A few weeks ago, I was on a media tour in the British Virgin Islands. There is one characteristic of the islands that will strike you immediately upon arrival. The islands have truly withstood commercialization – no chain restaurants, stores or resorts, no skyscrapers or tall, obstructive buildings. Don’t get me wrong, there is plenty to see and do (which you can read all about in upcoming issues of Global Traveler), but the islands remain a peaceful hideaway. A perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of life and enjoy nature. For example, we visited the island of Anegada. We stayed at the Anegada Reef Hotel, a place which literally sprouts up on the beach, and then there is nothing again for miles. It’s a little sanctuary in the middle of nowhere. We had lunch and beach time at Cow Wreck Beach, a restaurant surrounded by miles and miles of beach and peace and quiet. In fact, the Anegada Reef Hotel worked on the honor system, which is quite refreshing because, let’s face it, the honor system doesn’t fly here. And nothing beats dancing on the beach until midnight! Even on the major islands, there are plenty of hotels and restaurants, but they are independently owned and operated and unique to the islands. They are special. It is a nice feeling to truly escape as there are so few places left in the world without a McDonald’s or a Starbucks. -Kimberly Krol, circulation and public relations executive