Anguilla

Anguilla is a Caribbean island known for its endless stretches of breathtaking white-sand beaches and Crystal clear turquoise waters. It is difficult to resist the beauty of this little slice of paradise. Located in the North Eastern Caribbean Sea and bordering the British Virgin Islands, Anguilla is the perfect destination to get away from it all. Awaken each morning while taking in sweeping ocean views and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere at night. The sky is filled with starry stars and a tranquil breeze, allowing visitors to indulge in a bit of bliss as they experience the true sense of relaxation. Thanks to its small population, the local vibe is warm and welcoming, making visitors feel right at home. The endless activities to partake in, from water sports to shopping in the bustling capital of The Valley, make for an unforgettable vacation. Anguilla has something for everyone and its magnificent beauty, lush landscapes, and serene setting make it a top spot for a getaway escape.

The History of Anguilla

Anguilla is a small island in the British West Indies. It is located north of the Lesser Antilles, approximately 80 miles east of Puerto Rico. Anguilla has a rich and diverse history that makes it a fascinating destination for anyone interested in the Caribbean.

The native Arawak and Carib people were the first to inhabit the island in the 7th century AD. Due to its location, it is thought that Anguilla was used by the islanders as a trading post for various goods. The Spanish claimed the island in the early 1500s and put the Arawak and Carib people to work in sugar cane plantations, which marked the beginning of the island's sugar industry.

The English arrived in the 1600s, when the island was part of the British colony of Saint Christoper-Nevis-Anguilla. While the island was still part of the colony, Anguilla was also frequently raided by the French and the Dutch, who attempted to take over the island. To prevent subsequent raids, the English built Fort Barrington in the 1700s.

In the late 1700s, Anguilla became officially ruled by the British. The island experienced a period of rich economic growth due to its lucrative sugar industry, and in the 1800s, Anguilla was a major player in the Caribbean rum trade. However, by the 20th century, Anguilla had shifted away from the sugar industry to focus more on fishing and tourism.

Today, Anguilla is a small but vibrant nation known for its stunning natural landscape, its diverse cultural heritage, and its rich and tumultuous history. With its many historical sites and beautiful beaches, it is no wonder that the island is such a popular destination. Anguilla's history is sure to intrigue and delight visitors, making it an unforgettable travel experience.

The Culture of Anguilla

Anguilla is an idyllic Caribbean island nestled in the warm turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. It's a small island with a big reputation, known for its welcoming people, magnificent shoreline and vibrant culture. Visiting Anguilla is the perfect way to experience the best of Caribbean culture, while immersing yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the island.

The locals of Anguilla are a diverse yet united cultural force on the island. You'll experience a wave of hospitality everywhere you go as you get to know the rich culture of Anguilla. Residents enjoy a unique blend of cultures from across the globe, as well as a commitment to retaining their own heritage. Anguillans are an outgoing bunch, and visitors to the island can quickly make local friends. English is the most widely spoken language, but the local dialect is often interwoven with the sounds of Creole and other languages from across the Caribbean.

For those looking to truly take in the culture of Anguilla, the island's many cultural festivals and celebrations offer the perfect opportunity. During your time there, visitors can enjoy traditional tug-o-war matches and delicious feasts celebrating the island's rich heritage. Music is an integral component within Anguilla's culture and every Sunday is devoted to a string of 'Jump-ups', which include live music, dancing, eclectic street food and merriness. On the island, drumming is a part of everyday culture, used to signal when a parade or a boat race is scheduled to start.

The Arquebus National Park of Anguilla offers a glimpse into the physical history of the island. Visitors will find historical records, ancient writings and other artifacts dating back centuries. The island's landscape is also not to be missed, with some of the most stunning beaches and rainforest in the entire region. Tourists will find a warm welcome and invigorating local culture here in Anguilla. Anyone who visits is sure to be captivated by the vibrant culture and the generous hospitality of the island's people.

The Food of Anguilla

Anguilla is one of the Caribbean's best-kept culinary secrets and offers a superb culinary experience filled with exciting flavors, fresh produce, and a variety of dining options. Many travelers are attracted to the island's cuisine due to its rich local culture and its commitment to authenticity.

If you're looking for a flavor-packed experience, Anguilla is the place to go. The island is home to a variety of seafood dishes such as stewed fish, steamed crabs, conch fritters, and grilled lobster. Other local specialties include souse (a tangy, pickled fish dish), boiled or fried plantains, johnnycakes (fried cornmeal cakes), and fungi (cornmeal-based dumplings). Most restaurants will offer a selection of dishes featuring an array of ingredients, giving guests a true taste of Anguilla.

No Anguillian culinary experience is complete without indulging in some of the island's famous Bajan-style food. This style of cooking is deeply rooted in Caribbean, African, and British traditions and is characterized by its subtly spiced jerk-style rubs and sauces. While traditional dishes such as stewed chicken, salt cod, and barracuda will always be popular, adventurous eaters can also sample the specialties at the island's small, family-run restaurants and roadside stands.

For diners wanting something light and fresh, Anguilla has no shortage of options. The island prides itself on its fresh produce and is home to a vibrant farmers' market where you can find some of the best fruits and vegetables in the Caribbean. Water-loving seafood fanatics will also delight in the abundance of freshly caught seafood that can be purchased directly from the fishermen in town. Anguilla also offers an impressive selection of international cuisines, including Italian, French, and more.

The culinary experience in Anguilla will please even the most discerning of foodies. The island is home to an amazing array of restaurants offering a diverse selection of dining options, so guests can sample everything from traditional local fare to spectacular international cuisines. Whether you're looking for a light snack or a five-star dinner, you'll find something in Anguilla that can satisfy your taste buds.

What to See and Do in Anguilla

1. Try Scuba Diving in Sandy Ground, Anguilla: Scuba dive the deep blue waters of Anguilla and explore the abundance of tropical fish, reefs, and shipwrecks that live in the pristine waters of Sandy Ground. Enjoy the best visibility in the Caribbean and plunge more than 130ft. Witness the vibrant corals and sponges, and the schools of angelfish, grouper, sea horses, and other exotic creatures. Along with this, enjoy a vast array of colorful, tropical marine life such as turtles, barracuda, and sea fans.
2. Stroll Through the Historic Streets of The Valley, Anguilla: Enjoy a stroll down the streets of The Valley and take in the beauty of the old colonial buildings that line the sidewalks. Enjoy the colorful, traditional-style wooded architecture, as well unique stone and brick buildings that have been standing for centuries. Spend time exploring the quaint stores, local art galleries, and eateries around the town.
3. Take a Boat Tour to Prickly Pear Island, Anguilla: Experience an unforgettable day-trip to Prickly Pear Island. Take a boat tour and admire the pristine white sand, Crystal blue waters, and the abundant sea life while lounging on the beaches. Snorkel and explore the captivating coral reefs and colorful sea life. Enjoy diving and swimming in the turquoise waters, as well as exploring the beaches, trails and viewpoints.
4. Soak Up the Suns Rays at Shoal Bay West Beach, Anguilla: Experience one of the best beaches in the Caribbean at Shoal Bay West. With its clear turquoise waters and white sand, this beach offers a serene environment to relax and soak up the Caribbean rays. Relax and unwind in one of the beach lounge chairs or explore the nearby reefs that are filled with an abundance of marine life.
5. Go Sport Fishing in Meyers, Anguilla: Enjoy a unique and exciting day on the high seas of Meyers. Spend the day fishing for Kingfish, marlin, sailfish, and others while admiring the beautiful views of the Caribbean sea. Take part in a deep sea adventure to target larger fish, or stay closer to shore for more shallow water game fishing.
6. Have an Authentic Caribbean Meal at Zemi Beach House, Anguilla: Dine in style at Zemi Beach House. This is one of the Caribbean's finest restaurants, serving up unique and scrumptious dishes such as catch of the day with banana leaf and mango sauce, as well as lobster mac and cheese. Enjoy the fine white wine from the fully stocked wine cellar and experience the unbeatable views of the Caribbean sea.
7. Visit the Wallblake House, Anguilla: Step into the past and explore the exquisite 18th century Wallblake House. This place is one of the most significant monuments in Anguilla, and the entire collection is available for exploration. Enjoy the Spanish architecture, furniture, and art pieces that are on display. Also, take a look at the historic slave emancipation document that hangs in the home.
8. Relax on the Sandy Shores of Rendeavous Bay, Anguilla: Enjoy some of the best shoreline in the Caribbean at Rendezvous Bay. This beach features powder-white sand and clear, turquoise waters. Lounge on the shore and take part in a range of activities, such as swimming, beach volleyball and jet skiing. Enjoy a freshly cooked meal at one of the nearby beach-side restaurants and admire the breathtaking views.
9. Take a Trip to Island Harbour, Anguilla: Enjoy a trip to the serene and quaint village of Island Harbour which is located on the eastern coast of Anguilla, and is home to one of the oldest settlements on the island. Admire the unique stone and wood architecture and wander around the local fishermen's village. Savor traditional cuisine in one of the rustic-style eateries or explore the nearby turtle lagoon.
10. Take Part in the Moonsplash Music Festival, Anguilla: Experience the Caribbean's best live music festival, which takes place during the full moon in March. Dance along to the vibrant rhythms of rock, reggae, and soca, while taking in some of the greatest musical entertainers from around the world. Visit the various food kiosks and enjoy the exotic craft and jewelry stands surrounding this electrifying event.

Why You Should Travel to Anguilla

Anguilla is a small and picturesque island in the Caribbean with an array of attractions that are perfect for travelers looking for a peaceful, low-key vacation, or those who want to explore all the outdoor activities that Anguilla has to offer. Known for its pristine white-sand beaches, lush green mountains, and crystal-clear waters, this island paradise is packed with plenty of activities and attractions that will leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed.

Anguilla is the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, and spend some quality time surrounded by nature and serenity. Visitors can spend their days exploring the island's many beaches, including Shoal Bay East and Rendezvous Bay, which offer stunning views and activities including swimming, diving, kayaking, and parasailing. For a truly unique experience, visitors have the option to sail, Cruise, or charter a yacht to take in the breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea.

In addition to the stunning beaches and outdoor activities, the island also offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and evening-time entertainment. Local markets offer the tastiest and freshest Anguillian cuisine and the many bars, night clubs, and casinos allow for a fun-filled evening. With its breathtaking island scenery, delightful cuisine, and plenty of exciting things to do, Anguilla is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a relaxing getaway or a more exciting beach adventure.

Travelers must travel to Anguilla in order to fully experience firsthand all the wonders it has to offer. With its seemingly endless array of activities and attractions, it's no wonder why this picturesque destination is one of the most desirable vacation spots in the Caribbean. Enjoy the stunning views and Crystal clear waters, explore white sand beaches and lush green forests, sample local cuisine and take part in exciting evening entertainment, Anguilla has something for everyone!

Tips & Tricks for Traveling in Anguilla

1. Take advantage of the many non-stop flights available to Anguilla. Flights depart from many areas of the US and Europe. Non-stop flights will save you time and money, so it's worth looking for flights that are direct.
2. Rent a car to get around Anguilla. Renting a car is the best way to explore the island. Many resorts offer car rentals on-site, along with the convenience of being able to pick the vehicle up from the airport when you arrive.
3. Visit Anguilla during the off-season. Anguilla is not necessarily a budget destination, however, if you head to the island during the off-season, you will find lower hotel rates, flight prices and rental car rates.
4. Book flights in advance. If you want to take advantage of the best airfares, you need to book your flights weeks or even months in advance.
5. Bring sunscreen and stylish sunglasses when you visit Anguilla. The island is very hot during the summer months, and even in the winter you need to be prepared for the hot sun. Using high quality sunscreen and protective eyewear can help you avoid sunburn and eye strain.
6. Try to avoid packing too much luggage. If you are planning to stay for more than a few days, it's better to bring a few outfits and do your laundry at a local laundry service. This will save you time and money.
7. Learn the laws and regulations of Anguilla. Visitors should make sure they're familiar with the different laws and regulations on the island, such as speed limits, drinking laws and customs.
8. Plan your days in advance. Before your trip to Anguilla, make a list of the things you want to do and places you want to visit. Research the island, pick out the places you want to go, and plan your day accordingly.
9. Eat at local restaurants. Local restaurants provide a more authentic experience and are often much cheaper than fancy restaurants. If you eat in a local restaurant, you will get to try the delicious local cuisine and learn about the island's culture at the same time.
10. Stay active. Explore the beautiful beaches, take a walk around the island, go snorkeling, or take a boat tour around the island. Doing something active will help you enjoy your trip to Anguilla more.

Other Places You Might Like

If you love Anguilla, then you'll love St. John's, Antigua, in the Caribbean. The city has long been known for its historic harbor settlements and its white-sand beaches. It's also the home of English Harbor Antigua, where pirates and traders once sailed in for supplies and for repairs. For a true taste of the Caribbean, you can soak up the sun on the beaches of Nonsuch Bay and explore the coral reefs full of vibrant marine life. For a more adventurous island experience, take a trip to nearby Redonda Island to explore its caves and old abandoned buildings.

For a slightly different vibe, but still Caribbean charm, check out Nassau, Bahamas. Here you'll find a mix of colonial architecture, luxury resorts located along picturesque beaches, and a bustling nightlife. If the beach isn't your thing, visit the Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Center to connect with some of the local fauna, or take a stroll around Fort Charlotte to learn about the island's past.

Finally, if you want to experience the Caribbean lifestyle with a bit more luxury and exclusivity, consider visiting Grand Bahama, Bahamas. Grand Bahama boasts of vast stretches of white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, world-class golf courses, and lavish villas offering contemporary comforts. Don't forget the abundance of seafood, which the island is famous for. Don't be surprised if you've seen a few Hollywood films set on the island's "Gold Coast," such as the classic "What to Expect When You're Expecting." Whether sailing, fishing, snorkeling, or simply lounging on the beach, Grand Bahama is a great place for a luxurious tropical getaway.