Antigua & Barbuda
The country of Antigua & Barbuda, which also includes uninhabited Redondo, is situated in the middle of the Leeward Islands. A 90 minute ferry ride separates Antigua from Barbuda; Antigua (the largest English-speaking Leeward Island) is about 108 square miles in size while Barbuda is roughly 68 square miles. The northeast trade winds surrounding Antigua & Barbuda are nearly constant, thus making for excellent sailing conditions almost every month of the year. These same winds also cool the streets of St. John, the capital, making it pleasant to walk around and enjoy the shopping.
Why go to Antigua & Barbuda?
The reasons to plan a trip to Antigua & Barbuda are varied. You can experience nature in the Rain Forest, in the Frigate Bird Sanctuary, and on the zip line eco tour. Antigua also offers 365 white and pink sand beache. For a little culture check out the annual Carnival celebrations, this annual week and a half long event covers the gamut: concerts, culture, food, and parades. Expect to hear plenty of calypso music as well as steel drums, reggae, and Soca (a blend of slow American soul and calypso tempos). Don't forget the island's own Cavalier Rum. To get a feel for the history, visit St. John's Cathedral, Nelson's Dockyard, and Betty's Hope Sugar Mill Betty's Hope is a special attraction for being a fully restored sugar mill and the original sugar estate of Christopher Codrington, the man who initiated the idea of such commerce on Antigua in the first place. Yacht related activities include Sailing Week, a world-renowned regatta. Other yacht related events include the Classic Yacht Regatta, Super Yacht Cup Antigua, and Antigua Charter Yacht Show.
Differences between the islands.
Perhaps reflective of the size discrepancy between Antigua and that of Barbuda, the number of attractions and accommodations is also weighted in Antigua's favor. Barbuda should not be dismissed, though. Antigua may be home to 365 beaches, but Barbuda has 17 miles of beaches- and fewer people. Barbuda offers the charm of an unpaved island with only a couple hotels and tranquil waters (due to the surrounding barrier reefs). Once on Barbuda, you can visit Wa-Omoni Beach Park, Martello Tower, or the Philatelic Bureau (for stamp collectors) before heading out to the underground caves. In any case, use your time in Barbuda to make your escape complete.
Places to stay
Antigua is a large island with direct international flights and as such is a major tourist destination. Choices for hotels are many. Barbuda is smaller with fewer choices. Click one of the links below for help with accommodations.
Visit the local Antigua and Barbuda home page
Visit a page about Accommodations in this island nation.
Neighboring islands in the leeward islands
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Not sure what you can do on land on different islands? we can help! Click one of the following links to read more; Antigua & Barbuda, Anguilla, Nevis & St. Kitts, St. Martin, St. Maarten, St. Barts.