Caribbean Dream Vacations – Highlights of Antigua / Barbuda

Posted by SharonM on May 28, 2011 in Caribbean | 0 comments

Situated below the Islands of St. Kitts, St. Barts, and St. Martin and above Montserrat and Guadaloupe, Antigua is one of the Caribbean’s premier vacation resorts. This island sits atop many travelers’ Dream Vacations list and for good reason it hosts many of best beaches in the Caribbean.

Overview

This English speaking Island is 14 miles long and 11 miles wide.  If you travel around the island you will still see its rich history from the stone towers of the sugar cane wind mills, to the British Navy facilities like Nelson’s Dockyard.

In 1834, the British abolished slavery and Antigua has grown into itself since then. The sugar cane industry may have slowed but the increase of tourism appeared to boost the Island greatly.  It wasn’t until 1981 that Antigua and Barbuda became an independent state.

Antiguans enjoy their big past times of Sailing and Cricket. Tourists can enjoy a cruise around the island on the various catamaran tours offered through resort packages or independent tour operators. Other experiences are swimming with the sting rays, diving or snorkeling amongst the Islands unbroken coral reefs, jet skiing or just lounging on the many pristine beaches. With so many of the best beaches in the Caribbean, Antigua is a must stop for beach lovers looking for white sands and blue waters.

Places to Visit

English Harbour

Best known as Antigua’s historic district it consists of Nelson’s Dockyard National Park the old British Naval base. The dockyard has been completely restored and is the only Georgian dockyard in the world. Another notable point to visit is Shirley Heights the naval observation point with great views of the Caribbean ocean. On a clear day you can see as far as Montserrat and Gaudaloupe. Sunday nights at Shirley Heights you can enjoy steel bands and Caribbean barbecue most resorts on the Island offer transportation to the Heights for a minimal fee.

St. John’s

A port for the many visiting cruise ships St. John’s is the capital of Antigua and its largest city.  Local tourist shops offer duty free shopping and the city has many bars and restaurants for those looking for authentic Caribbean cuisine and nightlife. The cruise ship passengers enjoy shopping on Heritage Quay or the farmers market open on Friday and Saturday mornings. History buffs may want to visit the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda also located in St. John’s.

The Island of Barbuda

If you can catch the Ferry to Barbuda or a catamaran tour you will be treated to one of the few under developed Islands in the Caribbean. There are a small number of  cottages or lodge like accommodations on the Island but mostly the Island is inhabited by birds. The Frigate Bird Sanctuary is located on the northern region of the island and is home to over 5000 birds and 170 species.  Other activities on Barbuda include fishing, snorkeling, diving or enjoying the pristine white beaches. Barbuda also boasts  their famous pink beaches which run 10 miles along the southwester shore.

To visit the Island travelers can take the Barbuda Express. The ferry ride is 90 minutes long and vacationers can take a day tour of the Island including a lobster lunch for $159.00US per person. Visit the Barbuda Express website for more details.