Discover with us: Antigua and Barbuda

Between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean is the sovereign nation of Antigua and Barbuda. Antigua, Barbuda and Redonda are the three islands that make up the group. The major city and the capital are both Saint John’s. The nation’s top tourist destination is Nelson’s Dockyard. It is Antigua’s biggest national park and the site of the most significant British naval installation in the Caribbean. Here, some old structures have been restored, and a museum is devoted to the dockyard. Antigua and Barbuda is most known for its beaches, which are frequently listed among the best in the world, rather than for its historical past. Windsurfing, kitesurfing, and yachting enthusiasts have long adored the nearby shores. The yearly event has been held there since 1968.

The lush tropical island of Antigua is a welcoming paradise with more than 365 beaches and brilliant, blue water, and it is regarded as one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. As a result, tourism is the main contributor to GDP and accounts for around 60% of the island’s income, with Canada, Europe, and the USA serving as its main target markets.

Why visit Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda are two Caribbean islands known for their white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich colonial history. Visitors come to these islands to enjoy activities such as snorkelling, sailing, windsurfing, and sunbathing, as well as to explore historic sites like Nelson’s Dockyard, an 18th-century shipyard named after Lord Horatio Nelson. Additionally, Antigua and Barbuda offer a range of cultural attractions, such as the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda, which tells the story of the islands through its exhibits and displays. Overall, Antigua and Barbuda are popular destinations for those seeking a tropical getaway filled with natural beauty, history, and adventure.  

Best Travel Advice for an Antigua and Barbuda Trip

Here are some suggestions for maximising an excursion to Antigua and Barbuda:

• In advance: Make arrangements for lodgings, tours, and activities in advance and research the ideal time to visit based on your interests.  

• Antigua and Barbuda are well-known for having beautiful beaches, so remember to pack suitable attire, sunscreen, and beach equipment. 

• Explore the island: Nelson’s Dockyard and the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda are just a couple of the historical landmarks and museums to see on Antigua and Barbuda. 

• Snack on some local fare: African, Indian, and British influences can be found in the cuisine of Antigua and Barbuda, which includes dishes like lobster, conch, and fungee (a type of cornmeal pudding).
• Utilize the water activities available: The islands provide a variety of water sports like windsurfing, sailing, and snorkeling. 

• Respect the environment: Antigua and Barbuda is renowned for its stunning scenery, so take care not to harm it and think about becoming involved in conservation activities. 

• Recognize the regional traditions: The islands have a unique cultural legacy; thus, appreciate them.

These pointers will help you get the most out of your trip to Antigua and Barbuda and enjoy everything that these lovely islands have to offer.

Top Things to See and Do in Antigua and Barbuda

Here are some of the top things to see and do in Antigua and Barbuda:

1. Visit Nelson’s Dockyard National Park, which was originally the primary Caribbean base for the British Royal Navy and has been transformed into a museum and marina. 
2. Discover St. John’s, the nation’s capital, by taking a stroll around its streets and stopping by the Antigua Market, the Antigua and Barbuda Museum, and St. John’s Cathedral. 
3. The island of Antigua has 365 beaches, one for every day of the year, so you can choose the ideal place to relax while soaking up the rays. 
4. Go diving or snorkelling; the waters in Antigua and Barbuda are home to a variety of shipwrecks and spectacular coral reefs. 
5. Visit Shirley Heights Lookout for breathtaking views of English Harbour and the nearby islands. This site was once a military fort. 
6. Sailing is a popular activity in Antigua, where you can take boat tours, charter sails, and even sailing courses. 
7. Visit the Museum of Marine Art and Antigua Slipway at English Harbour. This museum displays the maritime heritage of the island, including wooden boat restoration. 
8. Take a gastronomic tour; Antigua and Barbuda’s cuisine draws largely from West African and Caribbean traditions and emphasises fresh seafood and spices. 
9. Visit Betty’s Hope Estate, a former sugar plantation that has been beautifully renovated and converted into a museum detailing Antigua’s history of sugar production.

Top Facts about Antigua and Barbuda:

1. The islands have a combined population of approximately 100,000 people.
2. The official language is English, but Antiguan Creole is also widely spoken.
3. Antigua is famous for its 365 beaches, one for every day of the year.
4. The islands have a rich history, including colonisation by the British and French, and have been a major centre for sugar production, piracy, and naval activity.
5. The national symbol of Antigua and Barbuda is the frigate bird, which is depicted on the country’s flag.
6. Antigua and Barbuda offers citizenship by investment program.
7. Antigua and Barbuda passport holders can travel around 119 countries without a visa. In the other 31 countries, citizens of Antigua and Barbuda can access visas on arrival.