Jost Van Dyke: The Jewel of the British Virgin Islands

• HelloHello
  [heh-loh]
• GoodbyeGoodbye
  [goo-bye]
• YesYes
  [yes]
• NoNo
  [no]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [plee-z/yoo-ah wel-kum]
• Thank youThank you
  [thank yoo]
• Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
  [ek-skewz mee/sor-ee]
• How are you?How are you?
  [hao ahr yoo]
• Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [fain. aend yoo]
• Do you speak English?Do you speak English?
  [doo yoo speek Ing-lish]
• I don't understandI don't understand
  [ah dont und-er-stand]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the menu, please
  [ahd laik too see deh men-yoo, pleez]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [ah dont eet meet]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI would like to pay, please
  [ah wood laik too pay, pleez]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Go away!
  [goh a-way]
• Call the Police!Call the Police!
  [kawl the po-lease]
• Call a doctor!Call a doctor!
  [kawl a dok-ter]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [ahm lost]
• I'm illI'm ill
  [ahm il]

• I'd like to buy...I'd like to buy...
  [ahd laik too bahy]
• I'm just lookingI'm just looking
  [ahm jahst look-ing]
• How much is it?How much is it?
  [hao much iz it]
• That's too expensiveThat's too expensive
  [thats too ek-spens-iv]
• Can you lower the price?Can you lower the price?
  [kan yoo loh-er the prahys]

• What time is it?What time is it?
  [wat taim iz it]
• It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [its wun o-klok]
• Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [haf past (10)]
• MorningMorning
  [mor-ning]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-ter-noon]
• EveningEvening
  [eev-ning]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [yess-ter-day]
• TodayToday
  [too-day]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [toh-mor-row]
• 11
  [wun]
• 22
  [too]
• 33
  [tree]
• 44
  [for]
• 55
  [fahyv]
• 66
  [siks]
• 77
  [sev-en]
• 88
  [eyt]
• 99
  [nain]
• 1010
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [warez a/the]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [wats the ad-dres]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [kan yoo show mee (on the map)]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whenz the nekst (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [ah tik-et (to)]

In the 17th and early 18th centuries, Jost Van Dyke was a haven for pirates. The island is named after the Dutch pirate Joost van Dyk, who used the island as a hideout and a base for his piratical activities. The island’s hidden coves and bays provided perfect spots for ambushes and refuge from pursuing naval ships.

Long before European settlers arrived, the island was inhabited by the indigenous Arawak and Carib peoples. They left behind archaeological evidence that includes pottery shards and ancient tools. These early inhabitants thrived on the island’s rich marine life and fertile soils.

The British began to establish control over the Virgin Islands in the 17th century, and Jost Van Dyke became part of the British Virgin Islands. Sugar plantations were established, although the island’s rugged terrain limited large-scale agriculture. The remnants of these plantations can still be found scattered across the island.

The Great Hurricane of 1867 was a catastrophic event that struck the British Virgin Islands, including Jost Van Dyke. The hurricane caused widespread destruction, flattening houses and uprooting vegetation. It took years for the island to recover from the devastation.

After the abolition of slavery in 1834, Jost Van Dyke saw the establishment of a free, self-sufficient community. The island’s inhabitants turned to fishing, farming, and boat-building as their primary means of livelihood. The culture of self-reliance and community cooperation that developed during this period is still evident today.

Jost Van Dyke is home to the famous Soggy Dollar Bar, where the iconic cocktail known as the Painkiller was invented in the 1970s. The drink, a mix of rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, and coconut cream, has become synonymous with the island’s laid-back, tropical vibe.

In the latter half of the 20th century, Jost Van Dyke began to attract tourists drawn by its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture. The island’s small population and limited development have helped preserve its natural beauty, making it a popular destination for those seeking an unspoiled Caribbean experience.

Jost Van Dyke is accessible primarily by boat. The nearest international airport is Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) on Tortola. From Tortola, you can take a ferry or a private boat to Jost Van Dyke. Ferries operate regularly from West End and Road Town on Tortola, with the journey taking about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can charter a private boat or use water taxi services for a more flexible schedule.

Jost Van Dyke is a small island, and much of it can be explored on foot. For longer distances, taxis are available and can be arranged through your accommodation or local providers. Renting a car or scooter is not common on the island, but boat rentals are popular for exploring nearby cays and beaches. Hiking is another great way to see the island's natural beauty.

The official currency of the British Virgin Islands is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and tips. ATMs are available on the island, though they may be limited, so consider withdrawing sufficient cash before arriving.

Jost Van Dyke is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach and be cautious when walking alone at night. The island does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The island has a small clinic for minor health issues, but more serious medical emergencies may require transport to Tortola or St. Thomas. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation if necessary.

Fashion: Do wear casual and comfortable clothing suitable for the beach and outdoor activities. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing in public areas. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, although the island is not particularly religious. Public Transport: Do be polite and courteous when using taxi services. There is no public bus system on the island. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Good day.' Islanders are generally warm and welcoming. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies such as fresh seafood and traditional dishes. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Jost Van Dyke like a local, visit the island's popular bars and restaurants such as Foxy's and the Soggy Dollar Bar. Engage with locals, who are often willing to share stories about the island's history and culture. Don’t miss the chance to explore the beautiful beaches like White Bay and Great Harbour. For a unique experience, visit during one of the island's lively festivals, such as Foxy's Old Year's Night (New Year's Eve) party.