UK
365 Beaches & Colonial Echoes
Antigua is the Caribbean distilled—sun-drenched, sea-wrapped, and steeped in history. With one beach for every day of the year, it’s a haven for UK travellers seeking relaxation, sailing, and a touch of British colonial charm. Whether you’re sipping rum at a beach bar or exploring Nelson’s Dockyard, Antigua blends luxury with laid-back island life.
Air Travel
Flights from London to V.C. Bird International Airport (ANU) take around 9 hours, often direct or via Miami, Barbados, or St. Lucia. Barbuda is accessible via ferry or short flight.
Airlines
British Airways and Virgin Atlantic offer direct service. Other carriers include American Airlines, JetBlue, and Caribbean Airlines. Inter-island travel is served by LIAT and charter flights.
Antigua
365 Beaches & Colonial Echoes
Landmark
Travel Season
- December–April: Dry season, best for beaches and sailing
- May–November: Wet season with tropical showers and hurricane risk
- July–August: Carnival season and cultural festivals
Currency & Money Tips
- Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD); US dollars widely accepted
- Cards accepted in resorts and restaurants; cash preferred in markets
- ATMs available in St. John’s and major towns
- Tipping: 10–15% in restaurants is standard
Connectivity
- Good Wi-Fi in hotels and resorts
- Local SIMs: Digicel, Flow
- Coverage is solid across Antigua; patchy in Barbuda
Getting Around
- Taxis and rental cars are common
- Driving is on the left (UK-style)
- No rail network
- Ferries and charter boats for island-hopping
Time Zone
- Atlantic Standard Time (AST) – GMT-4 (no daylight saving)
Etiquette & Culture
- English is the official language
- Antiguans are warm, proud, and community-oriented
- Greet with a smile or handshake
- Respect for local customs and Carnival traditions is appreciated
Top Destinations
- St. John’s: Colourful capital with markets and museums
- English Harbour: Historic sites and sailing culture
- Dickenson Bay: Popular beach with resorts and watersports
- Jolly Harbour: Villas, golf, and marina life
- Barbuda: Pink sand beaches and frigate bird sanctuary
- Fig Tree Drive: Scenic rainforest route through the interior
fastfood Food & Drink
- Must-try: Fungee and pepperpot (national dish), Jerk chicken, Saltfish, Goat water
- Drinks: Wadadli beer, rum punch, tamarind juice
- Tap water is generally safe in resorts; bottled recommended elsewhere
- Local fish fries and beach bars offer authentic flavours
personal_bag What to Pack
- Light, breathable clothing
- Swimwear and reef-safe sunscreen
- Power adapter (Type A/B – 110V)
- Insect repellent and waterproof gear (wet season)
Best Time to Visit
- Dry season (Dec–Apr): Ideal for beach holidays and sailing
- Carnival (late Jul–early Aug): Music, costumes, and celebration
- Sailing Week (late Apr–early May): International regattas and parties
health_and_safety Safety & Health
- Antigua is safe in tourist areas; exercise caution at night in isolated spots
- Emergency number: 911
- Travel insurance is essential
- Vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Typhoid; mosquito precautions advised
- UK citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 6 months