- Destinations
- Caribbean
- Anguilla
Anguilla
The Caribbean is abuzz with tourists, ports packed with cruise
ships, beaches coated with glistening baking bodies and wharfs
beset with souvenir stalls and busy bars. There is one place in
this bright holiday Mecca though, where tranquillity reigns supreme
and unspoilt beaches spill down from discreet exclusive resorts to
the crystal clear sea. This is the island of Anguilla, situated in
the British West Indies about 150 miles (241km) east of Puerto
Rico, and nine miles (14km) north of St Martin.
Anguilla, a British overseas territory, is a tiny, flat sliver
of an island with scrubby vegetation, 16 miles (25km) long and
three miles (5km) across at its widest point. The main island is
surrounded by a collection of low islets and coral cays, all
administered from The Valley, the capital of Anguilla.
This small landmass boasts 33 amazing beaches that many rate as
the best in the world and most certainly in the Caribbean. Each is
special in its own way, from Shoal Bay East with its mile of soft
sand and wild Windward Bay to serene Little Harbor or secluded
Captain's Bay, reached only by a narrow gravel track. The beaches,
together with a set of stylish villas, resort hotels and delicious
cuisine served up in a disproportionately large number of top class
restaurants, have made Anguilla a favourite hideaway for
celebrities, particularly movie stars, as witnessed by the private
jets often parked on the airport runway.
Far from the madding crowd, Anguilla is the perfect retreat for
an indulgent, exclusive getaway for the discerning traveller,
dedicated to the simple pleasures of basking in the sun, taking
sunset strolls, sailing and snorkelling. It is also a popular venue
for weddings and honeymoons, and is fast becoming recognised as a
useful tax-free haven.
Information & Facts
Business
Business in Anguilla is centred on tourism and the financial
services, as it is a zero-tax environment and an offshore
jurisdiction. Due to the balmy climate, lightweight suits or a
buttoned up shirt are sufficient for business meetings. Business
hours are Monday to Friday from 8am to 12pm and 1pm to 4pm.
Climate
The island experiences average temperatures of around 80°F
(27°C), with the Trade Winds providing a constant warm breeze. With
no high mountains to block the sun's rays and in the absence of the
type of vegetation that attracts rain clouds, Anguilla is a
sun-worshipper's paradise. The average rainfall per year measures
35 inches (889mm), much of it arriving in short cloud bursts.
Hurricane season extends from June to November.
Communications
The international dialling code for Anguilla is +1 264. The
island is well covered by a GSM mobile network. The outgoing code
is 011 (eg. 01127 to South Africa). The Internet code for Anguilla
is 'ai'. An Internet service provider is operating on the island
with easy access in the resorts and large cities.
Customs
In Anguilla skimpy dress in public is frowned upon and nudity on
beaches is not permitted.
Duty Free
Goods that may be brought into Anguilla without paying duty are
200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 225g of tobacco and 1.1 litres of
wine or spirits.
Electricity
Electrical current in Anguilla is 110 volts, 60Hz with
flat blade attachment plugs and flat blades with round grounding
pin plugs in use.
Getting Around
There are more than 60 miles (97km) of roads on Anguilla, the
majority of them with a sealed surface. Car, bike, jeep and taxi
hire are available. Driving is on the left and the speed limit is
30mph (48km/h).
Health
Travellers over a year old arriving from infected areas require
a yellow fever vaccination certificate. Hepatitis A vaccinations
are recommended for all travellers as well as polio and tetanus
vaccinations. It is advisable to get a hepatitis B vaccination if
travellers will have intimate contact with the locals, especially
if staying for over 6 months. Mains water on Anguilla is
chlorinated, but bottled water is available and recommended for
visitors. All food on the island is safe to eat. There are three
private medical clinics and a small hospital, which can deal with
minor emergencies, but serious cases are transferred to
neighbouring islands or the USA mainland. Adequate medical
insurance is therefore strongly advised.
Language
English is the official language in Anguilla.
Money
The East Caribbean dollar (XCD) is the official currency of
Anguilla, although US dollars are widely accepted, with prices on
menus etc. generally quoted in American dollars. The East Caribbean
dollar is fixed to the US dollar at US$1 = EC$2.68. There are
several ATMs throughout the island and one at the airport. Credit
cards and travellers cheques are accepted at most
establishments.
Passport Visa
All visitors require a return or onward ticket, all documents
needed for next destination and sufficient funds for the duration
of their stay. As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative
(WHTI), all travellers travelling between the United States and
Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean region are required to
present a passport or other valid travel document to enter or
re-enter the United States. If departing from the USA, a valid
passport will be required.
Safety
Visits to Anguilla are trouble-free. The crime rate is low, but
it is wise to take sensible precautions with valuables. Hurricanes
usually affect the island between June and November.
Time
Local time in Anguilla is GMT -4.
Tipping
A service charge of 10% is generally added to restaurant and
hotel bills in Anguilla, and any tipping over and above this is
discretionary.