Travel Like a Guest, Not a Tourist: Anguilla
- KBarnesceo
- 2 days ago
- 5 min read
Updated: 24 hours ago
Travel Like a Guest, Not a Tourist: Anguilla Travel isn’t just about where you go. It’s about how you show up once you arrive.
This blog series, Travel Like a Guest, Not a Tourist, was created to help travelers move with respect, awareness, and cultural intelligence whether you’re actively planning a trip or simply expanding your worldview from home.
Each week, we spotlight one destination and break down the social etiquette that truly matters. Not the surface-level tips, but the unspoken rules that determine whether you’re welcomed warmly... or remembered poorly.
We’re starting with a place I’ve personally visited and experienced-Anguilla.
Why Anguilla Is Different
Anguilla is small. And that matters.
With a population of under 16,000 people, this island operates like an extended community. People know one another. News travels fast. Reputation matters — even for visitors.
Anguilla is also a British Overseas Territory, shaped by colonial history, African heritage, and a strong sense of local pride. Life here isn’t rushed, flashy, or loud. It’s intentional, measured, and rooted in respect.
If you understand that before you arrive, everything about the island makes more sense.
A Brief Look at Anguilla’s History
Anguilla was colonized by the British in the 1600s and remained under British control, though not without resistance. The island never developed large-scale plantation wealth like some Caribbean neighbors, and its dry climate limited agricultural exports.
Salt production became one of Anguilla’s most important early industries. Salt ponds across the island once fueled trade and survival. While salt is no longer a major export today, the ponds remain a visible reminder of the island’s resilience and resourcefulness.
Today, Anguilla is not independent. It remains a British Overseas Territory with internal self-governance, a local government, and strong cultural autonomy.
Cultural Etiquette That Matters in Anguilla
This is where visitors either get it right or get it wrong.
Greet people properly.
Always acknowledge others with “Good morning,” “Good afternoon,” or “Good evening” before asking for anything.
Greetings are a sign of respect, not formality.
Skipping greetings or leading with requests is viewed as rude, not efficient.
Move with patience.
Nothing on the island is rushed and it's not because people aren't motivated. It's because presence matters more than speed. If you arrive demanding quick service or instant results, you’ll stand out in the wrong way.
Respect the value of service.
In Anguilla , service is personal. Relationships matter, and courtesy is remembered. Kindness and appreciation will carry more weight than status or spending power.
Dress for the Setting.
Anguilla is relaxed and informal, but clothing is still expected to match the setting. Swimwear is appropriate at the beach or pool , while casual, neat attire is typical for restaurants, shops and town.
There's no need to dress up. Just be comfortable, covered, and appropriate for where you are.
No Paparazzi Culture Here
Anguilla does not participate in celebrity chasing.
There is an unspoken privacy code on the island:
No crowding
No pointing
No public spectacle
Visitors are expected to blend in rather than stand out. That respect is why celebrities keep coming back.
Must-Do Experiences in Anguilla
Anguilla isn’t about checking boxes. It’s about immersion.
Learn to Make Johnny Cakes
Johnny cakes are more than food — they’re history. Learning how they’re made connects you to Anguilla’s past, resourcefulness, and culture.
Golf with a View
Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club offers one of the most scenic courses in the Caribbean, blending luxury with island calm.
Slow Down on Purpose
Anguilla is calm by design. This is not a party-forward island. and that's intentional. The vibe leans toward quiet beaches, thoughtful dining, meaningful conversation, and space to actually enjoy where you are.
People come to unwind, not perform. Music is present, but not overpowering. Nights are social, not chaotic. So, if you're looking for nonstop nightlife, Anguilla may feel understated. If you're looking for ease, relaxation and a slower rhythm that lets the island lead, you'll be exactly where you're supposed to be.
Where People Stay, Dine, and Unwind
Anguilla attracts travelers who value privacy, service, and discretion.
Well known luxury stays include:
Four Seasons Resort Anguilla
Belmond Cap Juluca
Malliouhana
Dining in Anguilla is elevated, intentional, and deeply respected.
This island is widely regarded as the culinary capital of the Caribbean, not because of trends, but because of standards
Menus are driven by fresh seafood, local ingredients, and island technique, with chefs who prioritize flavor and balance. Many restaurants are chef owned or chef
A Guest’s Perspective
Anguilla taught me that respect isn't loud.
It's consistent.
When you greet first, slow down, honor privacy, and appreciate service, you don’t just visit — you’re welcomed.
And that’s the difference between being a tourist and being invited back.
Travel Inspiration
If Anguilla isn’t on your calendar yet, let it be on your radar.
Not every destination needs noise, nightlife, or nonstop activity. Some places are designed to be experienced slowly, and they have a lasting impression because of it.
Whether you’re dreaming, planning, or simply learning how to travel more intentionally, understanding cultural etiquette makes every destination richer — even before you arrive.
This Week's Travel Tip
Travel Industry Updates
Travel isn't just about where you're going, it's about understanding how the industry is changing around you. Each week, we highlight key updates that may affect your experience, from flights and accommodations to policies you don't want to learn about at the last minute.
The airline experience is shifting, and one of the biggest changes is happening at Southwest Airlines
Here’s what travelers need to know about updates that have already started and what’s coming next:
Assigned seating is officially here.
Southwest has ended its long-standing open seating policy. Passengers are now assigned seats in advance, with a new boarding process based on fare type, seat selection, and loyalty status. Extra legroom and preferred seats are now part of the experience sometimes at an added cost.
Checked bag fees are now in effect.
The famous “bags fly free” perk is no longer standard. Most fares now include checked baggage fees, bringing Southwest more in line with other major airlines.
Premium experiences are on the horizon.
Southwest has announced plans to explore its first airport lounge, starting with Honolulu. While details are still developing, this signals a broader shift toward a more premium travel experience.
Why this matters:
These changes impact how you choose fares, pack, board, and budget, especially if you’ve flown Southwest for years expecting the same experience.
At Foreign We Go, we stay on top of these shifts so you don’t have to.
Whether you’re booking flights yourself or letting us guide you, knowing the rules before you get to the airport makes all the difference.
Featured Foreign We Go Experience
At Foreign We Go, we curate experiences — not trips.
Our group experiences are designed with luxury, culture and adventure at the forefront- blending elevated accommodations, immersive moments, and intentional pacing so you can travel with confidence and ease.
Learn more about our upcoming experiences at ForeignWego.com.
What’s Next in the Series
This is just the beginning.
A new country will be featured every week as part of the Travel Like a Guest, Not a Tourist series.
Next up: Aruba
Visit ForeignWeGo.com to read future guides, travel inspiration, and upcoming experiences.
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