Getting to Tortola:

I have found two convenient ways to get to Tortola:

(1) Fly to Beef Island, Tortola on American / American Eagle or United via San Juan. There are frequent flights between San Juan and Tortola, so if you miss your connection, the wait for the next flight is likely to be under 90 minutes. The airport terminal on Beef Island is brand new and runs more smoothly than its predecessor (though I do miss having the chickens roaming about). Beef Island is located at the extreme East end of Tortola, requiring a 40-minute taxi ride to Long Bay. The fare is roughly $20 per person.

(2) Fly to St. Thomas, then take a ferry to Soper's Hole (West End), Tortola. The ferry terminal in Charlotte Amalie is a 7-minute taxi ride (~$6) from the airport. Two ferry companies service the St. Thomas to Tortola route. Their schedules tend to vary and it can be difficult to predict when one will actually arrive in Tortola. Some ferries make stops in Redhook, St. Thomas and St. John. Make sure that the ferry will dock at Soper's Hole in Tortola (and not the less convenient stop in Roadtown). It is important to note that the last ferry departs St. Thomas at 5 pm. If you are waiting for a ferry you can check your bags at the terminal for a few dollars and explore the shops in the nearby commercial area. The direct ferry ride is approximately 45 minutes long. Once you clear customs in Tortola, a 10-minute taxi ride will get you to Long Bay.

Getting around Tortola:

Car Rentals. You will need a car while staying at the house. While 4-wheel drive maybe helpful at times, it is not a necessity. Be sure, however, that the car you get has a lot of tread still left on its tires. Here are some telephone numbers for rental car companies:

Avis 494-3322 or 494-2193
Budget 494-2639
D & D 495-7676 (my favorite - ask for Veronica - she is lovely)
Denzil Clyne 495-4900
Hertz 800-654-3080
Rancal 495-4330

Remember that Tortola has British roots, and they drive on the left! Be careful because the roads are narrow and steep and sometimes have various obstacles in them - debris, donkeys, cattle and even from time to time a darting mongoose, not to mention people. Be particularly cautious during or after a rainstorm, as the roads get very slick.

for availability and booking.