Virgin Islands. US Virgin Islands on the world map. Photo. Unforgettable holidays in the Virgin Islands

Christopher Columbus discovered way back in 1493. Since then, the owners of the island have constantly changed: the British, French, Spaniards, Danes ... Only in 1917 did the United States buy the islands from Denmark.

Today US Virgin Islands- this is a paradise for tourists who come here to enjoy the snow-white beaches and the hot sun, and at the same time learn more about the life of the islanders. Both families and companies come to the islands: there is entertainment for everyone.

Climate

On a tropical maritime climate of the trade wind type reigns. It has pleasant warm temperatures throughout the year. In winter, the average temperature is approximately +24 °С, in summer - +29 °С.

There are two dry and two wet seasons. The dry seasons are winter and summer, while autumn and spring are considered rainy seasons. Most precipitation falls in September-November. Although it is worth noting that there are rarely prolonged rains.

Hurricanes are possible in July-October.

Nature

The US Virgin Islands are in caribbean sea. They include more than 60 islands and reefs. The three largest of them are Saint Thomas, Saint John and Santa Cruz.

The islands are hilly. The highest point is 475 m above sea level. They are of limestone origin, but in some places volcanic and crystalline rocks appear. There are no rivers or lakes.

The islands are covered with dense subtropical forests, the shores of the bays are covered with mangrove swamps.

Earlier US Virgin Islands could boast of a rich wildlife - now it is almost destroyed. Now, from wild animals here you can only meet lizards, mongooses, rats. live here different kinds birds.

Coastal waters are rich in shellfish, crustaceans and fish.

The climate is well suited for growing sugarcane, vegetables and citrus fruits.

Attractions

St. Thomas, the main of the islands, attracts tourists Fort Kristjan. It is also worth visiting Blackbird Castle and the market square in Charlotte Amalie. Be sure to visit the mountain St Peter Greathouse because it offers amazing views of the surroundings! On the slopes of this mountain there are botanical gardens, as well as an old distillery and souvenir shops.

Located in the northeast of the island unique beauty Coca Bay, as well as an aquarium with a variety of tropical fish and marine life.

On st john island worth a look for being here Virgin Islands National Park. Here you can get acquainted with rare species of birds and animals.

Main attraction Santa Cruz- This City of Christiansted, which used to be a Danish colonial town. Worth a visit here Cruzan wineries, and then enjoy plenty of rest on local beaches.

Northeast of Santa Cruz is a tiny Buck islet. It is uninhabited, but regular excursions are organized there for tourists.

Visit if possible Wim- a sugar plantation on Santa Cruz. It is here that you can plunge into the atmosphere of the past. Virgin Islands, learn how the planters and colonizers lived.

Nutrition

Perhaps there is nothing surprising in the fact that the basis of the cuisine of the islands is seafood dishes. Soup kalalu, which you cannot but try when you come here, is prepared from stewed vegetables, seafood, meat, herbs and spices.

TO traditional dishes local cuisine include and sourse. This is an assortment of pork offal. However, there are dozens of recipes for this dish, so every chef has his own secret sauce.

Taste conch- pancakes from seafood, as well as soups and stews of their shellfish (you are unlikely to find such exotics anywhere else). Also, you will always find on the menu… fish steaks! Their recipes are very intricate.

Well, you should definitely try the shark soup, grilled fish and fish fillet with fruits and vegetables, which is called "Old Wife".

The garnish here is usually served with potato pudding or fungi― specially prepared grain. Sometimes fish or meat dishes accompanied by fried bananas or local bread similar to lavash. Often it is also used as the basis for a dish: such bread is stuffed with various seafood and vegetables, and then fried or baked.

Tropical fruits are usually served for dessert.

Of the drinks on the islands, they use the local analogue of mate, which is called here bush tee(tea from local herbs). Also locals love coffee and fresh juices.

From alcohol, rum and cocktails from it are preferred here. Popular local strong rum Cruzan.

Accommodation

The number of hotels on the islands is quite large, but the rest here, frankly, is not a cheap pleasure. Local hotels and pensions can be attributed to the upper price category. A price in the range of $250-300 per person per day is considered the minimum if you are focusing on resort hotels.

There are, of course, options with a more modest budget, but here you should not count on cheap vacation: simpler hotels charge $ 150-170 per day, and budget boarding houses will cost $ 80-100. True, it is worth noting that the service in any of the local hotels is of high quality.

Popular among tourists tent camps. But not every island has them.

If you are not constrained by funds, you can rent an apartment or a villa on the coast. If an apartment costs your wallet from $ 1,000 a week, then you will have to pay at least 5 times more for a villa.

Entertainment and recreation

Beaches US Virgin Islands simply created for a peaceful, calm, almost paradise vacation. The finest white sand is washed by the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea.

Here, nature has created excellent conditions for diving: along the coast stretch Coral reefs and underwater caves that beckon to dive and learn their secrets.

Of the entertainment here, the most colorful, of course, carnivals will seem to you. For example, on St. Thomas in April, a carnival is held, which is particularly colorful. During it, you can see masquerade processions, dance competitions and musical performances. Believe me, this spectacle will remain in your memory for a long time.

And also on St. Thomas in April all yachtsmen gather caribbean to the Rolex International Regatta.

On Saint John a similar festival takes place, but in the summer, at the end of June, and its celebration smoothly turns into Fireworks Week.

On Santa Cruz at the beginning of the year they organize the Carp Festival - a fun and exciting holiday for the whole family.

Another interesting entertainment- Helicopter tour Take a bird's eye view of the islands - these views are impressive even for those who have seen a lot beautiful places on the planet.

For active holidays US Virgin Islands should include sport fishing. Here even beginners succeed: there are a lot of fish, excellent conditions, and equipment can be rented on any of the islands.

But there are few nightclubs in the Virgin Islands - they are mainly located in Charlotte Amalie. So, fans of active nightlife, you are in the right place.

Purchases

Without collecting duties from the islands, you can export goods and souvenirs, the value of which in total does not exceed $ 1,200. It is also worth noting that prices for a number of goods here are lower than in many European countries. For example, it is profitable to buy watches, jewelry, photo and video equipment, perfumes, leather goods and porcelain here.

Shops are open here from Monday to Saturday and strictly according to the schedule - from 9:00 to 17:00. Shops on Sundays, with rare exceptions, do not work.

It is customary to bargain at local markets - you will please the sellers and spend less on souvenirs. By the way, the most popular souvenirs among tourists are handicrafts of local artisans, rum, spices, and local tea.

It is also profitable to buy fresh fruits and vegetables in the market.

Transport

On the islands they actively use automobile transport, and between them sea and air communication is developed.

True, the cities and resorts here are relatively small, so tourists like to walk or ride bicycles that can be rented.

If you wish, you can rent a scooter or a car. Taxis on the islands are also plentiful and popular.

Connection

On US Virgin Islands well-developed mobile communications. You can use the services of local operators by buying a SIM card in shops and supermarkets.

Russian mobile operators also provide roaming to the US Virgin Islands, so you can always stay in touch.

A call can also be ordered from the hotel - its cost will then be included in the final bill.

There are Internet cafes in cities, and wi-fi is available for tourists in hotels and public places.

Safety

Nothing threatens your life and property on the islands. There are no violent crimes here, and petty theft and fraud are quite rare. The usual precautions will suffice: do not display jewelry and money in crowded places, do not walk alone on the outskirts of the city at night and just be careful.

Drink only bottled water, otherwise you can catch intestinal infection. Food is safe.

Business climate

Every year, the islands are visited by up to 2 million tourists, so tourism and the service sector are actively developing here and attracting foreign investors.

Industry in Lately also played an important role in the economy. Here they are engaged in oil refining: on one of the US Virgin Islands there is one of the largest oil refineries in the world.

In light industry, they are engaged in the production of rum and textiles, pharmaceuticals, electronics and watch assembly.

Agriculture is poorly developed.

Today, a number of measures are being taken to develop the financial sector.

The business climate is generally favorable, as it largely depends on the US economy.

Real estate

Real estate in the US Virgin Islands is not so easy to buy. There is not much of it here, the demand is high - accordingly, prices continue to rise.

According to official data, the average cost of a house in the smallest of the US Virgin Islands is - Saint John— is now equal to $1,800,000. Such high prices are also justified by ecology: the lack of large-scale industries on some islands, a minimum of transport make these places ideal for life.

True, real estate here is worth buying only for life or as a financial investment: you won’t earn much on renting out here.

The best time to visit the Virgin Islands is January-April. This period is the peak season. If you decide to go here to swim with a mask, then it is better to do it at the beginning of summer: at this time there are no storms here, and accommodation prices are falling.

British Virgin Islands- British overseas territory, consisting of 16 inhabited and more than 20 uninhabited islands located in the Caribbean Sea, 80 km east of Puerto Rico. total area- 153 sq. km. The capital, Road Town, is located on the island of Tortola.

The largest islands are Tortola (55 sq. km), Anegada (38 sq. km), Virgin Gorda (21 sq. km) and Jost van Dyck (8 sq. km).

The islands are predominantly hilly, some are flat (Anegada Island). The highest point of the island of Tortola is 530 m, while the Anegada Islands are only 8 m.

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

Vegetation and animal world islands are largely destroyed by people.

The climate of the British Virgin Islands

The climate is tropical, trade winds, hot and humid with two dry seasons. Average monthly temperature fluctuates slightly during the year - from +22-24 °C in winter to +28-29 °C in summer. Diurnal temperature changes are also weakly traced.

Precipitation is up to 1300 mm per year, and there are two dry (winter and summer) and two rainy (spring and autumn) seasons. Maximum amount rain falls from September to November-December, although even at this time it is rainy no more than five or six days a month. Between July and October, tropical hurricanes are likely to pass over the territory of the islands, although here they are recorded much less frequently than over the nearby Windward Islands.

The most favorable time for a trip to the islands is from mid-December to the end of April, but the peak falls on the same period. tourist season, so the prices are much higher than, for example, from May to August, when the weather conditions are also perfect for a seaside holiday.

Population

Population of the British Virgin Islands- 24.9 thousand people (2010).

Ethno-racial composition: blacks 83.4%, whites 7%, mulattos 5.4%, Indians 3.4%, other 0.8%.

Religions: Protestant 86%, Catholic 10%, other 2%, atheist 2%.

Official language- English.

About money

Currency unit British Virgin Islands: United States dollar (USD), in 1 dollar 100 cents. In circulation are denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 dollars, coins - pennies (1 cent), nickel (5 cents), dime (10 cents), quarter (25 cents), half-dollar (50 cents) and 1 dollar.

Banks are open from Monday to Friday, from 09.00 to 14.00, some are open until 15.00-16.00 (working hours may vary).

Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks and exchange offices. There are branches of almost all major international banks on the islands.

Credit cards are widely accepted. In all large settlements there are many ATMs and bank branches that work with non-cash means of payment. In the outer islands and Anegada, using credit cards can be difficult.

Traveler checks can be cashed at almost any bank office. Most banks charge a flat "stamp duty" (usually 10 cents per check) or some small percentage (no more than 0.1% of the amount) on check cashing. To avoid additional costs due to exchange rate fluctuations, it is recommended to take checks in US dollars with you (travel checks in other currencies can only be cashed at major banks).

Communication and communications

Telephone code: 1 - 284

Internet domain: .vg

How to call

To call from Russia to the British Virgin Islands, you need to dial: 8 - beep - 10 - 1 - 284 - subscriber's number.

To call from the British Virgin Islands to Russia, you need to dial: 011 - 7 - area code - subscriber number.

Fixed line

Payphones are located everywhere and work with telephone cards, which are sold at post offices, newspaper and tobacco kiosks. A local call from a telephone booth costs 25 cents.

Many payphones have direct access to the IDD (International Automatic Telephone) system and accept ATT cards and credit cards for international calls.

mobile connection

Cellular communication of the GSM 900/1900 standard covers almost all the islands. Roaming with networks of local operators is available to subscribers of the largest Russian operators.

Internet

There are few Internet cafes, for the most part they are concentrated in Road Town and Spanish Town, but almost all large hotels and business centers have their own access points. Connection prices are very different - in large Internet cafes they can be about $ 8 for 15 minutes, $ 12 - for 30 minutes or $ 20 per hour, while in some small points it is quite possible to find tariffs in the range of $ 8-10 per hour ( usually discounts are offered to guests of a hotel or other establishment that has an access point).

shopping

Shops are usually open from Monday to Saturday, from 09.00 to 17.00, but on Thursday many of them close quite early - usually around 15.00-16.00. Many large retail outlets are usually open on Sundays, from 10.00 to 17.00.

Tourists usually bring back from the islands as souvenirs - handmade knitwear, straw hats, rum and liqueurs. Bargaining is not accepted here.

Where to stay

British Virgin Islands - not cheap place for relax. Most hotels and pensions belong to the upper price group and ask for at least $250 per night for accommodation, hotels of a more modest level are guided by a rate of around $175 per day (however, even here guests are guaranteed good nutrition in the restaurant and some elements of nightlife).

Even budget accommodations rarely charge their guests less than $100 per night (this also applies to rather simple boarding houses or motels). Outside the peak season, accommodation prices are reduced by 30-50%, but usually this only applies to establishments in the middle price group.

It is very common to stay on yachts and boats plying off the coast of the islands - this is both a tour as such and a way to save on housing, moreover, most of these vessels are equipped with everything necessary for diving.

Sea and beaches

The islands have many excellent beaches with fine white sand.

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 Caribbean Islands, 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.

The main economic activity of the British Virgin Islands is tourism (they are visited by about 800 thousand tourists annually, mainly from the USA), and the importance of the financial sector is also constantly growing. The islands are popular territory for registration of offshore companies (up to 40% of all offshore companies in the world). At the moment, more than 650 thousand companies are registered.

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.

Tap water is usually chlorinated and relatively safe, but bottled water is recommended.

The most favorable time for a trip to the islands is from mid-December to the end of April, however, the peak tourist season falls on the same period, so prices are much higher than, for example, from May to August, when weather conditions are also excellent for sea holidays.

Catch of any marine organisms in the waters of the British Virgin Islands for citizens of other states is prohibited, as is the use of harpoon weapons for spearfishing. Sport fishing is possible only with the permission of the regional authorities (usually included in the package of licenses provided by the organizer of the fishing tour). Moor any ships and boats in the area of ​​protected areas managed by the National Trust natural parks, forbidden. The rise to the surface of any objects and things from sunken ships located in the territorial waters of the British Virgin Islands is allowed only with special permission from the government of the country.

The British Virgin Islands is not a cheap holiday destination. Food is quite expensive due to the fact that more than 80% of food products are imported, and most hotels and pensions belong to the upper price group.

In many institutions and public places of large settlements, following the example of Great Britain, it is forbidden to smoke. Places for non-smokers are marked with a special sign, and a fairly significant fine is charged for violation of this rule. Drinking alcoholic beverages outside specialized institutions is prohibited.

Sports and entertainment

The British Virgin Islands are popular place recreation for lovers sailing and surfing. There are excellent conditions for practicing these sports.

How to get there

There are no direct flights from Russia to the British Virgin Islands. From Russia, the easiest way to get here is with 2 transfers via the USA and Puerto Rico or the USA and the US Virgin Islands.

British Virgin Islands Airport cannot handle large aircraft, so all international flights arrive at neighboring islands(Puerto Rico or US Virgin Islands).

From Puerto Rico (80km) or the US Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands can be reached by water (ferries or boats) or by air ( small planes).

Flight duration via Puerto Rico: From Moscow to New York about 10 hours, from New York to San Juan - about 4.5 hours, from San Juan to the British Virgin Islands - about 45 minutes (by plane).

The duration of the flight through the US Virgin Islands: From Moscow to New York about 10 hours, from New York to St. Thomas - about 4 hours and 10 minutes.

The British Virgin Islands are a group of 36 islands and islets located northeast of the US Virgin Islands.

Only 16 islands and islets are inhabited. The largest islands are Tortola (55 km²), Anegada (38 km²), Virgin Gorda (21 km²) and Jost van Dyck (8 km²).

State symbols

Flag- a blue flag with the British flag and the coat of arms of the British Virgin Islands with St. Ursula and 11 burning lamps. This flag was adopted on November 15, 1960.
Saint Ursula (?-383)- a Catholic saint, the heroine of a Christian legend, common in the Middle Ages in Western European countries. According to legend, Ursula lived in the middle of the 4th century. and was a converted daughter of a British king; she was so beautiful and wise that her fame reached distant lands. She died, refusing to become the wife of the leader of the Huns captivated by her beauty.

Hans Memling "The Torment of Saint Ursula" (1489, Hans Memling Museum)

The civil ensign is a red ensign with the coat of arms of the British Virgin Islands. The red flag was mainly on the sides of the ships.

The Governor of the British Virgin Islands has a separate flag - the British flag with the coat of arms of the British Virgin Islands.

Coat of arms- represents a shield, which depicts a girl dressed in white, holding a burning lamp in her hand. Around on a green field there are 11 more burning lamps. This image symbolizes Saint Ursula and the 11,000 virgins who traveled with her. Christopher Columbus in 1493 named the Virgin Islands in honor of the journey of St. Ursula. The inscription in Latin means: "Be vigilant!" The coat of arms was approved in 1960.

State structure

Form of government- British possession. Self-government granted since 1967
head of state The monarch of Great Britain represented by the governor.
Head of the government- Prime Minister.
Capital and The largest city - Road Town.
Official language- English.
Territory- 153 km².
Administrative division– 4 districts and Other Islands (small islands that are located south of the island Tortola are called the islands of the Little Sisters).
Population– 24 939 people Blacks make up 82.0% of the population, whites 6.8%, others 11.2%.
Religion- Protestants 84%, Catholics 10%, Jehovah's Witnesses 2%, other 2%, atheists 2%.
Currency- U.S. dollar.
Economy- the most stable and prosperous in Caribbean region. The main area of ​​economic activity is tourism, the importance of the financial sector is constantly growing.
There is no corporation tax (corporate tax) and income tax in the British Virgin Islands, no VAT and sales tax (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. Industry: rum production, light industry, construction.

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

Nature

The islands are mostly hilly, some are flat. There are no rivers and lakes, groundwater is deep. Rainwater, as in Bermuda, is collected in tanks, desalination plants are used.
The flora and fauna of the islands are largely destroyed by people. But the coastal highlands are covered with dense rainforest.

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

culture

The British Virgin Islands are connected with the mother country and other Commonwealth countries, therefore, many British traditions and customs are reflected in the culture of the islanders, because almost nothing remains of the original Indian population of British Virgin Islands, even geographical names.
The modern population is formed by a mixture of descendants of African slaves taken out in the 17th-18th centuries. to work on plantations, and people from the European continent.
At the same time, the majority of the first settlers were residents of Wales, Suffolk and the northern regions of Britain.
hybrid Caribbean culture evident in cooking, everyday life, music and shipbuilding, daily routine, sports and spiritual life.

The locals are very tolerant of the manifestation of a foreign culture and a different way of life, for the most part friendly and devoid of the canonical British stiffness. They are very fond of football, cricket and calypso, noisy festivals and quiet bars, they can discuss political events for hours, they are leisurely in making decisions and everyday affairs.
Many islanders of African descent, being devout Christians, maintain a strong belief in the world of spirits and ghosts. The traditions of oral art are strong, especially manifested during various festivals and folk festivals.
There is traditionally a polite greeting of people on the street, even if they are strangers to each other, there is no "Caribbean swagger."

Attractions of the British Virgin Islands

Tortola (island)

The mountainous island is 19 km long and 5 km wide, resulting from volcanic activity. The island lies next to a seismic fault, so small earthquakes are often observed here.

Road Town on the island of Tortola
The island is famous for its white sandy beaches.

Jost van Dyck (island)

An island of volcanic origin in the western part of the British Virgin Islands. In the southern part of the island there are three bays used as anchorages by sailing enthusiasts.

Born on the island William Thornton(1759-1828) - English and American architect, physician, artist and inventor, a man of universal knowledge and abilities. He was the first architect of the Capitol in Washington.

Anegada (island)

The northernmost of the Virgin Islands. On the island there are salty waters. Tourism is the backbone of the island's economy. In addition to kilometer white sandy beaches, visitors are attracted by the 29-kilometer reef, the largest in the Caribbean and one of the largest in the world. Anegada is popular among diving enthusiasts.

Also lives on this island. Iguana anegada ground(cyclura pinguis), it can only be found on this island. The species is under the threat of complete extinction, about 200 individuals survived.

Virgin Gorda (island)

One of the Virgin Islands, of volcanic origin. It was discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493. Later there were pirate bases on the island. Currently, the island's economy is based on tourism. There is a small airport of the same name on the island.

road town

Capital of the British Virgin Islands. The name comes from marine term"raid" (the roads), where ships can anchor close to the coast.

The city is one of the main yacht charter centers in the Caribbean.

Tour bus in Road Town

Story

In the 1st century BC e. The islands were inhabited by the Arawak Indians, who in the 15th century. were conquered by the Caribs, a warlike tribe of the Lesser Antilles.
In 1493 the Islands were discovered by Christopher Columbus. Spain declared the Virgin Islands its possession, but did not begin to develop them, but the British, Dutch, French, Danes, and also pirates showed interest in them. The 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 instead of Negroes to work on the plantations.

US Virgin Islands- a group of islands in the Caribbean Sea, 60 km east of Puerto Rico; autonomous territory of the United States. The largest islands are St. Thomas, St. John, Santa Cruz. There are also many small islands. The area is 344 km².

The US Virgin Islands is a territory purchased by the United States from Denmark on January 17, 1917 (all formalities were completed on March 31 of the same year). Managed by the US Department of the Interior. Residents have the status of citizens of the United States.

Geographically, the US Virgin Islands are part of the Virgin Islands (which also includes the British Virgin Islands).

The islands are hilly ( highest point- 475 m), composed mainly of limestone, there are outcrops of ancient crystalline or volcanic rocks.

The absence of rivers and lakes, as well as deep groundwater for a long time greatly complicated the problem of water supply, despite the rather a large number of precipitation. Rain water was collected in special tanks. After the construction of desalination plants, this problem has been largely solved.

The flora and fauna of the islands are largely destroyed by people. Remains of evergreens rainforest preserved mainly on the island of St. John, two thirds of the territory of which is occupied national park. On the island of St. Thomas there are woodlands and shrubs on the site of former plantations. Sea waters near the islands are rich in fish, crustaceans and molluscs.

Climate of the US Virgin Islands

Climate in the US Virgin Islands- tropical, trade winds, hot and humid with two dry seasons. The average monthly temperature fluctuates slightly throughout the year - from +22-24 °C in winter to +28-29 °C in summer. Diurnal temperature changes are also weakly traced.

Precipitation is up to 1300 mm per year, and there are two dry (winter and summer) and two rainy (spring and autumn) seasons. The maximum amount of rain falls in the period from September to November-December, although even at this time, no more than five to six days a month are rainy. Between July and October, tropical hurricanes are likely to pass over the territory of the islands, although here they are recorded much less frequently than over the nearby Windward Islands.

The most favorable time for a trip to the islands is from mid-December to the end of April, however, the peak tourist season falls on the same period, so prices are much higher than, for example, from May to August, when weather conditions are also excellent for sea holidays.

Population

Population of the US Virgin Islands- 109.8 thousand people (2010).

The average life expectancy is 76 years for men, 82 years for women.

Ethno-racial composition: blacks 76.2%, whites 13.1%, mulattoes 3.5%, Asians 1.1%, other 6.1% (according to the 2000 census).

Religions: Baptist 42%, Catholic 34%, Episcopalian 17%, other 7%.

The official language is English. Also popular are Spanish or Spanish-Creole 16.8%, French or Franco-Creole 6.6%, others 1.9%.

About money

Monetary unit of the US Virgin Islands: US dollar ($ or USD), in 1 dollar 100 cents. In circulation are denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 dollars, coins - pennies (1 cent), nickel (5 cents), dime (10 cents), quarter (25 cents), half-dollar (50 cents) and 1 dollar.

Banks are usually open from Monday to Thursday, from 09.00 to 14.30, on Fridays - 09.00 to 14.00 and from 15.30 to 17.00.

Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks and specialized exchange offices. The islands have branches of almost all major international banking systems.

Credit cards are widely accepted on the larger islands, but can be difficult to use on the smaller islands. Traveler checks can be cashed at almost any bank office. To avoid additional costs associated with fluctuations in the exchange rate, it is recommended to bring checks in US dollars with you.

Communication and communications

Telephone code: 1 - 340

Internet domain: .vi

Telephone codes cities

Area codes are not used.

How to call

To call from Russia to the US Virgin Islands, you need to dial: 8 - beep - 10 - 1 - 340 - subscriber's number.

To call from the US Virgin Islands to Russia, you need to dial: 011 - 7 - area code - subscriber number.

Fixed line

All payphones on the islands are included in the general telephone system of the United States and work with telephone cards that are sold at post offices, newspaper and tobacco kiosks. Almost all payphones have direct access to international automatic telephone communication and some of them accept ATT cards and credit cards for international calls.

cellular

System cellular communication in the US Virgin Islands is excellently developed and integrated into a single network with US operators.

Internet

The Internet on the islands is developing at a rapid pace - almost all telephone and cellular companies provide their customers with Internet access. Internet cafes are concentrated in large settlements and resort areas.

shopping

Shops are usually open from Monday to Saturday, from 09.00 to 17.00, but on Thursday many of them close quite early - usually around 15.00-16.00. Many large retail outlets are usually open on Sundays, from 10.00 to 17.00, shops in the port also often open their doors on Sunday, but only during the parking period cruise liners. Bargaining in local trading establishments is not accepted, but in the markets it is possible and necessary.

Popular souvenirs: rum, jewelry, paintings (there are many art galleries on Santa Cruz Island).

Where to stay

The cost of living in local hotels is quite high compared to many Caribbean countries.

Sea and beaches

The islands attract numerous beach lovers with their clean beaches with white fine sand.

Almost all beaches are open to the public, only private areas and some large resort complexes have restricted entry (permit required).

Some local beaches are natural breeding grounds for endangered sea ​​turtles therefore, most of them are under protection and access to such areas is prohibited at certain times.

Story

The Virgin Islands were discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493.

In 1625, English and French colonists settled on the islands, taking up agriculture. Then the islands were successively owned by England, Spain, France and the Order of Malta.

In 1666, Denmark took possession of the island of St. Thomas, which soon captured the island of St. John, and in 1733 Denmark bought the island of Santa Cruz from France. The Danes tried to establish a plantation economy on St. Thomas, but it was not successful due to the low fertility of the land, and the island became one of the centers of the rum and slave trade. The port of St. Thomas became a base for pirates. Santa Cruz Island had more fertile land, and after the transition to Denmark, about 200 sugar cane plantations were established there.

However, by the beginning of the 20th century, sugar production on Santa Cruz had declined, and the islands of the Danish West Indies were sold to the United States in 1917 for $25 million.

Helpful information

The most favorable time for a trip to the islands is from mid-December to mid-May, however, the peak tourist season falls on the same period, so prices are much higher than, for example, from May to August, when weather conditions are also excellent for sea holidays. An additional argument in favor of visiting the islands in the summer is the significantly greater transparency. sea ​​water at this time, which provides Better conditions for diving.

Local tap water is chlorinated and safe to drink, but bottled water is still recommended.

Catching any marine organisms (including surfacing and even collecting shells and corals washed ashore) in the waters of the US Virgin Islands is prohibited, as is the use of harpoon weapons for spearfishing (license required). Sport fishing is possible only with the permission of the regional authorities (usually included in the package of licenses provided by the organizer of the fishing tour). Mooring of ships and boats in the area of ​​protected areas managed by the National Parks Fund is prohibited. The rise to the surface of any objects and things from sunken ships located in the territorial waters of the islands is allowed only with a special permit from the government of the country.

How to get there

There are no direct flights from Russia to the US Virgin Islands. The easiest way to get here from Russia is with one change in the USA. From American cities (New York, Miami, Boston, Atlanta, Washington and others) there are direct flights to the islands of St. Thomas and Santa Cruz.

The flight with Aeroflot + American Airlines is quite convenient: Moscow - New York - St. Thomas. The duration of the flight from Moscow to New York is about 10 hours, from New York to St. Thomas Island - 4 hours 10 minutes.

The US Virgin Islands can also be reached via Puerto Rico (64 km away). And from there you can get by water (ferries or boats) or by air (small planes) to the US Virgin Islands.

A group of islands located in the northeast of the Caribbean Sea is marked on the world map as the 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. by the most major island considered to be Tortola.

Location of the Virgin Islands on the world map

As the name implies, the main mistress in this beautiful corner of 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.

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 a beach holiday.

Hotel on the beach 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. Coral sand is here 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. IN national park You can go on an eco-walk in Sage Mountain.

Panoramic view of Sage Mountain National Park

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. Special attention here you should pay attention to Blackburn Castle and the old 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 appreciate beach holidays most of all should pay attention to Christiansted, a cozy town that still has a 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 big variety 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.

lovers active rest sport fishing will be to your liking.

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.