The British Virgin Islands Tourist Board (BVITB) is excited to share news that Jost Van Dyke and Virgin Gorda have earned the top rankings in Travel + Leisure’s 2015 World’s Best Awards. Jost Van Dyke was awarded the No. 2 spot while Virgin Gorda followed in the No. 3 ranking this year for Top Islands in the Caribbean, Bermuda, and the Bahamas. These spots were awarded based on surveys conducted by readers who marked their rankings based on natural attractions, beaches, activities, sites, restaurants, food, people, friendliness, and value.

A drought watch remains in effect for the British Virgin Islands given the significant reduction in rainfall recorded for the first half of this year.

The 2015 to 2016 academic school year will see a change in uniform for junior students at the Elmore Stoutt High School.

The Government of the Virgin Islands, through the Trade and Consumer Affairs Department  is conducting training in the application process for the Caribbean Overseas Small and Medium Enterprises (COSME) Direct Assistance Grant Scheme.

Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr. the Honourable D. Orlando Smith, OBE, will discuss the role of the Caribbean in the economic development of the Americas when he addresses the International Economic Forum of the Americas Toronto Global Forum in Toronto, Canada on Thursday, July 9.

The Purcell Community Centre will be renamed and dedicated after the late Christiana and Gertrude Warner, in recognition of their contribution to the Purcell Estate community. 

The Department of Disaster Management (DDM) is doing its part to contribute to academic development through the provision of internship opportunities.

Chief Agricultural Officer, Mr. Bevin Braithwaite said the temporary importation restriction is in accordance with the Animal (Disease and Importation) Act (CAP 88 Section 3(i)).

Commissioner of Customs, Mr. Wade Smith said that this year’s event is being held to commemorate 40 years of exceptional service from the Customs Department.

Users of pharmaceuticals are being advised to take the necessary precautions to safeguard their medicines in the event of a hurricane. The season began on June 1 and ends November 30.