An overview of The British Virgin Islands...
The 60-island chain of the BVI may be small but it packs an economic punch and is a global leader in offshore companies and finance.
It also supports a vibrant and high-quality tourism industry, making it one of the most stable economies in the Caribbean region.
The islands, part of the British West Indies, are located 96km east of Puerto Rico. To the east and south lie Anguilla, St Kitts and the other islands of the Lesser Antilles.
The islands were originally settled by the Arawak Indians and then the Caribs before Christopher Columbus dropped anchor in 1493. After many years of jostling between European powers, it came under Dutch control from 1648 until 1666 when the British gained control and it has been a territory or colony of the UK ever since.
Historically its location in the Leeward islands made it a favored haunt of many of the Caribbean's pirates, but modern-day BVI is very different! You're more likely to find an accountants or lawyer sailing the seas around Tortola...
Here is a brief statistical run-down of the BVI:
- Tortola is the main island with a population of around 19,000
- The country has a population of approx. 23,500
- Half of the country's population is ex-pat
- Road Town is the main town and port of the BVI
- International dialing code for the BVI is 284
- The islands cover a total of 153sq.km
- Mount Sage is the highest point at 521m ASL
- Hurricane season is July to October
- The BVI is a British Overseas Territory
Moving to the British Virgin Island often proves to be a life-defining experience and few expats look forward to returning home after a few years in the sun. So why not find your dream job in the sun?
