"ANGUILLA, West Indies, a small wonder " a Anguilla Travel Page by BROOKS

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Basic facts

Anguilla is a tiny island of 35 square miles with a big reputation. With a population of some 12,000, Anguilla is a British Overseas Territory, 16 miles long, and 3 miles at her widest point. Boasting 33 white sand beaches with crystal clear waters, a contemporary international style, extraordinary vistas, world-class accommodations and mouth-watering cuisine, Anguilla is the culmination of your search for the idyllic tropical escape.

Anguilla is the most northerly of the Leeward Islands. The island is low lying and, unlike its larger sisters, it is not volcanic but of coral formation. It is arid, covered with low scrub and has few natural resources. However, it has excellent beaches and superb diving and snorkelling, protected by the coral reefs. The island’s name is the Spanish word for ‘eel’, a reference to its long, narrow shape. Its Carib name was Malliouhana. The people of Anguilla, predominantly of African descent but with some traces of Irish blood, are very friendly and helpful and it is one of the safest islands in the Caribbean.