Discover Antigua and Barbuda

Want something different than the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Head to Antigua and Barbuda-where life is a beach and beach is just the beginning! Whatever your interests Antigua and Barbuda have it all-tropical climate, mile-long white sandy beaches, hidden caves, good natural harbors, colorful reefs, lush rainforests, tranquil lagoons and a multitude of land and water related activities. If you are interested in exploring the island, there are many tour companies that can arrange everything for you and if it’s sun, sand and relaxation you desire, choose from a wide range of beaches and then be pampered in the nearby spas. Whether it is the first time you visit the island or the fifth, there is always something new to discover and experience.

Antigua and Barbuda are low-lying islands located in the eastern arc of the Leeward Islands of the Lesser Antilles between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. With an area of 281 sq km, Antigua is the larger of the two main islands with the highest peak Boggy rising 402 meters. The flat coral island of Barbuda (160 sq km) is about 40km north of Antigua, famous for its excellent beaches. The nation also consists of the uninhabited islet of Redonda which is a nature reserve. The population is around 85,632 (July 2009 estimate). Most Antiguans are of African lineage speaking mainly in English. The climate in Antigua is warm and pleasant most of the year making it ideal for vacations year-round.

St. John’s on Antigua is the nation’s capital, commercial city and chief port. It is where about half of the country’s population is concentrated. St. John’s is home to a variety of attractions you should not miss out. One of them is, undoubtedly, the Cathedral of San Juan built in 1845 in neo-baroque style which for many years has served as a reminder of Antigua’s European roots. Another ‘must’ attraction in St John’s is the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda located in the colonial Court of Justice. The museum is the city’s oldest building featuring exhibits of both Arawak and colonial artifacts interpreting the history and heritage of the nation of Antigua and Barbuda.

Beaches are all open to public offering a wide range of beach interesting beach experiences, from swimming and beachcombing to diving and snorkeling. There are 365 sugary white sand beaches on Antigua, one for each day of the year, so the choice is yours. Barbuda is surrounded by barrier reefs that provide pink and white sand beaches. The most famous beaches are Carlisle Bay Beach, Deep Bay, Dickenson Bay, Crab Hill Beach, Fort Bay Beach and others.

Things to do in Antigua and Barbuda vary greatly from exploring the historical sites to active shopping to word-class yacht racing. Betty’s Hope is something worth a visit. Built in 1674, this sugar plantation is where you will find the ruins of two stone windmills and a distillery remain, along with a small visitor center. Your visit to Antigua and Barbuda will not be completed if you miss out Cades Reef Snorkel Cruise, Antigua Helicopter Tours, Island Safari and Stingray Fantasy Antigua, Barbuda Day Tour and Shirley Heights Lookout. There is so much to do and to see on the island that a visit or two will not cover them all.

Antigua and Barbuda is where your stress will be removed to spend unforgettable holidays and a vacation of a lifetime!