Which island is the safest?
Apr 1st, 2001, 06:13 AM
#22
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Posts: n/a
What this thread shows so far is that besides a safe environment, people also value a friendly environment and one that maintains its own culture rather than being changed into a little American colony.
For those three values, you may want to consider the British Virgin Islands. First, regarding safety, I have felt so safe there that I've picked up hitchhikers, something I'd NEVER do in the States or in any of the other countries I've visited. Ironically, the only murder there over the many years I've kept track of such things was an American tourist killing another American tourist! It is a VERY safe place.
The second value, friendliness... well, it's the only place I've ever visited where my wife and I were kissed good-bye when our cabbie, a lady, dropped us off at the airport. My second year at the same resort, Paula, a waitress at the resort was miffed that I had not hugged her when we arrived at the restaurant. The BVI islanders maintain the English reserve and propriety of their heritage, yet are warm and smile A LOT.
Third, the BVI is very concerned that they not become a land of high-rise hotels, casinos, and commercialism. They've built a reputation for strong regard for their natural surroundings and rigid control of who builds what where. No building can be more than 3 stories; they apparently have stated it in local law as "no higher than a palm tree". And the distance between resorts, all of which are quite small, is considerable, so you don't see piles of resorts such as on the nearby USVI.
I recommend the BVI; it's very, very nice and not a long or expensive trip.
For those three values, you may want to consider the British Virgin Islands. First, regarding safety, I have felt so safe there that I've picked up hitchhikers, something I'd NEVER do in the States or in any of the other countries I've visited. Ironically, the only murder there over the many years I've kept track of such things was an American tourist killing another American tourist! It is a VERY safe place.
The second value, friendliness... well, it's the only place I've ever visited where my wife and I were kissed good-bye when our cabbie, a lady, dropped us off at the airport. My second year at the same resort, Paula, a waitress at the resort was miffed that I had not hugged her when we arrived at the restaurant. The BVI islanders maintain the English reserve and propriety of their heritage, yet are warm and smile A LOT.
Third, the BVI is very concerned that they not become a land of high-rise hotels, casinos, and commercialism. They've built a reputation for strong regard for their natural surroundings and rigid control of who builds what where. No building can be more than 3 stories; they apparently have stated it in local law as "no higher than a palm tree". And the distance between resorts, all of which are quite small, is considerable, so you don't see piles of resorts such as on the nearby USVI.
I recommend the BVI; it's very, very nice and not a long or expensive trip.
Apr 1st, 2001, 02:14 PM
#24
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I would recommend Harbour Island or Eleutehra in the Bahamas. There would be more to do on Harbour Island for teens an since there is virtually NO CRIME, they can walk anywhere day or night.
There are several nice places to stay and an amazing beach and you can snorkle right from the beach.
The island is only 3 miles long by a half a mile wide so you are close to the beach wherever you decide to stay.
There are a few nite spots and great snorkle trips. Also a small submarine to see some great dive/snorkle sites. There are also wind surfing on the bay side and trips to deserted islands off the coast for a day of snorkle fun.
Have a great trip wherever you decide to go.
There are several nice places to stay and an amazing beach and you can snorkle right from the beach.
The island is only 3 miles long by a half a mile wide so you are close to the beach wherever you decide to stay.
There are a few nite spots and great snorkle trips. Also a small submarine to see some great dive/snorkle sites. There are also wind surfing on the bay side and trips to deserted islands off the coast for a day of snorkle fun.
Have a great trip wherever you decide to go.
Apr 2nd, 2001, 06:15 AM
#25
Guest
Posts: n/a
I would recommend St.John-My husband, 8 mo. old daughter, & I vacationed there in July 1999...very safe. In fact, depending on where you stay...you can walk into town for shopping, dining, etc. I highly recommend Gallows Point Resort-fantastic place to stay...beautiful, very safe, and an easy walk to town...Good Luck!
