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B M & T ••• May/June 2026 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 58 BVI AREA GUIDES PARADISE FOUND: UNLOCKING THE SECRETS OF THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS BY DARLENE DONLOE In the heart of the Caribbean, a gem of an archipelago awaits, where time stands still and tranquility reigns. The British Virgin Islands (BVI), a self-govern- ing British Overseas Territory, comprises four main islands (Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and Jost Van Dyke) and over 50 smaller islets and cays, offering an unpar- alleled island experience. The BVI offers an intimate and luxuri- ous backdrop for meetings, conferences, and incentive trips, ideal for small-to-mid- sized groups seeking privacy and breath- taking ocean views. State-of-the-art ven- ues like the BVI International Arbitration Centre in Tortola cater to sophisticated gatherings. Tortola, the largest of the islands, fea- tures hiking trails in Sage Mountain National Park, Road Town (the capital of the BVI) for shopping and dining, and rum tasting at a historic distillery. The white-sand beaches include Can Garden Bay and Smuggler's Cove. The island offers 10 hotels. Treasure Isle Hotel has 1,053 sq. ft. of event space. The Wyndham Tortola BVI Lambert Beach Resort has 1,600 sq. ft. of event space. Virgin Gorda, easily among the most exclusive islands in the region, embodies the essence of island life. This exclusive enclave, the third largest and second most populous island of the BVI, is home to billionaire residents, private island resorts, and some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, seven of which are secluded. Highlights include the Baths, one of the most popular and rec- ognizable destinations in the British Virgin Islands. Paddle through the towering rock formations to discover hidden caverns. The island offers nine hotels. The Rosewood Little Dix Bay boasts 1,430 sq. ft. of meeting space. Anegada is a unique, low-lying coral and limestone island renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches, vibrant reef systems like Horseshoe Reef, and famous fresh lobster. This quiet "drowned island" offers snorkeling and wildlife. The island boasts nine hotels. Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina has 2,100 sq. ft. of meeting space, and Bitter End Yacht Club features 2,000 sq. ft. of meeting space. Jost Van Dyke, named for a Dutch pirate, offers secluded beaches, sailing, snorkeling, and exploring the natural bubbly pools and caves formed by the ocean's waves. A haven for pirates and beach lovers alike, this tiny isle boasts Foxy's Bar, a legendary haunt for sailors and celebrities, and the stunning Foxy's Bay. The island has 10 listings for accom- modations and limited, intimate meeting spaces. Activities in the BVI are endless. Known as a premier sailing destination with a population of approximately 30,000, the BVI is a premier destination, with crystal-clear waters, coral reefs teeming with marine life, and secluded white-sand beaches. Dive into the vibrant underwater world, snorkel alongside sea turtles, or simply bask in the sun-kissed shores. Unwind in Road Town, the capi- tal, with boutique shopping, waterfront dining, and a taste of the islands' finest rum. Oil Nut Bay, a 400-acre slice of par- adise, boasts opulent villas, exhilarating water sports, and an enchanting overwa- ter spa. The British Virgin Islands are a sparkling jewel of the Caribbean. Drivers navigate on the left side. Hop between islands on ferries or charter a private boat. The currency is the U.S. dollar. Give Lynette Harrigan a call if you are contemplating bringing your meeting here. Harrigan and her team will provide you with all the support you need to make your event there a success. • • • STATS • • • HOTEL ROOMS Little Dix Bay, A Rosewood Resort 81 Treasure Isle Hotel 65 Wyndham Tortola BVI Lambert Beach Resort 50 Long Bay Beach Resort 36 Sebastian's On The Beach 26 Village Cay Hotel & Marina 23 EXHIBITION FACILITIES Maria's By The Sea Hotel Total Meeting Space 2.100 sq. ft. WHO YOU GONNA CALL? BVI Tourism – (800) 835-8530 www.bvitourism.com British Virgin Island harbor photo credit: BVI Tourism