£497+ Cheap flights to the British Virgin Islands

British Virgin Islands climate

The British Virgin Islands are sub-tropical with high levels of humidity. Temperatures are made much more comfortable by trade winds however and average 26 to 31 degrees in the summer and 22 to 28 degrees in the winter. Rainfall is sporadic and there have been droughts.

Getting around British Virgin Islands

Car or jeep hire is the most popular means of transport, if you’re staying on one island, though taxis are readily available. To hire a car, you need to buy a BVI license, as well as showing the driving license from your country of origin. This only costs $10 (£5).

For island hopping, inter-island flights are available, and a luxurious way to travel. Most flights are based on Beef Island. There are three charter air companies, as well as a chartered helicopter service. There are also many ferries running between the islands; far more enjoyable is to charter a boat yourself.

What is good to know if travelling to British Virgin Islands?

• The British Virgin Islands are a very popular destination for honeymooners and also for weddings. If you’re planning on getting married here, you’ll need to arrive at least three days before the date of the wedding. You can apply for your marriage license on arrival at Tortola.
• Fishing is popular in the warm waters of the Caribbean, but be aware that tourists need a fishing permit to remove anything from the sea. This can be purchased from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour. Alternatively, go fishing with an islander – permits are only required for tourists.
• As you’d expect from a Caribbean island, clothes are usually casual, even for evening dress. However, don’t wear your swimwear away from the beach or pool. It’s not appropriate when you’re in the town.
• Diving is popular and there is an abundance of reefs and wrecks to explore. The waters around the island of Anegada are especially good. More than 300 ships have run aground on the coral surrounding the island, which leads to plenty of wrecks to explore.
• Tortola is the largest and main island and the site of the airport. It’s worth spending a few days here on arrival – there are many restaurants and shops as well as good beach accommodation.
• Jost Van Dyke Island is only 6km long and one of the most relaxing places to visit. The bars boast beach-side hammocks and the largest, Foxy’s, has a renowned New Year’s Eve party. If you’re visiting, make sure you take plenty of cash. There are no ATMs on the island and many places don’t take cards.
• Try the local food and drink: a freshly-caught lobster for supper and a “painkiller” cocktail. The latter is made of rum, pineapple juice, coconut, orange juice and fresh nutmeg and is the cocktail of choice in the country.