Expert: Kathy Lindroth - 1/23/2001

Question
Dear Kathy,

    I am a resident of the US and I am planning on taking a trip abroad, through the Caribbean.  I am trying to prepare myself as well as possible for the differences I will encounter, and in doing so I have a couple of questions I would like to pose to you.  I would like to focus primarily on Laws and Customs which would differ significantly from the US.  Specifically, what sort of traffic regulations exist in Anguilla that would appear unexpected to someone from the US, how the penalties differ for violations, and any other laws which exist that would be unexpected to a US citizen.  Also, in an effort not to be the "ugly American", I would appreciate any knowledge you may have concerning customs/tradition or points of etiquette which should be observed in Anguilla that may not be commmon in the US.  I appreciate any information you have to offer me,

Best Regards,

Jon Cook

Answer
Jon,

I think you will be pleasantly surprised when you visit Anguilla.  One point is that you must obtain an Anguilla's Drivers License which is simply done by presenting your drivers license from the U.S., filling out a simple form and paying a small fee (under $10).  The rental car firms will deliver your car to your accommodation and it will be handled at that time.  On Anguilla, there is one traffic light, although I read that it blew down in the last hurricane and they were not in too much of a hurry to replace it.  Driving is on the left, which is the main difference.  There are many 'sleeping policemen' which are speed bumps and you must be very careful of those.  There is basically one main road that runs the length of the island, with a couple of little roads running off of it to get to various hotels and beaches.  Some of the roads are very bumpy, but I have never found it necessary to rent a 4 WD as Anguilla is a flat island.  There are not a lot of traffic regulations on the island and I have never heard of anyone being ticketed or stopped by the police.  The people on Anguilla are incredibly polite and the do not drive in an aggressive fashion either.  I have given you my perspective of the driving from a tourist's standpoint, rather than a law official's standpoint.  I hope this answers your question and is helpful.

Kathy