Nature's Little Secrets

The stunning 50-plus islands and cays that comprise the British Virgin Islands are known as a sailor's paradise, easy to get to with unspoiled natural beauty. Tortola, the largest island in the group, is considered "the head," and all the islands that surround her are like an exquisite necklace, including, Virgin Gorda, Cooper Island, Peter Island, Norman and Jost Van Dyke, with Anegada the sparkling coral brooch to the northwest.

The B.V.I. is a picture of contrasts. There are protected bays in quiet, palm-fringed coves with spiraling sheer rock faces that plunge to the ocean. Lush palms and tropical fruit trees sway among the flowering hibiscus and bougainvillea bushes. The natural beauty of The B.V.I. invites you to escape into paradise.

• The surrounding waters are deep shades of liquid blue, but on Anegada - the only coral atoll in the group - the water takes on an ethereal aquamarine shade. The B.V.I. are appealing to divers, boaters, hikers as well as those who just want to "chill" in a soft rope hammock overlooking a crystalline beach.
• Culture and history walk side by side in these islands. Influence comes from the Dutch and British settlers of the 1600s. View the stone remnants of forts and churches dating back to the 1800s, even rum distilleries still in operation.
• Cultural influences can be felt through the islands' music and food. Listen to the sounds of fungi, reggae or steel pan drums, and taste the local savory fish, conch and lobster dishes enhanced with exotic spices.