Anguilla

Anguilla is the most northerly of the Caribbean’s Leeward Islands. Anguilla’s 91 km2 are mostly flat. The territory has few natural resources, mainly salt, fish, and lobsters. The capital is The Valley. The British colonized Anguilla in 1650; it became a separate British dependency on 19 December 1980.

Colonized by English settlers from Saint Kitts in 1650, Anguilla was administered by Great Britain until the early 19th century, when the island - against the wishes of the inhabitants - was incorporated into a single British dependency along with Saint Kitts and Nevis. Several attempts at separation failed. In 1971, two years after a revolt, Anguilla was finally allowed to secede; this arrangement was formally recognized in 1980, with Anguilla becoming a separate British dependency.

Unhurried, uncomplicated time to concentrate thinking on nothing more than choosing which pleasurable activity to select to round out a day of beach and sea pleasures. Visitors to Anguilla are met by caring, friendly and welcoming Anguillians, and quickly embraced as friends. Innkeepers, whether of five-star luxury resorts or our charming escapes, apartment hotels, villa and condo beach clubs, value their guests and strive to ensure that vacationers here return to their homes and careers fully rested and restored, in body, mind and spirit.

All of Anguilla’s 33 beaches are public, uncrowded and unspoiled. Stunningly white, powder soft sands meet gentle seas of pristine waters colored in vibrant and varied hues of turquoise. Every cove, bay and stretch of sand is marked by unique characteristics, such as rock and coral formations and picturesque tropical plants. There is a beach for everyone, for every kind of beach day, for every mood.

Anguilla’s crime rate is relatively low. However, crimes, including murder, rape, armed robbery, petty street crime, automobile break-ins and burglary, do occur. Visitors are warned to be extremely careful when driving, riding in a vehicle, or crossing roads on foot. Major roads are in average to poor condition. Drivers often stop in the middle of the roadway without warning.

Access to buildings, pedestrian paths and transportation is extremely difficult for persons with disabilities. Sidewalks (if they exist) are very uneven and will only occasionally have ramps at intersections. Pedestrian crossings are also very infrequent and can be poorly marked. Buses and taxis do not have special accommodations for disabled persons.

Visitors should carefully assess the potential risks inherent in recreational water activities and measure participation in them against physical capabilities and skills. Never venture out alone, particularly at isolated beaches or far out to sea. Avoid entering the water above your waist if you have been drinking and always be mindful of jet ski traffic in the area. When in doubt, stay out!