator, but is still at the level. Tourists are attracted here, first of all, by the beaches with white volcanic sand and the purest coastal waters. The purity of the water is due to the absence of rivers and a stream on most of the islands of the archipelago. Anegada Island, surrounded by a coral reef, attracts not only beachgoers, but also fans of snorkeling and diving. The hotel complexes in terms of service level are classified in the highest category; they are located, as a rule, in coastal zones, near the beaches.

You can get to the places of rest on the islands both by sea and by air. The islands have several international airports, accepting flights from the USA and Europe, as well as several seaports capable of receiving even ocean liners with low draft.

Bay and beach on the coast of St. John's Island.

Geography

The islands are mostly hilly, some are flat: highest point Tortola Islands - 530 m, and Anegada Islands - only 8 m.

There are no rivers and lakes, groundwater deep. Previously (and to this day) rainwater was collected in tanks, now, where possible, desalination plants are used.

The flora and fauna of the islands are largely destroyed by people.

The climate is tropical, trade winds, hot and humid with two dry seasons. Hurricanes are quite frequent (from July to October).

Story

In the 1st century BC e. the islands were settled by the Arawak Indians, who later, in the 15th century, were conquered by the Caribs, a warlike tribe of the Lesser Antilles, after whom the Caribbean Sea got its name.

In 1493, Christopher Columbus discovered the Virgin Islands. Spain declared the Virgin Islands its possession, but did not begin to develop them. The British, Dutch, French, Danes, as well as pirates showed interest in the islands. Indian population was practically eliminated.

After an attempt to settle the island of Tortola by the Dutch in 1648, it was captured by England in 1672. Then, in 1680, the British occupied the islands of Anegada and Virgin Gorda. The British began to develop sugarcane plantations. For this, black slaves were imported from Africa.

In 1834, England abolished slavery, and contract workers from India and Portugal began to be recruited to work on the plantations instead of Negroes.

Political structure

British Overseas Territory. Self-government granted since 1967.

The governing body of the BVI is the Executive Council, headed by the Governor appointed by the British Foreign Office and consisting of the Chief Minister, three Ministers and the Attorney General.

Legislative body - unicameral Assembly, consists of 13 members elected for 4 years and 1 member ex officio (Attorney General).

Political parties: Party of the Virgin Islands and the National Democratic Party. Not represented in the Assembly are the Concerned Citizens' Movement and the United Party. In the parliamentary elections on November 7, 2011, 49.4% of voters voted for the National Democrats, and 42% for the Virgin Islands party. In the Assembly, the National Democratic Party won 9 seats, and their main competitors - 4. Orlando Smith became Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the British Virgin Islands.

Population

• Population - 24 939 people. (est. July 2010).
• Annual population growth - 1.8% (almost half of the growth comes from immigration).
• Ethno-racial composition: blacks 82.0%, whites 6.8%, other 11.2% (including Indians, mulattoes) (according to the 2008 census).
• Religions: Protestant 84%, Catholic 10%, Jehovah's Witnesses 2%, other 2%, atheist 2% (1991 census).
• Literacy - 98%.

Economy

The economy of the BVI is the most stable and prosperous in the Caribbean.

The main economic activity is tourism (the islands are visited by about 800 thousand tourists annually, mainly from the United States), and the importance of the financial sector is also constantly growing.

There is no corporation tax (corporate tax) or income tax in the British Virgin Islands individuals(income tax), there is also no VAT and sales tax. However, a commercial company must pay an annual fee, depending on the maximum number of shares allowed to be issued and the date of incorporation of the company.

The British Virgin Islands are a popular offshore jurisdiction, including among Russian entrepreneurs. At the moment, more than 650 thousand companies are registered: up to 40% of all offshore companies in the world. The activity of offshore companies is mainly regulated by the British Virgin Islands Business Companies Act of 2004 (BVI International Business Companies Ordinance, 2004). The main factors are: low cost of registration and maintenance legal entity, lack of requirements for director residency, formal requirements for the minimum amount of authorized capital, as well as the ability to quickly (literally, in 1 day) register a company. Another attraction until recently has been confidentiality: there is no unified register of beneficiaries in the British Virgin Islands. In addition, information about the owner of the company is available only to a certain circle of people. However, more recently, the authorities of this British overseas jurisdiction have begun discussions on the possibility of creating a single open register of owners: the BVI Financial Services Commission published on its website a government consultation document regarding information on beneficial ownership, the expert discussion of which will last until December 31, 2013.

Industry - rum production, light industry, construction.

Agriculture - the cultivation of sugar cane (for the production of rum), vegetables and fruits, livestock and poultry are bred, and fishing is carried out.

Since 1959, the British Virgin Islands has used the US dollar as its currency.

The British Virgin Islands is a territory consisting of 60 small islands. Its area is 153 km2. The British Virgin Islands are British overseas lands. Located in the northeast of the Caribbean, 1770 km south of Florida. They are southeastern part archipelago of islands, which include the US Virgin Islands. The city of Road Town, located on the island of Tortola, is the capital. Official language- English.

Currently, the archipelago of the Virgin Islands is divided by two states at once - Great Britain and the United States.

Historical reference

These lands in the 1st century BC. e. inhabited by the Arawak Indians. In the XV century. the warlike tribes of the Caribs who lived in the Lesser Antilles conquered the Indians.

The great Christopher Columbus discovered the Virgin Islands in 1493 during his second campaign. Spain declared them its possession, but did not begin to develop them. The Dutch, the British, the Danes, the French showed interest in them. The Indian population was exterminated almost completely.

In 1672, the island of Tortola was captured by England. And eight years later (1680), the British captured the islands of Virgin Gorda and Anegard. They began to grow sugar cane in the occupied territories. To do this, they brought Negro slaves here from Africa.

When slavery was abolished in England in 1834, contract workers from Portugal and India began to work on the plantations.

Virgin Islands on the world map

The United States acquired its part of the islands in 1917. Basically, they are uninhabited. The US Virgin Islands (this is clearly visible on the map) are adjacent to the Virgin Islands (Britain) in the east and Puerto Rico in the west.

The largest of them are St. Thomas, Santa Cruz, St. John. The total area of ​​the entire territory is 346.36 km2. The US Virgin Islands are geographically divided into two large districts. In addition, there are 20 minor subdistricts. The population is 108 thousand people. Mostly they are from South America and African Americans. 30% of the population is employed in the tourism business.

Today it is one of the most popular resort destinations in the world. The capital of the islands - Charlotte Amalie is located on St. Thomas.

Holidays in the US Virgin Islands

Most right time for holidays on the islands from the second half of December, until the very end of April. This is the peak season, so the cost of services is much higher than from May to August, despite the fact that the weather conditions at this time are excellent.

The developed resorts of St. Thomas with its white sandy beaches, picturesque bays, bays with turquoise water - all this is a vacation on the American Islands.

There are about 40 beaches here, most of which are well equipped. The most calm and deserted of them is snow-white Limetri, located in the south of St. Thomas.

Hotels on the islands are classified according to the star system adopted throughout the world and comply with generally accepted standards.

What to see

In the American Isles you can see ancient castle Blackbird and Fort Christian, where he once lived (according to local residents) a prototype of Bluebeard, those who wish can climb Mount St. Peter, walk along Charlotte Amalie Square.

On the island of Santa Cruz, you can visit sugar cane plantations. The city of Kristianstand was once a city of Danish colonizers. Here you will be offered to visit the Kruzan wineries. You will be able to see all of the Virgin Islands by taking to the skies in a twin-engine aircraft.

In the north of the island of St. Thomas is located surprisingly beautiful bay Coki Bay and a unique aquarium with numerous tropical fish and other marine life.

Where to stay

There are a lot of hotels on the American islands. However, holidays here are not cheap. Prices for accommodation in resort hotels at least $300 per day per person. Moreover, this amount is considered the minimum.

Many tourists enjoy staying in tent camps, but they are not available on all islands.

If you have the necessary amount, you can rent a villa on the coast or an apartment.

Entertainment

The US Virgin Islands are simply made for a relaxing and peaceful holiday.

Nature has created unique diving conditions here. Underwater caves and coral reefs invite you to dive into the bright turquoise sea waters.

The most colorful entertainment here is undoubtedly carnivals. The brightest passes on St. Thomas. Here you can see a masquerade, musical performances, dance competitions. Having seen this spectacle once, it is impossible to forget it.

In April, all the famous yachtsmen of the Caribbean Sea gather at St. Thomas for the International Regatta.

A similar event takes place in early June on Saint John. The celebration smoothly flows into Fireworks Week.

At the beginning of the year, Santa Cruz hosts a fascinating and very cheerful holiday - the Carp Festival. Sport fishing is also a kind of outdoor activity. Here even a beginner can become a champion - there are a lot of fish, equipment can be rented.

British Virgin Islands

Like the American islands, tourism flourishes in these lands. This is one of the best places for diving, sailing and windsurfing. In addition, the British Virgin Islands (you see the photo in our article) is an abundance of historical and cultural attractions. You can visit unique art galleries and exhibitions of magnificent hand-made samples from local residents. Fans of ecotourism will also find a lot of interesting things here. Interesting hiking trails have been developed on the islands, striking with unique vegetation.

It offers tourists comfortable hotels and hotels, wonderful cafes and restaurants, nightclubs. If you add to this the excellent level of service and hospitality local population, it becomes clear that a vacation on the islands can be unforgettable.

Climate

The average annual air temperature ranges from 23 to 28 degrees. Such a stable climate makes it possible to visit the Virgin Islands all year round. Peak season is from November to March. During this time, prices go up significantly. Although in May - October, holidays on the islands can hardly be called cheap.

Attractions

The most vivid impressions on the islands, according to our compatriots who have already been here, are excursions taking place in Road Town - the very major city and the main port, located in the south of the island of Tortola. Road Town is surrounded by the sea and three large hills.

Here you can see the post office of the XVIII century, St. Phillips Cathedral, the former governor's residence, which eventually turned into a Public Museum. In the southwest of the city rises Fort Carlotte, which in old times was a defensive structure, and then a prison.

The Virgin Islands (British) are rich and natural monuments. Here is 15 national parks and reserves.

Restaurants

The national cuisine of the Virgin Islands is a very bright and original mixture of the culinary schools of the world. There are a sufficient number of restaurants that use various recipes, most often borrowed from the best culinary specialists in Asia, Africa and Europe. It is interesting that they mix so talentedly and in an original way that they form something of their own, unique, island menu. Most of products are imported to the islands, but a special place of honor is occupied by local fruits and seafood.

Safety

The standard of living in the Virgin Islands is the highest among the rest of the Caribbean. banking and offshore sector economies provide the island treasury with a steady flow of funds, so there is a low level of unemployment and crime. British Isles is rightfully considered the safest territory in the Western Hemisphere.