Anguilla
About Anguilla
Currency | East Caribbean dollar (XCD) |
Language | English |
Capital | The Valley |
Anguilla is a British overseas territory located in the Caribbean Sea near Saint Kitts and Nevis and east of Puerto Rico. The population is about 16,000 people. The chief of state is the Queen of the United Kingdom who is represented by a governour general, and the head of government is a chief minister.
English settlers arrived in Anguilla about 1650. In colonial days, Anguilla was administered by Great Britain. In 1824, the island was administratively incorporated with Saint Kitts and Nevis. In 1967 and again in 1969, revolts occurred with the goal of independence from Saint Kitts and Nevis. In 1980, Anguilla achieved its goal and gained independence becoming a British overseas territory.
Tourism and offshore banking are major contributors to the economy. Travellers can enjoy the ocean and beaches, diving and snorkelling, and boating.
Recommended Vaccinations For Anguilla
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis B Vaccine
There is a risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis A Vaccine
There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
For Some Travellers
Rabies Vaccine
Rabies may be present in bats. Vaccination may be considered for travellers who might come in contact with bats.
Typhoid Fever Vaccine
There is a risk of exposure to typhoid fever in this country through consumption of unsafe food and water. Since exposure to unsafe sources is variable within this country, the vaccination against typhoid fever is generally recommended, especially when visiting smaller cities or rural areas, where food and water sources may be contaminated.
Recommended Medications For Anguilla
There are no recommendations for Anguilla at this time.
Diseases To Be Aware of for Anguilla
For Most Travellers
Chikungunya Fever
Chikungunya fever has occurred in this country.
Hepatitis A
There is a risk for hepatitis A virus exposure in Anguilla through contaminated food or water. Infection can still occur at tourist destinations and resorts.
Dengue Fever
Outbreaks of dengue fever may occur.
Hepatitis B
There is a risk for acquiring hepatitis B in Anguilla.
For Some Travellers
Rabies
Rabies may be present in bats. Vaccination may be considered for travellers who might come in contact with bats.
Typhoid Fever
Unvaccinated people can become infected through contaminated food and water in Anguilla, especially when visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where food and water sources may be contaminated.
Zika Fever
Zika occurs in this country.
Safety & Security in Anguilla
Personal Safety
The crime rate is low in this country, and most travellers have no trouble. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, or other theft can occur in any crowded area or tourist destination. Always be alert to your personal safety. Keep valuables secured and out of sight to avoid becoming a target for theft. Safeguard your important documents, such as your passport. Avoid walking alone at night. Do not accept drinks or food from strangers and never leave your drinks out of your sight.
Exercise caution when driving. Roads may not be well maintained/paved and may not be well marked or lit. Keep doors locked and do not stop if flagged down by pedestrians.
Hurricane season occurs from May to November. Flooding, landslides, major damage to infrastructure and disruptions to travel plans may result if Anguilla is hit by a hurricane. Travellers should monitor weather updates and heed warnings of local authorities.
Same-sex sexual activity is permitted in Anguilla and resorts are generally welcoming LGBTI travellers. There’s no provision for marriage or civil partnerships between same-sex couples. Public displays of affection between same-sex couples may not be welcomed by locals.