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Need To Know in the British Virgin Islands |
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Home > Need To know > People & Culture |
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BVI Facts | History | People & Culture | Government | Licenses & Permits | FAQ's |
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RELATED INTERESTS: What To Do, Need To Know |
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People & Culture |
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The People |
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Although named by Columbus, many diverse groups of people have called the Virgin Islands home. The Arawaks emigrated from South America over a thousand years ago, and they were followed by the Caribs, Africans, and Europeans. Each community has contributed to the islands, creating the rich cultural tapestry that is the British Virgin Islands. |
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Our Culture |
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Our fungi, calypso, reggae and gospel festivals are distinctly Caribbean but firmly rooted in Africa. At hotels, bars, and parks, the lively beat of fungi, steel pan and calypso celebrates our heritage. The Easter Festival and the Emancipation Festival are held every spring and summer, and during the Christmas Festival, Main Street in Road Town comes alive with lights and festivities. At these and other craft fairs held throughout the year, local artists and artisans display their amazing work in rattan, terracotta, and wicker, as well as sculptures, watercolours, oil paintings, and photography. Our exquisite cuisine reflects the BVI's location at the crossroads of the world. Delicious local seafood, fruits, vegetables, and spices are complimented by European, African, and Indian influences. Enjoy conch, whelk, West Indian roti, Johnny cakes, bush tea, grape-tree wine, exotic rum drinks, and many other West Indian specialties.
The British Virgin Islands are overflowing with stories and secrets. Anegada has its tales of shipwrecks, Salt Island's history tells of taxes paid with bags of salt, and on Norman Island and Deadman's Chest, stories of pirates and lost treasure abound. Even tiny Marina Cay was the inspiration for a book and film. |
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