General: Anguilla

I'm in two minds about whether to write this review. I loved Anguilla so much - and loved the fact that it's so little known amongst western tourists- that I'm tempted to keep it to myself. But, I also want to share the experience - totally vital and exhilarating, with great nightlife (try Johnno's or Banky Banx's bar near Cuisinart as well as the bars down on Shoal Bay), yet at the same time completely laid-back, perfect for chilling, recharging ...
...Ernie's BBQ bar at Shoal Bay ($2 for red stripe/pina colada). Eating out can be expensive - unless you're happy to stick to a diet of barbecued ribs and chicken wings. One top tip to avoid having to pay extortionate beachbar prices for lunch (unless you eat at Ernie's -the central hub of the island with its continuous reggae soundtrack and fabulously relaxed vibe) is to go to the French bakery at Island Harbour to pick up very reasonably priced sandwiches, ... more

I'm in two minds about whether to write this review. I loved Anguilla so much - and loved the fact that it's so little known amongst western tourists- that I'm tempted to keep it to myself. But, I also want to share the experience - totally vital and exhilarating, with great nightlife (try Johnno's or Banky Banx's bar near Cuisinart as well as the bars down on Shoal Bay), yet at the same time completely laid-back, perfect for chilling, recharging and preparing yourself for the next evening's sundowners at Uncle Ernie's BBQ bar at Shoal Bay ($2 for red stripe/pina colada). Eating out can be expensive - unless you're happy to stick to a diet of barbecued ribs and chicken wings. One top tip to avoid having to pay extortionate beachbar prices for lunch (unless you eat at Ernie's -the central hub of the island with its continuous reggae soundtrack and fabulously relaxed vibe) is to go to the French bakery at Island Harbour to pick up very reasonably priced sandwiches, which are made to order, and fresh croissants and patisseries...
You really need a car if you want to be able to appreciate the island to the max - there are over a hundred beautiful deserted beaches and coves but they are spread out over the island. Having said that, it is one of the smallest islands in the Carribean - only 11 miles long and 1 mile wide.
THe best way to reach Anguilla is to take the boat from St Martin. This is cheap - only a few US $ and only takes 20 minutes. Otherwise, you can fly from San Juan. No major international airlines fly to Anguilla, which is one of its attractions - it might be a hassle to get there - but that means less people will bother, so an undiscovered paradise island awaits you....
 

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