HOOKED and Virgin Voyages

Pristine, powder sand beaches, exceptional diving and snorkeling, brilliant turquoise waters and delicious rum cocktails - The British Virgin Islands provide all you could ask for in an island destination. Part of a volcanic archipelago in the Caribbean, these islands are a British overseas territory comprising four large main islands and numerous smaller ones. This idyllic holiday destination is known for its reef-lined beaches and as a popular yachting hot spot. From the rainforest-filled Sage Mountain National Park on Tortola, to the natural granite pillars on Virgin Gorda and the spectacular scenery of Anegada, the islands offer countless natural wonders. No matter which of the islands you choose to explore, you’ll discover warm and welcoming locals, unbelievable beaches and an array of adventurous activities.

Currency

US Dollar (USD; symbol US$) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of US$100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1. Coins are in denominations of US$1 and 50, 25, 10, 5 and 1 cents.

The import of any currency is limited to the equivalent of US$9,999.

Banking

Banking hours: Monday-Thursday 09h00-15h00/16h00 and Fri 09h00-17h00.

Major credit cards are accepted in some establishments. There are ATMs in Tortola and Virgin Gorda.

Travellers cheques are accepted in most places, particularly US Dollar cheques. All cheques are liable to a 10c stamp duty.

Fly BVI (www.fly-bvi.com) and Caribbean Wings-BVI Airlines (www.bvi-airlines.com) run inter-island charter flights.

There is a good network, although due to steep and narrow mountain roads, plus poor driving standards, conditions may be precarious.

There are many local and international companies. Drivers need to be at least 25 years old. The speed limit is 64kph (40mph). Seat belts are compulsory. You can drive on a valid national licence for up to 30 days.

There are several taxi companies on Tortola and Virgin Gorda. Many drivers double up as tour guides, and you can hire taxis on an hourly or daily basis.

Yacht charter is one of the major industries, and you can hire bareboats for cruises. A permit is required for all charter boat passengers. The high season is from December to April.

Ferries: The main routes are from Tortola to Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, Marina Cay and Peter Island. A list of operators is available from the British Virgin Islands Tourist Board (www.bvitourism.com/inter-island-ferries).

Mains water is normally chlorinated and, whilst relatively safe, may cause mild abdominal upsets. Bottled water is available and is advised for the first few weeks of stay. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat.

There is no shortage of excellent restaurants and inns serving local and international dishes. Most food is imported but local island specialities are often available. In addition to the hotels, eateries can be found on Tortola, Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke.

Tipping: All hotels add a 10 to 12% service charge.

The climate is subtropical and tempered by trade winds. There is little variation between summer and winter. Rainfall is low, varying slightly from island to island. Night-time temperatures drop to a comfortable level. Visitors should note that the British Virgin Islands are susceptible to hurricanes and earthquakes, although these are by no means a frequent occurrence. The primary hurricane season is from June to November.

Internet access is available in some hotels. There are a few internet cafés and free Wi-Fi hotspots. BVI Marine WiFi (www.bvimarinewifi.com) offers a subscription service giving wireless access at the main harbours.

Electrical sockets in the British Virgin Islands are very similar to the electrical outlets found in the United States and Canada, and if your appliance has a North American plug, it's possible that you won't need any adapter at all in order to plug in there. If not, an adapter will be necessary.

Electrical sockets in the British Virgin Islands usually supply electricity at between 110 and 120 volts AC. If you're plugging in a U.S. or Canadian 120 volt appliance, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need. If not, a voltage converter will be necessary.

The easternmost of the Caribbean islands, Barbados is a traveller’s paradise blessed with lush vegetation, friendly people, superb dining and idyllic palm-fringed beaches - wild and windswept on the south and east, pristine and tranquil on the north and west. Once a British colonial outpost, and much of this history is reflected in the nation’s architecture, street names, and passion for cricket. There’s an enormous amount to see and do on Barbados: Take a jeep safari to the untamed east coast, known for its world class surfing, or head to the rugged southern coast, where secluded coves are hugged by craggy cliffs. If you prefer calmer , the north and west coast will be your thing, powder-fine white-sand shores melting into serene bays perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Barbados’ capital, Bridgetown, has excellent shopping and sightseeing, while the island’s relatively flat interior is dotted with beautiful gardens, verdant nature reserves, glittering caverns, and breathtaking viewpoints.

Currency

Barbados Dollar (BBD; symbol BD$) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of BD$100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 2. Coins are in denominations of BD$1, and 25, 10, 5 and 1 cents.

The Barbados Dollar is tied to the US Dollar.

The import of local currency is unlimited but should be declared on arrival. The export of local currency is prohibited. There are no restrictions on the import of foreign currencies providing declared on arrival. The export of foreign currency is limited to the amount declared on arrival.

Banking

Banking hours are generally Mon-Thurs 0800-1500, Fri 0800-1700.

American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa credit cards are accepted in the resorts, but cash is preferred for customs duty payment. ATMs are widely available.

Travellers cheques are accepted by all banks and most hotels. Opt for traveller's cheques in US Dollars or Pounds Sterling to avoid additional charges.

Commercial banks offer the best rates for currency exchange. The Barbados National Bank and a range of international banks each have an office in Bridgetown with branches in Hastings, Holetown, Speightstown and Worthing.

A good network of roads covers the entire island, but many are unpaved and covered in potholes (except for the main highway). Road safety is a national concern, especially after dark. Hiring a car is the best way to explore Barbados, thanks to the fact it’s a well-developed, small island measuring just 34km (21 miles) long and 23km (14 miles) wide. Anything from a Mini Moke to a limousine may be hired at the airport, at offices in Bridgetown or at main hotels. Petrol is comparatively cheap. Traffic drives on the left. Drivers must be between 21 and 65 years of age to hire a car in Barbados, with a minimum of three years driving experience. Visitors to the island are easily identifiable on the road by the 'H' number plate. Locals are usually accommodating and make allowances for any confusion. Seat belts are compulsory. Speed limits are 40, 60 and 80kph (25, 37 and 50mph). A Barbados driving permit is required. This can be obtained from car hire companies, the airport or some police stations. The permit costs US$5 and is valid for one year. A valid national licence or International Driving Permit and a small registration fee are required.

Barbados has a modern, reliable bus network, which operates from 0500 to midnight.

Taxis in Barbados tend to be fairly safe and reliable. Taxis are unmetered but charge fares are regulated by the government and are based on the distance travelled. Check the rate before travel - it can be in US Dollars or Barbados Dollars. Special deals apply for a full-day hire. Licensed minivans, identifiable by their 'ZR' licence plates, operate around the island and can be flagged down. There are no fixed schedules, but service is frequent. Rates are the same as for buses, although minivans tend to be quicker - but can be a tight squeeze.

Scooter hire is available - you'll need to pay a small deposit and wearing a helmet is required by law.

Barbados's water is said to rank amongst the purest in the world; it is filtered naturally by limestone and coral and pumped from underground streams. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption.

Eating out in Barbados is pricier compared to other Caribbean islands. Expect to pay around £20pp in a mid-range restaurant. There is an eclectic choice of food available, with everything from global cuisine served in smart, world-renowned restaurants, such as The Cliff, to Bajan fare available in street markets such as Oistins. Replica British pubs are popular and serve genuine British bitter and stout - often with fish-and-chip bar snacks. There are more than 100 rum shops across the island, which are simple, sometimes shabby, but always friendly where policeman and locals sip a mid-afternoon drink, it’s something to be experienced. A smoking ban in public places was enforced in October 2010 and anyone caught breaking it could face a fine or imprisonment.

A 10% tax is added onto the final bill. Allow for 10 to 15% in restaurants, round-up taxi fares and tip porters at around a dollar a bag.

Constant sea breezes cool Barbados's balmy, tropical climate but the island is still sunnier and drier than the other islands. During the so-called wet season (July to November), some brief rain showers are likely. Average sunshine hours per day are eight to ten from November to March and eight to nine from April to October. Tropical storms and hurricanes may occur between June and November.

Smart casual clothes in lightweight natural fabrics will work best - It is warm and sunny but not unbearably hot all year round. However the nights tend to be a little cooler and a sweater is worth taking. Daytime essentials include t-shirts, camisoles, sarongs and shorts as most people spend their time on the beach. Remember your sun hat and sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen. Mosquitoes can be a problem, so take insect/mosquito repellent and cover up with long sleeves and pants when you can, particularly in the evenings if you are outdoors. Avoid wearing any scent or perfume. Keep your swimwear for the beach, beach bars and hotel pools. There are a number of up-market restaurants where the dress code is super smart - so you might like to include a smarter outfit. Do not wear or carry any army/combat type clothing or print, as this is illegal in Barbados. If you plan to explore the island, take some lightweight comfortable shoes for walking.

Electrical sockets (outlets) in Barbados are very similar to the electrical outlets found in the United States and Canada, and if your appliance has a North American plug, it's possible that you won't need any adapter at all in order to plug in there. However, there are two potentially very important physical differences that may need to be addressed with an adapter: grounding and/or polarization. If your plug has one or both, and the socket doesn't, then the plug may not physically be able to fit into the socket without an adapter.

In the case of a North American appliance plug, grounding is accomplished by the third, round pin beneath and below the two vertical blades on the plug. Polarization is accomplished by the left vertical blade being taller than the right, so that the plug can't be inserted upside down. U.S. and Canadian sockets are required to be both grounded and polarized. But in Central and South America, the Caribbean, Japan and other areas which use U.S. style sockets, grounding and polarization often are not required, and in fact, the majority of sockets in many of these areas do not accept the taller blade and/or the third grounding pin. This will prevent a North American appliance plug from being able to plug into these sockets, if the plug is either grounded or polarized.

So what it boils down to is this: If your appliance has a North American plug, these adapters serve as a "just in case" fallback. Should you find that either grounding or polarization prevents your appliance from plugging into the Japanese or Central/South American socket at your specific location, these adapters address those issues and allow you to plug in. You may not need them. But for many travelers, it's better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it.

Electrical sockets (outlets) in Barbados usually supply electricity at between 110 and 120 volts AC. If you're plugging in a U.S. or Canadian 120 volt appliance, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need.

But travel plug adapters do not change the voltage, so the electricity coming through the adapter will still be the same 110-120 volts the socket is supplying. If your appliance is from another part of the world, and it is built only for 220-240 volt electricity, or a Japanese appliance built for 100 volts, then a travel plug adapter by itself won't be sufficient. The voltage will have to be changed from 110-120 volts at the socket, to whatever voltage your appliance requires. This is accomplished with a voltage transformer.

The Caribbean island of St Lucia is home to beautiful volcanic, palm-fringed beaches, excellent reef-diving sites, countless little luxury resorts, and charming fishing villages. With a lush interior featuring soaring mountains, dense rain forest, fertile valleys, and acres of banana plantations, St. Lucia is mainly distinguished by the Pitons - a pair of dramatically tapered mountains on the southwest coast. Hike through the rainforest to discover magnificent waterfalls, zip-line over forest canopies or see boiling sulphur springs bubble away atop a volcano. If you've still got the energy for a night out, you will find a lively party scene north of the island. Whether you're after romance, rejuvenation or adventure, Saint Lucia is the perfect destination.

Currency

Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD; symbol EC$) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of EC$100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of EC$1, and 50, 25, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cents. US Dollars are also accepted as legal tender.

The Eastern Caribbean Dollar is tied to the US Dollar at EC$2.7 to US$1.

There are no restrictions on the import or export of local or foreign currency.

Banking

Banking hours: Generally Monday-Thursday 08h30-15h00, Friday 08h30-17h00. Some banks at Rodney Bay Marina are open Saturday 08h00-12h00.

American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa credit cards are accepted at all large shopping centres, restaurants, hotels etc. Most banks have ATMs.

Travellers cheques are accepted. US Dollar cheques are preferred and will help to avoid additional exchange rate charges. Change may be given back in EC$.

When exchanging currency US Dollars ensure a better exchange rate.

Helicopter transfers operate between George F L Charles and Hewanorra airports.

All major centres are served by a reasonably good road network. The main cross-island route runs from Vieux Fort in the south of the island to Castries in the north. Roads are narrow and mountainous roads are steep, often with hairpin bends which are not marked. In rural areas watch out for livestock crossing the road.

You can hire cars in Castries, Soufrière and Vieux Fort, or through hotels. Most cars are suitable for driving in St Lucia, but if you're driving through mountainous terrain or in bad weather conditions, a 4-wheel drive may be your best option. Hotels and local tour operators run coach trips for groups. Vehicles are driven on the left side of the road. You need to show your national driving licence or International Driving Permit to obtain a temporary local licence. These are available from car hire firms or police stations for a small fee.

Hiring a taxi is easy and cheap. Standard trips usually have fixed rates, but you should agree upon these before you get in as tourists are vulnerable to being overcharged. Doublecheck what currency the taxi driver is quoting (US Dollars or EC Dollars). When hiring a taxi at night, always choose a reputable company. Tipping is unnecessary.

Boat charters are easily available at Castries, Marigot Bay and Rodney Bay. Water taxis are an easy way to access private beaches or go island hopping.

Mains water is normally chlorinated, and whilst relatively safe, may cause mild abdominal upsets. Bottled water is available. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat but take care to ensure that all foods are properly prepared and cooked. Barracuda should not be eaten due to risk of ciguatera poisioning.

St Lucian food is a combination of Creole with French and West Indian influences. Most hotels have restaurants, in addition to a wide range in the major towns serving many different types of food. Waiter service is the norm.

Tipping: An optional 10 to 12% is sometimes added to bills.

The weather in St Lucia is typical of most Caribbean islands. There is a hot, tropical climate tempered by trade winds throughout most of the year with temperatures ranging from 21°C (70°F) to 32°C (90°F). The driest period is from December to May and there is increased rainfall in summer and towards the end of the year (June to November). Regionally, there is some variation.  The beaches around the North (Castries, Gros Islet) whilst hot, receive cooling trade winds, whilst the rainforested interior of the island can get very hot and humid. St Lucia can also suffer from hurricanes; typically the hurrican season runs from June to November.

In general, light breathable fabrics are best, along with beachwear. A light waterproof jacket may also come in handy during rain showers. Hikers should pack sensible footwear and warm clothes as temperatures drop at higher altitudes.

Electrical sockets in Saint Lucia are the "Type G " British BS-1363 type. If your appliance's plug doesn't match the shape of these sockets, you will need a travel plug adapter in order to plug in. 

Electrical sockets Saint Lucia usually supply electricity at between 220 and 240 volts AC. If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for 220-240 volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need. If your appliance is not compatible with 220/240V output, a voltage converter will be necessary.

Antigua and Barbuda is an exquisite twin-island Caribbean country comprised of of two major inhabited islands, Antigua and Barbuda, and a number of smaller islands. Antigua is home to some extraordinary beaches as well as the nation’s vibrant capital, St Johns, which boasts a wonderful cathedral and some excellent museums. A visit to neighbouring Barbuda is an altogether more laidback experience. The island is remarkably undeveloped and is blessed with an abundance of intriguing wildlife and countless idyllic palm-fringed beaches. Whether exploring the old fort, the graceful harbours dotted along Antigua’s curving coastline or the calm clear waters of Half Moon Bay, you are bound to find plenty to keep you blissfully entertained in this charming dual-island nation.

Currency

East Caribbean Dollar (XCD; symbol EC$) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of EC$100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of EC$2 and EC$1, and 25, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cents. US currency is accepted almost everywhere. The EC Dollar is pegged to the US Dollar.

There are no limits on the import of local and foreign currency, provided it is declared upon arrival. The export of local and foreign currency is permitted up to the amount imported and declared.

Banking

Banking hours: Monday-Thursday 08h00-15h00; Friday 08h00-16h00. The Bank of Antigua also opens until midday on Saturdays.

Major credit cards including American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are accepted all over the islands.

ATMs are available on the islands, with more found in the major resorts and towns such as St John’s.

Travellers cheques are widely accepted and they can be exchanged at international banks, hotels and larger stores. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in US Dollars rather than Pound Sterling or Euros.

Although the EC Dollar is tied to the US Dollar, exchange rates will vary at different exchange establishments. There are international banks in St John's, and Pound Sterling and US Dollars can be exchanged at hotels and in the larger shops.

A small airstrip at Codrington on Barbuda is equipped to handle light aircraft. Antigua Barbuda Montserrat Air (www.antigua-flights.com) operates daily scheduled flights between Antigua and Barbuda.

To fly to other islands from Barbuda it is necessary to transfer back to VC Bird International airport on Antigua.

It is perfectly safe to drive around Antigua by road and this is a good way to explore the country. Main roads are of good quality but may become dirt tracks if you go off the beaten track. Travellers thinking of driving to remote locations may want to consider hiring a 4-wheel drive vehicle.

A car is not strictly necessary as public transport does exist, but buses, most of which run from St. Johns, tend to serve local rather than tourist routes.

Car hire services can be organised in advance from your home country but is easy to do on arrival. In addition to a valid driver’s licence, a permit to drive in Antigua is required. The hire company can assist in getting this temporary licence. There are several reputable car hire companies on Antigua (some of which also hire out mopeds and bicycles). Hire rates are for the day and there is no mileage. Cars are driven on the left side of the road and few streets are lit at night.

If travelling with young children, be aware that car hire companies do not provide child or booster seats. It is not a legal requirement to use these, but the conditions of the roads on Antigua make it advisable.

Taxis are available everywhere with standardised rates. US Dollars are more readily accepted by taxi drivers. Taxi drivers are also qualified as tour guides for sightseeing trips. Taxis are identified by ‘TX’ on licence plates.

Mains water is normally chlorinated and, whilst relatively safe, may cause mild abdominal upsets. Bottled water is available and is advised for the first few weeks of the stay. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption so there is no need to be overly cautious. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat.

Fresh catches are amongst Antigua's gastronomic specialities with lobster, red snapper, conch, mahi mahi, shrimp and other fish always worth sampling. Most resorts have their own restaurants, but to sample authentic Antiguan fare, head to one of the excellent local restaurants, which are scattered around both the islands. Renowned for their hearty Caribbean dishes, some of these restaurants also offer beach views.

On Antigua you will find all types of international cuisine including French, Italian and American food as well as local specialities. Meanwhile, delectable street food, such as barbeque chicken, fish and rotis, can be found around St John’s and English Harbour.

10 to 15% is included on hotel bills for staff gratuities, plus an 8.5% government tax.

The islands enjoy a very pleasant balmy tropical climate which remains warm and relatively dry throughout the year, with relatively little variance. Temperatures range from lows of 22°C (72°F) to highs of 40°C (104°F) all year round, with October to January being the hottest time of year, staying in the region of 30°C (86°F) to 35°C (95°F). Cooling winds blow in from the south east so the heat rarely feels too unbearable. In general, humidity in Antigua and Barbuda is quite low.

The rainy season runs from around June to November, and during this time daily rain showers are common; there is also a good chance of tropical storms and hurricanes across the islands. Their location in the hurricane zone means the islands are vulnerable to powerful storms every two or three years, whilst hurricanes can hit every two to six years.

Dress for a tropical climate - lightweight cottons or linens will be appropriate for most of the year, but those visiting the islands from June to September should bring waterproofs so that they’re not caught out when the rains come.

Sint Maarten, part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, is a country on the southern part of a Caribbean island shared with Saint Martin, a French overseas collectivity. The Dutch side of the island boasts excellent casino hotels and surprisingly vibrant nightlife. Visitors can wander the cobblestone streets of the lively capital, Philipsburg, with its colourful, colonial-style buildings and its array of popular duty-free shops selling jewellery and liquor. With the towering Mount Flagstaff as its scenic backdrop, this unique island destination offers delicious fusion cuisine, pristine beaches, a year-round warm climate and a cosmopolitan atmosphere with a Caribbean twist. Watersport enthusiasts will be spoiled for choice with a wide range of activities available, including diving, snorkelling, parasailing, jet-skiing and windsurfing.

Currency

US Dollars are accepted everywhere but at the moment the official currency is the Netherlands Antilles Guilder or Florin (ANG; symbol ƒ) which is going to soon be phased out and replaced by the Caribbean Guilder (CMg) by 2012-2013. Notes are in denominations of 200, 100, 50, 20 and 10. Coins are in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 cents, 1 guilder, and 5 guilder coins. The Caribbean guilder will be pegged to the US Dollar (US$ 1 = CMg 1.79).

There are no restrictions but amounts over Æ20,000, or equivalent, must be declared.

Banking

Banking hours: Monday-Friday 08h30-11h30 and 13h30-16h30. Some banks are also open on Saturday.

All major credit cards are widely accepted.

Travellers cheques are widely accepted. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in US Dollars.

All major currencies can be exchanged at banks on the island.

There are plenty of car hire firms in the city and at the airport. Chauffeur-driven cars are also available. Vehicles are driven on the right side of the road. Most roads on the island are in good condition. A national driving licence is required.

There are safe and reliable taxi services on the island running from the airport, main hotels and towns. Taxis do not have meters but fares are fixed. There is a 50% surcharge after midnight. There is a taxi station at Wathey Square. Taxi drivers do not expect a tip.

You can charter small boats for fishing trips, scuba-diving, waterskiing or visits to neighbouring islands. There are marinas at Oyster Pond, Philipsburg and Simpson Bay Lagoon.

Water on the island is considered safe to drink. Bottled mineral water is widely available. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat.

St Maarten's cuisine is as varied as its history, combining Creole, Dutch, English, French and, more recently, international influences. Local specialities include seafood, goat and Guavaberry liquor.

Tipping: 10 to 15% is generally acceptable for waiters and bar staff.

As a general rule, lightweight, light-colored clothing in natural fabrics are advisable. When you go out to dinner, a little more formality than the shorts you wore out hiking is in order. Men should bring along collared shirts and slacks with loafers or boat shoes, and women will want sun dresses or slacks, and perhaps the occasional party dress. Umbrellas or light waterproofs are also recommended as are sun hats, sunscreen and sunglasses.

Internet access is available in several Internet Cafés on both sides of the island. Most of those Cybercafés are offices (not cafés!) with scheduled opening hours on weekdays only. In addition, several restaurants and bars offer free WiFi access

Internet hotspots, are available, but not well documented. These hotspots are mainly in the Simpson Bay area, in the marinas and at SXM airport.

Electrical sockets (outlets) in Sint Maarten (St. Martin) are one of the two European standard electrical socket types: The "Type C" Europlug and the "Type E" and "Type F" Schuko. If your appliance's plug doesn't match the shape of these sockets, you will need a travel plug adapter in order to plug in.

Electrical sockets (outlets) in Sint Maarten (St. Martin) usually supply electricity at between 220 and 240 volts AC. If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for 220-240 volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need. If your appliance isn’t compatible with 220-240V electrical output, a voltage converter will be necessary.