Caribbean, Leeward Islands.

GMT - 4.

153 sq km (59 sq miles).

21,000 (2002).

137.3 per sq km.

Road Town, Tortola. Population: 13,568 (1991).

The 60-plus islands, rocks and cays of the British Virgin Islands, only 16 of which are inhabited, make up the larger part of an archipelago forming the northern extremity of the Leeward Islands in the eastern Caribbean. They are situated approximately 100km (62 miles) east of Puerto Rico, adjoining the US Virgin Islands. The islands are volcanic in origin, with the exception of Anegada, which is formed of coral and limestone and is the lowest lying. The topography is otherwise mountainous, the highest point being Tortola’s Sage Mountain, which rises to 550m (1800ft). There are remnants of a primeval rainforest on Tortola.

Under the 1977 constitution, the British monarch appoints a governor to take responsibility for defence, foreign affairs and internal security. The governor also chairs the executive council, which has five other members. The Legislative Council has 13 directly elected members, one ex-officio member and a speaker.

British Overseas Territory since 1672. Head of State: HM Queen Elizabeth II, represented locally by Governor Tom Macan since 2002. Head of Government: Chief Minister Orlando Smith since 2003. Recent history: In May 1999, the islands’ politics fragmented further with the formation of the National Democratic Party (NDP). The party performed spectacularly well, although it fell narrowly short of the 38 per cent vote attracted by the Virgin Islands Party (VIP), under the leadership of Ralph O’Neal. Nonetheless, by winning five seats on the Legislative council, the NDP eclipsed both the Concerned Citizens’ Movement (with just one seat) and the United Party (which won no seats at all), to become the main opposition to the VIP. These gains were eventually transformed into a win, when Orlando Smith of the NDP won the most recent general elections in 2003, and succeeded in bringing closure to VIP rule since 1986.
Under the 1977 constitution, the British Monarch appoints a Governor to take responsibility for defence, foreign affairs and internal security. The Governor also chairs the Executive Council, which has five other members. The Legislative Council has 13 directly elected members, one ex-officio member and a speaker.

English.

Mainly Christian, including Methodist (45 per cent), Anglican (21 per cent) and Roman Catholic (6 per cent).

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.

110/60 volts AC, 60Hz. American two-pin plugs are used.