So I just got back from the British Virgin Islands, and wow: I had a wonderful time!
I headed down for their Summer Sizzle fashion show, an annual display of international and local design talent. I actually co-hosted the show alongside Kenny Burns! But in between co-hosting, and being nervous about co-hosting said show, I found time to relax;)
Check out my quick rundown of what to see, what to do, and where to stay below:
1. How to Get There
I’d already had my run in with Caribbean Air flying to Trinidad & Tobago, so can say with confidence that flying American is a great way to go! American Airlines has daily flights to and from St. Thomas. From St. Thomas, you take a $10 taxi to a Ferry, then take a $40 ferry to wherever you’re staying in the BVI.
2. Where to Stay
Fun at the Pool at Surf Song Villas
The last time I went to BVI, I stayed on Scrub Island, and honestly fell in love! So much so that I plan to get married there (when the time comes. LOL). Check it out:
What I loved about Scrub Island were the villas, the infinity pool, the views, and the service. This time around, I stayed at Surf Song. And while Surf was lovely, it didn’t have a lot of the conveniences of Scrub, and my Wifi never seemed to work (death for a blogger).
In the end, I had a great time at both. If you want a more social atmosphere, go for Scrub. If you want a calm, beautiful hideaway with your family, and plan to cook, go to Surf. Up to you!
3. What to Eat
So while I was in BVI, I pretty much OD’d on Lobster Roti and Fried Chicken. While I heard lots of lore about Fish & Fungi (cornmeal with okra) with Mayonnaise Sauce, but never got to try it. Sounds delicious! I’d recommend seeing about linking up with someone local who can take you to a hot spot.
4. What to Drink
I did a lot more drinking than eating. LOL. I really enjoyed the Painkillers, Rum Punch, and Bushwhackers. They taste great, but pack a punch!
5. What to Do:
BVI has some of the most gorgeous beaches in the world, so you definitely need to plan time to enjoy. I popped by Cane Garden Bay for one day. On another, we chartered a boat for a trip to the baths at Virgin Gorda (a place with large boulders protruding out of the sea).
The boat trip is a must, but as I sit here with my neck peeling, I must encourage you to wear your sunscreen and put it EVERYWHERE, not just the obvious places;)
A few notes:
*The Caribbean is (obviously) not like New York or most American cities with a 24 hour mentality. If you want to eat late at night, you’ll be hard pressed to find spots, though we did indulge in a Fried Chicken stand that was delicious!
*Make sure your international data plans are in full effect. I basically had zero wifi at my villa at Surf Song, so had to use my Verizon HotSpot to blog! Even with my international plan in place, my bill is super high. Not sure how I could’ve avoided that, but: just make sure you brace yourself for a wild bill OR stay at a place with working Wifi.
*Aside from all that, the people in BVI were extremely friendly and accommodating. You’ll love it!
BVI is a lovely place, and I plan to make Summer Sizzle an annual trip! The event is totally open to the public, so you guys should mark your calendars for next year. Learn more about it here.
Have you been to the BVI? Share in the comments.
*Many thanks to Christina Rice and Terry Donovan for the amazing experience.
