Britain’s reach stretches far beyond the shores of the UK. In total, Britain has 14 Overseas Territories spread across the world, from the South Atlantic to the Indian Ocean and the Caribbean. Four of these territories have no permanent population, but together they are home to more than 270,000 people, with local governments and parliaments that run most of their internal affairs. 

The UK remains responsible for their defence, foreign relations and good governance, and their combined marine areas cover around 2% of the world’s ocean surface. Now, one of these far-flung territories has just been named the safest place in the Caribbean. It has low crime rates, peaceful atmosphere and a famously relaxed island lifestyle.

That territory in question is Anguilla, a small British island in the Eastern Caribbean famous for its turquoise water and soft white sands.

It lies just a few miles north of St. Maarten and has developed a reputation for world-class hospitality, quiet beaches and a strong food culture that many travel experts say is unmatched.

In the latest Global Peace Index, shared by the World Population Review, Anguilla also topped the safety rankings for the Caribbean. 

The report said: “Anguilla crime rates are the lowest in the Caribbean with very few violent and petty crimes to mar its reputation as a tropical oasis.”

What’s more, travel specialists at Tropical Sky say the island’s quieter tourism scene is another one of its major strengths. 

They explain that Anguilla “is not high on the list of popular Caribbean islands,” which means visitors can enjoy beaches and resorts “unencumbered by the usual tourist crowds”.

They also describe the territory as “the culinary capital of the Caribbean” with festivals, friendly locals and “some of the world’s most stunning beaches”.

The weather is another major draw, especially for winter travellers. Temperatures sit in the upper 20s Celsius throughout the year, including in January, making it a warm and reliable escape from the UK’s coldest months. 

Rainfall is generally low, and even during the rainy season from mid-May to mid-November, showers tend to be brief. 

Hurricane season peaks in September and October, but visitors in the winter months face very little disruption.

Culturally, Anguilla mixes Caribbean, British and international influences. English is the official language, and the local currency is the East Caribbean Dollar (XCD), though US dollars are widely used and preferred in many places. 

Most restaurants, hotels and shops accept card payments, but smaller beach bars and local vendors often require cash.

British visitors do not need a visa for stays of up to three months but must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond arrival and proof of onward travel.

For food lovers, the island has everything from street-side seafood to high-end dining. Local dishes often feature lobster, crayfish and salt cod.

Anguilla’s growing popularity is reflected in its rising visitor numbers. The island welcomed almost 24,000 tourists in December last year, a 24.5% increase on the same month in 2023 and the highest December total since 1993. March, June and October were also strong months.

Stacey Liburd, Anguilla’s director of tourism, said: “These impressive figures showcase Anguilla’s growing appeal to travellers, confirming our status as a preferred choice in the Caribbean, particularly within the luxury sector.” 

She added that the island’s “pristine beaches, excellent dive sites, exceptional cuisine and authentic experiences continue to captivate visitors”.

Deputy director Chantelle Richardson added they expect the growth to continue: “We are optimistic that this positive trend in visitor arrivals will persist. 

“Our marketing efforts will prioritise enhancing the Anguillan experience by showcasing our vibrant array of cultural events.”

As far as getting there is concerned, there are no direct flights from the UK to Anguilla, but the island is easy to reach with one connection. 

Travellers can fly to Antigua with British Airways or Virgin Atlantic and then connect onwards to Anguilla. 

Another option is flying via Paris to St. Maarten with Air France (or with Air Caraibes during peak season), then taking a short boat transfer from the pier near the airport, with departures running until late evening.