Antigua is part of Antigua and Barbuda, also known to locals as Waladii or Wadadi. Once a British Colony, you can see the colonial style and relics throughout Antigua, especially in one of the main ports, English Harbour. Walk up from English Harbour to Shirley Heights and be treated to the most spectacular sunset.
One of the sunniest Caribbean islands with the lowest humidity, Antigua has 365 beaches, one for each day of the year. Some of which are the longest most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Half Moon Bay in particular is worth seeking out to swim in the crystal clear turquoise waters.
If you would like to do more than relax under the palm trees lining the beach, you can hike up to Mount Obama the highest point for views across the island. Alternatively you can try your hand at kitesurfing, diving, snorkelling or golf. At the southern tip of the island you can find Nelson’s Dockyard, Antigua’s UNESCO site. It is the largest of Antigua’s national parks, complete with museum and is still used today as a working dockyard.
The capital St. Johns is a beautiful town, filled with local culture, Antiguan vibrance, colonial buildings and beautiful harbour restaurants. Famous for fishing and sailing, you can take a day’s boat trip around the island from St. John’s port or combine your holiday with the Antigua Sailing Week. The regatta is normally held in late April or early May, during this time many boats sail around the island.
If you chose to travel at the end of July to early August then you will be there for Carnival, it is a country-wide celebration with live music and parades and the island comes alive with festivities! Whilst enjoying the charms of the island, don’t forget to try one of the local delicacies, these include lobster, conch and mahi-mahi, very popular and most restaurants serve from the daily catch. Try Papa Zouk’s for one of the best seafood dinners on Antigua.
It is easy to combine your holiday with a week in Barbados or St. Lucia, so why not find out which of the charming Caribbean islands is your favourite, all offer something different.
