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OVERVIEW TRANSPORTATION VISÃO GERAL TRANSPORTE ATTRACTIONS ATRAÇÕES
WHERE TO STAYONDE WHERE TO EAT SHOPPING COMPRAS FICAR ONDE COMER
OVERVIEW Antigua: An island of 280 square kilometres,
Barbados: Located 480 kilometres from the
Antigua is located in the Caribbean Sea. The
Venezuelan coastline, with its 60 beaches,
largest city on the island, Saint John’s, is also
Barbados is an island of boundless beauty. A
Antigua’s capital and is located in the north
former colony of the United Kingdom, having
eastern part of the island, close to the airport.
been “invaded” by British and Americans over
Its port is able to receive large cruise ships. The
a period of some years during its past, today it
island has around 68,000 inhabitants. The largest
offers ideal accommodations for tourists. The
towns are Saint John’s, Falmouth and Parham.
official language of the island is English.
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Guadeloupe: The island of Guadeloupe comprises
casinos or noisy nightlife and no brightly lit
two main islands, Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre,
streets teeming with people. It is a destination
and several other smaller nearby isles. Its capital
for those seeking tranquillity.
city is Basse-Terre, while the economic capital is Pointe-à-Pitre, where most shops and businesses are located as well as Guadeloupe’s Autonomous Port. The music of Guadeloupe traces its origins from the archipelago’s slave-owning past. It is a simple kind of music, played with a percussion instrument known as the “Gwo-Ka”. Although there is a significant mixture of cultures on the
Saint Kitts: The Caribbean island of Saint Kitts is also the smallest sovereign State in the Americas in terms of its territorial reach and number of inhabitants. The capital city is Basseterre where the Government has its headquarters. Saint Kitts was one of the first Caribbean archipelagos to be populated by Europeans. The official language of the island is English.
archipelago, the population is predominantly Roman Catholic. The official language of the
Martinique: Like Guadeloupe, Martinique is a
island is French.
French overseas department in the Caribbean, whose capital city is Fort-de-France. It consists
Grenada: A Caribbean island comprising the
of 1,774 square kilometres located in the Lesser
island of Grenada and smaller islands, Grenada
Antilles. Even though it is just 80 kilometres in
sits at the southern end of the Grenadines. The country’s capital city - Saint George’s - is the seat of the Government’s headquarters and is also the country’s main commercial centre. The official language is English. There are no
length and 39 kilometres in width it offers an abundance of varied landscapes. The official language is French but Creole is also spoken. Saint Lucia: This island is known for its stunning natural beauty, with idyllic landscapes
and the incredible turquoise hue of the
Antigua: Every year, a great Carnival takes
Caribbean Sea. The setting of the capital city,
place in August. Historically, this Carnival is
Castries, and the volcanic mountains covered in
celebrated to commemorate the abolition of
lush green forests, make Saint Lucia one of the
slavery in 1834. Today, the annual Carnival
most beautiful islands of the Caribbean. It was
includes parades, shows, competitions and
named by Christopher Columbus, who landed
festivities and is a big tourist attraction.
there in 1502. English and French are both spoken on the island.
Barbados: There are many festivals that take place throughout the year. The most famous is
Saint Thomas: As the bustling centre of the
the Crop Over, the island’s carnival, which takes
Virgin Islands, a United States territory since
place from May to August. The biggest day of the
1917, Saint Thomas boasts the only airport
festival is Kadooment Day, when a street parade
on the archipelago and is the region’s busiest
takes place, complete with mobile sound systems
port. The island is just 13 kilometres in length
and parade groups decked out in fancy dress.
and four kilometres in width. Charlotte Amalie is its capital city. Although English is the main
Grenada: On the little island of Carriacou, there
language spoken on the island, Spanish and
is a festival celebrating the island’s traditions,
Creole may also be heard.
rituals, music and dance. Taking place over three days from 26-28 April, the Carriacou
The tropical location helps to keep the
Maroon & String Band Music Festival is ideal
seawater at a moderately high temperature,
for those seeking a unique and unforgettable
fluctuating between 21°C and 32°C over
cultural experience!
the year. The land temperature does not vary much throughout the year, reaching a
Martinique: The Carnival takes place in
maximum of 30 degrees in the summer and a
February and there are also various jazz
minimum of 22 or 23 degrees in the winter.
concerts on the island. Another important event is All Saints Day(“Toussaint”) which
The Caribbean islands are located in a region
takes place on 1 and 2 November, when the
of the western hemisphere that can be prone
dead are honoured by cleaning their tombs
to hurricanes. The hurricane season lasts from
and placing flowers and candles on them. In
July to December, with peak intensity between
December the island hosts an International Jazz
August and September.
Festival, as well as the Rum Festival and the
WHEN TO VISIT
Capital City Festivities (on New Year’s Eve).
The Caribbean islands may be visited at any
Saint Kitts: The Saint Kitts Carnival takes
time of the year. However, they are more
place during the 10 days following Christmas,
popular in the dry season, during the winter
with dancing, parades, talent shows and the
months, between mid-December and mid-April.
crowning of the Carnival Queen. The Saint Kitts Music Festival, the island’s biggest event, is held in the third week of June.
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Saint Lucia: The jazz and art festival takes place in the month of May. The island’s lively Carnival takes place at the end of June and continues
ATTRACTIONS
until the end of the first fortnight of July. Antigua: The range of leisure options includes Guadeloupe: The island’s Carnival takes place
all things related to sea and aquatics, from
in January and lasts until the beginning of
extreme water sports to fabulous diving into
February. Many processions and street parties
crystal waters. The island offers outings for
are held in the capital city.
families, couples and groups. A variety of leisure options await you in St. John’s.
Saint Thomas: Carnival is celebrated in April and lasts practically the entire month. It is the most
Barbados: The island offers some rather
hotly anticipated event of the year and, of course,
unusual outings, such as theAtlantis Submarine.
the time of the year when most tourists visit.
This is a real submarine that descends 45 metres below the water’s surface and gives a tour of the seabed. On the eastern side of
TRANSPORT BY CAR
the island there are some enormous waves, worthy of surfing competitions. To the west, you will find calm waters and ideal spots for swimming. Popular among tourists, Harbour Lights, a supper club set right on the beach,
Hiring a car is always a great option for those
offers dinner and a show featuring folkloric
who enjoy having the freedom to take trips as
events and entertainment.
they please. It should be remembered that, on some of the islands, cars are driven on the left
Grenada: The three main islands (Grenada,
and some roads may be in quite poor condition.
Carriacou and Petite Martinique) offer
BY TAXI
wonderful beaches and unforgettable diving. Take a plunge alongside sea creatures and
In some places taxis do not have meters but
the remains of a shipwreck close to the
there are standard prices for certain destinations.
coastline. Visit the Grenada National Museum
We recommend that you clarify the price with
(a former French prison that now houses
the taxi driver before commencing a trip.
archaeological discoveries on the indigenous
BY BUS
peoples of the Americas).
Those who do not mind spending a bit longer
Guadeloupe: Music plays an important part
travelling, and who wish to save money and
in the island’s culture. In particular, “Gwo Ka”
experience the local culture first-hand, may
is a musical style passed down from the days
prefer to opt for the bus systems available on
of slavery and is played on drums. Zouk and
the islands for getting around.
reggae also provide the soundtrack for local festivities. Soufrière National Park and volcano
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should not to be missed. The volcano is still
and the Marquis Estate, a famous property on
active and is located toward the south of
the island that has great historical value.
Basse-Terre Island. Saint Thomas: There are a variety of leisure Martinique: Be sure to visit the tropical park,
activities on Sapphire beach, including sailing,
where you can feel the thrill of flying from tree
fishing and diving. Red Hook offers a bustling
to tree on a tour of the forest canopy. Spend a
nightlife and some lively festivities.
day on horseback, cycling or riding quad bikes on the beach. Take a walk, with more than 30 trails to choose from! For those who enjoy golf, the Empress Josephine golf course, with its sea views, cannot be beaten.
WHERE TO STAY
Saint Kitts: Visit sites such as Independence
Antigua: Top class luxury resorts predominate
Square, St. George’s Anglican Church, the
although it is possible to find modest
Brimstone Hill Fortress constructed from black
accommodations at more reasonable prices.
stone and the orthogonal “Circus”. The heavenly
The capital city has the best lodging options.
beaches must certainly not be left off the agenda. Barbados: There are countless accommodation Saint Lucia: Besides the beaches, explore the
options available on the island, which range from
rich local history, such as the 18th century tourist
elegant resorts to simple homespun places.
sites, the remains of old forts, the old cathedrals
Grenada: Hotels and hostels are located
Saint Kitts: The island of Saint Kitts has varied
in Saint George’s, in the centre of the
lodging options in different categories. Try
island. Prices vary according to the type of
looking in the centre where the best hotels
accommodation sought.
are located.
Guadeloupe: Hotels are classified as luxury
Saint Lucia: This island is full of resorts that are
hotels. Rooms in private houses and hostels
world renowned for their lively atmosphere
are also available.
and quality of service. A resort can be found to suit all tastes, desires and budgets.
Martinique: From charming 18th century farmhouses to luxury beach resorts with
Saint Thomas: The majority of hotels are close
relaxing spas, you will find a wide variety of
to the beach, away from the large towns. The
pleasing accommodations.
most attractive options are usually quarters located in the vicinity of Sapphire Beach and Red Hook. Swim with sea lions atCoral World.
DINING OUT As in any destination that has unspoilt beaches, the gastronomic fare is based on fish and seafood, which are prepared in a variety of ways. Antigua: Cou cou is a typical national dish of Antigua. Made mainly from corn flour and okra, Cou cou is of African origin and in past times it was the typical meal of slaves imported from Africa to work in Barbados. Cou cou is often served with fried fish. Barbados: Enjoy the fusion of traditional and Creole cuisine here, all washed down with rum of the finest pedigree in the world! Gastronomic symbols of the country including flying fish and rum. Grenada: Irresistible restaurants serve a unique gastronomic offering with Caribbean and
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Creole flavours. Most notable among the more traditional dishes is “lambi”, sea snails prepared
SHOPPING
in a variety of ways. Callaloo soup, which is made from a leafy green vegetable similar to spinach, is also very popular. Guadeloupe: The island of Guadeloupe lays claim to a variety of spices thanks to its local resources. Menus feature delicious fried dumplings known as “accras”, Creole blood sausage and “colombo” curry dishes. Lastly, the unforgettable rum is not to be missed. Martinique: From the Creole dish “accras” to French “foie gras”, the island offers a rich and unique Caribbean culinary experience. Shellfish, oysters, pork, red meat, fresh fruit and vegetables, are all served with elegant French wines and champagnes. Saint Kitts: Goat stew is one of the island’s most popular dishes, made with tomato, goat meat, breadfruit, green papaya and dumplings (also known as “conta-gotas” or droppers). Saint Lucia: The local cuisine is based on Creole gastronomy. Two typical dishes of the island are grilled prawns with marinated peppers and cocoa-seasoned lamb in a coconut sauce. Saint Thomas: Specialities of the island include: fish and mushrooms,preguari (sea snails) in butter sauce, Virgin Islands Vienna Cake, a cake made with vanilla and layers of jelly, and its famous banana daiquiris.
Antigua: The best shopping areas are at Heritage Quay and at Redcliffe Quay, facing the sea. The main shopping area is St. Mary’s Street in the centre. Barbados: Imported goods are tax-free for foreigners on presentation of a passport. This works like Duty Free shopping. Stores range from simple souvenir shops to upmarket shopping centres, such as Limegrove, which features many famous brand names among its retailers. Grenada: The Esplanade Mall in St. George’s is a great place for those who enjoy shopping. There you will find clothes, jewellery and souvenirs. Martinique: You can find 18-carat gold Creole jewellery, clothing stores and French perfumes. The Martinican fabric made on the island and known as “Madras” is very famous. Saint Kitts: Go shopping at the Port Zante shopping centre in Basseterre. There you will find various brand name stores and souvenir shops. Saint Lucia: Pay a visit to Pointe Seraphine and La PlaceCarenage. There is a good variety of shopping facilities offering assorted stores and restaurants. Saint Thomas: You will discover beautiful diamonds and rare gems at excellent prices in Charlotte Amalie along with other high
quality goods atYacht Haven Grande. The US
STREET MARKETS
Virgin Islands allow a tax-free purchase limit of
Always make a point of looking in busy
$1,600, the highest in the Caribbean.
neighbourhoods to find handicrafts made by local island inhabitants. It is common to
Guadeloupe: Most of the products in stores
find craft fairs and typical regional souvenirs
on the island are French, from clothing to
close to the ports.
perfume and jewellery. Some stores may offer a discount if payment is made by travellers
There are markets selling fish, seafood and
cheques or with certain credit cards.
exotic fruit.
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CURRENCY Antigua, Grenada, Saint Kitts and Saint Lucia: The national currency is the East Caribbean dollar. However, most prices are based on US dollars. Barbados: The currency is the Barbadian dollar but US dollars are accepted everywhere on the island and most stores and restaurants accept credit cards and travellers cheques. Guadeloupe and Martinique: As these are French territories, the official currency of these islands is the Euro. You may use credit cards to make payments on the island. Saint Thomas: The official currency of the island is the US dollar. Credit cards are widely accepted in many establishments.
IMPORTANT NUMBERS
ANTIGUA
POLICE
+268 462 01 25 EMERGENCY SERVICES
999 / 911 BARBADOS
POLICE
211 AMBULANCE SERVICE
511 FIRE SERVICE
311 GRENADA
HOSPITAL IN ST. GEORGE’S
(+473) 440.20.51 HOSPITAL IN CARRIACOU
(+473) 443.74.00 AMBULANCE SERVICE
434 (ST. GEORGE’S) 774 (CARRIACOU) MARTINIQUE
MARTINIQUE TOURISM AUTHORITY
(+596) 596 61 61 77
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IMPORTANT NUMBERS
SAINT KITTS
POLICE/AMBULANCE SERVICE
911 FIRE SERVICE
333 SAINT LUCIA
POLICE AND FIRE SERVICE
911 EMERGENCY SERVICE
999 SAINT THOMAS
POLICE AND FIRE SERVICE
911 ROY L. SCHNEIDER HOSPITAL
776.8311