Tortola, the island that is home to the capital of the British Virgin Islands, revels in its Caribbean heritage. Unlike the United States Virgin Islands, the people of this place have kept the slow pace of life and friendliness towards strangers characteristic of the West Indies, making Tortola an excellent vacation spot.

Historical influences are very much alive in present-day Tortola, as many old landmarks have been preserved.

Fort Recovery dates from the 1640's and had the infamous pirate Jean LeFeate land there. Cannonballs and other artifacts were found atop the fort in the 1960's when the property owner began constructing their unique Villa-style resort around it which is still in existance today. This fort is the oldest historical landmark on Tortola and the oldest standing fort in the entire Caribbean. 

The Callwood Rum Distillery in Cane Garden Bay, which has been in operation for hundreds of years, is open for visitation. You can even buy some freshly made rum from the old guard house, now converted into a gift shop.

A few other historical landmarks that are worth checking out are the Dungeon (Pockwood Pond), and the Old Government House. There is also the Virgin Island Folk Museum in Road Town, which celebrates the island’s old traditions through exhibits of Arawak and Carib crafts and tools. Another interesting museum in the area is the North Shore Shell Museum.

There are many cultural events held on Tortola. A few that happen with regular frequency are the Bombas full moon parties (several times a year), the annual BVI Music Festival (every May), the three-week BVI Emancipation Festival (July - early August), and a flotilla Sailing Week (November). There are, of course, other music, cultural and sporting festivals, so check local listings after your arrival. Great sources for up to date information on activities are the BVI Welcome Magazine (released monthly) and the Limin' Times (released weekly), many hotels provide both of these articles.