Introduction

The Island of Anguilla, which also comprises the island of Sombrero and a number of smaller Islands and cays, is small and secluded; ideal if you want to get away from it all. The main resorts are based around the hotels, many of which are situated off the Islands’ white coral beaches which are regarded as among the most beautiful in the world. The Islands, the northernmost of the Leeward Islands, are mainly flat – the highest point, Crocus Hill, is only 60m (213ft) above sea level. The name Anguilla, meaning ‘eel’ in Spanish, was given to the Island by the Spaniards, because of the Island’s eel-like shape.

History

Columbus sailed by Anguilla in 1493, but didn’t land on the Island. It was the British settlers from Saint Kitts who first settled on Anguilla in the 17th century. 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. Formally, the islands became a ‘state in association’ with the UK until 1980, when it was granted the status of a British Dependent Territory.

Culture

The Anguilla community is peaceful and joyous. The inhabitants of Anguilla live on another time frame where relaxation is a true way of living. They welcome the visitors with their smile and this special “joie de vivre”.  You will discover this small paradise with a quiet rhythm of life.

Map

To See

Most excursions will be a leisurely exploration of idyllic beaches. There are some historical monuments like the Wallblake House, an impressively restored plantation house. The ruins of the Dutch Fort, built in the 1700s, are located at Sandy Hill. The Tomb of Governor Richardson (1679-1742) at Sandy Hill is well preserved. Also of interest are the Salt Ponds at Sandy Ground and West End.

There are over 30 beaches on Anguilla, some of which stretch for miles, dotted with hidden coves and grotto-like rock areas. Some of the best beaches are Rendezvous, Shoal Bay, Road Bay, Maundays Bay, Cove Bay, Meads Bay and Crocus Bay. Visitors who enjoy solitude and privacy should charter a boat to Sandy Island, or Sombrero Island, 48km northwest of Anguilla. The even smaller sandy cays of Scrub, Dog and Prickly Pear Islands are within reach of Anguilla by power boat.

Usefull Information

Airports: Wallblake Airport.

Area: 91 sq km (35 sq miles). Sombrero: 5 sq km (2 sq miles). Total: 96 sq km (37 sq miles).

Business: Banking hours is from Monday to Thursday, 8am-3pm, and Friday 8am to 5pm.

Capital: The Valley.

Climate: Hot throughout the year, tempered by trade winds in local areas.

Clothing: Lightweight cottons throughout the year.

Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar – EC$.

Customs: The following goods can be taken into Anguilla without incurring customs duty: 
200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 225g of tobacco; 1.136l of wine or spirits.

Economy: Industries include fishing and fish processing, salt mining and boat manufacture and construction. Most of the island’s agricultural produce is, however, for domestic consumption. The service sector, specifically tourism and financial services, are responsible for the great majority of economic output.

Electricity: 110 volts AC, 60Hz.

Entry & Departure requirements: Please refer to the official tourist office website link below

Health: Primary health services can be obtained from the five district health clinics, where registered nurses provide care for minor emergencies. Family doctors hold clinics twice weekly.

Holidays: New Year’s Day (01JAN), Good Friday, and Easter Monday (MAR-APR), Labour day (MAY), Whit Monday (MAY-JUN), Anguilla Day (MAY), Queen’s Birthday (JUN), Carnival 2-3 days (AUG), Constitution Day (AUG), Separation Day (DEC), Christmas (25-26DEC).

Language: English.

Political status: Overseas territory of the UK.

Population: 13,677.

Religion: Roman Catholic, Anglican, Baptist, Methodist and Moravian, with Hindu, Jewish and Muslim minorities.

Security: There is very little crime in Anguilla; however, travellers should take normal precautions such as locking doors and securing valuables.

Shopping: Rather than a large town centre, Anguilla is dotted with small villages. A shop can be anywhere and have just about anything from handmade craft items to international treasures.

Taxes & Service charges: 10% tax on the hotel room and 10% service charge on the restaurant bills. Tip is about 10-15 %.

Telecommunications: The international dialling code for Anguilla is +1 264.

Time: GMT – 4. Anguilla Time does not operate Daylight-Saving Time.

Transportation: The road network is good and unpaved roads lead to beaches. Traffic drives on the left. Taxis are available at the airport and seaports with fixed prices to the various hotels. Island tours can be arranged on an individual basis.

MORE INFORMATION: www.anguilla-vacation.com