Tortola Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Local SIM Cards

Prepaid plans for tourists are available from local mobile providers.

Mobile Providers

Flow and Digicel are the main operators.
Purchase requires an unlocked phone and passport registration.
Local SIMs are cost-effective for data and calls. Consider Airalo for eSIMs.

Internet Access

Wi-Fi is widely available in tourist areas, and mobile data options are robust.

Wi-Fi Availability

Most hotels and resorts offer free Wi-Fi.
Many restaurants and cafes provide complimentary Wi-Fi for customers.
Mobile data with a local SIM provides reliable internet on the go. Portable Wi-Fi devices from Solis Wi-Fi are another option.

Postal Services

The General Post Office in Road Town provides standard postal services for sending mail.

Services Available

Send postcards, letters, and packages.
Stamps are available for purchase.
The main Post Office is located in Road Town.

Language Barriers

English is the official language, so communication is straightforward for English speakers.

Communication Tips

No language barrier for English speakers.
A local dialect exists, but standard English is universally understood. Learn some phrases with Rosetta Stone.
Friendly greetings like "Good morning" are much appreciated.

Business Hours & Schedules

Typical Operating Hours

Shops in Road Town: Generally Mon-Fri, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
Supermarkets: Often open earlier (7-8 AM) and close later (until 8 PM), with reduced Sunday hours.
Restaurants: Lunch 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM; Dinner from 6:00 PM onwards.
Government Offices: Typically Mon-Fri, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM.

Banking Hours & ATMs

Banks: Mon-Fri, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM (some may extend to 5 PM on Fridays).
ATMs: Widely available in Road Town, large supermarkets, and Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS).
Most ATMs accept international debit/credit cards (Cirrus, Plus, Visa, MasterCard).
Public Holidays: Banks and government offices typically close.

Seasonal Awareness

Some smaller businesses may close or operate on limited schedules during the low season (July to October). Check their hours in advance, notably if traveling during these months.

Money & Banking

Currency & Payments

The US Dollar (USD) is the official currency. Major credit cards are widely accepted.

Banking Facilities

Several major banks operate on Tortola, with ATMs conveniently located.

Holiday Closures

Public holidays will impact banking and government services. Plan ahead for these days.

ATM Accessibility

ATMs are readily available in Road Town, at large supermarkets, and at the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport.

Points of Access

Find ATMs at banks and in the main market area in Road Town.
Large supermarkets like Riteway and Bobby's Marketplace have ATMs.
The Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) has ATM facilities.

Payment Methods

Major credit and debit cards are generally accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for smaller purchases.

Accepted Payments

Visa, MasterCard, American Express are widely accepted.
Cash is beneficial for small vendors, local markets, and remote areas.
Traveler's checks are less common now; credit/debit cards are preferred.

Financial Considerations

Pre-Travel Steps

Notify your bank of your travel dates to avoid card issues.
Understand foreign transaction fees from your bank.
Have a mix of payment methods: cash, credit, debit.

On-Island Money Matters

Carry smaller denominations for taxis and local vendors.
Check bills for service charges before tipping.
ATMs are generally secure, but be cautious of your surroundings.

Flight Disruptions

For flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding, services like Compensair assist with compensation claims.

Local Customs & Etiquette

Greeting Customs

Friendly and polite greetings are highly appreciated in the BVI.

Standard Greetings

Always offer "Good morning," "Good afternoon," or "Good evening."
Say hello before asking for assistance or starting a conversation.
Direct eye contact is generally fine; a handshake is common for introductions.

Appropriate Attire

Dress codes are relaxed on beaches, but modesty is valued in public and religious spaces.

Clothing Guidelines

Beachwear is suitable on beaches and by pools.
Wear a cover-up over swimwear when entering towns, shops, or formal restaurants.
Dress modestly with covered shoulders and knees if visiting a church.

Dining & Tipping

Embrace the relaxed pace of "Island Time" and be aware of tipping norms.

Service Etiquette

Be prepared for a slower pace of service in restaurants; patience is valued.
15-20% tipping is standard for good service, if not already included as a service charge.
Always check your bill for an included service charge to avoid double tipping.

Photography Permissions

Be mindful and respectful when taking photographs, especially of individuals.

Guidelines

Always ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, notably children.
Do not photograph private homes without explicit permission.
Photography is generally permitted at tourist attractions; check for specific restrictions.

Sensitive Topics & Social Norms

Taboos

Avoid discussing local politics or other sensitive local issues unless directly invited.
Be mindful of local customs and traditions, especially those related to religion.
Respect cultural hints and traditional values.

Gender & LGBTQ+

The BVI is generally socially conservative.
Public displays of affection, especially for LGBTQ+ couples, may attract unwanted attention.
Discretion is advised, as local attitudes are generally tolerant but traditional.

Airport Services

Lounge Access

Airport lounge access is available for frequent travelers.
Consider Priority Pass for independent lounge access around the world.
Enjoy comfortable waiting areas before your flight.

Accessibility at EIS

The Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) has some accessible features.
Newer sections may have ramps and wider pathways.
Contact the airport directly for specific accessibility needs.

Direct Contact

For specific accessibility needs, contact your chosen accommodations and tour operators directly beforehand. This helps them confirm their ability to meet your needs and helps you plan accordingly.

Tortola Travel Tips