Est. 1970
Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua's position in the West Indies makes it the gateway to the Caribbean. Although passed by the majority of shipping routes, it remains quiet, in part due to the enormous number of beaches to enjoy here; the tourist board boasts there are so many that you can spend each day of a year on a different one. Away from the beach, explore colonial-era sugar mills, Nelson's Dockyard and Fort James, watch cricket, the national obsession, drink local rum and enjoy the deliciously slow pace of life.
Neighbouring Barbuda is essentially just a single, vast beach. Little more than a sand bar surrounded by coral reef and populated by frigate birds; the Caribbean's largest rookery is also here, making it popular with birdwatchers.
Antigua holiday
The Practical information displayed here is taken from The Traveller's Handbook, published by WEXAS (2009). While all possible care was taken to ensure accuracy at the time of publication, we are aware that situations change, so for the latest information and up-to-date visa requirements, talk to one of our destination specialists on 020 7590 0616.
Weather
Tropical, warm and relatively dry throughout the year. Some rainfall from September-November. Best visited during the cool and dry December to April period, the peak tourist season.
Festivals
Carnival, Antigua's big annual festival, starts at the end of July and culminates in a parade on the first Tuesday in August. Most Carnival activity takes place in St John's. Calypso music, steel bands, masqueraders, floats and street 'jump-ups' are all part of the celebrations. Another music event is the annual Antiguan Jazz Festival, which takes place in October. Antigua's Sailing Week is a major week-long yachting event in April, attracting about 150 boats. In addition to races, there are rum parties and a formal ball, with most activities taking place at Nelson's Dockyard and Falmouth Harbour. In June, Barbuda has a celebration of its own called Caribara.
Food & drink
Superb seafood, including lobster and red snapper. Extensive choice in hotels including local curries, pilaffs, and roast suckling pig. Local drinks include coconut milk, ice-cold fruit juices and rum punches. There are no licensing restrictions.
Etiquette
As with many islands around the world, the pace of life on Antigua and Barbuda is deliciously slow, particularly on the smaller Barbuda, which is home to just two per cent of the country's population. Best to chill out, grab a cocktail and just go with the flow. Casual wear is accepted in all bars and restaurants, however it is not acceptable to wear scanty clothing or beachwear in towns or villages.
Safety
Safe.International airport
VC Bird International (ANU), 8 km from St John's.
Internal travel
Light aircraft and boats between islands, good all weather roads and car hire easy to organise on arrival. Local buses are infrequent but taxis are available everywhere with standard rates.
Visa
(UK/US) None.Vaccination
Hep. A, Hep. B, Rabies, Typhoid, Y. Fever2.Driving
Local Driver's Permit.Capital
St John's.Language
English.People
Most of African descent, some Europeans and South Asians.Religion
Mainly Anglican and Protestant.Size
Antigua: 280, Barbuda 161.Population
77,426.Population density
175.3.Life expectancy
M 69.53, F 74.38.Currency
Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC$) = 100 cents.Finance
Major credit cards, traveller's cheques.Business hours
0800-12.00, 1300-1630, Monday to Friday.Time difference
- 4Voltage
230AC, 60Hz.International dial code
268.The itinerary ideas listed below are designed to give you a flavour of the things to do in Antigua and Barbuda. We can adjust any element and tailor-make your trip though, to suit your individual needs and available time. To start planning your trip, talk to one of our destination specialists on 020 7590 0616.
Antigua & the British Virgin Islands
Antigua & Anguilla
The places to stay listed below only represent a handful of the accommodation options available in Antigua and Barbuda. We can also recommend and arrange accommodation to suit your personal tastes and budget. To start planning where to stay in Antigua and Barbuda, talk to one of our destination specialists on 020 7590 0616.
The Inn at English Harbour, Antigua
Hermitage Bay, Antigua
Galley Bay, Antigua
Carlisle Bay, Antigua
Blue Waters, Antigua
Curtain Bluff, Antigua
The types of holiday listed below are just a flavour of the experiences available in Antigua and Barbuda. We can also suggest and plan alternative types of holiday to take into account your individual interests. To start planning what to do whilst away, talk to one of our destination specialists on 020 7590 0616.
Cruise
History and culture
Spa breaks
Villas
Alison Kent - Caribbean Specialist
To make an enquiry or to start planning your trip talk to our team of specialists on 020 7590 0616
WHEN TO GO
- BEST
TIME - GOOD
TIME - SOME LIMITATIONS
Recommended Itineraries (2)
Caribbean
