Virgin Gorda Historical Manual Launched to Strengthen Visitor Engagement and Cultural Knowledge

Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands, 19th December 2025 - The British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission (BVITBFC) officially launched the Virgin Gorda Historical Manual at a ceremony held at the Rock Café by Pusser’s on 4th December. This milestone underscores the Territory’s commitment to equipping all who interact with visitors, hospitality professionals, tour operators, taxi drivers, front-line tourism staff, and community ambassadors with accurate, accessible, and meaningful knowledge about Virgin Gorda’s history.

Event host Sophia Rubaine-Brooks, Training & Standards Officer at BVITBFC, opened the program by highlighting the manual’s importance, noting that Virgin Gorda’s story is “woven into every landscape, every tradition, and every community,” and emphasizing that those who welcome and guide guests play a key role in sharing that story with authenticity and pride.

Developed as a practical, easy-to-use guide, the Virgin Gorda Historical Manual provides essential historical insights, cultural context, and place-based information. The manual ensures that those who represent Virgin Gorda daily can confidently answer questions, provide richer narratives, and offer visitors a more informed and engaging experience. During the launch, it was emphasized that the manual aims to “deepen understanding, enrich conversations, and contribute to a more connected experience for all who explore Virgin Gorda.”

Three contributors were honored for their invaluable roles in shaping the final publication. They were Mr. Andy Flax, Ms. Rose Gardener and Ms. Iris Leonel Harrigan. Their firsthand knowledge and commitment ensured the manual reflects the island’s heritage with accuracy and respect.

Lead researcher Dr. Angel Smith described his collaboration with the BVI Tourist Board as a rewarding experience, noting that while researching Virgin Gorda proved more complex than anticipated, the process revealed the island’s rich historical and cultural depth. He noted that Virgin Gorda stands out as a “rough gem,” offering significant untapped value in its history and cultural heritage.

Chairman of the BVITBFC Mrs. Delma Maduro praised the manual as a tool that strengthens the Territory’s tourism product by enhancing cultural interpretation across the frontline. Mrs. Maduro emphasized Virgin Gorda’s rich history and stated that the historical manual should be mandatory reading for those in the hospitality industry, particularly tour operators and taxi drivers.

Hon. Vincent Wheatley, Minister of Health & Social Development and Representative for the 9th District, also delivered remarks, commending the development of the manual and noting its value to the people of Virgin Gorda.

The launch celebrated the collaborative effort behind the manual and affirmed its central purpose: to support every person who welcomes, guides, and interacts with visitors in sharing the true spirit and history of Virgin Gorda.