Antigua, the largest of the Leeward Caribbean Islands, is often called the "Heart of the Caribbean." Antigua and its sister islands of Barbuda and the uninhabited Redonda make up the nation of Antigua and Barbuda.
While the country is an independent nation, it maintains a strong connection with the U.K. Although Antigua and Barbuda lack the inland scenery of major resort islands like Puerto Rico and Aruba, the rustic landscape and gorgeous beaches, in addition to an escapist atmosphere, are enough to draw many visitors. In fact, this once poverty-stricken region is bouncing back from a period of economic despair and developing a healthy economy based on a young, but growing, tourism industry. For official information, see the Antigua and Barbuda Department of Tourism website, or the CIA World Factbook for Antigua and Barbuda.
| Currency | The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$). The US dollar is widely accepted, and only the small local businesses use the EC$. The exchange rate is permanently fixed at about EC$2.70 to each $1(USD). |
| Electricity | The islands use the 220-volt (60 cycles) system, so North American visitors will need converters. |
GDP Per Capita |
The average per capita income is about $18,300(USD). |
| Island Size | The two inhabited islands cover about 170.7 square miles of land area. |
| Language | The official language is English, but many local dialects are spoken. |
| Population | Antigua and Barbuda have a population of about 84,522, and see about 222,100 visitors per year, 27 percent of whom are from the U.S. |
Getting There
Visitors will typically arrive at their Caribbean destination via Antigua's V. C. Bird International Airport, located in the northeast region of the island. At the time of writing, direct flights were available from only a few larger cities, including San Juan (through American Airlines) and New York (through Air Jamaica). The airport also hosts flights from Air Canada and BWIA, but these flights may only be available during peak season.
Barbuda is about 15 minutes from V.C. Bird International via small passenger planes. Once on Barbuda, small Suzukis will take you from the regional airport (Barbuda Codrington Airport) to your final destination. Fixed-rate government taxis are available at V.C. Bird, but be sure to establish a fare and currency before you agree to ride.
Entry Requirements
For citizens of the U.S., U.K., and Canada, a valid passport or Original Naturalization Certificate are required to enter Antigua. Citizens of all other countries, including those of the Caribbean, are required to have a valid passport.
Climate
Antigua and Barbuda experience a wetter climate than some Caribbean islands, with 41 inches of rainfall annually. The temperatures vary here a bit more by season that they do elsewhere in the region, ranging from 72 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit in January, and 77 to 87 degrees Fahrenheit in July.
Geography
Antigua and Barbuda is a small country comprised of three Caribbean islands: Antigua, Barbuda, and Redonda. Redonda is about 20 miles southwest of Antigua, and Barbuda is about 26 miles north of Antigua. The island remains uninhabited. Antigua is famed for miles and miles of coral reefs and protected shimmering white sand beaches. Barbuda is 15 miles long by 5 miles wide, and is home to only 1,200 people. Barbuda features tranquil, reef protected beaches unlike any other, and is home to one of the Caribbean's best bird sanctuaries, tours of which can be arranged from the mainland.
Health and Safety
Holberton Hospital in Antigua, a fully staffed and modern hospital, is the country's main medical facility. Tap water is usually safe to drink, but many visitors prefer bottled mineral waters. Although crime is not common, be careful at night as the streets can get very quiet and deserted during later hours. Of course, always guard your valuables. Following common sense is the key to safety in Antigua and Barbuda.
People
The people of Antigua and Barbuda believe in mutual respect. Respectful and polite behavior means a respectful and polite return, but even the slightest rudeness could turn a potential friend into a standoffish passerby. Residents speak English and are of African descent with a history of slavery. A strong British influence makes cricket a favorite sport among the islanders.
Knowing what to expect from your destination is one simple way to ensure that you're prepared.
