Choosing a Destination: Anguilla | caribbean-guide.info

The northernmost island of the Leeward Caribbean Islands, Anguilla is a British Dependent Territory. While it was once one of the Caribbean's best kept secrets, Anguilla's recent development has transformed it into one of the most chic island destinations.

High-end hotels and shops have thrived in this urban and sophisticated setting, putting Anguilla among the most exclusive destinations in the Caribbean. The tiny island of Anguilla is said to have more gourmet dining choices per acre than New York City - and many of these choices have world-renowned chefs. Official information is available at the Anguilla Tourist Board website or at CIA World Factbook for Anguilla.

Anguilla: Facts at a Glance

Currency	The official currency of Anguilla is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$), although U.S. dollars are almost universally accepted. The exchange rate is permanently fixed at about EC$2.70 to each US$1 (EC$1 = US$0.37).
Electricity	The electrical system is 110-volt, so U.S. devices don't need adapters; other visitors should plan to bring or purchase adapters.
GDP Per Capita	The annual per capita income is about $8,600(USD).
Island Size	The island covers approximately 37 square miles.
Language	English is the official - and most used - language of Anguilla.
Population	The island is home to about 9,000 residents, and sees about 48,00 visitors annually, 63 percent of whom come from the U.S.

Getting There

Travelers should plan on arriving via air at Anguilla's Wallblake Airport. Direct flights from North America are not generally available, and many travelers from the U.S. and Canada connect through Luis Mu�oz Marin International Airport (San Juan, Puerto Rico). Connecting flights are also available from Caribbean regional air carriers through other major Caribbean airports.

Travelers also have the option of arriving by ferry service. The 20 minute trip departs approximately every 45 minutes daily from Marigot Bay on St. Maarten to Blowing Point, Anguilla.

Taxis will take you to your final destination on Anguilla. Service to the Sandy Ground Area is generally less than $10(USD), and service to the West End Resorts is generally less than $22(USD).

Entry Requirements

All visitors must have an onward or return ticket at the time of arrival. U.S. and Canadian citizens can enter the country with a photo ID and an original birth certificate, but the preferred and recommended form of ID is a passport, and may even be used if it has expired within the last five years, though travelers may want to check this information before embarking. Citizens from the U.K. and other countries must have a valid and current passport.

Climate

This Caribbean island is drier than some, with about 40 inches of rainfall annually. The warmest months are July to October, and the coolest are December to February. Averages range from 75 to 83 in January and from 80 to 88 in July (all in degrees Fahrenheit).

Geography

Anguilla is located about five miles (eight kilometers) north of St. Maarten/St. Martin. The island is small at just sixteen miles across (twenty-six kilometers) at its widest, and with 37 square miles in area.

Health and Safety

Crime is rare here, but never leave valuables unguarded or openly visible in parked cars. Although Anguilla is among the safest locations in the Caribbean, don't forgo basic safety rules.

People

Most of Anguilla's 9,000 residents are of African descent. Many Europeans, predominantly of Irish descent, also live on the island. Most locals work in the tourist industry or make a living fishing for lobster. The island is currently under the British government, but the population is far more politically conservative than the U.K. Despite recent advances toward independence, many islanders feel attached to the U.K. for economic security, and rely on their parent nation to make foreign affairs decisions for them.

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