Antigua Guide - Culture, History, Travel, and More

Welcome

The Antigua Guide is your comprehensive travel guide to the tropical nation of Antigua and Barbuda. Friendly people, gorgeous weather, 365 beautiful beaches, and a wide selection of accommodations draw visitors to these sister islands. Whether they prefer the more varied vacation options offered on Antigua, or the quiet beauty and laid-back lifestyle of Barbuda, travelers can find the perfect mix of activities and relaxation.

Travel Basics

Getting There

Airplanes, cruise ships, and private or chartered yachts are all great options for getting you to the island of Antigua. Each has its own unique advantages, of course, so read up to find the transportation method that best fits your vacation style. More...

Dining

Culinary Styles
Vacationers will find plenty of European and American cuisine available on Antigua, often given a West Indian flair, using local ingredients. Of course, sampling traditional favorites will give you a better taste of the island. Seafood dishes like blackened fish and salted codfish with tomato sauce are beloved by islanders, as well as barbecue chicken and roast suckling pig. Roti, callaloo, and pepperpot stew are other island specialties. And don't miss out on all the delicious tropical fruits. More...

Restaurants
Restaurants on the island serve a wide variety of cuisines. Whether you want to sample West Indian delights, international fare, or favorite American foods, you'll have no trouble finding the right place to dine. To try one of the island's many top-notch restaurants, study our detailed restaurant guide, or just head to St. John's. On Sundays, hotel restaurants may be your best bet, since many local places are closed. More...

Planning Your Trip

Budgeting
Anticipating costs and expenses can help make your vacation stress-free, and ensure that you bring along enough cash for souvenirs and incidentals. More...

Getting Info
Before you go, put some time into the best homework assignment of your life: learning more about this gorgeous island. More...

When to Go
Any time is a great time to be in Antigua, but if you're searching for a great deal - or a lively party - there are certain seasons meant for you. More...

Accommodations

Your individual style goes a long way in helping you to determine where you'll stay once you arrive on the island. Regardless of whether you prefer the convenience of a large hotel or the authentic experience afforded by a rental property, one thing is certain: you'll never run out of choices in Antigua. More...

Getting Around

Travelers eager to see every inch of Antigua will soon find many ways to get around on the island. Rental cars allow the most independent travel, since you will be able to drive yourself wherever the wind takes you, but with so many new sights to look at the appeal of Taxis is also undeniable. Local Buses are a good way to meet people and save money at the same time, while both Bikes and Mopeds and Ferries and Boats offer visitors a great way to see the island from a new perspective.

Weather

Antigua boasts some of the best weather you'll find anywhere, making any time of year the perfect time to visit, but we offer detailed month-by-month data, so you can know exactly what to expect and what to pack. Because average temperatures are always pleasantly warm, this tropical paradise is a haven from colder climes in winter and a lovely beach destination in summer. The island also experiences low rainfall and few hurricanes, so if you want balmy breezes and sunny skies, Antigua is the perfect place to take your vacation. More...

Past and Present

The culture and population of Antigua owes much to the African slaves who worked on the island's once-prosperous sugar plantations. Most islanders are descended from slaves, and their music, artistic traditions, and Carnival celebrations bear many African influences. The British also left their stamp on the country, especially in sports and religion. Since the demise of the sugar industry, tourism and agriculture have formed the backbone of Antigua's modern economy. More...