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Country Guide > Caribbean > British Virgin Islands | |
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Social Profile Food & Drink There is no shortage of excellent restaurants and inns serving local and international dishes. Most food is imported but local island specialities are often available. These include lobster and fish chowder, snapper, mussel pie, conch stew, shark and other fish delicacies. In addition to the hotels, eateries can be found on Tortola, Virgin Gorda and Jost van Dyke. All kinds of rum punch and cocktails are served, plus a wide selection of imported beers, wines and spirits. Local spirits include Pusser’s Rum (originally produced for the Royal Navy’s pursers). Nightlife Many hotels have special nights with live music or dancing. There are several bars offering live music and/or DJs on both Virgin Gorda and Tortola. A full moon party takes place on the beach at Apple Bay, Tortola every month. There is one cinema (on Tortola). The British Virgin Islands Tourist Board publishes details of all forthcoming events in its publication, The Welcome, which appears every two months. Shopping Special purchases include carved wooden items, straw-work, jewellery made from conch (pronounced ‘konk’) shell, seeds and the attractive batik material, designed and made locally. Special Events For a full list of special events contact the Tourist Board (see Contact Addresses section). The following is a selection of special events occurring in the British Virgin Islands in 2005: Mar 26-28 Virgin Gorda Easter Festival. Mar 28-Apr 3 BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival. May 27-30 Music Festival/Whit Weekend Festival. Jul 3-10 Highland Springs HIHO 2005 - Surffestival. Jul 4 Fisherman's Day. Jul 22-Aug 1 Emancipation Celebrations. Sep 3-4 Jost Van Dyke Festival. Social Conventions The British Virgin Islands remain linked to the British Commonwealth, and the islanders reflect many British traditions and customs. The development of tourism proceeds with great caution; hence the unspoilt charm of these islands and cays remains the chief attraction. The pace of life is very easygoing and visitors can expect old-fashioned British courtesies. Shaking hands is the customary form of greeting. Dress is informal for most occasions apart from the formal requirements of some hotels. Beachwear should be confined to the beach or poolside. Tipping: All hotels add a 10 to 12 per cent service charge. |