Summer Fun 10 things to do this summer in the BVI – Some might have noticed that the BVI has been a little hotter over the past couple of months than we all might like it. But, even with the extra heat there are plenty of things that you can do to keep you happy through the summer months. Here are 10 fabulous things to do to keep the relatives jealous and take your mind off the humidity.
1. Cool Off in the Crystal-clear Waters of our Beaches – Try a beach or two you haven’t been to before, such as Lava Flow, on the North Shore; Long Bay on Beef Island; Marina Cay off Beef; or Marchioneel Bay over on Cooper. Check out companies such as Caribbean Images Tours (494 1147) for trips to other islands that include lunch (for e.g. Sunday Lunch on Cooper, $35 pp including the boat ride over – drinks extra) or the BV Eye for a trip to Anegada (from $45 return).
2. Join in the August Festival Celebrations – Join in the festivities as the BVI celebrates its culture and its 1834 liberation from slavery (22 July to 11 August). There will be lots of local food and drinks on sale at the Festival Village, and the Village’s centre stage is the venue for concerts from local and international artists. Festival Monday kicks off with an early morning tramp followed by the Festival Parade down Waterfront Drive. More information at www.bvitourism.com.
3. Stop by the Willy-T – Knock back a few drinks, enjoy the always happening party on board and enjoy the smooth motion of the harbour.
4. Have a Dove Happy Hour – Whether you are rushing in for a few happy hour drinks, or planning on a happy hour that will reward you for weeks of work, the Dove Restaurant on Main Street is the perfect spot. Their delicious Champagne cocktails and martinis will have you thanking God it’s the end of any work day.
5. Go Under the Sea – Why let Sebastian, the talkative crab of Disney’s The Little Mermaid have all the fun? Visit any of the BVI’s dive shops and go on a tour of the BVI’s best dive sites. Just remember, see the beauty of Virgin Islands corals with your eyes and not your hands.
6. Take a Nature Walk – Since last year, the BVI National Parks Trust has been holding a series of Health Walks, geared at giving residents and visitors a chance to exercise while experiencing the wonders of the BVI's unique environment. Walks in August are scheduled for Wednesday, August 1 on Anegada and on Saturday, August 25 on Virgin Gorda. Special transportation will be made for persons wishing to travel to Anegada and Virgin Gorda from Tortola. For more information, call the BVI National Parks Trust at 494 3904.
7. Visit a Sister Island – One of the beautiful things about the British Virgin Islands, are the various islands at your disposal. One of the beautiful things about the BVI is the action isn’t on Tortola. Hop on a ferry over for a day trip to Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda, Norman Island or even Peter Island. You will see there are even more island treasures and sites awaiting you.
8. Take the Drinking Man’s Guide to the BVI – This handy little book written by Juswon Moore, Lilliebet Tiddely and Julian Putley, gives you the scoop on the BVI’s best bars and drinks. There are even coupons to help you really enjoy BVI bars. Purchase this fun book at local bookstores or even on amazon.com.
9. Go to a Full Moon Party – This is one party you don’t need an invitation to. The world famous Bomba Shack at Tortola’s Cappoon's Bay has a treat for its patrons with its mysterious mushroom tea. If you prefer Tortola’s East End, Trellis Bay has hot party, fireball included, and you will get a chance to listen to the rhythms of local bands and watch the Mocko Jumbies dance the night away.
10. Sail away for a Day – A number of charter companies offer excellent off season rates. You could take out a day charter with a bunch of friends and have a great time doing just as you please. Check out the directory in the back of the BVI Yacht Guide for a comprehensive list of charter companies.
