Tortola, British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands are made up of 60 tropical Caribbean islands; together they form part of the archipelago of the Virgin Islands. Tortola is the largest and most populated of the British isles.

Known as an offshore financial center, the British Virgin Islands boast a more prosperous economy than its Caribbean neighbors. With roughly 400,000 companies in its offshore registries by 2001, incorporation fees generate substantial revenues.

The islands are world-renowned for their sailing waters; calm and crystal clear, the waters regularly host all types of racing competitions. Tortola is the charter boat capital of the Caribbean and an ideal hub from which to island-hop. 

There are some fabulous local haunts in the BVI. One of the best is the Fish n Lime, a no-frills, open-air seafood venue on Tortola's west end. Don't miss the cracked conch, and be sure to try a slice of the signature key lime pie. 

Local music, called fungi, is a unique mix of African and European sounds. Get into the island beat and listen to area fungi bands, also called "scratch bands," at local bars, restaurants and beach fronts.

Temperatures are consistent among all Caribbean islands, ranging from 70s to low 90s depending on the time of year. Dry days and cooler nights are the norm, with hurricane season hitting hardest September through November.