Anguilla
Anguilla is the northernmost of the leeward islands and lies only 9 miles off the northern coast of St. Martin. This relatively dry and flat island is different from many Caribbean islands in that it is formed from coral and limestone rather than from volcanic activity. Anguilla is 16 miles long and 3 miles wide and ringed by more than 30 white sand beaches, all of which are open to the public. Crocus Hill is the highest point on the island but stands only 213 feet tall. .
Because of Anguilla's many beautiful white sand beaches surrounded by miles of translucent blue water, the most popular activities on the island are either on, in, or under the water. The island's constant breezy trade winds make sailing a favorite activity and cruising by boat to the many beaches, cays, and smaller islands is an absolute must. Fishing these clear blue waters will prove quite rewarding as well as other water-related activities including diving, snorkeling, parasailing, and jet-skiing.
Discovering the interior of this beautiful island can be easily done by car, 4x4, or scooter because the island is relatively small. A drive around Anguilla can be done in one day and will allow you to see many of the sleepy fishing villages that dot the coastline. Many of the buildings have ornamental latticework and gingerbread trim as well as brightly colored shuttered windows painted in contrasting pastel hues.
Anguilla's capital city, The Valley, sits near the center of the island. The city is small but most of the island's excursion companies have offices here to help you with all your activity needs. Shopping is low-keyed but those who want to spend a day shopping can do so by simply taking the ferry over to nearby St. Martin where duty-free shopping in plentiful. Shopping may not be Anguilla's strong suit but eating and drinking definitely is. Restaurants, bistros, and clubs offer food and drinks for every mood, taste, and budget including French, Italian, Creole, West Indian, American and Caribbean. Specialties on the island include lobster, crayfish, red snapper and yellowtail. Nightlife can be found in most restaurants and bars and include music that ranges from Caribbean and raggae to jazz.
Anguilla embraces its slow-paced Caribbean lifestyle with the help of its small population and its lack of an international airport and no cruise ship terminal. Visitors who fly to Anguilla must fly into St. Martin and take a short 20 minute ferry trip over to Anguilla. Once here, though, this island's slow-paced lifestyle and its beautiful beaches and water will quickly become addicting. The short ferry ride over to St. Martin will offer you a wonderful day trip that can include great French food and unlimited duty-free shopping.
Anguilla realizes that controlled growth is extremely important to the island's survival. Most of the island's hotels, villas, and condos are small scale and blend in with the surrounding landscape. This gives the island a cozier more intimate feel and is the reason why so many visitors return year after year. Accommodations range from small inns to medium-sized resorts and prices run the gamut from budget priced family hotels to private resorts for the ultra rich.
Anguilla is a British territory and English is its official language. The U.S. dollar is widely accepted as well as major credit cards and a valid passport is required.
Anguilla is a little off the beaten path but if getting there is part of the fun, then being there will absolutely become contagious. The island's astonishing beauty and wonderful weather will have you returning year after year.
