For the first time in decades, you can take a commercial flight straight from the U.S. mainland to the British Virgin Islands.
Up to now, U.S. travelers aiming for the archipelago's inviting beaches and yacht-dotted waters have had to fly into Puerto Rico or St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands and then take a ferry or another short flight to reach the BVI.
But starting June 1, American Airlines launched daily nonstop service between Miami International Airport (MIA) and Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) on the BVI's Beef Island, finally putting into easier reach the chain's classic resorts, renowned sailing, intriguing reefs, and (heretofore secluded) white sands.
American Airlines will operate the 3-hour flights seasonally, running daily service between Miami and the BVI through August 14, then taking a pause before resuming in November, just in time for the Caribbean's busy winter season.
The new route is expected to bring the British Virgin Islands an estimated 2,200 new visitors each month, according to Caribbean Journal.
Keep in mind that any U.S. traveler headed to the British Virgin Islands will need a valid passport to enter. (U.S. citizens do not need passports to enter the BVI's neighboring counterpart, the U.S. Virgin Islands.)
Here at Frommer's, we're gung ho about the Virgin Islands this year. The destination made our list of the Best Places to Go in 2023, and it so happens that a brand-new edition of Frommer's Virgin Islands hits bookstores on Tuesday, June 13.
Available in paperback and e-book versions, the completely updated guide can be preordered from online booksellers now.
