Tortola: The Jewel of the British Virgin Islands

• HelloGood day
  [gud dey]
• GoodbyeGoodbye
  [gud-bye]
• YesYes
  [yes]
• NoNo
  [no]
• Please/You're welcomePlease
  [pliz]
• Thank youThank you
  [tenk yu]
• Excuse me/SorryExcuse me
  [eks-kyoos mi]
• How are you?How are you?
  [haw aa yu]
• Fine. And you?I'm good. And you?
  [aim gud. and yu]
• Do you speak English?Do you speak English?
  [du yu spiik ing-glish]
• I don't understandI don't understand
  [ai dohnt anderstand]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the menu, please
  [ai'd laik tu si di miinyu pliz]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [ai dohnt iit miit]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [chierz]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI would like to pay, please
  [ai wud laik tu pei pliz]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Go away!
  [go awey]
• Call the Police!Call the Police!
  [kaal dha puh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Call a doctor!
  [kaal aa dak-ta]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [aim lost]
• I'm illI'm ill
  [aim il]

• I'd like to buy...I'd like to buy...
  [ai'd laik tu bai]
• I'm just lookingI'm just looking
  [aim jost luking]
• How much is it?How much is it?
  [haw mach iz it]
• That's too expensiveThat's too expensive
  [dats tuu ik-spensiv]
• Can you lower the price?Can you lower the price?
  [kan yu loh-er dha prais]

• What time is it?What time is it?
  [wat taim iz it]
• It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [its wan a-klok]
• Half past (10)Half past ten
  [haaf past ten]
• MorningMorning
  [mawn-ing]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-tuh-noon]
• EveningEvening
  [ee-ven-ing]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-tuh-day]
• TodayToday
  [tu-day]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [toh-mor-ow]
• 11
  [wan]
• 22
  [tuu]
• 33
  [tree]
• 44
  [for]
• 55
  [faiv]
• 66
  [siks]
• 77
  [sev-en]
• 88
  [eit]
• 99
  [nain]
• 1010
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where is the...?
  [wehr iz dha]
• What's the address?What is the address?
  [wat iz dha ad-dres]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [kan yu sho mi (on dha map)]
• When's the next (bus)?When is the next (bus)?
  [wen iz dha nekst (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [aa tik-et (tu)]

Before European colonization, Tortola was inhabited by the Arawak and later by the Carib Indians. These indigenous peoples left behind evidence of their presence in the form of pottery, tools, and petroglyphs, showcasing their rich culture and sophisticated craftsmanship.

In 1493, Christopher Columbus embarked on his second voyage to the New World and stumbled upon the Virgin Islands, naming them after Saint Ursula and her 11,000 virgins. The island that would later be known as Tortola was part of this discovery, and it caught the attention of European explorers and settlers.

In the mid-17th century, the Dutch established a foothold on Tortola and began fortifying the island to protect against potential threats. Forts such as Fort Burt and Fort Recovery were constructed during this period. The Dutch settlers engaged in trade and agriculture, laying the groundwork for the island's economic development.

By the late 17th century, the British had taken control of Tortola, solidifying their presence in the Caribbean. The island became part of the British Virgin Islands, and the British influence is still evident today in the island’s legal system, architecture, and language.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Tortola's economy was heavily reliant on sugar cane cultivation. Large plantations dominated the landscape, and enslaved Africans were brought to the island to work in harsh conditions. The remnants of these plantations and sugar mills still dot the island, serving as a poignant reminder of this chapter in Tortola's history.

The British Emancipation Act of 1834 marked a significant turning point for the enslaved population on Tortola. The Act led to the gradual abolition of slavery, and by 1838, all enslaved individuals in the British Empire were emancipated. This period saw the emergence of a free black community that began to shape the island's social and cultural fabric.

The 20th century brought significant changes to Tortola, with advances in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. The island began to develop its tourism industry, capitalizing on its natural beauty and favorable climate. Key historical sites, such as Road Town and the Callwood Rum Distillery, became popular attractions for visitors.

In September 2017, Hurricane Irma, one of the most powerful Atlantic hurricanes in recorded history, struck Tortola, causing widespread devastation. The island’s infrastructure, homes, and natural environment suffered extensive damage. The resilience of Tortola's residents shone through as they worked tirelessly to rebuild and restore their beloved island.

Tortola, the largest of the British Virgin Islands, is accessible primarily by air and sea. The nearest airport is Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) on Beef Island, connected to Tortola by the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge. Flights to this airport usually connect through San Juan, Puerto Rico, or other Caribbean islands. For sea travel, ferries are available from the U.S. Virgin Islands, particularly from St. Thomas, which is a short ride away.

Transportation within Tortola can be managed through taxis, rental cars, or public buses. Taxis are widely available and can be identified by their ‘TX’ license plates. Car rentals are a convenient option, though driving is on the left side of the road. Public buses, known as safari buses, are an economical way to get around but their schedules can be irregular.

The official currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Most establishments accept major credit cards, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller shops and restaurants. ATMs are available in Road Town and other key areas, but fees may apply for foreign cards.

Tortola is generally safe, but like any tourist destination, it is wise to take precautions. Avoid isolated areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings. Areas like Road Town are generally safe, but petty theft can occur. Be cautious in less populated regions and avoid displaying valuables.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The island has a hospital, the Peebles Hospital, located in Road Town. Pharmacies are also available for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do wear lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for tropical climates. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing outside of beach areas. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do be polite and respectful to drivers and fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly hello. Handshakes are common, especially in business settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Tortola like a local, visit the local markets such as the Crafts Alive Village in Road Town for handmade goods and fresh produce. Engage with locals, who are known for their friendliness and willingness to share stories. Don't miss out on the BVI Spring Regatta if visiting in April, a major sailing event. For a unique experience, hike to Sage Mountain National Park for panoramic island views.