They say the secret to a long life is living well, and there is certainly a lot of that going on right now in Tortola villas.

In mid-August of 2011, Ms. Vivian Hodge celebrated her 100th birthday in Road Town, Tortola, becoming the latest citizen in the Virgin Islands to mark this major milestone.

Vivian Hodge was born in Road Town, on the island of Tortola, on August 15th, 1911.  Her son, Leando Nibbs told the celebrants his mother had dedicated her life to music and to her faith.   She has been a lifetime member of the Methodist Church of Road Town, holding the record for fundraising for missionary meetings. Her trick was to hang out outside the horse races, and ask for funds from the people heading home with their winnings.

She celebrated her 100th birthday with a star-studded party, surrounded by family, friends, caretakers, as well as Boyd McCleary, the Governor of the British Virgin Islands, the Premier Ralph T. O’Neal and the Deputy Premier Dancia Penn.

Premier O’Neal presented the birthday girl with a cheque for $5,000 on behalf of the people of the Virgin Islands.  That has been a traditional 100th birthday gift here for the past 10 years.   He told Ms. Hodge that she has earned her place in Virgin Islands’ history and said it was his pleasure to help her celebrate.

The governor also presented Ms. Hodge with a birthday card from Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, which sent her best wishes for such a special occasion.

Ms.  Hodge is just one of several centenarians from the Virgin Islands.   Perhaps there’s something to all this sun, sand and beauty of staying in Tortolla villas that sustains the body and soothes the mind.