Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua is a port of call on many South Caribbean cruises, with most ships docking at Nevis Pier in the deep water harbour of St John’s, the island capital. Tourist activity is generally centred around the harbour-front amenities of Heritage Quay, popular with cruise passengers, and the more traditional Redcliffe Quay.
Must-see attractions include Nelson’s Dockyard, in English Harbour, paying testament to Antigua’s past as a Royal Navy base. Venture up the hill to Shirley Heights, where the ruins of the Royal Navy lookout fort give panoramic views of both the English and Falmouth harbours.
Antigua has one of the best natural harbours in the region and has berthing facilities that can accommodate up to four of the world’s largest cruise ships at a time. At a depth of 35 feet (10.6m), with the channel widening into the harbour, there is a vast turning circle for the ships.
Shopping in St Johns
Both the Heritage and Redcliffe quays have lovely shops to entice cruise passengers, with everything from clothing to hand-crafted souvenirs to tempt shoppers. On Friday and Saturday mornings, the farmers market (southern St John’s) sells local crafts and fresh produce.
Best Buy:
Handmade ceramics (the Sarah Fuller Pottery Stand on Redcliffe Quay).
Dining in St Johns
Sheer Rocks – Mediterranean cuisine with fantastic sunset views
Big Banana Pizzas in Paradise – a friendly eatery serving some of the best pizza and grilled chicken sandwiches in the Caribbean.
Best Dish:
Antiguan lobster flambé (with cavalier rum)
Overview
Antigua may be small, but the coastline seems to stretch forever. Famous for its 365 beaches, this corner of the Caribbean has many other attractions in store. The first port of call is usually the capital of St John’s, where tourists will alight to vibrant local markets, steel drum music, the restored Georgian-era marina of Nelson’s Dockyard, and Shirley Heights Restaurant, housed in an old military lookout. The Heights host famous barbecue parties on Sunday evenings, with plenty of rum and live music.
Among the most spectacular beaches are the remote crescent of Half Moon Bay, and the secluded Rendezvous Bay, reached by hiking through the rainforest. Deep Bay is home to a coral-encrusted wreck, and is a great site for snorkelling. Away from the beach, Betty’s Hope great house hints at the colonial past of the island, while the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda is a great way to learn about island history.
There is incredible natural scenery to be enjoyed. The Pillars of Hercules, guarding the entrance to English Harbour, are stunning when viewed by boat approaching the island. On the east side of the island, the dramatic limestone arch of Devil’s Bridge makes for the perfect picture at sunrise.
Barbuda shows the wild, undeveloped side of the Caribbean, home to Codrington Lagoon National Park with its spectacular colony of Frigate birds. Visitors can also leave from Codrington, the capital, for scuba diving and snorkelling on the reefs surrounding the island.
Climate in Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda have a pleasant year-round climate. The average daily temperature drops a few degrees in winter (December to March) from the usual high of around 81°F (27°C). Antigua and Barbuda are fairly dry throughout most of the year except during the rainy season (mid-September to November) when daily showers can be expected. Hurricane season runs from June to November and visitors are advised to keep an eye on the weather forecast during this period.
Health Notes when travelling to Antigua and Barbuda
There are no special health requirements for visitors to Antigua and Barbuda, except for yellow fever immunisation for those over one year of age arriving from an infected country. Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended but not mandatory. The Dengue Fever mosquito is found throughout the islands, and incidents of the disease are on the increase; care should be taken to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. Travellers should be aware that some types of tropical reef fish are poisonous, even when cooked. Health insurance with provision for medical evacuation is strongly recommended, as medical treatment is expensive.
Safety Notes when travelling to Antigua and Barbuda
Most visits to Antigua and Barbuda are trouble-free but visitors should not become complacent. Crime exists on the island and visitors should take normal precautions. Travellers should avoid isolated areas, including beaches, after dark, and should not carry large amounts of cash or jewellery. Hurricane season is usually from June to November.
Customs in Antigua and Barbuda
Antiguans and Barbudans are primarily of African origin, descendants of slaves brought to the Island centuries ago to labour in the sugarcane fields. Away from the resorts, the islands have a distinct West Indian flavour, and calypso, steel bands and reggae are all popular. But the islanders have also been influenced by the years of British rule and this is particularly apparent in their passion for cricket. It is an offence to wear camouflage clothing, as it is reserved for the military, and beachwear should be confined to the beach. Local attitudes towards the LGBT community are mostly conservative throughout the Caribbean, so LGBT visitors should bear in mind that public displays of affection may draw negative attention.
Duty Free in Antigua and Barbuda
Travellers to Antigua over 17 years do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco. Two litres of wine or spirits are also allowed.
Doing Business in Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua’s tax advantages have attracted many international companies and offshore financial centres to the island. Business attire is generally more formal than other Caribbean islands; a lightweight suit is appropriate for most meetings, unless in an informal outdoor setting where smart-casual dress is more appropriate. Handshaking is customary for introductions between both men and women; women are considered equals in the business world and should be treated as such. Business cards are exchanged on introduction. Being late for meetings is considered offensive. Business hours are 8am to 12pm and 1pm to 4.30pm Monday to Friday and 8am to 12pm Saturdays.
Communication in Antigua and Barbuda
The international access code for Antigua and Barbuda is +1, in common with the US, Canada and most of the Caribbean, followed by 268. There is free wifi available in most hotels, restaurants, cafes and bars.
Tipping in Antigua and Barbuda
Tips of 10 to 15 percent are common in Antigua and Barbuda, depending on the service. Some restaurants and hotels will automatically add a 10 percent gratuity. Porters and bellhops expect 50 cents per bag, and taxi drivers 10 to 15 percent of the fare.
Passport/Visa Note
All nationalities must hold confirmed onward or return tickets and sufficient funds to cover their period of intended stay. Technically, Antigua and Barbuda only require that passports be valid on arrival in the country, but as many countries require a valid passport for re-entry, it is strongly advised that passports are valid at least for the duration of travel and preferably for six months after travel. Visas are generally not required for stays less than 180 days. Extensions are possible on visas. As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers travelling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean region are required to present a passport or other valid travel document to enter or re-enter the United States. If departing from the USA a valid passport will be required by immigration authorities. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for those arriving from risk areas.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
United States nationals require a valid passport. A visa is not required for a period of 180 days, with extension of stay possible.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadians require a valid passport. A visa is not required for nationals of Canada for a maximum of 180 days with the possibility of an extension of stay.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
UK nationals require a passport that is valid for six months from the date they arrive. A visa is not required.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australians require a valid passport. A visa is not required for nationals of Australia for a period of 180 days with the possibility of an extension of stay.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish nationals require a valid passport. A visa is not necessary for 180 days with the possibility of an extension of stay.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand nationals require a valid passport. A visa is not needed for a period of 180 days with the possibility of an extension of stay.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African nationals must hold a valid passport. A visa is not required for nationals of South Africa for a period of 180 days with the possibility of an extension.
Tourist Offices
The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority: +1 268 562 7600 or http://www.visitantiguabarbuda.com/
Antigua and Barbuda Embassies
- In the United States:
Embassy of Antigua and Barbuda, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 362 5122.
- In Canada:
High Commission for the Countries of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 236 8952.
- In the United Kingdom:
High Commission for Antigua and Barbuda, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0)20 7258 0070.
Foreign Embassies in Antigua and Barbuda
- American Embassy
United States Consular Agent, St John’s, Antigua: +1 268 463 6531.
- Canadian Embassy
Canadian High Commission, Bridgetown, Barbados (also responsible for Antigua and Barbuda): +1 246 429 3550.
- British Embassy
British High Commission, St John’s, Antigua: +1 268 561 5046.
- Australian Embassy
Australian High Commission, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago (also responsible for Antigua and Barbuda): +1 868 822 5450.
- South African Embassy
South African High Commission, Kingston, Jamaica (also responsible for Antigua and Barbuda): +1 876 620 4840.
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
