Island Harbour: Anguilla's Serene Fishing Village

• HelloHello
  [Heh-loh]
• GoodbyeGoodbye
  [Gud-bye]
• YesYes
  [Yehs]
• NoNo
  [Noh]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [Pleez/Yor wel-kum]
• Thank youThank you
  [Thangk yu]
• Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
  [Ex-kews mi/Sor-ree]
• How are you?How are you?
  [Hao ar yu]
• Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [Fain. And yu?]
• Do you speak English?Do you speak English?
  [Doo yu speek Ing-glish?]
• I don't understandI don't understand
  [Ai dohnt undur-stan]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the menu, please
  [Ai'd laik tu si dhe menu, pleez]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [Ai dohnt eet meet]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheerz!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI would like to pay, please
  [Ai wud laik tu pei, pleez]

• Help!Help!
  [Help!]
• Go away!Go away!
  [Go aweh!]
• Call the Police!Call the Police!
  [Kol dhe Po-lees!]
• Call a doctor!Call a doctor!
  [Kol a dok-tur!]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [Ai'm lost]
• I'm illI'm ill
  [Ai'm il]

• I'd like to buy...I'd like to buy...
  [Ai'd laik tu bai...]
• I'm just lookingI'm just looking
  [Ai'm jost luk-ing]
• How much is it?How much is it?
  [Hao mach iz it]
• That's too expensiveThat's too expensive
  [Dhats too ek-spen-siv]
• Can you lower the price?Can you lower the price?
  [Kan yu loh-ur dhe prais?]

• What time is it?What time is it?
  [Waat taim iz it]
• It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [Its wun oh-klok]
• Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [Haf past (10)]
• MorningMorning
  [Morn-ing]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [Af-ter-noon]
• EveningEvening
  [Ee-ven-ing]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [Yes-ter-day]
• TodayToday
  [Toh-day]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [Toh-mor-row]
• 11
  [Wun]
• 22
  [Tu]
• 33
  [Tree]
• 44
  [For]
• 55
  [Fahyv]
• 66
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• 77
  [Seh-vun]
• 88
  [Eyt]
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  [Nain]
• 1010
  [Ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [Whehrz a/the...?]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [Waat's dhe ad-dres?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Kan yu sho mi (on dhe map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [Wen's dhe nekst (bus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A tik-et (tu ....)]

Long before European colonization, Island Harbour was home to the Arawak and Carib indigenous peoples. Archaeological evidence suggests that these early inhabitants lived off the land and sea, utilizing the natural resources of the area for fishing, farming, and tool-making. The remnants of their presence, such as pottery shards and ancient tools, offer fascinating insights into their way of life.

In the 17th century, European powers, including the British and French, began to colonize the Caribbean. Island Harbour, with its strategic location and natural harbor, became a hotspot for pirate activity. The tales of buccaneers and privateers during this era add a layer of intrigue to the area's history. The harbor served as a hideout and resupply point for these seafaring adventurers.

During the 18th century, Island Harbour, like much of Anguilla, was involved in the transatlantic slave trade. Plantations were established on the island, where enslaved Africans were forced to work under harsh conditions. The legacy of this dark period is still evident in the cultural fabric and historical sites of the region.

Island Harbour played a significant role in the Anguillian Revolution of 1967. Frustrated with the governance by St. Kitts, locals rallied for independence. The harbor was a critical point for organizing and staging protests. The revolution led to Anguilla becoming a separate British Overseas Territory, marking a pivotal moment in the island's modern history.

Island Harbour is renowned for its rich fishing traditions. The local community has long relied on the sea for sustenance and livelihood. The harbor is dotted with colorful fishing boats, and the practice of net fishing and lobster trapping continues to be a vital part of the local economy. Traditional boat racing, especially during the annual Anguilla Summer Festival, highlights the maritime culture of the area.

Island Harbour is a vibrant community known for its cultural festivals. Events such as the Festival Del Mar celebrate the island's maritime heritage with boat races, seafood feasts, and cultural performances. The tight-knit community is reflected in these gatherings, showcasing the unique blend of African, European, and indigenous influences that shape the local culture.

Island Harbour is located on the northeastern coast of Anguilla. The closest airport is Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport (AXA) in The Valley. From the airport, Island Harbour is approximately a 20-minute drive. Taxis and rental cars are available at the airport. Alternatively, visitors can arrive by ferry from St. Martin; the ferry terminal in Blowing Point is around a 30-minute drive from Island Harbour.

Island Harbour is a small area, and many attractions are within walking distance. For exploring the wider region, renting a car is the most convenient option. Taxis are also available, but it is advisable to agree on a fare before starting your journey, as they do not use meters. There is no public transportation system operating within Island Harbour.

The official currency of Anguilla is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), though US dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted in most restaurants, hotels, and shops, but it is wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local vendors. ATMs are available in The Valley and other larger towns, so plan accordingly.

Island Harbour is generally safe for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables unattended, especially on the beach. While crime rates are low, petty theft can occur. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Island Harbour, but always remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest medical facility is the Princess Alexandra Hospital in The Valley, around a 20-minute drive from Island Harbour. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in The Valley where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress casually and comfortably, but avoid overly revealing clothing, especially when away from the beach. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting churches or attending local events. Public Transport: Public transport is limited, so plan to use taxis or rental cars. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Good morning' or 'Good afternoon.' A handshake is also appropriate. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and seafood specialties. Don't refuse food or drink offerings as it can be seen as impolite.

To experience Island Harbour like a local, visit the local fishermen’s pier early in the morning to see the day's catch being brought in. Engage with the local community; they are friendly and often willing to share stories about the area. Try dining at local establishments such as Scilly Cay for an authentic seafood experience. Don't miss traditional events like boat racing, which is a beloved local pastime.