British Virgin Islands
Score: 66

The smaller islands in this group have maintained their lovely charm, but the BVIs are "looking less virginal with each passing year" due to overdevelopment.

Here is a representative sampling of additional anonymous comments from the panelists. They are not necessarily the views of the National Geographic Society:

"BVI remains a great sailing destination in spite of high peak-season visitation levels. I have been impressed by the condition of reefs compared to similar higher visitation sites in Hawaii. Tortola has yet to see major changes as a result of cruise-line traffic, but this seems inevitable."

"Outer islands have greater sense of environmental control and protection against over-visitation, whereas Tortola is becoming seriously impacted by both growing numbers of tourists and foreign residents."

"Small-island ambience has been maintained despite the increased visits of large cruise ships, which stress specific sites. Away from the most touristed beaches, villages remain authentic. Roads are sometimes inadequate when several large cruise ships visit. Outer islands do not have this problem."

"The BVIs still retain much of their charm, though some developers have proceeded without any nod to that charm. Some resorts operate more like Club Med hideaway/getaways than a chance to immerse yourself in the culture. Anegada is a sleepy gem, with only the barest tourist infrastructure in place. Plenty of cultural integrity left here."