Cultural Significance
Peak Season
June - August
Genres
Soca, Dancehall
Flagship Events
Anguilla Summer Festival, Anguilla Day (May 30),
Airports
Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport (AXA), Anguilla Poker Run (August)
Anguilla – “Lose the crowd, find yourself”.
Anguilla is a British Overseas Territory in the Eastern Caribbean known for its 33 pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a laid-back, luxurious atmosphere. The island offers a blend of Caribbean and British cultures and is a popular upscale tourist destination and an emerging financial hub. Key Facts Capital: The Valley Official Language: English (an English-lexifier Creole is also widely spoken) Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), though the US Dollar (USD) is widely accepted (at a fixed exchange rate of US$1 to EC$2.70) Area: Approximately 35 square miles (91 square km) Population: Around 15,753 (2021 estimate) Geography: A flat, low-lying island of coral and limestone, located north of Saint Martin Main Industries: Tourism, offshore banking/finance, and fishing Culture and Lifestyle Anguilla is known for its friendly, welcoming people and safe environment. The culture has deep roots in its African and European heritage. Cuisine: Seafood is abundant, and the national dish is pigeon peas and rice. The island is celebrated as the "culinary capital of the Caribbean," featuring everything from local roadside eateries to world-class fine dining. National Sport: Boat racing is the national sport, with regular regattas held on national holidays. Events: Major annual events include the Summer Festival (Carnival) and the Moonsplash reggae music festival, one of the oldest independent musical events in the Caribbean. Economy and Tourism The island has leveraged its natural beauty to become an exclusive, high-end tourist destination, avoiding large cruise ships and high-rise hotels in favor of luxury resorts and villas. It is also known as a tax haven, with no capital gains, estate, or personal income taxes, relying instead on import duties and other fees for government revenue.
