How to Use a Cell Phone in the British Virgin Islands

During your visit to the British Virgin Islands, you won't want to miss the peaceful beaches, rolling green hills and beautiful sunsets. You also don't want to miss what's going on at home with family. While you're snorkeling at Marina Cay and exploring the caves on the coast of Norman Island, make sure that you are able to use your cell phone in the case of an emergency. Using a cell phone in the British Virgin Islands is easy if you follow the correct procedures.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Plug adaptor
• List of important phone numbers
• Transformer

1. Make sure that your cell phone charger has the correct plug for the British Virgin Islands. The British Virgin Islands uses the same plugs as the United States, so unless your charger was purchased in another country, you should not need a plug adaptor. If your charger has a different plug type, purchase plug adaptors "A" and "B" from an electronics store before you leave home so that you can charge your cell phone while in the British Virgin Islands.

2. Utilize a transformer that can handle 115 volts, which is the voltage used in the British Virgin Islands, when charging your cell phone. Your cell phone will likely fry if you do not use the correct transformer.

3. Speak to your cell phone provider to make sure that they offer phone coverage in the British Virgin Islands. Ask to be upgraded to international roaming.

4. Consider renting a cell phone or SIM card to use with your personal cell phone if your cellular company does not offer coverage in the British Virgin Islands.

5. Know how to dial locally within the British Virgin Islands. There are no area codes, so just simply dial the phone number.

6. Understand how to call the United States from the British Virgin Islands. First dial "011" (this is the international prefix to dial outside of the British Virgin Islands). Then dial "1" (this is the international code used to dial to the U.S.). Follow that by the area code and phone number.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to charge your cell phone each night using the correct plug adaptor and transformer.