British Virgin Islands
An ideal destination for solo female travellers
The British Virgin Islands is a British Overseas Territory located on the edge of the Caribbean between Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands. The Atlantic Ocean lies to the North and the Caribbean to the South. The archipelago is comprised of 60 islands and cays most of which are volcanic in origin. With a safety index of 89, BVI is one of the safest destinations in the Caribbean, and ideal for the solo female traveller looking to relax and unwind or for more adventurous activities.
About the British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) is an archipelago in the Caribbean comprising 60 islands and cays. A British overseas territory located approximately 60 miles east of Puerto Rico and a few miles north of the US Virgin Islands, the main language spoken is English, although Spanish is also spoken.
Of its 60 islands, 27 are inhabited, with four main islands: Tortola (the largest), home of BVI’s capital, Road Town, Anegada (the second largest), Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke. BVI is also famous for its four private island resorts, including Cooper Island, Guana Island, Necker Island (owned by Sir Richard Branson), and Scrub Island. Here chances are high of meeting a celebrity (if that’s your thing).
Most of the islands in BVI are volcanic in origin, which can be seen by the abundance of lush mountainous terrain, except for Anegada, which is comprised of limestone and coral. (Tip: If staying on Anegada, be sure to book a boat tour to discover Anegada’s conch shell mounds.)
Relax and Rejuvenate in the BVI
If you’re a solo entrepreneur in need of rest and recuperation, you won’t need to go too far in the BVI. There is an abundance of secluded beaches and bays where you can safely relax, unwind and rejuvenate, with ample resorts and authentic locally-run properties (including intimate inns, small hotels, villas and cottages) suitable for a range of budgets in close proximity to some of the most popular and best beaches.
Soft adventure and guided eco-tours
If its adventure you crave, there’s an abundance of both land and water-based activities. BVI has 21 national parks, with tropical trails, lush mountains as well as protected coral reefs, cays and islands to explore. If you’re seeking soft adventures, guided eco-tours available and include hiking, birdwatching, sightseeing, history and culture and island tours. You can also find adrenaline pumping canopy tours, mountain climbing, and flightseeing tours.
Water-based activities
With its abundance of coral reefs and over 75 unique dive sites, the British Virgin Islands are famous for their water-based activities, not least sailing and diving. But you don’t need to go on a boat to enjoy its warm waters. Swimming and snorkelling can be enjoyed from the shore of one of its many bays and beaches. Wakeboarding, waterskiing and even surfing can be enjoyed in some of the bays. You’ll also find fascinating caves and unique rock formations to explore.
Tip: be sure to visit The Baths on Virgin Gorda. This national park is famous for its huge granite boulders—some as large as 40 feet in diameter.
BVI at a glance
- Currency: US $
- Winter avg temp: 69-72°F (nighttime)
- Summer avg temp: 90-92°F (midday)
- Time Zone: GMT-3
- Language: English (also Spanish)
- Main Islands: Tortola, Anegada, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke
- Capital City: Road Town
- Main Airport: Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport, Beef Island (EIS) – connected to Tortola via Queen Elizabeth Bridge
- Area Code: 284
- Electricity: 110 / 220 v
- Sales Tax: Zero
- Entry Tax: $10 Environmental Tax
- Departure Tax: By air – $20 pp, by sea $20 (visitors), $15 residents
- Tipping: 15% to 20%
- Dress code: Bathing suits/swimming trunks are considered inappropriate in restaurants and Road Town
Is BVI safe for solo female travellers?
The British Virgin Islands is one of the safest destinations in the Caribbean. With an overall safety index of 89, the British Virgin Islands are ideal for solo female travellers (although, as with any tourist destination, you should always take safety precautions when venturing out alone, especially at night). It’s an amazing destination for couples, of course, but its abundance of white sand beaches and lush mountain landscapes make it ideal for gal pals and small all-female groups looking to relax and unwind or for an action-packed getaway.
Please check COVID-19 entry/exit requirements and other health and safety protocols before booking travel to the British Virgin Islands. Travel Insurance with COVID-19 coverage and CFAR is highly recommended to protect your travel investment.
