Located in the Caribbean Sea and comprising of a cluster of around 60 tropical islands, the British Virgin Islands are a British overseas territory that is home to around 27,800 people.  Part of the Virgin Islands Archipelago that stretches down the south-eastern side of the Caribbean, the British Virgin Islands are the northernmost of the three territories that make up the archipelago, the other two being the US Virgin Islands and the Spanish Virgin Islands.  Although its history is as a colony under direct British rule, the islands have been fully autonomous, with their own independent laws and regulations, since 1960, whilst still enjoying the benefits of being a part of the Commonwealth.
 
Although the islands are a considerable distance from Britain and the rest of Europe, they are politically part of Britain and, by extension, part of the EU, making it a very easy place for EU citizens to travel to and from.  Whilst the nation styles itself as a hub for financial services, the islands are often labelled a tax haven, and with no capital gains tax, no gift tax, no VAT, no inheritance tax, no profit tax or no inheritance tax on the island, it’s easy to see why.  Even income tax is negligible, making the British Virgin Islands a tempting offshore destination for businesses and travellers with their own financial interests alike.  It is estimated that over 41% of the world’s offshore companies are founded in the British Virgin Islands, and much of the territory’s income is generated by reasonably small licensing costs charged to these companies.
 
The islands’ tropical climate changes little throughout the year, with all of the islands enjoying year-round warmth, and bracing sea winds that prevent the area from becoming stiflingly hot.  With many of the islands being little more than tiny rock outcroppings and coral formations, one of the most popular ways to enjoy the British Virgin Islands is by boat.  This also gives travellers an opportunity to experience the area’s natural beauty.  With its white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, colourful coral reefs and secluded cays and islets, this is every bit the tropical island paradise that so many are looking for.  The shallow reefs, historical wrecks and huge range of natural diversity make this a popular diving destination as well, with many visitors donning a snorkel in hope of seeing a hawksbill turtle, nurse shark or bottlenose dolphin.

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