Holidays to the British Virgin Islands and more specifically Tortola may not be something you have considered before, but it is very well worth some investigation before booking your next Caribbean Vacation. Tortola is the largest of the British Virgin Islands, and an island of contrasts from the hustle and bustle of the capital Road Town, to the beautiful yet empty beaches, to the total peace and tranquillity of Sage Mountain National Park.
Whatever type of Caribbean Vacation you are looking for you can be sure your holidays on the British Virgin Islands and particularly Tortola will have everything you are looking for. Tortola is the largest of the British Virgin Islands and is its' main island, with more than 80% of the population living on the island which covers about 24 square miles with over 30 sheltered bays. Big enough never to be bored, yet small enough to explore all of it in a two week holiday on this British Virgin Island. One of the beauties is that the island isn't large enough or populated enough for the large tour party.
Most people associate Tortola as the epicentre of the BVI's famous sailing community, and of course it is, but there is far more to Tortola than just sailing, so don't be put off going to the British Virgin Islands because sailing isn't your passion.
The sheer quality of Tortola's beaches could leave you speechless, and the choice is enormous. Starting with Cane Garden Bay, to Smugglers Cove, from Little Bay to Lambert Beach there are lots to visit and enjoy. White sand and palm fringed with little bars to keep your liquid content up between swimming in the warm clear, clean turquoise sea.
HOW TO REACH
By plane - Air travel is the usual way to access the BVI, however, long-distance direct flights are not available from anywhere but the Caribbean gateways (San Juan, St. Thomas, Antigua & Syt. Maarten). Connections are readily available through commuter airlines or charter companies, like Fly BVI. The main airport is Terrence B. Lettsome Airport. Beef Island Airport located on the East End. Some travelers opt to fly into Saint Thomas and then travel on the water ferry to Road Town, Tortola. Though, this option can tie up two days of your vacation.
By boat - Tortola is also visited by cruise ships.
The Tortola Ferry moves between Tortola and St. Thomas. In actuality, there is a group of several different ferry companies that provide service between the two islands. These ferries are what connects the people of the British Virgin Islands with the people of the U.S. Virgin Islands. The ferries link the city of Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas with either Road Town or the West End of Tortola.
The ferry is one of the more popular ways to reach Tortola from the U.S. This is due to the fact that Americans can reach Tortola via only one direct flight and then a short ferry ride. This will no doubt save the traveler several hundred dollars, since a second flight would not be necessary.
