TRAVEL Escapes

East of Puerto Rico and the British and American Virgin Islands lies Anguilla, a British overseas territory known for its rich history, artistic fervour and natural wonders. Located at the western tip of the main island, the Anguilla Arch is the nation’s own Azure Window, with the glittering water passing beneath it. Another wonder is the Big Spring Cave, one of the island's most iconic historical landmarks, previously used by indigenous communities between 600 to 1500 AD as a place of ceremonial worship, with petroglyphs covering its walls, and later used as a source of fresh water for inhabitants and animals. The Pineapple Art Gallery is the oldest gallery in town, showcasing a large selection of Haitian art. The gallery’s owner, Philippe Manasse, is a Parisian who has spent a large portion of his life in Anguilla. His collection boasts wonderful bright colours and traditional patterns. The Devonish Art Gallery, Q Art Gallery and Lynne Bernbaum Art Gallery are also great to visit.

The Wallblake House, now a museum annexe, is the only surviving heritage sugar plantation house and the oldest building on the island. You’ll be able to see the stables, slave quarters and kitchen complex, as well as a church used by the inhabitants. Going to Anguilla would be a shame without a beach visit. Rendezvous Bay and Shoal Bay East are well-known on the island and offer beautiful strips of soft sand and cool waves. Just be careful not to get sunburnt!

Famously the world’s smallest land area divided between two nations, France and the Netherlands, this island is one of the most vibrant Caribbean islands.

Perhaps the most prized natural treasure of the island is David’s Hole, a two and a half meters-wide sinkhole and an absolute sight to behold; just be careful not to stand too close to the edge!

For the adventurists out there, check out Rainforest Adventures Rockland Estate. Zipline, glide or slide down from Sentry Hill as you feel the breeze whip through your hair. Another great activity is horse-riding at the Seaside Nature Park, where you can enjoy the company of other animals too, such as ducks, goats, peacocks and iguanas. For those who want to go paddling, jet skiing, scuba diving or snorkelling, latch on to Creole Rock Watersports for some water fun. For animal lovers, the Parrot Ville Bird Park is sure to put a smile on your face. This parrot sanctuary features an unbelievable breadth of the birds flaunting their fervidly colourful feathers.

Loterie Farm is one of the biggest enterprises on the island. The former plantation turned nature reserve offers everything from hiking trails to treetop canopy tours to ziplines to a pool surrounded by cabanas and a restaurant.

Art enthusiasts must head over to the Silk Cotton Grove Art Gallery. The quaint house, which has a massive silk cotton tree towering at the front, is run by a lovely lady named Ruby Bute and houses a very interesting collection of vibrant local art. The Minguet Art Gallery is equally pleasurable. Named after the French artist Alexandre Minguet (who spent some parts of his life on the island), the gallery, run by his daughter, showcases a collection of his colourful and creative prints. Don’t forget to visit Happy Bay Beach to relax!