Location

Anguilla is a British overseas territory in the Caribbean, one of the most northerly of the Leeward Islands in the Lesser Antilles lying east of Puerto Rico.

Size
Approximately 26 km (16 miles) long by 5 km (3 miles) wide at its widest point, together with a number of much smaller islands and cays Total area is 102 sq. km (39.4 sq. miles).

History
Anguilla was first settled by Amerindian tribes who migrated from South America as early as 1300 BC. It's unsure how the island was first discovered but it was first colonized by English settlers from St. Kitts in 1650. It is likely that some of the earlier Europeans from Antigua and Barbados brought enslaved Africans to Anguilla. The island was administered by England, and later the United Kingdom, until the early nineteenth century when - against the wishes of the inhabitants - it was incorporated into a single British dependency along with St. Kitts and Nevis. After two rebellions and a brief period as a self-declared independent republic, British rule was fully restored in 1969. Anguilla became a separate British dependency (now termed a British overseas territory) in 1980.

Population
13,500

Capital
The island's capital is The Valley located on the north central shore

Government
Anguilla is an internally self-governing overseas territory of the United Kingdom. Its politics take place in a framework of a parliamentary representative democratic dependency, whereby the Chief Minister is the head of government, and of a multi-party system. Anguilla is an associated member of the OECS.

Language
English is the official language

Climate
Temperatures vary little throughout the year. Average daily ranges from 27C (80F) in December to 30C (86F) in July.

Tourism Activities & Sightseeing
Known as ‘the cuisine capital of the Caribbean,' Anguilla's extraordinary dining scene offers discerning travelers a robust variety of gastronomic diversions with more than 70 restaurants A quiet island whose natural beauty includes 33 beach strands including Rendezvous Bay, Cover Bay and Mead's Bay Rum tasting at the Pyrat Rum distillery Music and cultural festivals include the annual MoonSplash Music Festival in March featuring local musician - Bankie Banx; May regatta with seven yacht races over three days; and Carnival in August. Explore caves and grottos. The Wallblake House, a restored 17th century plantation house, is the oldest on the island. Lobster village at Island Harbor. Salt ponds at Sandy Ground. An Island tour Big Spring - an ancient Amerindian cavern with petroglyphs carved into the face of the rock walls. The Warden's place is Anguilla's 2nd oldest property, dating back to the 18th century. Heritage Collection Museum.

Airports
Wallblake Airport is located 5 minutes drive from the capital, The Valley.

Currency
Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD) Current conversion rate is EC $2.67 for US$1 cash.

Electricity
Power on the island is provided by the Anguilla Electric Company Limited, which supplies reliable electricity at 120 volts AC on 60 cycles.

Time zone
Atlantic Standard Time zone, one hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time (except when Eastern daylight Savings time is in effect then it's the same) GMT-4

Driving
On the left. Flag

The Official Tourism Website of the Anguilla Tourist Board
www.anguilla-vacation.com