Anguilla is known as the 'flat island', for it's 35 square miles of mostly flat low laying topography. It is also known for it's spectacular bleached white powder sand beaches, which are some of the best in the Caribbean.

With approximately 12,000 citizens, Anguilla has a sleepy relaxed approach to life. An island construction rule of not building anything that is higher than a coconut tree (or 3 storeys) ensures the beauty of this pretty paradise. It does not have even one chain restaurant, nor the crowds that might travel to an island such as neighbouring St Maarten with it's package-deal holiday makers.

The island lies just 5 miles away from St Martin, where a ferry can be boarded to carry you to Anguilla in just 20 minutes. There are a variety of reasonably priced hotels as well as some luxury resorts, where celebrities may often be spotted.

All produce has to be shipped in, but with the availability of European and American food from St Martin, many of the restaurants have a varied menu which can also include locally caught lobster and crayfish.

It's possible to see the sea on both sides when exploring the 17 mile long by 3 mile wide isle. Much of the island is not inhabited and is very narrow at some points. Driving is on the left hand side, but you will come across both left and right hand drive vehicles.

The annual 'Tranquility Jazz Festival' in November and the 'Moonsplash' reggae festival are highlights in the Anguillan calendar.

The No. 1 sport is boat racing, which was born from the economic needs of the 1700s, when islanders travelled to Dominican Republic for work. The workers would race there and race back on boats with sails much bigger than the boat itself. Several competitions are regularly organised including a round the island race. The sails for these boats are often made in St Maarten, where participants insist on a huge sail, but once put into practice, in can often be too large, and a return to the sail makers is needed.

Anguilla is a tropical paradise to be seen and experienced, with it's unique culture, friendly people and gorgeous beaches.