Anguilla? Absolutely!by Dave Shultz For some people, Paradise is a tropical island with long stretches of white sand beaches, private bays of blue water and most importantly, undiscovered by hoards of tourists. For those people, Paradise is Anguilla (pronounced Ann-gwil-ah)
Located in the West Indies, it’s the most leeward island in the eastern Caribbean. It’s bounded by the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean and is 16 miles long and three miles across at the widest point. Anguilla is a British Dependent Territory so English is the national language and you’ll find many family names on the island are English, Welsh and Irish in origin. The locals are all very friendly and embody the spirit of the island lifestyle.
Anguilla is a marine island so when you tire of sitting on the beach drinking rum punch, take to the water. Sailing is the island’s official sport and everyone turns out for the Boat Races on public holidays. Sea kayaking and scuba diving will also tempt you to return to the sea.
If you venture under the sea, head to the El Buen Consejo Underwater Archaeological Preserve for a truly unique experience. Dive on an underwater museum set aside by the government for its protection and public enjoyment.
Be aware that divers must use equipment provided by the dive shop with the pockets of the BC sown shut to prevent the temptation to remove relics. Also, this dive is for experienced divers familiar with surge. You'll find lots of cannon and smaller artifacts including miniature medallions and a spectacular large anchor with one tine embedded straight down in the coral. The medallions have been reproduced in silver and gold and make outstanding souvenirs when purchased from the dive shop but nothing on the bottom can removed.
Tourism is the leading industry and they know how to take care of stressed executives on Anguilla. Luxury hotels and outstanding restaurants are easy to find and offer tourists excellent service and hospitality. The island has long been known as a hideaway for the Rich and Famous because of the ultra luxurious accommodations available combined with unspoiled natural beauty.
 Anguilla is also becoming more known for dream weddings. Either formal or simple weddings are easily arranged on the island and there are services that will handle all the detail for you. What could be more memorable than a wedding in Paradise?
A real highlight of your visit to Anguilla should be day sailing with Sail Chocolat. Captain Rollins Ruan sails the 35’ catamaran Chocolat around the islands and is more than a master of the sea. His charm is surpassed only by the outstanding homemade lunch served aboard. If you are interested, book early. His cruises are extremely popular.
Anguilla today offers the best of the Caribbean. Unspoiled and uncrowded. Small, intimate and accommodations for every budget.
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