ANTIGUAN THE
2017
THE ANTIGUAN 2017
The Guide to Antigua & Barbuda
The Guide to Antigua & Barbuda
A Warm Welcome to Antigua & Barbuda ANT2017_COVER_with 5.5MM spine.r2.indd 1
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Welcome T
he Government and people of Antigua and Barbuda extend you a warm, Wadadli-style welcome to our beautiful shores. Thank you for making the 'Gem of the Caribbean' your next vacation experience. You will soon discover that these two picturesque islands have so much in store for you as well as 365 stunning, white-and-pink-sand beaches with sparkling turquoise waters. I encourage you to explore both our islands. They each offer two distinctly-unique vacation experiences. Whether a romantic resort or a charming escape to a villa or inn, we can help you create that “home away from home” experience with our wide range of accommodation, from the ultra-exclusive to the all-inclusive. In Antigua, be sure to take advantage of the many land and sea tours available to become personally acquainted with the beauty of our island. You can swim with the stingrays, snorkel, kayak, kite surf, or zip through the air in the lush rainforest. Let your imagination run free, as the sky is truly the limit here! Another unforgettable pleasure is dining in Antigua and Barbuda. Taste our delicious and varied cuisine,
ranging from the spiny lobster to a succulent snapper and our naturally sweet, unique Antigua Black pineapple. Take a trip to Barbuda, our beautiful sister isle, where the 17 miles of unbroken beach and beautiful pink sand beckon you to tranquility, providing the perfect secluded escape. The quiet warmth of the people will make you feel right at home. Whatever you desire in a vacation, I can guarantee that there is much to satisfy you in Antigua and Barbuda. Our sumptuous cuisine, rich heritage and culture are all waiting to be explored. Slow down and savour an unforgettable vacation experience. Enjoy an incredible visit to Antigua and Barbuda and leave with warm memories of your stay with us. Sincerely,
HON. ASOT A. MICHAEL Minister of Tourism, Economic Development Investment and Energy
ANTIGUA & BARBUDA TOURIST OFFICES ANTIGUA
Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority Third Floor, ACB Financial Centre High Street, St John’s, Antigua Tel: 1 (268) 562-7600 Fax: 1 (268) 562-7602 Email: info@aandbtourism.com
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Antigua and Barbuda Tourist Office 3 Dag Hammarskjold Plaza - Suite 6A 305 East 47th Street, New York, NY 10017 Tel: 1 (212) 541-4117 Fax: 1 (646) 215-6008 Email: info@aandbtourism.com
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CANADA
60 St. Claire Avenue East, Suite 601 Toronto, Ontario, Canada M4T 1N5 Tel: 1 (416) 961-3085 Fax: 1 (416) 961-7218 Email: info@aandbtourism.com
UNITED KINGDOM & EUROPE
2nd Floor, 45 Crawford Place London W1H 4LP Tel: (0) 44-203-668-3800 Email: info@aandbtourism.com For further information visit www.visitantiguabarbuda.com
CONTENTS
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Welcome to Antigua & Barbuda The Beach is Just the Beginning Arriving in Antigua 20 Reasons to Visit Antigua & Barbuda Antigua Events Antigua's Famous Beaches Where to Stay Antigua for the Perfect Wedding Relax and Unwind Island Map Exploring Antigua Nelson’s Dockyard Beautiful Barbuda Action & Adventure Sail Away for the Day Antigua's Offshore Islands Antigua... A Caribbean Home, A Global Market Real Estate – A Piece of Paradise Care for our Pets and Antigua's Animals Antigua Homegrown Super Shopping St. John’s Street Map Dining Out Antigua Nightlife Cruise Tourism Artistic Antigua Antigua Database
THE ANTIGUAN is written, produced and published by FT CARIBBEAN, PO Box 2686, St. John’s, Antigua, West Indies Tel: (268) 462-3292 Fax: (268) 462-3292 Email: ftcarib@apuainet.ag Web: www.theantiguan.com
The Publishers and Tourism Authority of Antigua & Barbuda would like to thank The Geest Line for their generous assistance with the transportation of THE ANTIGUAN.
Why did the readers of Condé Nast Traveler vote Curtain Bluff ‘one of the top ten Caribbean Resorts’? Was it our 2 spectacular beaches, the extraordinary value of our everything-included pricing, our 2 award-winning restaurants or our sensuous spa just feet from the sea? Or was it something else, something that can’t be bought, built, programmed or planned the absolute finest service and the warmest welcome under the sun? There’s one way to find out … USA: 888-289-9898 • UK: 0800-051-8956 • Direct: (268) 462 8400/1/2 • Email: curtainbluff@curtainbluff.com • www.curtainbluff.com
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e welcome you to Antigua and Barbuda, a twin-island paradise full of Caribbean charm, rich history, culture, picturesque settings, and 365 pink and white sandy beaches. Home to a fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nelson’s Dockyard is the only working Georgian naval dockyard in the world. The historic dockyard, bustles with activity with work on yachts and busy museums, bakeries, restaurants and gift shops. Our islands are ideal for exploration. Enjoy a journey which takes you from the colourful city of St. John’s to the seaside village of Old Road, the fruit-laden Fig Tree drive, the nautical scene at English Harbour, then over to the dramatic twin sugar mills of Betty’s Hope, and crashing waves at the natural attraction of Devil’s Bridge. Hike to our highest peak, Mount Obama, swim with stingrays, enjoy the challenging canopy zip-line tour in our tropical rainforest. Book an actionpacked eco-tour speed boat adventure and an island safari. Slow down and witness a game of warri with the islanders. Join a herbal garden tour. Take a city walking tour led by a local guide. Antigua and Barbuda was voted the Caribbean’s Most Romantic Destination. We offer award-winning resorts, fine-dining restaurants, therapeutic spas and tranquil seclusion. For those in search of unique privacy, take a quick plane trip to Antigua’s sister island, Barbuda. There you find yourself on a deserted 17 mile stretch of unbroken beach lapped by turquoise waters and our unique pink sandy beaches. Amazing tours take you to the largest Frigate Bird Sanctuary in the Western Hemisphere! Visitors will discover the vibrant culture of our islands. Our friendly people welcome you to participate in celebrations and events, providing the perfect insight into our music, art, cuisine and sports. In 2017, our twin islands celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta, the 50th Anniversary of Antigua Sailing Week, Barbuda’s Caribana festivities and the 60th Anniversary of Antigua’s Carnival – The Caribbean’s greatest summer festival. Cricket enthusiasts look forward to the highly anticipated West Indies vs England One Day Internationals. Enjoy the weekly Seafood Fridays in Nelson’s Dockyard and the popular legendary Sunday Sunset Parties at Shirley Heights. Join the festivities, and you will soon realise that although you have come as a visitor you will leave as a friend with memories to last a lifetime! Sincerely,
COLIN C. JAMES CEO, Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority 4
2017
CALENDAR OF EVENTS JANUARY 1 - ‘Minival’ New Year’s Day Cultural Parade 14 - Antigua Yacht Club Round the Island Race Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge starts to arrive
FEBRUARY 2-5 - Super Yacht Challenge 10-14 - Jolly Harbour Valentine’s Regatta 20 - Royal Oceanic Race Club (RORC) Caribbean 600 Start 26 - Windies Legends Charity Cricket Challenge
MARCH 3-9 - West Indies vs England One-Day International Matches 4 - AUA Tinman Rohr Triathlon
APRIL 8 - Horticultural Society Flower & Garden Show 17 - Kite Festival 19-25 - 30th Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta 29 to May 5 - 50th Antigua Sailing Week
MAY 12 - Antigua Bermuda Race Start 28 - Run in Paradise
JUNE 1-4 - Barbuda Caribana Celebrations 1-4 - Antigua and Barbuda Sport Fishing Tournament Turtle Watching season begins: June - October
JULY 30-31 - Antigua & Barbuda Mango Festival 28 to August 8 - 60th Antigua Carnival: The Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival
AUGUST 7 - Carnival Monday / J’ouvert (Public Holiday) 8 - Carnival Tuesday / Last Lap Jump Up (Public Holiday) 13 - Urlings Seafood Festival
SEPTEMBER 23 - Francis Nunes Jr. Memorial Fishing Tournament & Seafood Festival
OCTOBER Independence Week of Activities Celebrations National Dress Day
NOVEMBER 1 - 36th Independence Day & Food Fair 25-26 - Gemonite’s Moods of Pan Festival Best in the West Fishing Tournament
DECEMBER V.C. Bird Day Horseracing Meet & Boxing Day Meet Cassada Gardens 25 - Nelson’s Dockyard Christmas Day Champagne Party 31 - Nelson’s Dockyard Old Year’s Night Party
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THE BEACH IS JUST THE BEGINNING
The twin-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda lies right in the heart of the Caribbean. Visitors come back again and again to take advantage of the idyllic climate, easygoing way of life and famous 365 white sand beaches.
English is Antigua’s official language, although the locals often speak a dialect that can sometimes be a challenge to understand! An atmosphere of warmth and good humour prevails, as well as a ‘no problem’ attitude towards life. Everyone quickly adapts to the unhurried pace of ‘the islands’. The new V.C. Bird International Airport promises smooth arrivals and departures, and also confirms Antigua’s status as the gateway to the Eastern Caribbean. Frequent non-stop flights from Europe and North America make it easy to get here. Antigua is also convenient as a hub for visiting neighbouring islands with our regional airline LIAT. Day trips to our neighbours can be arranged. Hotels range from cosy small inns where the owners know everyone by name, to world-class luxury resorts where the famous stay incognito. Catering for those seeking more independent visits, there are beautiful villas and apartments available. A wide range of beach bars and restaurants offer anything from our award-winning rums to our fresh lobster. 6
The capital St. John’s is a vibrant city well worth a visit. Its two waterfront shopping areas offer easy access to cruise ship visitors. Heritage Quay is a modern boulevard of duty-free shops, and neighbouring Redcliffe Quay is a charming contrast with its restored 18th century buildings forming a cosy complex of boutiques and restaurants. The museum in Long Street and grounds of the twin-towered cathedral both offer areas of tranquillity midst the hustle and bustle of town. The cathedral is currently undergoing extensive renovation. Antigua’s reputation as a sailing centre is unsurpassed throughout the Caribbean. Over the years Jolly Harbour has developed into a major yachting marina complete with a shopping centre, villa village, sports centre and golf club. But it is English Harbour that long ago put Antigua on the international nautical map and which retains its traditional atmosphere to this day. You can stroll among the restored 18th century buildings of Nelson’s Dockyard surrounded by fleets of beautiful yachts, or you can visit the ruined fortress of Shirley Heights and enjoy the panoramic views from the terrace with a rum punch in hand. All these attractions combine to make Antigua a unique Caribbean destination with many excellent reasons to come back soon …
Photo: Jonathan Murphy Photography
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et as you’ll soon discover, the islands have a lot more to offer than just sun-kissed sands and crystal clear waters. Award-winning hotels, world-class sailing, duty-free shopping and fascinating history all await you here.
IGNITE SOMETHING O N LY T H E P E R F E C T C U T C A N U N L E A S H A DIAMOND’S BRILLIANCE.
H E A R T S O N F I R E S T O R E S , A U T H O R I Z E D R E TA I L E R S , H E A R T S O N F I R E . C O M
Heritage Quay St. John’s, Antigua 268.562.5662 Heritage Quay, St.John’s • 268-562-5662 • Sterlings@candw.ag
ARRIVING IN ANTIGUA ‘The Gateway of Choice to the Eastern Caribbean and Beyond’, Antigua is located 1,425 miles from Miami and about 4,000 miles from the UK. Whichever part of the world you are travelling from, you’ll receive the warmest of Antiguan welcomes ...
Most people arrive by air at V.C. Bird International Airport, named after Antigua’s first Prime Minister, Sir Vere Cornwall Bird Senior. Located 4-miles from the capital of St. John's, this busy international airport bustles around the clock with activities. As the hub for LIAT, the Caribbean Airline, flights depart as early as 5am and arrive well into the night. The runway stretches 3,040 metres and can accommodate the largest commercial aircraft. Private jets fly in regularly as the Airport is serviced by a prominent FBO. The passenger terminal now offers greatly improved facilities for arriving and departing passengers. There are premium class lounges for passengers and VIP’s. The Executive Lounge is the ideal place for pre-flight relaxation. There are now improved shopping opportunities and restaurants and spacious car parking. Increased space and facilities for customs and immigration inspection areas speed processing for passengers. The Airport Authority is well on its way to achieving its vision of Antigua's Airport being “The Gateway of Choice to the Eastern Caribbean and Beyond”.
AIRLINES
Many international airlines service Antigua and Barbuda. From North America, Antigua is served by American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue Airlines, United Airlines, Air Canada and WestJet. The airlines flying in directly from Europe include British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Condor, Eden Viaggi and Thomas Cook. Caribbean Airlines serves the North American and regional travel market while Seaborne Airlines, interCaribbean Airways and PAWA Airlines also serve the regional market. SVG Air and Fly Montserrat operate daily domestic and regional flights. The airport is the hub of LIAT - the Caribbean Airline.
TAXIS
Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal. Most fares are fixed rather than metered and should 8
be decided upon prior to the trip. A fare (for one to four persons) from the airport to St. John’s is about US$12 (EC$32), while a trip to Nelson’s Dockyard or Shirley Heights is about US$31 (EC$82).
DRIVING
Car rental car agencies can be found on exiting Customs. You must present your current valid driver’s license in order to be issued with a local license. The local license can be purchased on the spot for US$20 (EC$50) and is valid for 90 days. Driving is British-style with cars staying on the left. Take particular care at night - you will probably encounter cows, goats and speed-bumps on the road, as well as other drivers forgetting to dim their headlights! It is generally advisable to reserve a car in advance, especially during the peak winter months and at Sailing Week in April and Carnival in July/August.
CASH
The new airport houses a bureau of exchange, as well as automated teller machines. Close by at the entrance to the airport is the impressive Eastern Caribbean Amalgamated Bank. Visitors to Antigua find that US dollars are accepted everywhere and the exchange rate of US$1 = EC$2.70 is general knowledge to all. Credit cards are widely accepted.
YACHTS
Many visitors arrive by yacht, the recognised Ports of Entry being Jolly Harbour, St. John’s, Nelson’s Dockyard in English Harbour, Falmouth, as well as Antigua’s sister island of Barbuda. Customs and immigration procedures have been streamlined in recent years to accommodate the unique nature of the yachting industry in Antigua and Barbuda, so that you can relax from the moment anchor is dropped in this twin-island paradise.
Photo: courtesy Antigua & Barbuda Airport Authority
V.C. BIRD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
TWO-TONE TAKES OVER Heritage Quay, St. John’s 268.562.5662 Sterlings@candw.ag Heritage Quay, St.John’s • 268-562-5662 • Sterlings@candw.ag
20 TO VISIT ANTIGUA & BARBUDA REASONS
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It’s so easy to get here! There are non-stop flights from London, New York and Toronto, as well as easy connections from Europe.
Antigua has plenty of natural beauty too. Stunning inland scenery like the tropical rainforest is matched by coastal wonders such as Devil’s Bridge and the Pillars of Hercules.
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The climate is warm and sunny all year round. The trade winds cool you down and even the ‘liquid sunshine’ is refreshing!
The hotels range from friendly local inns with lots of history to world-famous resorts with lashings of glamour.
There are also 365 beautiful white sand beaches for you to explore one for every day of the year.
Yet the beach is just the beginning! These twin-islands have plenty to entertain you whether you want to play, relax or explore.
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But if you’re more in the mood for duty-free shopping, head for Redcliffe Quay and Heritage Quay in the capital St. John’s.
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There are plenty of boat trips on offer. Speedboats, catamarans or yachts the choice is yours.
Photos: Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority
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Antigua even has a fascinating past! History buffs should make for Nelson’s Dockyard, the world’s only working Georgian dockyard.
The crystal clear waters are just as restorative. Snorkel amongst pristine coral reefs and get up close and personal to tropical fish.
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A trip along Fig Tree Drive is a great way to see the island’s flora and fauna - and pick up some unique local crafts.
You can even zip through the rain forest on a canopy tour - definitely one of the most exhilarating ways of getting to know the island!
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You can even pet, feed and swim with stingrays in the middle of calm, clear, tranquil waters.
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Of course exploring is never more fun than on board a helicopter enjoy a bird’s eye view of the island as you soar overhead.
Or why not treat yourself to a soothing massage. Many of the hotels boast luxury spas that are simply ideal for working out those kinks.
Don’t miss a day trip to Barbuda, with its 17 mile pink sand beach and the largest Frigate Bird sanctuary in the world.
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And if you time your visit right you can attend a music festival, live it up at Carnival or have fun at Sailing Week.
The islands are also very romantic. The beaches are perfect for moonlit strolls and you can even get married here soon after you arrive!
Why not make your permanent base here? It’s very easy for you to find your own little piece of paradise and purchase a second home.
Most important of all, Antiguans and Barbudans are some of the friendliest people in the world, and will give you the very warmest of welcomes ... Photo: courtesy Hermitage Bay
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ANTIGUA EVENTS
WORLD-CLASS
ANTIGUA SAILING WEEK 29 APRIL - 5 MAY 2017
bars along the coastline, or take motor boats and tour boats to see the action up close. Sailors return from racing to Antigua Yacht Club for daily prize-givings and social activities, lasting into the evening.
Yachts and individuals worldwide arrive in English and Falmouth Harbours at end of April annually to participate in one of the world’s major sailing events, Antigua Sailing Week. This regatta has developed over 50 years to become one of the most prestigious regattas worldwide.
Lay Day is at Pigeon Beach mid-week for everyone to enjoy the perfect Caribbean beach day. Starting mid-day, the Nonsuch Bay RS Elite Challenge Invitational Regatta provides stadium-style racing off the beach. DJ’s music and beach games entertain everybody until sunset.
Over 100 yachts participate ranging from 20 feet to over 100 feet. The regatta attracts serious racing boats including some of the world’s top racing machines - ICAP Leopard, Phaedo 3, Monster Project, Gladiator, Kialoa III, Scarlet Runner, Tonnerre 4 and Balearia, plus a variety of cruising boats. The sight of these yachts from vantage points on shore and from spectator boats is unforgettable.
After an action-packed week, Antigua Sailing Week concludes in historic Nelson’s Dockyard with the final awards presentation attended by boat owners and skippers, crews, friends, well-wishers and race officials. This is followed next day by Dockyard Day with the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda Beating the Retreat as the Antiguan flag is lowered to signal the close of Antigua Sailing Week. It is a fitting end to a week of glorious racing.
Where sailing comes first!
This Event is preceded by the Guadeloupe to Antigua Race, followed by the Round Antigua Race. For five days crews are challenged with coastal race courses encouraging tacking duels around buoys in the perfect setting of the blue Caribbean Sea off Antigua’s south coast fueled by the trade winds. Spectators enjoy stunning views from cliff tops and 12
This 50th anniversary of Antigua Sailing Week will be a celebration of yacht racing in Antigua. www.sailingweek.com www.facebook.com/sailingweek www.twitter.com/sailingweek
Photo: Paul Wyeth – pwpictures.com
Thanks to our harbours, marinas and breezy trade winds,
ANTIGUA EVENTS
SAILING EVENTS Antigua has become a major centre for world-class sailing events.
ANTIGUA CLASSIC YACHT REGATTA 19 - 25 APRIL 2017 2017 celebrates the 30th anniversary of the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta. Each year an impressive collection of classic yachts and passionate sailors gather from all over the world to enjoy the competitive racing in ideal Caribbean trade wind conditions. This unique world-class event attracts a variety of competitors from the almighty J-Class, Tall Ships and magnificent schooners to traditional island craft and family live-aboards. Some yachts date back to the early 1900s whereas others are modern-day reproductions classed as Spirit of Tradition. Each yacht has its own fascinating story which is part of the magic of Classics, where the eclectic mix of owners and crew recount dockside tales well into the night. Racing starts on Thursday April 20th with the Single-Handed Race along with Concours d’Elégance where the condition and maintenance of the yachts are judged. This is followed by four days of racing for the full fleet where the courses are designed to take the best advantages of wind, sea, scenery and skill.
Spectators view all races from high points along the south coast - Fort Charlotte, Shirley Heights and Block House. After the race on Sunday April 23rd the yachts pass through Nelson’s Dockyard for the Parade of Classics. This is a wonderful opportunity to see the boats close up and experience history from the waterfront at the Copper and Lumber Store and Antigua Slipway. The prize-giving ceremony takes place the evening of the last day of sailing on Monday April 24th followed by dancing into the early hours. The Regatta closes on April 25th with gig racing and cream teas at Admiral’s Inn, Nelson’s Dockyard. The sailing, combined with Antiguan hospitality, rum, sun and camaraderie in a friendly relaxed atmosphere, make Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta a favourite in the yachting calendar. Join us for our special 30th birthday celebration of this extraordinary event. www.antiguaclassics.com Email: info@antiguaclassics.com 13
RORC CARIBBEAN 600 ROYAL OCEAN RACING CLUB RACE START DATE, ANTIGUA: 20 FEBRUARY 2017
Starting and finishing in Antigua, the unique 600mile course was conceived by Antiguan sailor and RORC member, Stan Pearson. It uses eleven Eastern Caribbean islands as turning marks, providing an interesting challenge for navigators and crew. With such a long racing course, the finishing times will vary over a number of days. The RORC work with Falmouth-based Antigua Yacht Club and their army of local volunteers, supporting the management of this great yachting event. Every yacht that finishes the race is met with welcoming beer!
Valentine's Regatta JOLLY HARBOUR
10 - 14 FEBRUARY 2017
The race attracts professional sailors the world over, plus enthusiastic Corinthian sailors and regular RORC racers. In 2009, 24 boats competed in the inaugural event. Since then participation in the RORC Caribbean 600 has grown steadily each year. In 2016 a record 70-yacht fleet, including some of the world’s fastest yachts, brought the spectacular race to the attention of media and sailing fans worldwide. Everyone agrees the quality of the racing, warm blue ocean and guaranteed trade winds, combined with perfect surfing conditions and amazing scenery will ensure that the RORC Caribbean 600 continues to grow in popularity. www.caribbean600.rorc.org
The annual Jolly Harbour Valentine’s Regatta is a professionally run fun event featuring 3 days of competition off the west coast of Antigua. The schedule includes events from pursuit races to a Laser Pico fleet, the quality of the regatta being exceptional and enjoyed by a growing fleet of yachts. www.jollyharbourregatta.com
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Photo: Tim Wright/photoaction.com
Since its inception in 2009, the Royal Ocean Racing Club’s RORC Caribbean 600 has earned recognition as one of the world’s classic offshore races, and has become a firm fixture on the international offshore racing calendar.
ANTIGUA EVENTS
ANTIGUA BERMUDA RACE 12 - 20 MAY 2017 The Antigua Bermuda Race will be an exciting passage race following Antigua Sailing Week, bringing boats to Bermuda in time for the start of the America's Cup events. The race is open to yachts and multihulls - 40ft, CSA Cruising, Superyacht with IRC dual scoring. A provision of a Motor Sailing Handicap will be overlaid for Cruiser Racers. Schooner America and Spirit of Bermuda will be flagships. This great sailing event is organised by the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club, in association with Antigua Sailing Week. It is sponsored by the Bermuda Tourism Authority and Goslings Rum. As usual with such events, Antigua will be giving the racing yachts a good send off. This will be an exciting time to watch the start of the race from along Antigua's coastline. www.antiguabermuda.com
BUDGET MARINE AT YOUR SERVICE! Budget Marine is the most convenient, modern and well stocked chandlery on Antigua, with three locations offering marine parts and products for boats, from cruising vessels to mega yachts. If a part is not in stock, Budget Marine will order and ship for you. Parts can be in Antigua within 24 hours. In addition to marine supplies, Budget Marine also stock snorkelling gear, Inflatable SUP’s, rashguards and more.
Photo: Paul Wyeth - pwpictures.com
2 - 5 FEBRUARY 2017 The 7th edition of the Superyacht Challenge Antigua is a well-established event. Up to 15 superyachts (80 ft. and over) enjoy a wonderful celebration of sailing, solely for the pleasure of owners, guests and crew. The fleet take part in 3 days of spectacular racing governed by the International Superyacht Rule with daily pursuit races along Antigua’s south coast. The racing is competitive but the Challenge is dedicated to pure fun, particularly ashore where all participants enjoy a relaxed atmosphere free from commercial endorsements. Hosted by Admiral’s Inn and Antigua Rigging in association with National Parks Antigua. www.thesuperyachtchallenge.com
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ANTIGUA'S
FAMOUS BEACHES Stop off at one of our 365 beaches to swim in the calm, blue Caribbean in the west or the wilder Atlantic Ocean in the east. Antigua’s main claim to fame is the quality of the white sand beaches. Here are suggestions for spectacular beach stops, taking a clockwise direction from the most northerly part of the island...
RENDEZVOUS BAY
JABBERWOCK BEACH
TURNERS BEACH
DUTCHMAN’S BAY
DARKWOOD BEACH
This quiet, secluded beach is close to Jabberwock and opposite Long Island, home of the famous Jumby Bay Resort. Here you will find three excellent restaurants set on the waters edge, Cecilia’s High Point Café, La Bussola and the Garden Grill.
LONG BAY
This beautiful beach on the east coast is exceptional for its calm waters and snorkelling. It is an ideal family venue with small restaurants. There is one well-known resort hotel right on the beach. Round the corner with a secluded beach is the popular Verandah Resort.
HALF MOON BAY
Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, its white sands stretch round a picture-postcard bay. Half Moon is on the south-east of the island with some spectacular wave action. There is a small locally-owned beach bar.
PIGEON POINT BEACH
The Pigeon Point Beach is in a sheltered cove with tranquil waters and shady trees. It has recently been environmentally developed into a beautiful recreational facility with camping areas, children’s playground, and bathroom facilities. Historic Nelson’s Dockyard is within easy reach. 16
MORRIS BAY
Located opposite Old Road village, the Morris Bay beach is one of Antigua’s best kept secrets, even though it is easily accessible from the main road - it’s an ideal picnic area with calm seas and beautiful sands. This is a perfect beach at Johnson’s Point with excellent local restaurants literally on the sand. Visit nearby Jacqui O’s overlooking the Caribbean Sea for delicious fare in a perfect tropical atmosphere. The road runs alongside this spectacular beach which takes your breath away as you come round the corner. Montserrat is often clearly visible from the beach.
FFRYERS BEACH
This off-road beach with a good access road is located between Darkwood and Jolly Harbour and is popular with locals and visitors alike.
JOLLY BEACH
The well-known Jolly Beach Resort is located here, with the advantage of Jolly Harbour marina and supermarket.
HAWKSBILL BEACHES
It is reputed that Hawksbill has five beaches including a nudist beach! This is the home of Hawksbill by Rex Resorts which is a well-known and popular hotel.
FORT JAMES
The historic ruins of Fort James overlook a lovely beach near the entrance to St. John’s Harbour.
DICKENSON BAY
The most developed beach on the island has hotels, restaurants and watersports facilities. It is a popular meeting place. The shallow calm waters and golden sands provide a perfect setting for an active day.
Photo: Jonathan Murphy Photography
Part of the National Park, Jabberwock is a long, white sand Atlantic beach. It is popular with local people taking morning and evening walks, and also the base for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
This pristine beach on the south coast is very popular for picnics and family outings. A four-wheel drive vehicle is usually the best way to get to this beach.
# U N L O C K Y O U R S E L F
Heritage Quay . St Johns Antigua . 268 562 5662 . sterlings@candw.ag17
ANTIGUA EVENTS
CRICKET NEWS
West Indies and England Play Three-Match ODI Series MARCH 2017 The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) and the England Cricket Board (ECB) have announced that the West Indies will host England in a three-match one-day international series from February to March 2017. The teams will play the first two matches at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium (SVRS), Antigua. They will then travel to Barbados for the third match at the Kensington Oval. WICB’s CEO, Michael Muirhead said, “we see this as an additional opportunity to strengthen our performances in this format as we aim to move up in the rankings. We are pleased once again to have England in the region and as always we know the contest will be keen and we know the fans will come out in their numbers.” HERE’S THE FULL SCHEDULE: Wednesday 22 February Arrival into St Kitts Saturday 25 & Monday 27 February Warm-up vs WICB President’s XI St Kitts Tuesday 28 February Travel to Antigua Friday 3 & Sunday 5 March 1st & 2nd ODI SVRS Monday 6 March Travel to Barbados Thursday 9 March 3rd ODI Kensington Oval www.windiescricket.com
International Kite Festival 17 APRIL 2017 Easter Monday, Devil’s Bridge This Easter Kite Festival has become a popular family event in Antigua. All different age groups show up to enjoy the colourful and dynamic kite flying displays on the island’s stunning east coast. Some people cruise by on yachts and power boats, whilst others take the opportunity to picnic on the nearby beach. The kites show great originality in their design and the participants display great skill in keeping them flying in the breeze. Tel: (268) 774-4879, Email: tropikiters@hotmail.com
Antigua Tennis Week
Tennis Challenge
29 APRIL - 6 MAY 2017
NOVEMBER 2017
Guests can join ‘Fiery’ Fred Stolle, winner of 18 Grand Slam titles, for an incredible week of tennis. Stolle leads this international pro-am tennis festival along with former Aussie champion Ross Case. Started in 1975, it attracts some of the biggest names in the game.
Top players from the United States (such as former Davis Cup winner Dick Stockton and Grand Slam champion Gene Mayer) team up with Curtain Bluff’s tennis pros to provide a week of clinics, guest doubles, pro-am play and social fun for players of all levels.
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For further details go to www.curtainbluff.com
Kite Photo: courtesy EAB Photography
CURTAIN BLUFF TENNIS
SPORTS FISHING 51st Annual Antigua Sports Fishing Tournament 1 – 4 JUNE 2017 The 2016 50th Annual Antigua Sports Fishing Tournament was one of the best regional tournaments. Celebrating 50 years of competitive sports fishing, 40 vessels with over 200 anglers tried their luck at landing a Blue Marlin or other various pelagic species hoping to win a prize. 20 plus prizes are available. Before the competing boats arrive back at the dock, the party on land begins, with food and drinks on sale (EC$5.00 drink specials). Great music thanks to DJ Tanny. As the boats arrive, and their catches weighed and recorded, fresh fish such as Mahi Mahi, Tuna, Wahoo, and more can be purchased from the onsite fish stall.
Mikie Pigott Jr. Memorial Classic
Francis Nunes Junior Memorial Tournament & Seafood Festival
1 JUNE 2017
23 SEPTEMBER 2017
The 2016 Mikie Pigott Jr. Memorial Classic had a total of 13 boats participating. Team ‘Overdraft’ took home the prize, with the catch and release of the only Blue Marlin caught that day. This tournament is gaining popularity and is set to be even bigger in 2017.
The Francis Nunes Junior Memorial Tournament & Seafood Festival started in 2008 in honour of the Antigua Sports Fishing Club’s past President, Francis Nunes Jr. He was an avid fisherman and had a great love for all seafood. This popular one day tournament continues to grow each year, and aims to gain more support from neighbouring islands. www.antiguabarbudasportsfishing.com
RUN IN PARADISE HALF-MARATHON 28 MAY 2017 This event is fast becoming a must-attend race for international and national athletes. For 2017 a 10K walk/run race will also be included at the request of many participants. The popularity of this event is due to many factors - the welcoming committee, picturesque and race friendly route, excellent race packages, traditional Antiguan breakfasts and souvenir medals for all participants who complete the race at Fort James beach. Register to benefit from the early registration rates. A charter flight service from Miami will be available. www.runinparadise.com
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MANGO FESTIVAL JULY 2017 Antigua’s annual Mango Festival is a unique and fun event. There are many different varieties of this exotic fruit grown in Antigua, and its versatility is well demonstrated at this special Festival. A number of smaller events lead up to the Grand Finale held each year at Christian Valley on the island’s south-west coast. The Mango Festival celebrates its 12th year in 2017 and promises to be bigger and better than ever. One especially delectable event is the ‘Mango Pineapple Culinary Competition’ when some of the island’s most talented chefs, pastry chefs and bartenders compete. Such a unique event encourages the hotels and restaurants to use fresh, tasty locally-grown produce. Visitors can purchase locally-made mango products such as lip gloss and lotion. The highlight is buying and tasting some of the biggest and juiciest mangoes ever seen!
Photo: Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority
ANTIGUA EVENTS
Mood of Pan Festival 25 - 26 NOVEMBER 2017 This 2-day steel pan festival is hosted by Gemonites Steel Orchestra at the Dean William Lake Cultural Centre ... Steel bands are traditionally made up of pieces of metal such as old irons, tyre rims, steel pipes etc. Over the years, the Caribbean steel bands have evolved into highly technical instruments which are honed out of steel drums, sunken and burned over a hot fire, chromed and turned. The festival gives individuals, especially the young, the opportunity to showcase their talent and creativity in performances demonstrating all genres of music, including classical, gospel, reggae, jazz and calypso. A key component of the festival is the ‘Five Alive’ competition which allows competitors to portray a creative and often comedic presentation. Musical storylines and themes are brought to life to evoke laughter and excitement as the crowd responds. Several regional and international steel orchestras enter the competition hoping to win the coveted title. Don’t miss the unique super sounds of the Caribbean steel bands.
TURTLE TOURS Tours are offered typically on Friday nights during the nesting season of June through October. They generally begin at 7:30pm and include about 3 to 3½ hours of beach patrol, usually on an offshore island, but sometimes on the mainland. Sights can include anything from hatching baby turtles to witnessing a mother climbing up onto the beach to lay her eggs. Two field team members collect data on the turtles, whilst a trained EAG guide accompanies the tours and provides interesting facts. Did you know a warmer incubation temperature makes the turtle female, for example?
Nature-lovers will love the Friday turtle watching trips run by The Environmental Awareness Group (EAG) of Antigua & Barbuda ... 20
Prices vary and tour availability is subject to change every year pending approval by Turtle Project Team Manager(s). For more information and how to book Email: eagantigua@gmail.com
Photo: courtesy Elite Island Resorts
JUNE TO OCTOBER
TALISKER WHISKY
ATLANTIC CHALLENGE STARTS DECEMBER 2017 - CONTINUES UNTIL COMPETITORS ARRIVE IN ANTIGUA IN THE NEW YEAR. The Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge starts in December each year from San Sebastian, La Gomera in the Canary Islands, finishing roughly six weeks later in Antigua. Renowned for its tough conditions, participants typically row two hours on, two hours off, 24 hours per day. Competitors burn a lot of calories and a great deal body weight over the duration of the race. Alongside physical exertion, the rowers face 40 foot waves, tropical storms, sleep deprivation, sweltering heat and the challenges of being in a restricted space and working in a turbulent natural environment. Teams from around the world tackle the Challenge. In 2015 Team Wadadli became the first ever Antiguan team participating, breaking the record for the world’s oldest crew to row across any ocean. An estimated 30 teams are scheduled to participate in 2017. Participants are from all walks of life.
“A special warm welcome for Team Wadadli coming home!” Photo: Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge & Ben Duffy
The common factor is that they all have a great sense of adventure and aim to achieve something incredible in their lives. Teams have included four working mothers from Yorkshire, epic adventurers who have climbed Everest and an all amputee team, veterans of misfortune. Some participants simply wanted to tick off their ‘bucket list’ of challenges, particularly focusing on raising funds for special charities of their choice. The people of Antigua really get on board with the races and give our teams the most fantastic welcomes when they arrive in English Harbour. Teams register with the race organisers at: www.atlanticcampaigns.com
PACK FOR A PURPOSE The Sandals Foundation is a non-profit* organization launched in March 2009 to continue to expand upon the philanthropic work that Sandals® Resorts International has undertaken since it opened its first doors in 1981. This is fulfilled through impactful initiatives and strong partnerships. One project is ‘Pack for A Purpose®’ a non-profit organization encouraging travellers to donate by bringing essential supplies to their vacation destination. Available wherever Sandals Resorts and Beaches® Resorts operate–Antigua, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, the Bahamas, Grenada, Barbados and Turks & Caicos–this programme gives guests the opportunity to contribute to fostering education in the Caribbean by supporting schools with educational supplies. ‘Pack for a Purpose’ provides travellers with a wish list of essential supplies, such as books, medical supplies, and sports equipment for local schools. Travellers are asked to pack up to 5 pounds of supplies in their suitcases. Packages can be left at the front desk of any Sandals or Beaches Resort for delivery to a school in need.
This powerful partnership has proved to be very successful. Resort guests donated over 900 pounds of school supplies and equipment, which have been distributed to local schools by Sandals. Reading materials have been given to help maintain classrooms and school libraries in Antigua. Over 200 Sandals Resort guests in Antigua have participated in volunteering projects with local schools. The Sandals Foundation encourages the general public to make a financial donation and guarantees that 100% of all proceeds contributed go directly to programs benefiting the Caribbean community. To learn more visit www.sandalsfoundation.org *501(C)(3) – United States, CRA Sandals Foundation Canada, UK registered charity.
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ANTIGUA
CARNIVAL Welcome to Antigua’s 60th Carnival celebration! This event is the Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival, showcasing all aspects of Carnival, music, mas, steel pan and pageantry. This is the perfect time to experience the island’s culture, music and food. Come and join in all the carnival fun between 28 July and 8 August, 2017.
T
his celebration of Emancipation lasts a little over a week with a great calendar of events. The festival climaxes on Emancipation Day, starting with (4am) J’ouvert Morning when people take to the streets dancing to the local jam bands, steel bands and iron bands often dressed in the most unusual outfits. This is the true meaning of freedom … Emancipation!
Carnival mas costumes depict colourful and magical themes often with national or regional significance. Their beading, feathers and jewels represent months of work in the various mas camps where the costumes are handmade. Mas makers often work into the early hours of the morning to produce hundreds of costumes in the hope of winning the coveted title of ‘Band of the Year’. Other events in the Carnival line-up include a fiercely competitive Calypso competition, where masters of the art compete with songs of social commentary. The high-energy party-style Soca Monarch competition draws a party crowd. Artists are judged on various criteria, since crowd participation carries significant weight, so the audience is encouraged to join in the fun. The Queen of Carnival Show is always eagerly anticipated by pageant aficionados. 22
Young ladies are judged on performing talent, interview, poise and grace, all aiming to be crowned Miss Antigua & Barbuda. ‘Teensplash’ is a talent competition for talented teenagers, which creates a school rivalry atmosphere increasing in intensity every year. Carnival City is bursting with teenagers on this night. No Carnival festival would be complete without a Panorama competition. The bittersweet rivalry that exists among the various steel orchestras fuels the passion to practise musical renditions for months in advance of the competition. The hard work and dedication is evident on Panorama night when the steel orchestras grace the stage at Carnival City with high-energy performances often punctuated with dramatic antics. The audience is always captivated. Carnival closes off with Last Lap where the jam bands wind their way through the streets of St. John’s pumping out the most popular songs of the Carnival season. It’s the perfect time to come and experience the culture, music and food of Antigua & Barbuda. For more information on Antigua Carnival visit www.visitantiguabarbuda.com
Photo: Audray Nelson, Shades Inc. Photography
The great carnivals of the world are judged primarily on their music and mas. Carnival Monday and Tuesday fall on the first Monday and Tuesday of August every year. On these two days the carnival troupes descend on the streets of St. John’s adorned in their carnival costumes bursting with colour and dancing to the pumping soca rhythms, steel bands, iron bands and popular DJs.
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WHERE TO STAY
WHERE TO STAY Antigua’s hotels suit all tastes and budgets, and range from small traditional inns to world-class resorts. These pages give you a good idea of what is available and further information is available from your nearest Antigua & Barbuda Tourist Office. Nelson’s Dockyard A charming, historic boutique hotel located on the waterfront in Nelson’s Dockyard with 22 distinctive airconditioned rooms and suites housed in 18th century buildings with all modern amenities. Enjoy dining and cocktails at Pillars terrace restaurant, a free boat ride to the beach or to the hotel’s infinity-edged pool and second restaurant Boom, where guests can lounge in daybeds and enjoy a massage. Sailing, scuba-diving and tennis are available nearby. Enjoy casual elegance and friendly, personal service. Tel: (268) 460-1027 www.admiralsinnantigua.com
ADMIRAL’S INN GUNPOWDER SUITES
Nelson’s Dockyard The popular Gunpowder Suites comprise four deluxe suites built around a remodeled 18th century gunpowder store on a two acre point with a stunning infinity-edged pool overlooking historic Nelson’s Dockyard. Featuring king-size beds, tea/coffee facilities, ipod docking stations, minibars, WiFi and AC, these suites offer a sophisticated, serene retreat where guests enjoy daybeds, hammocks and spa, and tasty meals and cocktails at Boom poolside restaurant or Pillars terrace restaurant. Tel: (268) 460-1027 www.admiralsinnantigua.com
ANTIGUA VILLAGE
Dickenson Bay Set in a tropical garden, the long-established Antigua Village is situated on one of the island’s most beautiful beaches. Spacious studios, suites and villas combine with the two open-air restaurants to create a great vacation experience. PO Box 649, St. John’s Tel: (268) 462-2930 Toll Free: 1-866-590-8713 Email: antiguavillage@candw.ag 24
BLUE WATERS HOTEL
Blue Waters Located on the northeast coast Blue Waters is an idyllic, elegant tropical resort to which visitors return again and again. With several freshwater pools, a spa, secluded beach coves and 17 acres of stunning tropical gardens, Blue Waters is at the forefront of gracious living. Tel: (268) 462-0290 Email: frontoffice@bluewaters.net www.bluewaters.net
BUCCANEER BEACH CLUB
Dickenson Bay Located on the popular beach of Dickenson Bay, this Caribbean-style resort is ideal for informal, independent visits to Antigua. Perfect for families and for couples, it offers 16 one-bedroom villas and 2 two-bedroom cottages all with kitchen facilities, private balconies or verandahs. On-site amenities include a pool, free laundry, free internet and mountain bikes. Watersports, restaurants, bars and supermarkets are located within walking distance and the friendly staff are always available for you. Tel: (268) 562-6785 Fax: (268) 562-6784 Email: buccaneerbeachclub@candw.ag www.buccaneerbeach.com
CARLISLE BAY
Old Road Situated on the beautiful south coast, Carlisle Bay combines contemporary luxury with a beautiful beach setting. The 82 spacious suites with private terraces or balconies offer breathtaking ocean views and cool calm interiors. There are four great restaurants, three bars and an award-winning spa, all of which are open to nonresidents. Day passes are a fantastic way to experience Carlisle Bay with its dive centre, complimentary watersports and Cool Kids Club. Carlisle Bay is a member of Leading Hotels of the World. Tel: (268) 484-0000 Fax: (268) 484-0001 Email: info@carlisle-bay.com, www.carlisle-bay.com
Photo: courtesy Keyonna Beach Resort
ADMIRAL’S INN
Grande Antigua SANDALS ®
THE BEST OF TWO WORLDS: Mediterranean Elegance Meets Island Charm
Sandals Grande Antigua – repeatedly voted the “World’s Most Romantic Resort” – provides two extraordinary vacations in one. Discover the treasures of two mesmerizing worlds—the authentic tranquility of the Caribbean Beachfront Village, or the grandeur of the Six Star, all-suite Mediterranean Oceanview Village. Savour tantalizing 5-Star Global GourmetTM dining cuisine at 11 specialty restaurants. Premium spirits are always on the house, 24/7, at seven bars. Partake in every land and water sport under the sun. Best of all, it’s all included, all unlimited, all the time.
LOVE IS ALL YOU NEED
ALWAYS INCLUDED • Quality roundtrip airport transfers • Gratuities • 11 gourmet restaurants • 24-hour room service* • 7 bars including an authentic British Pub • Pool and beachside cocktail valet service • Unlimited premium spirits and endless pours of Robert Mondavi Twin Oaks wines • Unlimited land and water sports including scuba diving *, snorkeling and stand-up paddle boarding • English Guild-trained butlers in top-tier suites
SANDALS GRANDE ANTIGUA Resort & Spa In the U.S. or Canada call 1-800-SANDALS; in the U.K. 0800-742-742; In Antigua 268-484-0100; SANDALS.COM; or contact your Travel Professional Visit www.sandals.com/disclaimers/the antiguan2017 or call 1-800-SANDALS for important terms and conditions.
Village
Mediterranean Oceanview
Where Luxury Knows No Bounds
THE PA L ATI A L GR A NDEUR OF THE MEDITER R A NE A N OCE A N V IEW V IL L AGE entices with an extraordinary collection of oceanview suites overlooking Dickenson Bay, and lavish Ocean Villas that showcase expansive private patios with plunge pools, whirlpools, dining areas and private butler service. Take in spectacular sea views from the Sunset Tower, enjoy the island’s largest zero-entry pool, or browse the fashionable village shops in the Piazza. Every detail reveals another reason for the esteemed Six Star designation.
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MORE DINING AT 11 RESTAURANTS World-class fare and intimate settings make fine dining adventures a nightly favorite in the Mediterranean Oceanview Village, with dining directly on the beach, in an authentic Italian restaurant and at a Neapolitan pizzeria.
EUROPEAN ELEGANCE IN A CARIBBEAN SETTING From the moment you arrive at the grand open-air lobby with its commanding views you’ve entered into a world of European grandeur.
ALL-SUITE, ALL-OCEANFRONT Shimmering fountains, hand-painted ceilings, marble floors, romantic piazzas, and an arcade of chic shops proclaim the Mediterranean Oceanview Village an authentic vignette of European splendor. Graced by awe-inspiring views from the towering suites and luxurious ocean villas of the Mediterranean Oceanview Village promise a flawless vacation for lovers.
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Village
Caribbean Beachfront
Paradise Found in the World’s Most Romantic Resort
CARIBBEAN CHARM ON DICKENSON BAY
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Quintessential Caribbean charm abounds in this tropical garden oasis where time slows down. Nowhere else on Earth has romance ever been so undeniably potent as here in this intimate setting of charming cottages surrounded by gardens so lush your secluded sanctuary is hidden within. Soaring palm groves grace the grounds with the sounds of the breeze and cooling shade. This is the Eden by the sea that lovers worldwide return to again and again.
MORE AWARDS
Sandals Grande Antigua was voted World’s Most Romantic Resort, Antigua’s Leading Resort, World’s Leading Honeymoon Resort and the Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Resort at the prestigious World Travel Awards.
365 BEACHES on Antigua, but only
Sandals Grande Antigua’s setting at Dickenson Bay is considered to be the best. Harbored by a mile-long reef, the azurean waters are forever glass-calm and the powdery-soft sands a dazzling white.
SANDALS GRANDE ANTIGUA Resort & Spa In the U.S. or Canada call 1-800-SANDALS; in the U.K. 0800-742-742; In Antigua 268-484-0100; SANDALS.COM; or contact your Travel Professional
WHERE TOTOSTAY WHERE STAY
Hermitage Bay Hermitage Bay has been created with artistry and a true sense of the spirit of the location. The secluded and peaceful setting is on the edge of a hidden bay, enclosed by 17-acres of tropical gardens and surrounded by hundreds of acres of untouched land. The stunning beach stretches for over 1,250 feet in front of 30 individual suites located on the hillside or just steps away from the sand.
All the luxurious suites feature an outside deck area. The hillside suites have the added attraction of their own private plunge pools and sunbathing areas. Hermitage Bay is the place for those seeking to unwind, retreat from busy lives and rejuvenate minds, bodies and souls. www.hermitagebay.com
tropical gardens fine white sand secluded bay warm and friendly spacious comfortable individual suites right on the beach hillside vistas luxury privacy tranquillity natural paradise hermitage bay Hermitage Bay tel (268) 562 5500 reservations (268) 562 8080 fax (268) 562 5505 www.hermitagebay.com
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Carlisle Bay CONTEMPORARY LUXURY ON THE BEACH For luxury, sophistication and contemporary style look no further than Carlisle Bay, a member of Leading Hotels of the World. Set on Antigua’s unspoilt south coast, its pristine half-kilometre beach is sheltered in a secluded bay with a backdrop of rolling hills and lush rainforest. The 82 spacious suites range from the romantic Garden, Ocean and Bay Suites to the familyfriendly Beach and Carlisle Suites. All have cool, contemporary interiors, balconies or terraces and stunning ocean views. Carlisle Bay has several enticing bars and four excellent restaurants: East for pan-Asian fare, Indigo on the Beach for grills, seafood and salads, the poolside Ottimo! for Italian classics from an authentic wood-burning oven and the adults only Jetty Grill located on the beach serving grills, fresh seafood, crisp salads and wines by the carafe. Total relaxation and wellbeing are fundamental to Carlisle Bay’s philosophy - the Blue Spa was recently awarded the Condé Nast Traveller ‘Readers’ Choice’ award. It offers an extensive treatment menu from VOYA, a gym and six treatment rooms including a wet room and couples’ room. There is a yoga and
Pilates pavilion, nine tennis courts, and watersports including sailing, kayaking, snorkelling, windsurfing and diving. Kids Clubs offers fun activities, and there is a private cinema showing movies daily. The library showcases top beach reads. This privately-owned hotel creates tranquility and seclusion. Carlisle Bay is open to non-residents. Buy a day pass and enjoy all the hotel has to offer. Stop by for a couple of hours to pamper yourself in the Blue Spa, or dine in one of the four restaurants. www.carlisle-bay.com
C A R L I S L E B AY ANTIGUA
82 Luxury Suites | 4 Restaurants | 4 Bars | Blue Spa | 9 Tennis Courts Cinema | Fitness Center | Watersports | Rainforest Hikes carlisle-bay.com Carlisle Bay, Old Road, St. Mary’s, Antigua | Tel: +1 268.484.0000 | Email: reservations@carlisle-bay.com 31
WHERE TOTOSTAY WHERE STAY Falmouth Harbour This 14 room family-run hotel is situated on the edge of Falmouth Harbour and has a very relaxed and friendly atmosphere. All the rooms have air-conditioning, cable TVs and free internet. It’s a great place to relax and get away from it all, but is also close enough to English Harbour for Nelson’s Dockyard, as well as nightlife. Tel: (268) 460-1036 Fax: (268) 460-1339 Email: catclub@candw.ag
COCOS HOTEL
Valley Church This adults only boutique resort offers 30 private wooden Caribbean cottages on a bluff overlooking the sea with wonderful sunsets. All cottages have a four poster king size bed, private balcony, air-conditioning, and outdoor shower - no televisions! COCOS is a perfect location for small, romantic weddings and honeymoons. Dine in a casual all inclusive restaurant with an a la carte menu and spectacular views. PO Box 2024 Tel: (268) 462-9700, Reservations: (268) 460-2626 Toll Free from the USA/Canada: +1-800-420-8630 Email: reservations@cocoshotel.com www.cocoshotel.com
COPPER & LUMBER STORE
Nelson’s Dockyard Surrounded by spectacular Nelson’s Dockyard, the Copper and Lumber Store Hotel stands out as one of the finest examples of Georgian architecture in the Caribbean. Throughout the hotel, from rooms to furnishings and a beautiful courtyard, there are reminders of the period centuries ago when the building was originally constructed. Within this unique historic setting every modern comfort and luxury are provided. The restaurant has an excellent daily menu and supports the award winning ‘Seafood Friday’. Tel: (268) 460-1058/460-1159/60 Fax: (268) 460-1529 Email: clhotel@candw.ag, info@copperandlumberhotel.com www.copperandlumberhotel.com
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Photo: courtesy The Inn
CATAMARAN HOTEL
CURTAIN BLUFF
Old Road Situated on a dramatic seaside bluff on Antigua’s southern shore, this 72 room resort is legendary. Its well-deserved reputation is due in part to its breathtaking setting, but also to its peerless service. An oceanfront spa enhances the first-class leisure amenities, which include tennis, watersports, scuba-diving, squash and fitness facilities. PO Box 288, St. John’s Tel: (268) 462-8400/1/2 Fax: (268) 462-8409 Email: curtainbluff@curtainbluff.com www.curtainbluff.com
DUTCHMAN’S BAY COTTAGES
Dutchman’s Bay Experience a little piece of paradise at Dutchman’s Bay Cottages. Located on Antigua’s north-east coast, these 7 Caribbean-style cottages lie right on the beach with the gentle trade winds blowing over the clear turquoise waters. Each charming cottage is self-contained with a fully-equipped kitchen, veranda and attractive furnishings. Make tranquil Dutchman’s Bay Cottages your ‘home away from home’ and enjoy all that Antigua has to offer. Tel: (268) 464-0207 www.dutchmansbay.com
GALLEY BAY RESORT & SPA
Five Islands This intimate, adult-only Caribbean getaway enjoys an ambience of subtle elegance and privacy. Come pamper yourselves at this relaxing all-inclusive haven. Tel: (866) 237-1644 or (268) 462-0302 Email: reservations@eliteislandresorts.com www.galleybayresort.com
WHERE TO STAY
Jumby Bay A ROSEWOOD RESORT Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resort is an inclusive luxury retreat set on its own enchanting 300-acre private island two miles off the coast of Antigua. Accessible only by boat, the resort offers upscale visitors a relaxed and authentic Caribbean escape with superb white-sand beaches and lush tropical environs. There are no crowds, cars or commerce – just four and a half miles of palm-studded shoreline and a network of bicycle paths winding through a lush tropical landscape. This ultra-deluxe hideaway has 40 gracious suites, the open-air Verandah Restaurant, the bistro-style Pool Grille and the elegant Estate House with its Italian-inspired cuisine served in a restored 230-yearold plantation manor. There are multi-million dollar estate homes in a variety of styles, some with direct beach access and private pools with the use of
private golf carts and full access to Jumby Bay’s many amenities including first-class tennis courts and Sense, A Rosewood Spa. For active visitors the resort offers watersports, hiking and biking trails, a fitness centre, croquet lawn, putting green, daily complimentary children’s programme and an oceanfront infinity pool. In 2014 Rosewood Jumby Bay ranked among the world’s best resorts on Travel + Leisure’s ‘Top 500’, Condé Nast Traveler’s ‘Gold List’ and received the prestigious AAA Five-Diamond Award. The resort was also awarded ‘Top 25 Hotels in the Caribbean’ on TripAdvisor’s ‘Travelers’ Choice’ and was among U.S. News & World Report’s ‘Best Hotels in the Caribbean’. Call 888.ROSEWOOD www.jumbybayresort.com
A SOUL-SOOTHING ESCAPE Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resort is a rarified world of relaxed luxury, the quintessential “private island dream.” 268 462 6000 | jumbybay@rosewoodhotels.com | rosewoodhotels.com
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WHERE TOTOSTAY WHERE STAY
Galley Bay Resort & Spa The award-winning Galley Bay Resort & Spa is a long-established, intimate Caribbean hideaway, which delights guests with its refined yet unpretentious atmosphere, and stress-free all-inclusive pricing. The three-quarter mile long stretch of white sand beach and lush tropical gardens create a natural setting at the edge of a lagoon and bird sanctuary. The resort is located on the tranquil west coast, which is ideal for spectacular sunset viewing. Arriving guests are escorted from the main reception area, which is situated next to an historic sugar mill, across a unique wooden causeway above the lagoon to the beachfront area of the resort. At Galley Bay, visitors are completely carried away from the hectic pace of the rest of the world. Non-motorised watersports add a dimension for the adventurous without disturbing the tranquility of the environment. The Indulge Spa offers luxurious treehouse pavilions with an extensive range of soothing treatments. To maintain this peaceful atmosphere, the hotel only welcomes children 16 years of age and older. A Green Globe Certified resort, Galley Bay offers a number of eco-friendly on-property initiatives, including a reverse osmosis water purification plant, the use of recycled paper products, and energy-efficient lighting throughout the resort. The resort has a special on-site garden, which uses the delicious home grown fruits, vegetables and herbs for a unique farm-to-table restaurant dining experience. This boutique hotel’s 98 guest rooms are set amid 40 acres of tropical gardens, providing the utmost privacy, and are mostly situated along the beach providing ocean views and direct beach access. The distinctive Gauguin-style Cottages, tucked away in the gardens, have lagoon and garden views and concealed individual plunge pools. The beachfront rooms, which are all
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located directly on the sand, include the Superior and Deluxe rooms, and the Premium Suites. Galley Bay was awarded one of the “Top 25 Caribbean Resorts” by Condé Nast Traveler and among the “Top 10 Best Resorts for Romance in the Caribbean” by the readers of TripAdvisor.com. With three open-air beachfront restaurants and two welcoming lounges, it’s not necessary to leave Galley Bay. At the Gauguin Restaurant, tables are placed underneath individual palapas, for the utmost in romance. Ismay’s Restaurant, named after the longestserving member of staff, is the property’s fine dining restaurant for all special occasions. Live entertainment, cocktail parties and Caribbean barbecues fill the tropical evenings, plus weekly movie nights set up on the sand under the stars. The non-motorised complimentary watersports are available with instruction, including Hobie Cat sailing, snorkelling, paddle boarding, kayaking and more. Relax by the dramatic cascading waterfall and freeform swimming pool surrounded by palm trees and hammocks. There are jogging trails, bicycles, and tennis courts for the more energetic. The resort also offers off-site excursions such as zip-lining, deep-sea fishing, swimming with stingrays, catamaran cruises and more. Visitors to Galley Bay continue to return year after year to enjoy its unique Caribbean location and timeless relaxed ambience. www.galleybayresort.com
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WHERE TO STAY
St. James’s Club & Villas Tucked away on a private 100-acre peninsula on the south-east coast of Antigua, the St. James’s Club & Villas maintains a casual, club-like ambience with a long-standing reputation for exceptional service. This exclusive hideaway caters to couples, families and singles with a variety of accommodation, amenities and activities. Here, guests can retreat from the world or enjoy a wide choice of island and water-based activities. There are two magnificent white sand beaches - Breezy Coco Beach on the Atlantic side and calm Mamora Bay. There are six pools – three are adults-only, and all but one have views of the ocean. For those looking for more than sun-worship, there are six newly surfaced tennis courts, and a brand new expanded fitness centre with yoga deck. St. James’s Club provides complimentary non-motorised watersports such as kayaking, paddle boarding, windsurfing, Hobie Cat sailing, snorkelling and more. There is an on-site Dive Shop featuring an instructor with over 18 years experience. The resort also has an 18-slip marina and its own power catamaran available for booking by guests. Families appreciate the award-winning Kidz Club for children ages 4-11. The experienced staff coordinate a schedule of different activities
throughout the day to ensure that children of all ages are entertained. Kids can dine at the Club while parents enjoy a private dinner alone. Babysitting can be arranged for an additional fee. There is a beachside Teen Pavilion featuring games such as table tennis and billiards. The hillside Tranquility Body & Soul Spa features unique treatments using locally-sourced products. The focal point of the spa is an open-air treatment pavilion overlooking Mamora Bay, perfect for breezy massages. Four distinct restaurants offer a range of casual and fine dining options. The Docksider has views of Mamora Bay and specialises in island-inspired dishes and freshly caught seafood. Thursday is Caribbean Night, with a buffet of regional specialities, plus steel band music and other entertainment. Piccolo Mondo is the resort’s Italian fine dining restaurant with a Caribbean twist. There are four bars and lounges with late night music and dancing at the Jacaranda Lounge. There are 247 guest rooms, suites and villas. The Royal Suites are the resort’s newest and most luxurious category, perfect for couples, honeymooners, and anyone seeking a romantic getaway. Placed into the coveted TripAdvisor 2015 “Hall of Fame” for receiving a Certificate of Excellence for five consecutive years, the St. James’s Club & Villas has one of the highest repeat guest rates in the Caribbean. Come and see why! www.stjamesclubantigua.com
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WHERE TO STAY
The Verandah Resort & Spa Nestled along Antigua’s pristine north east coast, The Verandah Resort & Spa encompasses 30 beachfront acres bordered by well-known Devil’s Bridge National Park with its dramatic landmark rock arch. The property has secluded hiking trails. A short boat ride away are the unique uninhabited nature sanctuaries of Green Island and Bird Island where the swimming is superb. This unique property is an ideal vacation spot for family getaways or romantic escapes, and has been certified by Green Globe as an eco-friendly resort. There are 180 charming Caribbean cottage suites in groups of two, featuring delightful island architecture and décor. There are three scenic categories - hillside, waterview and waterfront. Two-bedroom villas are perfect for larger families and groups. The Verandah features two white sand beaches, with distinct characteristics. The calm watersports beach is perfect for families with smaller children and is home to the Watersports Shack with trained staff available for guests who can enjoy kayaking, snorkelling, windsurfing, paddle boarding and Hobie Cat sailing. The Rasta Beach is more relaxed with the Rasta Bar and the Wadadli Snack Shack with a beach volleyball area. The Verandah has two tennis courts, with a tennis pro on-hand for lessons, a games pavilion offering table tennis, billiards and shuffleboard, and an 18-hole miniature golf course. There is a fully equipped fitness centre with daily classes for morning stretching, yoga, Pilates, circuit training and more. The resort’s impressive free-form pool is one of the island’s largest. There is also an adults-only pool in the tropical landscaping with free WiFi. Children enjoy supervised activities at the resort’s Kidz Club, featuring a playground and splash pool. Babysitting services are available for an extra charge. The expansive Tranquility Body & Soul Spa is an ideal hideaway for pampering and restorative treatments. There is a choice of three restaurants for casual and gourmet dining. The Seabreeze offers a family style buffet; tasty Caribbean dishes are available at the a la carte Buccaneer; Nicole’s is the resort’s elegant fine dining option. There are three bars - the Rasta Beach Bar, the Beach Bar & Grille overlooking the watersports beach, and the main Pool Bar with island-inspired murals. Nightly entertainment is held here, and includes performances from local bands, dancers, fire eaters and more. www.theverandah.com 38
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HERMITAGE BAY
HALCYON BY REX RESORTS
Dickenson Bay This 195-room hotel is located on one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches. Halcyon invites you to enjoy the watersports available and to play tennis and then relax in the landscaped gardens. The Arawak Terrace offers a delicious buffet of local cuisine together with international favourites. Tel: (268) 462-0256 Fax: (268) 462-0271 Email: res.hchanu@candw.ag
HAWKSBILL BY REX RESORTS
Five Islands This unique hideaway is set in 37-acres of tropical gardens with four beautiful beaches. It offers cool detached cottages overlooking the sea. For larger parties, the colonial-style Great House on the peninsula is a villa with its own kitchen and panoramic sea views. The Tamarind and The Seagrape restaurants offer buffet and à la carte menus. Evening entertainment is varied and authentically Antiguan. Tel: (268) 462-0301 Fax: (268) 462-1515 Email: hawksbill@candw.ag
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Hermitage Bay A unique concept in Antigua, Hermitage Bay is in total harmony with its surroundings. Individual suites provide understated luxury and private plunge pools. With its oceanside restaurant and bar, refreshing infinity-edge pool, charming hillside spa and the emphasis on impeccable service, Hermitage Bay offers a wonderful experience. P.O. Box 60, St. John’s Tel: (268) 562-5500 Fax: (268) 562-5505 Email: info@hermitagebay.com www.hermitagebay.com
HODGES BAY
Hodges Bay Beautifully located on the sea front in the popular residential northern area of the island, the new Hodges Bay facility offers 79 hotel suites, penthouses, townhomes and villas, all with firstclass amenities. It is set in nine acres of lush tropical landscaping with its own white sandy beach and stunning ocean views. Hodges Bay is ideally located for many attractions and within easy reach of the V.C. Bird International Airport and the capital city of St. John’s. Tel: (268) 484-8000 Email: info@hodgesbay.com www.hodgesbay.com
Photo: courtesy COCOS Hotel – Alfred Saerchinger
WHERE TO STAY
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WHERE TO STAY
Pineapple Beach Club Antigua Pineapple Beach Club located, on the stunning white stretch of Long Bay’s famous beach, is a laidback all-inclusive resort. Located 20 minutes from V.C. Bird International Airport, this beautiful casual resort offers a very special Caribbean experience. The Adults-Only (16+) property is an ideal vacation spot for tranquil getaways and relaxing escapes. The resort offers Caribbean-style accommodation surrounded by 30 acres of lush gardens. Choose from 180 rooms with various vistas including Gardenview, Oceanview and Beachfront. All rooms feature airconditioning, TV, telephone, coffee/tea maker, private bathrooms with shower and/or tub, hair-dryer and safes.
Pineapple Beach Club provides a variety of dining choices featuring favourite Caribbean recipes and international cuisine. There are three restaurants, poolside and hilltop grills from buffet to a la carte and four full-service bars. The open-air, beachfront Topaz Restaurant has great sea vistas enhancing lavish buffet breakfasts, lunches and special themed buffet or a la carte dining. For two special nights a week Chef Pietro’s offers upscale Italian dining in an air-conditioned, beachside venue. Caribbean favourites - with a la carte dinner menu - are waiting for you at The Pineapple Grill Restaurant, surrounded by beautiful gardens. The Outhouse, a popular bar and grill, is located high above Long Bay with panoramic views. ‘Miss Mary’ offers tasty snacks and cocktails. Chill out on the property’s long white sand beach, swim in the resort’s two freshwater pools, and enjoy complimentary non-motorized watersports - Hobie Cat sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and snorkelling the off-shore reef. There is a spa with nail bar, four tennis courts, a fitness centre, and daily activities including water aerobics and beach volleyball. Off-property excursions (at extra cost) including deepsea fishing and island tours are available through Guest Services. Pineapple Beach Club is the perfect spot for weddings and vow renewals at the bluff-top wedding gazebo. The events team arrange all details. This is an ideal venue for honeymooners who can choose from addons such as spa treatments or private dinners for two. Elite Island Resorts has recently added the property to its portfolio again and will further enhance the attractions of this special resort. www.pineapplebeachclub.com
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WHERE TO STAY
Jolly Beach Resort & Spa Enjoy a fun and relaxing vacation at Antigua’s largest and best value all-Inclusive resort. Jolly Beach Resort & Spa is set on a 40-acre property, with all ocean-facing rooms and over a mile of pristine white sand running alongside clear, turquoise waters. It is approximately 15 miles of easy driving from V.C. Bird International Airport. Jolly Beach has a legendary reputation as being one of the best beaches of the Caribbean. Enjoy one of the resort’s 464 rooms. Six all-Inclusive room categories, from Supersaver to Beachfront Cottages, provide accommodation to suit guests’ every need. All rooms are air-conditioned with private patios or balconies facing the beach. They feature satellite TV, hair dryers, direct dial phones, and private bathrooms with shower and/or tub. Optional amenities may include mini-fridge, coffee and tea maker, in-room WiFi, rollaway bed and safe. Five restaurants offer a wide choice of dining options. Hemisphere’s Restaurant is the main dining room, with a breezy and relaxed atmosphere and indoor and outdoor seating. This buffet restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Lydia’s open-air beachside restaurant is casual and relaxed with a real island feel and flavour. On Sundays there is lively steel band music and a delicious Antiguan buffet brunch. Air-conditioned Bocciolo Restaurant serves classic Italian dishes (an additional surcharge to dine here). Utsav Restaurant open air setting features a “festival of Indian flavours”, and is open for dinner daily. The Coconut Grill Restaurant offers casual grilled fare near the main pool and beach.
In addition to the buffet and a la carte restaurants, the Courtyard offers Afternoon Tea daily at 4:30pm - the best opportunity to socialise with family, friends, and guests. Award-winning bartenders serve at five bars including the popular Splash Swim-Up Pool Bar. A mile-long white sand beach, two swimming pools and an on-site spa head an impressive list of facilities. A wide variety of exciting tours, activities and daily entertainment ensures that every day is memorable. Complimentary non-motorized watersports include Hobie-Cats, windsurfing, kayaks and paddle boats together with lessons and instruction. Recreational facilities include four floodlit tennis courts, two basketball courts, Jolly Kidz and Teenz Clubs, a games room and a gym. Evening entertainment features live bands, cultural shows, local dancers, fire-eaters and karaoke. The Palms Wellness Centre offers a full range of massage treatments and therapies, with a beauty salon and fitness centre. The all-Inclusive experience includes meals, snacks and afternoon tea, house brand beverages, non-motorized watersports, free WiFi in the lobby and courtyard, and activities including the Jolly Kidz and Teenz Clubs, nightly entertainment and all taxes and service charges. Spa and beauty salon services, tours and excursions are not part of the all-inclusive package. You are invited to participate in the exceptional value and excellent services of Jolly Beach Resort & Spa, and enjoy the warm hospitality of Antigua. www.jollybeachresort.com
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WHERE TO STAY
JOLLY BEACH RESORT & SPA
Jolly Beach A versatile resort for everyone, offering both all-inclusive and room-only plans. Located on the south-west coast of Antigua, this 464-room property sits on one of Antigua’s best beaches. There are two pools, five restaurants, bars, nightly entertainment, watersports, Jolly Teenz and Kidz Clubs, Palms Wellness Centre, spa, gym and salon, complimentary WiFi in designated areas, and conference facilities. The resort is 7 miles from St. John’s and approximately 20 minutes from the airport. Tel: (866) 905-6559 or (268) 462-0061 Email: info@jollybeachresort.com www.jollybeachresort.com
KEYONNA BEACH RESORT ANTIGUA
JUMBY BAY, A ROSEWOOD RESORT
LE JARDIN CREOLE ‘THE SECRET GARDEN’
Long Island Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resort is a luxury retreat set on its own 300-acre private island two miles off the coast of Antigua. Accessible only by boat, the ultra-luxe resort offers upscale travellers a relaxed and authentic Caribbean escape with superb white sand beaches, lush tropical environs, Sense, A Rosewood Spa® and world-class culinary experiences. Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resort has ranked among the world’s best resorts on Travel + Leisure’s ‘Top 500’ and Condé Nast Traveler’s ‘Gold List’, and received the prestigious AAA Five-Diamond Award. Tel: (268) 462-6000 Fax: (268) 462-6020 Email: jumbybay@rosewoodhotels.com
Combining contemporary architecture with a stunning tropical setting, the newly opened South Point offers a truly unique experience – where casual island-chic meets modern luxury in a neighbourhood rich with history. In keeping with its cosmopolitan character, South Point’s restaurant is the perfect combination of international taste and local/island flavor; farm to table ingredients and locally caught seafood are daily menu staples. info@southpointantigua.com Toll Free USA & Canada 1 800 857 2082 Toll Free UK 0800 014 8443 International +1 268 562 9600 or +1 268 464 0407
www.southpointantigua.com
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Turners Beach A couples only resort, on the sunset side of the island, is a unique all-inclusive boutique resort with 25 rooms, offering beach-front location with sweeping views of the colourful Caribbean sea. It features four-poster beds, free WiFi, air-conditioning, mini-bar and friendly staff. This boutique resort is perfect for that special romantic wedding and honeymoon. PO Box 2024, St John’s Tel: (268) 562-2020 Reservations: (268) 562-8880 Toll Free from the USA/Canada: +1-877-539-6662 Email: reservations@keyonnabeachresortantigua.com www.keyonnabeachresortantigua.com Hodges Bay A unique setting for an intimate garden inn with holiday cottages and rooms exotically called ‘Palm-Frangipani Cottage’, ‘Palm Cottage’, ‘Coco Cottage’, ‘Banana Cottage’, ‘Frangipani Room’ and ‘Flamboyant Treehouse Room’. Located on the north coast, near Dickenson Bay, Jabberwock Beach, Kitesurf Antigua, Cedar Valley Golf Course and The American University of Antigua. Close to St. John’s and the airport. This cottage inn reflects traditional Caribbean architecture and outdoor living. “Come and feel at home” and meet your welcoming hosts, Peter and Kathy. Tel: (268) 464-7576/561-1835 Email: lejardincreole@candw.ag www.lejardincreole.com
WHERE TO STAY
COCOS Hotel COCOS is a delightful all-inclusive hotel, set between two beaches overlooking the Caribbean sea. It is a tranquil, boutique hotel with 30 individual rustic wooden cottages constructed by local craftsmen. They form a unique Caribbean village on the west coast of the island, situated amidst beautiful tropical landscaping with each cottage having maximum privacy. COCOS is located on an ocean bluff with panoramic views overlooking the Caribbean sea, and a pool overlooking the beach. The cottages have spacious airy rooms with king-size four-poster beds, hammocks, outdoor showers, private balconies and air-conditioning. It is the ideal location to get away from intrusive television. Tropical pampering at the Serenity Cottage provides treatments designed to relax body and soul. There is an intimate, casual restaurant set on a cliff offering a wide selection of delicous meals with local produce, as well as an a la carte menu of local dishes and a good selection of wines. The restaurant has spectacular views particularly at sunset.
Live music is played regularly to create a romantic ambiance with daily rum specials. COCOS specialises in small, intimate, romantic weddings with experienced staff to organise everything for the bridal group and a dedicated wedding coordinator. www.cocoshotel.com
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WHERE TO STAY
Sugar Ridge Hotel Sugar Ridge has a spectacular elevated position and emerges from the hillside ablaze with colourful indigenous plants and sugar cane. It has panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and neighbouring islands, and is only 25 minutes’ drive away from St. John’s. Many of Antigua’s most beautiful beaches are on the doorstep and quickly accessible by the hotel’s complimentary shuttle service. There are 60 bedrooms grouped in blocks of four rooms to an intimate building, each with stunning views. The ground floor rooms have private plunge pools and the upper floors have large verandas. All are designed in colonial, contemporary style with four poster muslin-draped beds. Sugar Ridge has two restaurants. There is open air fine dining at Carmichael’s atop the hill, plus the informal Sugar Club. The restaurants, with indoor/outdoor dining, overlook the resort’s two swimming pools.
collection of treatments featuring the latest holistic therapies, hair salon and treatment rooms. The fully air-conditioned gym has around 30 pieces of Cybex equipment including 13 for cardiovascular health.
Sugar Ridge has around 6,000 square feet of spa and gymnasium facilities. The Spa is the only Aveda Concept Spa in the Eastern Caribbean with a full
Enjoy the exciting and unique Sugar Ridge experience.
A N T I G U A
W E S T
I N D I E S
www.sugarridgeantigua.com
bed & breakfast, all Inclusive and fitness inclusive packages phone 1-268-562-7700 www.sugarridgeantigua.com
SLEEP EAT PLAY PAMPER
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WHERE TO STAY
Keyonna Beach Resort This couples only resort, situated on beautiful Turner’s Beach, with spectacular sunsets, is a unique all-inclusive resort. This is a boutique hotel with beach-front location overlooking the Caribbean sea. The Keyonna Beach Resort is perfect for that special romantic wedding with the dedicated team making all arrangements for the dream to come true. This intimate location is ideal for couples and honeymooners with its rustic, but luxurious cottages, close to the beach. The cottages include king-size four-poster beds, spacious bathrooms and outdoor showers, air-conditioning, mini-bars, free WiFi and
private verandahs. No televisions or radios disturb the tranquil atmosphere. The multi-tiered beach-front restaurant offers al fresco a la carte dining, shaded by seagrape trees, with West Indian cuisine and fresh local seafood. The unique Bali beds are dotted on the long deserted white sand beach with views of neighbouring islands. Ideal for complete relaxation with a cocktail or rum punch. www.keyonnabeachresortantigua.com
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SIBONEY BEACH CLUB
Dickenson Bay An intimate all-suite hotel for those seeking an alternative to the all-inclusive resort. The outstanding host and his staff welcome you to the 12 well-appointed one bedroom suites, each with separate living areas and mini-kitchens, set along the white sands of Dickenson Bay with a lush tropical garden and freshwater pool.
PINEAPPLE BEACH CLUB ANTIGUA
Long Bay Just 20 minutes from V.C. Bird International Airport, this peaceful oasis offers the best of Antigua… relaxed and unhurried. Located on a stunning stretch of white sand beach, this casual resort offers a great Caribbean experience. The Adults-Only Pineapple Beach Club is an ideal vacation spot for couples’ getaways and relaxing escapes. Tel: (800) 858-4618 or (268) 463-2006 Email: reservations@eliteislandresorts.com www.pineapplebeachclub.com
SANDALS® GRANDE ANTIGUA RESORT & SPA
Dickenson Bay Named the “Caribbean’s Most Romantic Resort,” Sandals Grande Antigua presents two distinct worlds created exclusively for two people in love–the all-suite Mediterranean Oceanview Village and the Caribbean Beachfront Village. Inspired by European sophistication, the Six-Star Diamond Mediterranean Village features the Eastern Caribbean’s largest pool and chic one-bedroom beachside butler villas. Just steps from the sea, the Caribbean Beachfront Village is dotted with towering palms, charming cottages, signature Rondoval suites, and tranquil pools. Guests will enjoy the best of both worlds with a total of eleven Five-Star Global GourmetTM restaurants, seven bars and six shimmering pools. Tel: (268) 484-0100 Fax: (268) 484-0213 PO Box 147, Dickenson Bay, St. John’s www.sandals.com
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The renowned Coconut Grove Restaurant is just steps away. A ‘wellness program’ featuring vegan and vegetarian meals, holistic therapies plus a library is also available. Free WiFi. Toll Free: 800-533-0234 Tel: (268) 462-0806 Fax: (268) 462-3356 Email: info@siboneybeachclub.com
SOUTH POINT English Harbour Inspired by its exclusive waterfront location, South Point is one of Antigua’s newest boutique hotels. Overlooking English Harbour, its spacious and stylish open-plan suites have front row views of some of the world’s most impressive superyachts. The Lounge Bar attracts a cosmopolitan crowd enjoying the sophisticated but relaxing vibe and the waterfront restaurant. The unique beachside swimming pool features a beautiful wooden deck close to the edge of the sea. Tel: (268) 562-9600 Email: info@southpointantigua.com www.southpointantigua.com ST. JAMES’S CLUB & VILLAS
Mamora Bay This breathtaking 100-acre resort on the south eastern shores of Antigua has lush tropical landscaping and two pristine white sand beaches. There are limitless activities for everyone to enjoy and four restaurants to suit all tastes. St. James’s Club is the perfect place for singles, couples and families alike. Tel: (866) 237-2071 or (268) 460-5000 Email: reservations@eliteislandresorts.com www.stjamesclubantigua.com
Photo: Courtesy Elite Island Resorts
WHERE TO STAY
Nestled on the secluded north shore of Antigua, Hodges Bay exclusive beachfront resort is set to become the flagship development for the island. Its stately oceanfront homes, penthouses, villas, suites and hotel accommodations are just what world-class travelers expect. But the lavish development goes on to immerse its guests in a stunning Caribbean paradise complete with premier amenities including distinctive dining options, a world-class spa and an expansive selection of leisure facilities. Antigua 268-484-8000
United States 917-819-5200
Canada 647-931-1347
U.K. +44 (20) 3695 4473
www.HodgesBay.com 51
WHERE TO STAY
SUGAR RIDGE
St. Mary’s With a spectacular hillside setting, Sugar Ridge gives a new and exciting dimension to the hospitality business. It is furnished to a high contemporary standard throughout. Facilities include 60 luxury bedrooms with verandas and plunge pools, Carmichael’s fine dining restaurant, The Sugar Club restaurant and bar, Aveda Concept Spa, Cybex gymnasium and Shopping Village. Sugar Ridge is a few minutes from the Marina at Jolly Harbour. Tel: (268) 562-7700 Toll Free USA 1-866-591-4881 Fax: (268) 562-7701 Email: hotel@sugarridgeantigua.com, reservations@sugarridgeantigua.com www.sugarridgeantigua.com
TAMARIND HILLS
Ffryes Beach Tamarind Hills is located between two of the finest beaches in Antigua, and five minutes from a great variety of bars, restaurants, shops, golf and marina. There is a wide range of luxury modern villas available for rent, ranging from two to four bedrooms, all with private pools, European kitchens and bathrooms, parking, WiFi and cable TV. All bedrooms are ensuite with private terraces with magnificent west facing views over the Caribbean sea. The villas provide maid service and security. Private chefs and other VIP services are available. Tel: (268) 562-7380/736-4028 PO Box JH207 www.tamarind-hills.com
TRADE WINDS HOTEL
Photo: Courtesy Elite Island Resorts
Dickenson Bay This attractive 50-room hotel invites guests to relax in beautiful surroundings and enjoy fine cuisine, friendly service and fantastic ocean views. It is located on a hillside overlooking Dickenson Bay and offers the tranquility and seclusion that appeals to the business traveller as well as to the holidaymaker. In addition to the swimming pool and panoramic sundeck, the Bay House restaurant attracts locals and visitors alike with its eclectic all-day menus. The business centre and multimedia events/conference facilities are perfect for meetings, weddings and private parties. Tel: (268) 462-1223 Fax: (268) 462-5007 Email: info@twhantigua.com www.twhantigua.com
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WHERE TO STAY
wake up to paradise
T
amarind Hills is located between two of the finest beaches in Antigua, and five minutes from a great variety of bars, restaurants, shops, golf and marina. There is a wide range of luxury modern villas available for rent, ranging from two to four bedrooms, all with private pools, European kitchens and bathrooms, private terraces and parking and WiFi and cable TV. All bedrooms are ensuite with private terraces with magnificent west facing views over the Caribbean Sea. The villas provide maid service and security. Private chefs and other VIP services are available.
To b o o k a v i e w i n g o r f o r m o r e d e t a i l s p l e a s e c a l l : TEL: +1 268 562 7380 or TEL: +1 268 736 4028 E M A I L : r u f u s @ t a m a r i n d - h i l l s . c o m W E B : w w w. t a m a r i n d - h i l l s . c o m 53
WHERE TOTOSTAY WHERE STAY
TRANQUILITY BAY ANTIGUA
Jolly Beach This all-suite resort is beautifully located along Jolly Beach. All suites include full kitchen, private balcony, and king-size beds. Choose from spacious one-bedroom suites that include private sitting areas, or family style two-bedroom units with dining rooms and oversized living areas, plus complimentary in-room WiFi. Swimming pools, watersports, tennis courts, five restaurants and bars, gym, spa and kid’s club are some of the amenities to be enjoyed. Guests also benefit from preferred tee-time agreements at both golf clubs on the island. PO Box JH94, Jolly Harbour Tel: (268) 562-5183/85 Fax: (268) 562-5184 Email: reservations@tranquilitybayantigua.com www.tranquilitybayantigua.com
THE VERANDAH RESORT & SPA
Dian Bay This eco-friendly resort is the perfect setting for relaxation, indulgence and family fun. Whether you simply want to unwind or are looking for outdoor adventures, The Verandah is the ideal place for both. Tel: (866) 237-1785 or (268) 562-6845 Email: reservations@eliteislandresorts.com www.theverandah.com
THE INN AT ENGLISH HARBOUR
DOWNTOWN ST. JOHN’S HOTEL
The Heritage Hotel in Heritage Quay downtown St. John’s is ideal for the business traveller or those wanting to be close to the varied amenities of our capital.
HERITAGE HOTEL
Heritage Quay Tel: (268) 481-7531 Fax: (268) 462-1179 Email: heritagehotel@candw.ag 54
Photo: courtesy Curtain Bluff Hotel
English Harbour Find historic charm and modern comforts at The Inn at English Harbour. Located in one of the most magnificent bays of the Caribbean. Guest rooms feature A/C, flat screen cable TVs, free WiFi access, iPod docking stations and designer toiletries. A boutique and spa now enhance the general facilities. The fine dining Terrace Restaurant is highly-acclaimed, whilst the more casual Reef Restaurant offers the company of warm blue waters, balmy island nights and cooling trade winds. PO Box 187, St. John’s Tel: (268) 460-1014 Fax: (268) 460-1603 Email: theinn@candw.ag www.theinnantigua.com
WHERE TO STAY
Buccaneer Beach Club Buccaneer Beach Club is located directly on famous Dickenson Bay Beach. The property is designed in a colourful Caribbean style setting in a tropical garden with views of the freeform swimming pool or the tranquil turquoise bay. The 16 pool-side one-bedroom villas and 2 beach front twobedroom cottages have every facility for the vacationer or business traveller. The villas are equipped with a kitchenette while the cottages have full kitchens. All have flat screen cable TVs, air-conditioning, free WiFi internet, safes and pull-out beds in the living room. The villas sleep a family of four while the cottages comfortably accommodate four adults and two children. Daily housemaid service plus a laundry room and 24 hours security are included. All the fashionable bars and restaurants of Dickenson Bay are close by, and leisure amenities are available including watersports, tennis, horseriding and mountain biking. Helpful staff members are at your service for reservations and suggestions and speak English, French, Italian and Spanish. www.buccaneerbeach.com
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ANTIGUA FOR THE PERFECT WEDDING The ‘Romance Capital of the Caribbean’ Antigua and Barbuda are a match made in heaven for honeymooners or couples wanting to tie the knot. All the ingredients for romance are here and getting married is a breeze, an island breeze that is! With no residency requirements, you can be exchanging your vows on a beautiful palm-fringed beach within the hour …
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ntigua has beautiful white sand beaches and activities galore; Barbuda is a back-to-nature island, blessed with miles of secluded pink sand beaches. Take your choice for a perfect wedding venue.
Obviously Antigua and Barbuda are also ideal honeymoon destinations. Indeed, thanks to the halcyon climate, idyllic beaches and exclusive hotels, our twin island nation is likely to provide such a good beginning to married life that you will want to return for your anniversary to keep the romantic momentum alive!
Ceremony locations range from sun-kissed beaches to lush tropical gardens. Most people choose to get married in their hotel grounds or on the beach or in the gardens of their rental villa.
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Whatever your choice, you can have anything from champagne and canapés round the pool to a romantic wedding breakfast on the sands.
Wedding planners are readily available to assist with everything from the legal formalities to the champagne and flowers. Group packages can be arranged so that family and friends can join you in this (hopefully!) once-in-a-lifetime event.
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Fresh, Fun and Romantic wedding photography by Joseph and Janet Jones of ‘Antigua Brides’. View their beautiful wedding photos at www.antiguabrides.com Email: info@antiguabrides.com Tel: (268) 462-7317/774-7317
Photo: courtesy Antigua Brides
You can even get married in an island church provided you allow additional time and fulfill certain church formalities, which include permission from the individual church authority. Some ask that the couple attend pre-nuptial consultations. Allow some extra time if planning a church ceremony.
HERITAGE QUAY, ST. JOHN’S | 268.562.5662 STERLINGS@CANDW.AG
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LEGAL PROCEDURE
DOCUMENTATION REQUIRED
It is easy to get married in Antigua and here is some information to prepare you for your island style wedding.
Please ensure you bring the following documentation with you to Antigua and Barbuda: • Valid passports as proof of citizenship.
The legal procedure starts at the Ministry of Legal Affairs on Queen Elizabeth Highway in St. John’s. You must take both passports and a copy of your divorce papers, if relevant. There will be a friendly interview, then your licence will be issued. The cost is EC$405.00 (US$150.00).
• Original divorce decree or, in the case of a widow or widower, the original marriage and death certificate. • If there has been a name change provide affidavits in cases where you are known by another name.
The next step is a visit to the Registrar General’s office which is also on Queen Elizabeth Highway. The fee is EC$100.00 (US$40.00) and please note that this is only for registering at the Court House. An official marriage certificate costs EC$25.00 (US$10.00).
• Both parties must be over 15. If under 18 written authorisation from parents or guardians is required.
If the wedding is performed outside the Court House, there is a Marriage Officer fee of EC$270.00 (US$100.00).
NB: All documents presented should be original or certified original by the issuing departments or offices.
The location is left solely up to you, although most people choose to get married in their hotel or villa grounds and, of course, on the beach.
The Ministry of Legal Affairs Tel: (268) 462-0017 is open Monday to Thursday from 8am to 4:30pm and on Fridays from 8am to 3pm. The Registrar General’s office Tel: (268) 462-0609 is open Monday to Thursday 8:30am to 4:30pm and Friday 8:30am to 2pm.
Your marriage must be soleminsed in the presence of two or more witnesses - just ask some fellow hotel guests to do this for you.
RELAX & UNWIND AT AN T I GU A’ S S PA S
Many of Antigua’s finest beach hotels offer first-class spas. The rejuvenating body and beauty treatments are perfectly enhanced by the island’s healthy climate, relaxing ambience and serene sea views.
s well as traditional treatments like soothing mud wraps and deep-tissue massages, several spas offer ancient techniques like reflexology and Reiki. Some specialise in Caribbean-inspired treatments using local ingredients such as coffee, seasalt and calcium-rich seaweed, whilst others prefer to pamper you with the luxury products of international companies like Elemis, Aveda, VOYA and Dorissima. These treats are not just for women. Couples massages are popular with honeymooners and men can unwind with anything from sports massages to fitness facials. In some cases there are even mini-treatments specially adapted for children. 58
Photo: courtesy Curtain Bluff Hotel
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ANTIGUA SPAS Many spas have excellent fitness facilities, some with dedicated instructors offering anything from Yoga to Pilates classes. Afterwards you can head for their serene relaxation areas, some of them featuring pools or jacuzzis, and chill-out with a chamomile tea before returning to the real world! The following is an outline of the various facilities offered at these special spas. Be sure to call for availability. The only Aveda Concept Spa in the Eastern Caribbean is located at Sugar Ridge. This state-of-the-art facility offers a complete range of treatments, a first-class hair salon, a Cybex gym, cabanas, two swimming pools and a studio for aerobics, yoga and Pilates. Tel: (268) 562-7700 The Spa at Curtain Bluff is distinguished by its intimacy, seclusion and panoramic waterside setting. The five treatment rooms look out over the sea and after a treatment you can relax in the Jacuzzi on the edge of the cliff and enjoy the views out towards distant Montserrat. Tel: (268) 462-8400 The ultra-stylish Blue Spa at Carlisle Bay offers facials and a full range of beauty and body treatments with products by Irish skincare specialists VOYA. There are six treatment rooms (including one for couples and a wet room), as well as a sauna, gym, juice bar, and hair and beauty salon. Tel: (268) 484-0000
You can choose from a long list of spa packages or individual treatments in serene surroundings with furnishings beautifully made with natural elements such as rattan and sea grass. Tel: (268) 460-5000 The Red Lane® Spa at Sandals Grande Antigua is where classic European health and beauty rituals are reinterpreted with Caribbean flair. Signature treatments include Red Lane Nature’s Embrace Offerings, Caribbean Sea Mud Wrap and Scents of Love Couples Massage. Tel: (268) 462-0267 Powder Room Spa, located in the Gunpowder House, Nelson’s Dockyard, offers a tranquil atmosphere in an historical building. The finest ingredients are available in the Fresh Food Concept Spa. There is a variety of excellent health and beauty treatments at the only spa in English Harbour. Tel: (268) 460-1027 De’ Envy Beauty Salon located in English Harbour offers services in gel nails, manicure, pedicure, foot detox, waxing, facials, massage therapy, tinting, eyelash extensions, ear piercing, hair cutting, hair braiding, hair colouring etc. Visits arranged for Mani & Pedi Parties. Credit cards accepted. Tel: (268) 721-1724/562-8717 Email: cammilealder@gmail.com
The Indulge Spa at Galley Bay is a rustic multilevel hideaway overlooking a tranquil bird sanctuary lagoon. The treatments are given in open-air single or double pods draped with sheer white curtains. After the treatment take time to relax in the spa pool. Tel: (268) 462-0302 The intimate yet unique Indonesian-style Garden Spa at Hermitage Bay specialises in Dorissima Colour Rituals. The treatment suite is bathed in gentle coloured lights, while aromatherapy and soft music combine to provide the ultimate spa experience. Tel: (268) 562-5500 Sense, A Rosewood Spa® at Jumby Bay is an elegant, open-air sanctuary offering a wide range of luxurious natural treatments. Calcium-rich algae is used in masks, coconut shea butter is used in massages and you can even enjoy a hot shell pedicure. Tel: (268) 462-6000 The Palms Wellness Centre at Jolly Beach Resort has four treatment rooms offering anything from stone therapy and soothing wraps to deep tissue massages on the beautiful beach. The facilities also include a full-service beauty salon and a fitness centre. Tel: (268) 462-0061 Tranquility Body & Soul Spas are located at both the St. James’s Club and The Verandah. 59
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● ■ HODGES B Sottovento ■ LE JARDIN CREOLE Crosbies ● Le Bistro ANTIGUA VILLAGE ■ TRADE WINDS HOTEL Ana’s on the beach ● AUA ● ■● Bay House SIBONEY ■ Coconut Grove ● Cedar Valley Golf Course BUCCANEER BEACH CLUB ■ ■ Royal Palm Court Studio 79 Nightclub ● ANCHORAGE The Larder Big Banana ● ● ● INN HALCYON BY REX RESORTS ■ SANDALS GRANDE ■
Runaway Bay
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MAP OF ANTIGUA
BLUE WATERS
Bay Gardens
Cinema
● Epicurean
●1st Choice
Village Walk ● Cafe Bella Wood’s Centre
Beach Limerez ●
● Carib World Travel ● Woods Pharmacy ● Ticchio ● Anjo Insurance
Fort James
Russell’s ●
GRAND ROYAL ANTIGUAN ■
The Athletic Club ◆
ECAB ●
V.C. BIRD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Piggots
Caribbean Alliance
M ROAD
ARHA ST. JOHN’S ● King’s Casino OLD P Island Provisions
GALLEY BAY■
FACT O
ABI Insurance
RY R OAD Potters Village Gigi Furniture
HAWKSBILL BY REX RESORTS
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AL
L
Five Islands Harbour HERMITAGE ■ BAY
SA
IN
Townhouse Megastore
Golden Grove
TS
Sir Vivian Richard’s Stadium
Elvies Pottery
RO
AD
◆ Pioneer
Ebenezer
Kennels
Jennings Jolly Harbour Golf Course
TRANQUILTY BAY ■ Bolans JOLLY BEACH RESORT ■ The Crows Nest ● JOLLY HARBOUR ■ ● Mayday RESORT & MARINA ■ ● SUGAR RIDGE Sheer Rocks ● COCOS HOTEL ■
All Saints
Ffryers Point
TA
TAMARIND HILLS ■ Valley Church
Darkwood Beach KEYONNA BEACH RESORT ■
Turners Beach
Johnsons Point
Y LE
N OU
FI
St. Mary’s Church
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Cades Bay
Tyrells Church
Liberta E RIV ◆ Footsteps Hiking D E RE ◆Rainforest Canopy Tour GT
M
R
KE
A SH
SOUTH COAST HORIZONS
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Swetes
S IN
CURTAIN BLUFF ■
Old Road ■
CARLISLE BAY
Carlisle Bay
Rendezvous Bay
BARBUDA
BARBUDA ■ BELLE HOTEL
BAY
Frigate Bird Sanctuary
B BY JUM
Jabberwock Beach Dutchman’s Bay
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● La Bussola ● Garden Grill
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LIGHTHOUSE BAY RESORT ■
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Cecilia’s
CODRINGTON
Low Bay
Long Island
Two Foot Bay
Palmetto Point
Maiden Island
COCO POINT LODGE ■
●Runaway 10
Spanish Point
North Sound
Guiana Island
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Crump Island
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PP
LE
Pelican Island
PIN
Parham
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AC H
CL UB
St. George’s Church
The Caves
St. Peter’s Church
Stingray City
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St. Stephen’s Church
Seatons
Glanvilles Betty’s Hope
Devil’s Bridge
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The Peninsula
THE VERANDAH
Willikies
Nonsuch Bay Harmony Hall
Green Island
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Potworks Dam Newfield
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Bethesda
Wi
llo Baughb y y
● Crab Hole Liquors
Falmouth Harbour
S TE N SUI N I s R r ’S E Spa uo ANTIGUA AL WD Liq YACHT CLUB b Hole MIR PO Room N D a ■ r A U er SOUTHPOINT ■ ●C ■ & G owd ●Cloggy’s ● P
Nelson’s Dockyard ■
COPPER & LUMBER STORE
■ THE INN
lf Ba Moo y n
Freetown
Ha
CATAMARAN HO TEL
Donkey Sanctuary
■ MILL REEF CLUB
Stores + Banks
■ ST. JAMES’S CLUB
Hotels + Resorts Real Estate Adventures Dining, Bars, Clubs + Casino
● Shirley Heights
Lookout Restaurant
English Harbour
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Exploring Antigua is not all about white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters! Rent a car or hire a taxi and discover the unique attractions of our island? From scenic drives through rainforests to colourful markets and historic plantations there really is something for everyone ...
DEVIL’S BRIDGE
Situated at Indian Town close to The Verandah and Pineapple Beach Club, this is a spectacular natural bridge at the head of Indian Creek with blow-holes and spouting surf. Legend says that if you throw two eggs into the water to boil, the devil (who is said to be down there) would keep one and return the other! Devil’s Bridge is certainly an exciting and unexpected sight.
PARHAM
This quaint little historic town was the earliest British settlement in Antigua. A road connects the sleepy town with the main road traversing the island. Parham is notable for its spectacular church, St. Peter’s, which was described as “the finest church in the British West Indies”. It was built in the 1840s after the original wooden church had been burnt down. It is a beautiful and unusual octagonal shape designed by a famous architect of the time, Thomas Weekes. The church indicates the long-ago importance of Parham.
Antigua’s Donkey Sanctuary The Antigua and Barbuda Humane Society provides shelter for over 150 donkeys at its Bethseda sanctuary. Here the neglected roaming donkeys find a safe haven and receive food, water, shelter, medical care and love. The Humane Society offers an ‘Adopt a Donkey’ programme providing visitors with a photo and an adoption certificate. We encourage you to visit Antigua’s Donkey Sanctuary, and experience for yourself that there is more to a donkey than you thought! Admission free. Donations are greatly appreciated. Help save Antigua’s gentle donkeys! Tel: (268) 461-4957 Email: abhumane@candw.ag www.antiguaanimals.com
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The oldest building in St. John’s, the Georgian style stone Courthouse of 1750, has been the home of The Museum since 1986. Today the Museum interprets the rich history of both islands through interactive displays, and installed exhibits. Discover the history of the Arawaks and Caribs, our earliest settlers. Follow the stories of the pioneers of the first towns, sugar and slavery, emancipation, and post-emancipation Antigua. In the courtyard display is - “Bessie” - the 1917 Simplex WW1 Armour Locomotive, the only one in the world, once used to haul sugarcane. Open Mon - Fri 8:30am to 4pm. Sat 10am to 2pm. Entry fee: EC$8.00/US$3.00.
PUBLIC MARKET
St. John’s market provides an extensive covered outlet for the abundance of Caribbean fruit and vegetables. Upstairs are delightful small boutique-style shops specialising in local items to appeal to visitors. The market is easily identified by the imposing sculpture of V.C. Bird, the Founder of the Nation, at the intersection of all roads leading to the market at the edge of St. John’s.
Photos: courtesy Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority & Elite Island Resorts
MUSEUM OF ANTIGUA & BARBUDA
Antigua FORTS OF ANTIGUA
Built by the British to guard against invasion during the 18th century, Antigua’s forts are located around the island’s indented coastline. Fort James ‘protects’ St. John’s Harbour, with charming local restaurants nestled at the base, notably BeachLimerZ. Fort Barrington overlooks Deep Bay. Fort Berkeley is at Nelson’s Dockyard. Walk up to see these immense fortifications, sometimes with original cannons. There are spectacular views of neighbouring islands.
ST. JOHN’S CATHEDRAL
This imposing building, visible from all around St. John’s, was originally constructed in 1683, replaced in 1745 and completely rebuilt of stone in 1843 after an earthquake. The interior is completely cased in pitch-pine and there are interesting memorial stones. Restoration continues.
SUGAR MILLS
These are dotted around the landscape, mostly in ruins but some with the solid outside structure still intact. By 1705 most of Antigua was planted with sugarcane and 170 mills for crushing cane were built. At that time, each factory could produce 55 tons of sugar a year. Nowadays there are a few carefully restored mills often incorporated into more modern developments such as at Harmony Hall, Galley Bay and Mill Reef, giving a unique feature to each property.
BETTY’S HOPE
Betty’s Hope Estate was granted to Christopher Codrington in 1674, and remained in the family for over 250 years. The ruins are located in the centre of Antigua and evoke the atmosphere of times past. Betty’s Hope had a labour force trained as craftsmen. There are twin sugar mill towers and one has been restored. An Interpretation Centre guides you through the history and life of the estate. Open Mon-Sat 9am-3pm. Entrance US$2.00
DOW’S HILL INTERPRETATION CENTRE
Built among the ruins in the Nelson’s Dockyard National Park, the Centre provides a historic overview of Antigua’s past. ‘Reflections of the Sun’, a multi-media presentation, is a ‘journey through the dreamy corridors of six periods of the island’s history’.
SHIRLEY HEIGHTS
After visiting Nelson’s Dockyard, ramble around the extensive fortifications, barracks and powder magazines of Shirley Heights. As Mrs. Lanaghan said in 1844 while visiting the area, “Really, this marching and countermarching beneath a tropical sun is no slight matter...” So relax with a couple of drinks at The Lookout and contemplate the panoramic views. This is the famous venue for the Shirley Heights late Sunday afternoon “party” which continue well into the spectacular sunsets with steel band, flowing drinks and very fast food.
FIG TREE DRIVE
The best drive in Antigua! Fig is the Antiguan name for bananas, but the road is lined with tropical fruit trees guavas, mangoes, oranges and coconuts. Fig Tree Drive is the major road branching off the main north/south highway, opposite the pink Catholic Church outside Liberta, north of Falmouth. This area of green rainforest is something like the Garden of Eden. Go slowly until you descend to Old Road, passing Carlisle Bay and into the Curtain Bluff area, glimpsing the pineapple farm.
SATURDAY FOOD STALLS
Every Saturday small food stalls are dotted along the roadsides with cooked local foods. The Antigua ladies present an array of hot dishes in handy containers - all hygienically prepared. This may be your only chance to taste Antiguan dishes such as conch water, goat water (delicious stews), blood pudding, salt fish and ducana and charcoal grilled chicken and ribs. Plus freshly made local drinks with ginger, passionfruit and coconut water. 63
NELSON’S DOCKYARD We are proud to announce that internationally famous Nelson’s Dockyard has now been proclaimed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Named after Admiral Horatio Nelson, this is Antigua’s most prized possession. The Dockyard is a monument to the past and a focus of yachting activity year round. elson’s Dockyard is the only working Georgian naval dockyard in the world! In addition it has all the facilities which make it a haven for yachts and the floating palaces of the famous. For the landlubber there is the pleasure of the past gained from exploring the lovely old buildings, many now housing restaurants and shops. Admiral’s Inn is a legend and no visit to the Dockyard is complete without lunch on the terrace of this graceful old building. English Harbour was originally established to provide the British Royal Navy with a dockyard where they could keep their ships in good repair for maintaining their ascendancy in the Caribbean against other European powers. Christopher Columbus himself didn’t even stop in Antigua, content to see it at a distance and name it after the church of Santa Maria de Antigua in Spain. Antigua was never conquered by any other European power, in good part due to the Dockyard where the British ships could be careened and overhauled, safe from hurricanes. It was also an ideal port to keep the fleet in troubled times since the enclosed harbour of Freeman’s Bay is almost invisible from the sea. The narrow entrance was protected by Fort Berkeley, completed in 1744, and built on a narrow spit of land jutting out from the entrance of English Harbour. The ruins give a panoramic view and are just a short walk along the peninsula. During sieges, a strong chain and timber boom were drawn across the narrow entrance to English Harbour from Fort Berkeley to the other side. The first reference to
English Harbour’s advantages is found in 1671 when the Governor of the Leeward Islands wrote to the Council for Foreign Plantations in London. It was realised that it would be easier to refit ships in Antigua than sending them to the ‘northern colonies’. Wharves, powder magazines, cisterns and storehouses were constructed. A fortress was built on Monk’s Hill, romantic ruins which can still be reached by an energetic walk from the village of Liberta. To ensure the invincibility of Antigua, the great fortifications of Shirley Heights commenced, named after General Shirley who arrived in 1781 as Governor. All the construction was in solid local stone and brick imported as ballast for the ships from England. The development took place over a period of many years. The communication between Britain and her colonies was slow. The death rate of English sailors and engineers was high due to unaccustomed heat, excessive rum and primitive conditions, not to mention malaria and yellow fever (these diseases have now long since been eradicated). England’s most famous historic hero, Admiral Horatio Nelson, spent formative years here. He arrived at age 26 in command of the frigate Boreas. He was Senior Captain and Second-in-Command of the Leeward Islands Station whose headquarters were in English Harbour. By the time he left for England and greater glory in 1787, he had married a widow from Nevis, Frances Nisbet. continued on page 67
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Photos: courtesy National Parks
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An imposing Victorian style building in the Dockyard itself was once erroneously known as the Admiral’s House, but Nelson never lived ashore while in Antigua. This is now the Dockyard Museum and is a cool and pleasant building with many interesting artifacts from bygone years. It is open daily from 9am to 5pm. Clarence House, on the hillside opposite, was named after Prince William Henry, the Duke of Clarence, when he was in command of the Pegasus in 1787. The Commissioner of the Dockyard spent time here and Princess Margaret honeymooned at Clarence House.
As well as all the fascinating historical aspects of Nelson’s Dockyard, there are also some unique shops, restaurants and bars to be found in the area. The Island Secret Boutique and giftshop offers unique items including a range of local products, whilst worthwhile restaurants include the famous Admiral’s Inn and the historic Copper & Lumber Store. If you’re in the mood for Italian cuisine just venture across the water to Ristorante Paparazzi on Antigua Slipway, but on Sunday afternoons you have to look no further than Shirley Heights. This legendary party venue offers a barbecue, steelband, calypso and reggae music, as well as spectacular views of the sunset over Nelson’s Dockyard.
The National Parks Authority (NPA) is very active in keeping Antigua aware of its background and heritage. In 2003, the old stone seawall, built between 1815 and 1830, was restored and yacht facilities added.
Photos: courtesy Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority
The old Dockyard’s history has thus been extended for modern usage as a yacht marina and so the romance of this maritime historic landmark continues. The ‘Step Back in Time’ programme gives visitors a taste of this era when on special days they are greeted and guided around the Dockyard by Antiguan’s in period costume. There are also fascinating multimedia presentations of the island’s past up at the Dow’s Hill Interpretation Centre.
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BEAUTIFUL
BARBUDA GETTING TO BARBUDA BARBUDA EXPRESS ferry departs daily from the
bottom of Long Street, St. John’s. Check-in 8:30am. Returning approximately at 5pm. Licensed by the Antigua & Barbuda Marine Safety Authority and US Coastguard. Drinks can be bought on board during the 90-minute trip. Day tours available. Tel: (268) 560-7989/764-2291 Email: info@barbudaexpress.com
TROPICAL ADVENTURES
offer a ‘Barbuda by Sea’ tour that includes a 90-minute trip on the Excellence power catamaran, lunch and Frigate Bird Sanctuary tour. Tel: (268) 480-1225 www.tropicalad.com
ABM AIR/SVG AIR
fly daily to Barbuda; two flights a day - 8am and 4pm from the V.C. Bird International Airport. It is just a short 18 minute flight. Tel: (268) 562-7183
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Barbuda is easily accessible from Antigua with the ‘Barbuda Express’ ferry or a ‘Tropical Adventures’ tour by fast powered catamaran. A day trip with Tropical Adventures is a unique experience which you will remember forever - and one which can be accompanied by a great whale to the delight of the passengers. The island can also be reached in less than 20 minutes from V. C. Bird International Airport. The deserted pristine beach, famous for its pink sand, presents an amazing vista which seems to stretch forever. Accommodation ranges from the luxurious Coco Point Lodge (open from November to April), to Lighthouse Bay Resort in Low Bay, and simple guest houses and small hotels located around the island’s capital, Codrington, named after a long-ago owner of the entire island. Formed from coralline limestone, Barbuda is 62 square-miles in size, and flatter than Antigua with a maximum altitude of 40 metres and an average elevation of 4 metres above sea level. A central feature is the famous Codrington Lagoon National Park, which is a unique component of Barbuda’s ecosystem and of national, economic and cultural importance. The lagoon supports one of the world’s largest colonies of frigate birds (Fregata magnificens), which flourish happily even though they have become a prized tourist attraction. With a wingspan of up to nearly 3 metres, the male frigate birds are particularly spectacular during the mating season, when they blow up a scarlet throat sac the size of a balloon in order to attract a female mate.
Photos: courtesy Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority
Beautiful Barbuda, Antigua’s little sister island, rises low on the sea, 27 miles north of Antigua. This coral-fringed island is renowned for its tranquility, crystalline waters, vast deserted pink sand beach, unique bird sanctuary - and abundance of delicious lobster!
The young fluffy chicks are clearly visible to visitors and are not perturbed by them. The ever-open beaks are stuffed with delicious local fish by their swooping parents. With other species such as the West Indian whistling duck, the brown pelican, tropical mockingbirds, warblers, snipes, ibis, herons, kingfishers, oystercatchers and cormorants also in abundance, the Park is considered a bird watchers’ paradise. Authorised bird watching trips can be organised through the Park’s office. (Contact tel: (268) 460-0217 or email at nationalparksbarbuda@gmail.com).
WHERE TO STAY
Indigenous animals include wild boar, red-footed tortoises and a variety of sea turtles, plus the elusive fallow deer which is emblematic on the nation’s coat-of-arms.
BARBUDA BELLE
Offshore there is an abundance of charted shipwrecks (as many as 73) and coral reefs for scuba diving and snorkelling in water as clear as glass. Deep-sea fishing or fly-fishing excursions can be arranged. Natural sites include Spanish Point, Indian Cave and Darby’s Cave. Foot trails, treks and camping trips are available for the adventurous.
PALM TREE GUEST HOUSE
A trip to the historically important ruins of the Codrington estate, Highland House, is interesting, as is the Martello tower and fort on the island’s south coast. This imposing fortress was originally used for defence and as a vantage point from which to spot valuable shipwrecks on the outlying reefs.
There are three hotels in Barbuda, as well as a variety of cottages and guest houses:
COCO POINT LODGE Tel: (268) 462-3816 www.cocopoint.com
LIGHTHOUSE BAY RESORT Tel: (268) 562-1481 www.lighthousebayresort.com Tel: (268) 783-4779 www.barbudabelle.com
NORTH BEACH COTTAGE Tel: (268) 721-3317 www.barbudanorthbeach.com Tel: (268) 784-4331
ISLAND CHALET Tel: (268) 460-0065
BUS STOP GUEST HOUSE Tel: (268) 721-2796
BARX - The Antiguan - 1/4Pg Ad - v1final (06/12/13)
THE CARRIAGE HOUSE
Tel: (268) 771-4510/732-7322/561-4846
With most of the population (just 1,500 people) living in Codrington itself, visitors can dine in a selection of local restaurants. These include the famous Green Door Tavern established in 1947, Uncle Roddy’s Beach Bar and Grill, CJ’s Diner or The Outback Restaurant & Bar; culinary possibilities including the local seafood, with lobster as a speciality, or possibly venison and wild boar in season. Barbuda’s Caribana cultural festival is celebrated annually between May and June and is a colourful, fun event. Horse racing takes place twice monthly and is a very popular local pastime. There are currently three hotels on the island, the Coco Point Lodge, the Lighthouse Bay Resort and Barbuda Belle. A wide variety of cottages and guest houses are also available in various locations around Codrington or on the beach. The unique natural beauty and peaceful way of life makes a visit to Barbuda the memorable trip of a lifetime - and beckons fortunate visitors to return. See www.visitantiguabarbuda.com or contact your nearest Antigua & Barbuda Tourist Office - page 2. 69
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ACTION & ADVENTURE In Antigua there’s nothing better than soaking up the sun and rum punch! However, the island has a great deal more to offer, memorable and exciting adventures available on both land and at sea. Over the next few pages we highlight some of the best ways of experiencing the natural attractions.
ISLAND SAFARI - DISCOVERY TOUR
Discover Antigua’s rich history on the Island Safari Discovery tour. You go off-road through the lush and rugged area of Body Pond on the way to Nelson’s Dockyard, Shirley’s Heights and Block House Lookout. Explore and have lunch at Betty’s Hope plantation before a photo stop at stunning Devil’s Bridge. A relaxing swim at Long Bay is a cooling finale after such an interesting and exciting tour.
ISLAND SAFARI SUV GOLD
This unique tour offers the best of Antigua in air-conditioned comfort aboard the SUV Gold luxury vehicle. This extensive sightseeing tour lasts six hours and visits all the major sites of interest to visitors, accompanied by a knowledgeable tour guide who entertains and enlightens guests on Antigua’s past and present. Lunch on the west coast and refreshments are included with opportunities for off-road viewing and beach relaxation in maximum cool comfort.
DISCOVER BARBUDA & ANTIGUA THE EXCELLENCE WAY
The elegant Excellence is Antigua’s premier 5 star power catamaran. Come aboard this exciting vessel for a cruise like no other. Choose between two exciting trips:
DISCOVER BARBUDA - The ‘Barbuda by Sea’ tour with
Tropical Adventures includes a 90-minute trip to the island on the Excellence power catamaran, with lunch, and a tour of the Frigate Bird Sanctuary.
CIRCUMNAVIGATION - explore the amazing coastline
of Antigua with this round-the-island journey. Stop at Green Island for snorkelling and lunch, and then experience a unique view of Nelson’s Dockyard and English Harbour from the sea.
ISLAND SAFARI-ECO KAYAK
Enjoy the best of both worlds! After your Island Safari expedition and a Caribbean-style lunch it’s time to explore by kayak the wonders of the North Sound National Park. Visit beautiful Great Bird Island for snorkelling over live reefs and relaxation time on the beach.
To book any of these exciting tours please contact TROPICAL ADVENTURES Tel: (268) 480-1225 Email: reservations@tropicalad.com www.tropicalad.com
ANTIGUA’S SPORTS COMPLEXES ANTIGUA ATHLETIC CLUB near V.C. JOLLY HARBOUR SPORTS CENTRE Bird International Airport is a 3,800 sq.ft. health club offering a gym, 25m pool and exercise classes. Tel: 460-2582/562-7285
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has 4 floodlit tennis courts, swimming pool, squash court, basketball court and a Sports Bar with TVs. Tel: 462-3085 ext. 630/462-7771
THE TEMO SPORTS COMPLEX at
Falmouth Harbour near Antigua Yacht Club. Floodlit synthetic grass tennis courts and 2 squash courts. Tel: 460-1781/463-6376
ACTION & ADVENTURE
SWIM WITH STINGRAYS! STINGRAY CITY
Tel: (268) 562-7297 A short boat ride takes you to Stingray City, where you can pet and feed Southern Stingrays in their natural environment. You will learn all about these amazing creatures from your experienced guides and snorkel on colourful coral reef. The calm, clear, shallow water makes this easy and fun for everybody! Stingray City received a ‘Certificate of Excellence 2016’ from TripAdvisor.
KAYAK TOURS
Tel: (268) 562-7297 Embark on a fantastic kayak and snorkelling expedition to experience the magic and beauty of Antigua’s tropical ecosystem. Your adventure includes kayaks, mysterious mangroves, coral reefs, tropical fish, uninhabited islands, white sand beaches, banana bread, and rum and fruit punch during a 2½ hour unforgettable tour. Wear your swimsuit, and bring a towel and your camera.
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ACTION & ADVENTURE
ANTIGUA ATHLETIC CLUB & VITALITY CAFÉ
Coolidge, near V.C.Bird International Airport Tel: (268) 562-7285 Email: antiguaathleticclub1@gmail.com Antigua’s premier fitness facility has two Maplewood exercise classrooms and a spacious 3800 sq. ft. air-conditioned gym with state of the art equipment. Daily classes include spinning, yoga, Pilates, kick boxing and fit4life. Enjoy the 25 metre swimming pool, Aquafit classes, spacious changing rooms, showers and lockers which are available for all visitors. A day pass for only US$20 gives access to all facilities. The Vitality Cafe serves delicious meals and healthy shakes and smoothies. The Athletic Club is only five minutes walk from the airport.
INDIGO DIVERS
Jolly Harbour Tel: (268) 562-3483 Email: info@indigo-divers www.indigo-divers.com Indigo Divers is owned and managed by a group of PADI Scuba Diving professionals with years of international experience. They love diving and have a common goal - to provide visitors with a world-class, safe and enjoyable experience whilst exploring the wonders of the underwater realm. They pick up from Jolly Harbour and surrounding hotels, and dive the sheltered west and south coasts, including Cades Reef. The reef offers great dive opportunities for the novice and for the experienced diver. Most dive sites are about 20-minutes away. PADI courses, special packages and night dives are all available.
KITE SURF ANTIGUA
Jabberwock Beach Tel: (268) 720-5483 www.kitesufantigua.com Kitesurfing combines the freedom of windsurfing or sailing with the exhilaration of wakeboarding and other freestyle boards sports. There are different levels of kite surfing from beginning to advanced and Antigua offers conditions for all these on the beautiful Jabberwock Beach.
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ACTION & ADVENTURE
WINDSURF ANTIGUA
Tel: (268) 461-9463/773-9463 Email: windsurfingantigua@hotmail.com www.windsurfantigua.net Two locations, Dickenson Bay and Jabberwock Beach, both on the north coast of the island. Windsurfing for all; beginners, intermediate and advanced shredders. Equipment rigged and ready on the beach. Island-wide delivery available to your villa, boat or hotel. Call for daily wind check, rental or lesson. ‘Bend de knees feel the breeze’.
FREESTYLE ATV TOURS ANTIGUA OCEAN ADVENTURES
Photo: Kelsang Drime
Power boat charters Tel: (268) 464-7576/561-1835 A selection of first class motor boats are available for a full day, six hour or four hour charters. The boats have wonderful names ‘Coconut Kiss’ and ‘Sunsplash’. Inflatable boat ‘Sunsplash’ is available for charters to Bird Island and the surrounding North Sound islands with a special Bird Island ferry service on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from Shell Beach. Call for ferry times and reservations.
Tel: (268) 726-3572 Email: freestyletours@yahoo.com Adventure awaits on this guided off-road tour in all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). Travel from the north-east of Antigua on old cane roads past historic estates, rural farm lands and the ruins of hidden sugar mills. Arrive at Guinea Bush Hill overlooking the scenic harbours of the south coast and enjoy splendid views of the neighbouring islands on the horizon. This is the ultimate Antiguan adventure, travelling along rural tracks and farm animal trails whilst experiencing the natural beauty of the island’s interior. Customised tours can also be organised for your own special requirements.
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ACTION & ADVENTURE
FLY CHL (CARIBBEAN HELICOPTERS)
Fort Road, St. John’s Tel: (268) 562-8687/460-5900 Email: reservations@caribbeanhelicopters.com www.flychl.com Soar over Antigua’s historic sites, turquoise waters and spectacular beaches or experience the impact of Montserrat’s active volcano first-hand. Enjoy Antigua from both air and land in the new ‘Heaven and Earth’ tour, a must for the island’s first timers. Or for those wanting to go off the beaten path, the truly unforgettable ‘Barbuda Experience’ is the tour for you. Custom charters are also available to most Caribbean islands aboard helicopters or executive style twin-engine airplanes.
EMERALD ISLE TOURS (MONTSERRAT)
DEEP SEA FISHING
Overdraft Tel: (268) 720-4954/463-3112 Experience the excitement of fishing for marlin, tuna, kingfish, wahoo, barracuda and even shark in the Atlantic fishing grounds of Antigua. The popular charter boat Overdraft, will have you and your family ‘hooked’ by the end of your trip.’
FOOTSTEPS HIKING
Tel: (268) 460-1234/773-2345 Email: info@hikingantigua.com www.hikingantigua.com Go hiking with Footsteps Hiking and discover the hidden secrets of the rainforest. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through mountain trails to Signal Hill where you will enjoy a 360 degree view of the island. Hiking tours start from Fig Tree Studio Art Gallery and take 2 ½ hours. Don’t worry that this is a major marathon, but rather a leisurely walk for you to experience beautiful nature. Custom tours to Rendezvous Bay are also available. Water and fresh lemonade are provided.
by Jenny Tel: (268) 461-9361/722-8188/9092 Email: jennytours@outlook.com/jennyvb@hotmail.com www.jennytours.webs.com Jenny Tours offers day tour services to Montserrat via ferry and plane from Antigua. The package includes ferry/air return fares, a guided tour and lunch. Other interesting activities which can be arranged include hiking, birdwatching and a boat tour to Plymouth to see the devastated capital, truly an astonishing sight. Jenny Tours can also arrange short or long term stayover visits at hotels, villas, guest houses or apartments. Tours available Wednesday, Friday and Sundays. Check-in 7:30am at Brysons Pier, Heritage Quay.
MONTSERRAT ADVENTURE A visit to the neighbouring island of Montserrat will give you memories to last a lifetime. It is accessible either by a 15-minute flight with Caribbean Helicopters or a 2-hour ferry ride from St. John’s. Jenny Day Tours organises great expeditions. Now famous for its volcanic activities, Montserrat presents a landscape almost beyond imagination. You’ll get a glimpse of all that remains of Plymouth, the island’s once beautiful historic capital, now destroyed by the volcano. The few remaining Montserratians have shown their stalwart spirit by organising a number of unique festivals and events during the year. The Montserrat National Trust is also very active. Before the volcano, Montserrat was known as ‘the other Emerald Isle’ because it was so green and it still celebrates St. Patrick’s Festival (mid-March). The adventurous traveller can enjoy nine worldclass hiking trails. You might spot one of the 34 species of birds that inhabit the island. You can also explore Montserrat’s aquatic life by hiring a boat or kayak. Little Bay in the north offers safe anchorage for yachts. While in Antigua try to find time for the experience of a lifetime by visiting Montserrat. Visit www.visitmontserrat.com
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GOLF IN ANTIGUA Antigua has two 18-hole courses, one on the west coast and a championship course located just north of St. John’s.
ANTIGUA BARBUDA OPEN GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP 2017 Cedar Valley Golf Club, Antigua 24 - 26 FEBRUARY 2017 100 golfers anticipated from the Caribbean, USA, UK, Europe and Scandinavia. Championship, Men, Women, Seniors and Super-seniors events. Further information and entry forms available from Avery Jonas, Tournament Director Tel: (268) 464-5061 Email: averydavidjonas@gmail.com www.golfantigua.com
CEDAR VALLEY GOLF CLUB
Cedar Valley Golf Club is an 18-hole championship course located just 3-miles from St. John’s. This par 70, 6,157 yard course lies amidst mature tropical trees, the distant views of the Caribbean Sea contributing to player satisfaction. It accommodates golfers of all skills, resident professionals and a 300-yard driving range also available. General facilities include a clubhouse lounge and a pro shop selling golf equipment and logo items. Tel: (268) 462-0161 Email: cedarvalleyg@candw.ag www.cedarvalleygolf.ag
JOLLY HARBOUR GOLF CLUB
Jolly Harbour Golf Club is an established par 71, 5,587-yard 18-hole golf course lying adjacent to the Jolly Harbour Marina. Designed by leading golf course architect Karl Litton of Florida and set in lush tropical parkland, easterly breezes cool the fairways sculpted into the green, hilly landscape. The clubhouse has showers and a locker room. Tel: (268) 562-6951 Email: golf@jollyharbourantigua.com
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SAIL AWAY FOR THE DAY
WADADLI CATS
Tel: (268) 462-4792 One of the longest established sailing companies in Antigua, the Wadadli Cats fleet of catamarans includes the 66ft. ‘Spirit of Antigua’. This state-of-the-art vessel offers fast and exhilarating sailing speeds, as well as three different cruises. Choose between Bird Island, Cades Reef and the Circumnavigation of Antigua, the latter including lunch at Green Island.
MYSTIC II SAILING CATAMARAN
ONDECK
EXCELLENCE POWER CATAMARAN
Falmouth Harbour Tel: (268) 562-6696 Email: pa@ondecksailing.com www: ondecksailing.com If you want to go sailing you need to go Ondeck! All their trips are tailored to suit your needs, from fun racing for novices to laid-back cruising whilst sipping a glass of bubbly and sampling great local food. Ondeck also teaches sailing with short and longer residential courses available, and there’s even the opportunity to take part in any of the Caribbean Regattas. 78
Tel: (268) 480-1225 This 72ft. sailing catamaran will whisk you away with the island breezes for an unforgettable day in the sun. Enjoy a memorable day on your own ‘private island’ at Bird Island, or sail across to Cades Reef for some great snorkelling. You’re also invited to sail along the coast as the sun goes down, the open bar and finger foods enhancing this romantic experience. Tel: (268) 480-1225 The 82ft. Excellence power catamaran offers tours to our sister island of Barbuda. The 6-hour trip includes swimming, beachcombing and a visit to the world’s largest frigate bird colony. Or why not take a Circumnavigation Cruise right around Antigua? You’ll sail past sites like Devil’s Bridge, the Pillars of Hercules and Bird Island, snorkelling and lunch also included.
Happy Sailing!
Photo: courtesy Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority
Take an exhilarating - relaxing - day trip at sea. Sailing Antigua’s pristine blue surrounding waters is an experience forever remembered. Antigua’s fleet of first class catamarans and yachts offer a variety of different excursions with anchoring stops at beautiful beaches, unique offshore islands and colourful reefs, including snorkelling at well-known Cades Reef to see tropical fish. Enjoy swimming in calm seas, excellent lunches and an endless supply of drinks.
WADADLI CATS
25 years of sailing fast and living slow! Set sail with Wadadli Cats and you’ll remember the day forever. Choose between three exciting cruises showcasing anything from Antigua’s crystal clear bays and uninhabited islands to its fish-stocked reefs just perfect for snorkelling. Your cruise will also include great music and fun company, and it couldn’t be easier to get on board as you’ll be picked up right on the beach from one of the island’s main hotels. Wadadli Cats offer 5 well-established catamarans, the 66-foot ‘Spirit of Antigua’ a state-of-the-art vessel that guarantees the fastest and most exhilarating sailing speeds available in Antigua. Such speedy cruising means that you’ll not only have access to the best beaches and snorkelling sites, but you’ll also have plenty of time to relax over your Caribbean-style buffet lunch. An open bar, snorkelling gear, convenient stem ladders and freshwater showers are all part of the deal too, deck awnings and spacious roofed areas also available to provide you with plenty of shade. And, of course, if you’re looking for a special way to celebrate a birthday, anniversary or wedding, don’t forget to consider one of the company’s private charters. So come on, get into the ‘Spirit of Antigua’ and sail away with Wadadli Cats!
SAILAWAY
Choose from 3 cruises ... CIRCUMNAVIGATION OF ANTIGUA There’s no better boat than the ‘Spirit of Antigua’ for this 60-mile trip. Your day includes exciting open ocean sailing along the north coast, as well as snorkelling and lunch at Green Island. In the afternoon you take a leisurely sail past English Harbour before returning to your departure point.
CADES REEF CRUISE Cruise along the calm leeward coast past Pelican Island to Antigua’s most impressive barrier reef. Anchor in shallow waters at this snorkellers’ paradise stretching for an amazing two miles.
BIRD ISLAND & KAYAK ECO-CRUISE This memorable cruise includes a guided eco-tour kayaking through the mangroves of the North Sound Marine Park. Get close to the marine animals in their natural habitat and learn how important the mangroves are to Antigua’s ecology. You’ll then sail to Bird Island for snorkelling over an untouched coral reef. Lunch onboard and a casual sail back. Private day and sunset cruises can also be arranged for anniversaries, birthdays, weddings and corporate events.
www.wadadlicats.com Call: (268) 462 4792 Email: wadadlicats@candw.ag
WADADLI CATS Sail Fast, Live Slow!
• CIRCUMNAVIGATION • CADES REEF • BIRD ISLAND Book via our website or office and get 10% off using promo code ‘Seabreeze’. wadadlicats.com or 268.462.4792 79
ANTIGUA’S OFFSHORE ISLANDS Antigua is blessed with many offshore islands, often referred to as ‘the last refuge’ for local and globally significant wildlife. Of course, they can only be reached by boat, but as the seas are generally calm and the distances short they are accessible by small vessels, as well as by larger yachts - provided you can navigate between the coral reefs! Most of the day-trip cruise boats tie up close to the main islands. These are located in Antigua’s North Sound, an idyllic marine park off Antigua’s north-east coast and renowned for its sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and relaxed Robinson Crusoe-like atmosphere. Great Bird island is particularly popular, although during the week one can often have the entire island to oneself. You may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the harmless and endangered small Antigua Racer snake to be found nowhere else in the world. A ferry service operates to Bird Island from Shell Beach Marina (call Ocean Adventures for times (268) 464-7576/561-1835). Nearby Guiana Island also has a wide sandy beach. Green Island further along the coast is particularly attractive and close to Harmony Hall for extra special lunches. Another smaller island which is accessible is Prickly Pear off the Hodges Bay area on the north coast. Day trips are available by Miguel’s Holiday Adventure - see www.pricklypearisland.com But most of the tiny islands which dot the sea are really just islets, home only to the seabirds which wheel and call overhead. These islets are not just rocks in the ocean, but are often covered in attractive green foliage. Another particularly interesting island is Rabbit Island, home to breeding colonies of the Caribbean Brown Pelicans which are the only diving pelicans in the world. 80
They raise their young in twiggy nests, clearly visible for anyone who is passing. Some have the good fortune to see the tiny babies with large beaks open, growing to become awkward juveniles, eventually flying off until the next season. Do not disturb them and view from a distance. At Hell’s Gate Island there is an incredible coral/ limestone bridge, formed by the elements over millennia. It is really a heavenly gate, but is perhaps named for the wild Atlantic sea visible through the archway. It is not recommended to stroll across the bridge because it is very fragile - we neither want to destroy this or ourselves! Some 25-miles away is Antigua’s ‘third’ possession, the remote and interesting island of Redonda where phosphate was once mined and guano collected for fertiliser. Nowadays it’s uninhabited and access is very limited. Only the most intrepid can go there and scramble up the sides to the flatter top where there are ruins of those earlier activities. Redonda was once home to rare goats, but now only the Frigate Birds wheel about overhead. One larger island close to the north shore is Long Island, the exclusive home of the rich and famous who appreciate the privacy Antigua accords such visitors. The exclusive Jumby Bay resort is here and even more luxurious after extensive refurbishments. Our unique offshore islands are usually pristine as everyone recognises the vital importance of leaving no trace of themselves behind. Visitors and Antiguans alike appreciate these wonderful offshore islands which retain the unique charm that has prevailed for so long and which will continue for future generations. We wish to thank the Antigua Environmental Awareness Group for their contribution to this article.
ANTIGUA... A CARIBBEAN HOME, A GLOBAL MARKET By Brian Stuart-Young, Chairman & CEO
Antigua and Barbuda is a crossroad for financial services within the Eastern Caribbean. It’s 34-year-old financial centre offers a broad cross-section of financial service providers. There are six domestic commercial banks and eleven international financial institutions.
investment services. The Bank’s clients also benefit from their affiliate, Global Processing Centre, an internationallycertified card processing centre and payment platform providing card-based and mobile facilities for international payroll programmes, employee benefits and remittance services.
Known for its 365 white sand beaches, Antigua enjoys a growing reputation as a trusted Caribbean destination for tourism and international financial services. The government vigorously pursues programmes to enhance and strengthen these two sectors as key pillars of the economy. While Antigua’s international financial centre is relatively small, it is a friendly, non-volatile, politically stable and sovereign jurisdiction which attracts clients seeking a safe, regulated haven to preserve their wealth management portfolios. Antigua is well recognised as an up-market destination that meets the high expectations of visitors and investors seeking world-class tourism and financial services.
Antigua and Barbuda offers visitors an ideal piece of paradise for a second home. Legislation allows approved investors to participate in its Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP). This provides for citizenship and an Antigua and Barbuda passport to be granted on the basis of persons and families who satisfy a high standard of due diligence requirements and qualify in respect of making personal investments in Antigua and Barbuda with an option to obtain residency rather than citizenship. The jurisdiction has diligently researched efforts to design a sound investment process, meeting the regulatory framework that ensures it conforms with international standards, and attracts applicants that will only enhance the reputation and economy of the jurisdiction.
Global Bank of Commerce is a Caribbean owned and operated institution that has established a solid track record of financial services to its Caribbean and international clients for more than 30 years. Its technology-driven financial services provide secure internet banking, multi-channel electronic payment systems and wealth management portfolios. Clients access a full range of account options including multi-currency deposits, foreign exchange, certificates of deposit and competitive interest-bearing accounts and
The combination of well-regulated financial services, an excellent communications infrastructure, strong professional resources and the benefit to possibly qualify for citizenship makes Antigua and Barbuda a positive environment and an attractive location to develop international business and property investment. www.globalbankofcommerce.com
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A PIECE OF PARADISE
Many visitors to Antigua fall in love with the island and dream of having a second home in the sun. A second home is also a first-class investment opportunity with many homes rented out either short or long term. Whether you’re buying Antiguan real estate for rental, residential, retirement or investment purposes, you’ll be joining an ever-increasing band of expatriates who find the idea too good to ignore. Antigua offers visitors an enviable lifestyle of sun, sea and sand. The economy is driven primarily by tourism, and our 100,000 permanent residents are an interesting mix of peoples from all over the world and other Caribbean islands. Another added incentive for many purchasers is that Antigua passports may be obtained through the new Citizenship Investment Programme (CIP) introduced on qualified properties. Today most property buyers are internet savvy and arrive on the island having already narrowed their choices down to certain property types. In advance of your arrival it’s recommended you contact a professional estate agent (a member of ABRA, the Antigua Barbuda Association of Realtors) as they will provide you with the most up-to-date market conditions and generally have access to all property listings. A wealth of real estate options is on offer in Antigua. Many overseas visitors settle in the areas of English Harbour, Jolly Harbour, Brown’s Bay, Hodges Bay, Crosbies, Paradise View or Cedar Valley. Location is vital and will have a great impact on your own enjoyment, as well as on the resale value.
Apartments, condos, villas, pre-owned homes and residential land are all readily available. Some are tucked away in gated communities or hotel developments and you can take advantage of common amenities like swimming pools, tennis courts, shops and watersports. If you prefer to purchase a piece of land and build your own home there are many island-based contractors who will be delighted to help with the design and construction. Antigua has excellent architects, builders and contractors who generally handle all building systems, but are especially adept at concrete blocks and wood construction. Materials, windows, doors, cabinets, fixtures and furnishings are readily available, or can be imported specifically for your project.
SQUARE ONE
Square One is a locally owned professional building construction company. It is based in Hodges Bay on the north coast with construction projects on the mainland. Jumby Bay Island - which is a most prestigious location - has put Square One on the map to be a reliable, strong and responsible partner for residential and commercial projects. The company offers fixed bid contracts and also cost plus labour contracts for projects in order to work with clients on all levels of construction. Square One also has its own landscape division and an extensive plant inventory which can be made available if required. Square One is also closely associated with H2 One plumbing services which are run by the owner’s son who was educated in the latest plumbing techniques in Europe. Electrical subcontractors are also available. A fully professional team can thus be provided to work on all residential and commercial projects. Square One and its associates are happy to help you develop all your dreams to build your own tropical island paradise and provide project management services. continued on page 84
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Photo: courtesy Sugar Ridge
Why not really make yourself at home in Antigua? Purchasing, renting or even building a second home on the island is becoming increasingly popular and there is a wide choice of villas, apartments and real estate options available …
Sugar Ridge Antigua’s ‘sweet spot’, Sugar Ridge is a boutique hotel with luxury homes. It is located on a lush hillside with stunning views over the Caribbean Sea. The exceptional leisure facilities include an Aveda Concept spa, Cybex gym, fitness studio, 3 pools, sundecks and chill-out areas, and some of the best beaches in Antigua are close by. There are two restaurants - Carmichael’s hilltop fine dining venue, and the fashionable Sugar Club – both of which enjoy top reputations for excellence, while the bar is the place to ‘lime’ at the weekends. The hotel has been open since 2009, so the focus is now upon building homes. By building spec homes all the uncertainty is taken away. You can acquire a skillfully finished house with all the facilities and fun of Antigua’s hippest hotel right on-site, a concept that is proving very popular with buyers. The standard homes are of classic Caribbean design with wood shingle roofs, copper gutters, travertine tiles and beautiful finishes throughout. The glass sliding pocket doors maximise the views and sense of space, and the high ceilings and louvered windows take advantage of the cooling breezes. Infinity pools, perfect for enjoying a cocktail while the sun goes down, are standard finishing touches.
A N T I G U A
Sugar Ridge continues the process of designing more homes for construction and sale. The standard homes are popular for their design, quality and value, and are available in different price brackets. And you can still build your own dream home on any of the other available plots. Investors will be interested to know that full villa management is available through the hotel rental pool, and that Sugar Ridge is zoned in the Citizenship by Investment Programme. www.sugarridgehomes.com
W E S T
Homes
I N D I E S
classic caribbean hillside homes with ocean views, private pools, stunning interiors. qualified for citizenship by investment programme. contact: 1-268-562-7700 • info@sugarridgehomes.com • www.sugarridgehomes.com
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REAL ESTATE
SEA VIEW HEIGHTS
Real estate agency, Sea View Heights, is Antigua-based, specialising in rentals and sales of exclusive villas located in such stunning locations as Galley Bay Heights, The Peninsula, English Harbour, Emerald Cove and Nonsuch Bay. They arrange luxury villa holidays and ensure a relaxing vacation enhanced by fun-filled activities. They also offer professional real estate services to guide you in the purchase, or the construction of a villa in Antigua. Their partner, the Antigua-based construction company New System Ltd., has been building customised villas in Antigua for the past 20 years. Many Antiguans who live overseas are now buying land or property in their homeland with a view to retiring to a safe warm country away from the pressures of their stressful working city life. All villas, houses, apartments or condominiums purchased in Antigua are now seen as providing an income while the owners are away and the perfect place for a long and happy retirement. Of course you don’t actually have to buy to enjoy all the benefits of a private hideaway in Antigua. The island has always had luxury villas available for rental, many of them featuring their own pools and surprisingly cost effective for families or groups of friends. While you, your family and friends enjoy all the amenities of home, the helpful staff take away all the domestic responsibilities and leave you free to relax. CAI the Antiguan 2017 final.pdf
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THE LEGALITIES OF PURCHASING A PIECE OF PARADISE
When purchasing real estate in Antigua you’ll need to retain the services of a lawyer. Legal costs range from 1% to 2% depending upon the purchase price. You’ll also need to apply for a Non-Citizen’s Licence which is generally 5% of the purchase price and can take up to four months to be processed. In addition to this, a payment of 2.5% government transfer fee is required.
INSURE YOUR PROPERTY
Antigua’s insurance business has developed to meet the increased demand for purchasing real estate. A variety of dependable and well-established insurance companies are located here, giving you peace of mind when it comes to buying property on the island. Antigua is home to Anjo Insurances, agents for Massy United Insurance. Established in Antigua for over 86 years, Anjo has been providing excellent customer service and fair claims settlement for decades. The company has a well-deserved reputation for dealing quickly and efficiently with insurance matters. As agents for Massy United Insurance, their A.M. Best international rating of A-Excellent reaffirms the company’s financial strength. Anjo has three branches conveniently spread across the island at Woods Centre, Jolly Harbour and Falmouth Harbour.
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www.caribbeanalliance.com • +1 (268) 484 2900 Head Office: Caribbean Alliance House, Cnr. Newgate & Cross Streets, St. John’s Falmouth Harbour Branch: Antigua Yacht Club Marina Commercial Centre
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MARINE
take a stroll through paradise and stay
T
amarind Hills is a property development located in the beautiful west coast of Antigua between two of Antigua’s most beautiful beaches, Darkwood and Ffyrye’s. Beach and oceanfront villas, cottages and apartments are for sale on freehold basis. The units are designed to a five star luxury level including private pools. Full management and rental programmes are available. There is a range of facilities which make this an ideal rental investment or permanent residency.
To b o o k a v i e w i n g o r f o r m o r e d e t a i l s p l e a s e c a l l : TEL: +1 268 562 7380 or TEL: +1 268 736 4028 E M A I L : r u f u s @ t a m a r i n d - h i l l s . c o m W E B : w w w. t a m a r i n d - h i l l s . c o m 85
REAL ESTATE The Caribbean Alliance Insurance Company Ltd. offers reliable insurance coverage for every need from its prestigious head office in St. John’s. Rated A (Excellent) at A.M. Best (the independent rating agency based in the US). Caribbean Alliance is one of only three companies in the whole of the Caribbean to have achieved that financial strength rating. With over 20 years’ experience, Caribbean Alliance Insurance offers high service standards, and prides itself on its ability to pay claims promptly and efficiently. Its agents offer a professional service combined with expert knowledge. The company’s strong reputation fuels its business growth. Based on Redcliffe Street in St. John’s, ABI Insurance Company Limited offers a full range of insurance products including buildings, contents, public liability and contractors all risks. The company is committed to offering its policy-holders security against financial loss and providing all claimants with a prompt and efficient settlement. The highly trained staff at ABI Insurance ensure that customers receive specialist coverage whether local or overseas, through highly rated brokers. The aim of ABI Insurance is to provide superior services at affordable prices. continued on page 88
CONSTRUCTION
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Wh e n thi ngs go wrong . . .
go bac k to : S q u a r e O n e Lt d H o d g e s B ay S t. J o h n ’ s , A n t i g u a s q u a r e o n e @ c a n d w. a g Office (268)561-1 835 C e l l ( 2 6 8 ) 4 6 4 - 7 5 76
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REAL ESTATE
Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Since introducing its Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP) in October 2013, Antigua and Barbuda has positioned its CIP as the leading investment migration programme in the Caribbean. Lifestyle Year-round warm weather, white sand beaches and turquoise waters make Antigua and Barbuda a world-class destination, with direct flights from the United Kingdom, United States and Canada. Politically and economically stable, and with a low crime rate, this twin-island country benefits from a fixed exchange rate with the US dollar (1 US$ = 2.7 EC$). English is the official language. Mobility With an Antigua and Barbuda passport, a citizen has visa free travel to 134 countries, including Canada, Hong Kong, Singapore, UK and the Schengen area. Dual citizenship is permitted. The passport is valid for five years. Renewal is subject to the recipient having spent a total of five days in Antigua and Barbuda within the five year period. Greater Economic Freedom There are no taxes levied on capital gains, inheritance and worldwide income. Direct Route to Citizenship Applicants can become citizens within 90–120 days. In addition, families including spouse, dependent children under 25 years, parents and grandparents over 65 years can obtain citizenship through one simultaneous application. Investment Options There are three options to acquire citizenship through its programme. The applicant is required to contribute to the
country in exchange for citizenship: National Development Fund For a family of up to four persons the NDF contribution is US$200,000.00, with processing fees for main applicant and spouse of US$50,000.00 each. Two dependents free. For a family of five or more the NDF contribution is US$250,000.00 with processing fees for main applicant and spouse of US$50,000.00 each, and up to three dependents free. Real Estate Investment Applicants are required to make a minimum investment of US$400,000 in a CIP pre-approved real estate development for a period of five years. Business Investment An individual can make an investment of at least US$1,500,000 in an approved business to qualify for citizenship, or make a joint business investment in an approved business where each investor applicant contributes a minimum of US$400,000.00 each, totalling a minimum amount of US$5,000,000 to the joint investment. Island Living Investment Services Ltd. (ILIS) is a leading authorized service provider for the CIP. With unrivalled experience in preparing and filing successful citizenship applications, clients can be assured of efficient, personalized service. ILIS assists in all aspects of the citizenship application process including real estate, investment facilitation and concierge services. For more information email: info@ilis.ag www.antiguacitizenshipinvest.com
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REAL ESTATE
SHOP FOR YOUR VILLA
Antigua has a number of excellent stores able to provide most of the goods required for your new villa, condominium or apartment. While you may be thinking of importing many of the necessary items, you should certainly explore the outlets in Antigua where the products are readily available. An added advantage is immediate recourse to the store if anything goes wrong. An exceptional modern and spacious showroom, close to St. John’s, is Gigi on Factory Road. This extensive furniture emporium has the best selection of name brand furniture, including patio furniture and decorative items. The helpful staff are well informed and at your service, and will help you personally to get the most advantageous prices for your purchases. Delivery service is fast. There are spacious parking facilities available. The Furniture Gallery on the airport road and Townhouse Megastore near St. John’s are also well worth perusing for international furniture brands and household appliances. Both offer excellent customer service. For something different head to El Caribe overlooking Perry Bay or The Gazebo on Friar’s Hill Road. Both these emporiums sell furniture and exotic items sourced from all around the world. Also on this busy road are two excellent second-hand stores where you may find unusual household goods – The Stock Exchange and The Exchange.
STUDIOS, APARTMENTS AND VILLAS
There is a wide range of attractive studios, apartments and villas available in areas of Antigua including Tranquility Bay on Jolly Beach; on Dickenson Bay there is Antigua Village, Buccaneer Beach Club, and Siboney Beach Club. There are villas available in all categories throughout the island. The area of Dickenson Bay is a popular residential area close to St. John’s where properties of all levels can be purchased. Dickenson Bay ranks amongst the island’s best beaches and is a particularly suitable choice for self-catering. It’s an easy drive to supermarkets such as 1st Choice on the Anchorage Road and the impressive Epicurean on the Friar’s Hill Road. Nearby at Wood’s Centre you’ll find usual facilities such as banks, the well-stocked Wood’s Pharmacy with expert pharmacists, and a state-ofthe art dental clinic - Dr.Sengupta and Associates. There are a number of doctors’ offices, and the Bel Lab medical laboratory which is particularly useful for urgent medical laboratory testing. The Village Walk Mall next door, is also handy with a bank, excellent fine wine and liquor shop, Quin Farara, a hardware store and you can enjoy a coffee and bite to eat at Cafe Bella. The nearby residential area of Hodges Bay has always been popular as it is close to the airport and known for its tranquil atmosphere. continued on page 90
a boutique condo hotel
20 one-bedroom and 3 two-bedroom fully furnished apartments· caribbean architecture · modern interiors · italian kitchens, bathrooms, and beach furniture · swimming pool · restaurant · lounge · fitness centre · docking· apartment units sold with free-hold condominium title 15 units already sold, 8 units remaining an approved project under the Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program
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info@southpointantigua.com realestate@southpointantigua.com tel: + 1 268 562 9600 www.southpointantigua.com
BEACH FRONT HOMES • OCEAN VIEW RENTALS • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
We Can Help You Buy, Sell or Rent a Property! F ind Your Dream Home in the Perfect Community ... Jolly Harbour
“Your Jolly Harbour Specialists”
e Agents You Need...
~ Our sales office has been established in Jolly Harbour for over 20 years, with a solid reputation of bringing our client's dream to reality. ~ We have the largest selection of rental properties - from affordable getaways to luxurious beach front villas. ~ Our property management and rental team can look after your investment, so you can relax and enjoy the Caribbean Lifestyle! See new listings and rentals at: antiguaproperties.com or ttvillasantigua.com Sales: Ron Chapman, Office +1 (268) 462-1873 ~ Email: info@antiguaproperties.com Rentals: Cathleen McIntosh, Reservations +1 (268) 561-6184 ~ Email: info@ttvillasantigua.com 89 Located in the Commercial Center of Jolly Harbour, Antigua
REAL ESTATE
HODGES BAY
The new Hodges Bay development, located in the popular north shore of the island is an ultra-exclusive beachfront resort, spa and residential development. It is set to assume iconic status as a flagship development for Antigua, offering luxurious hotel and residential accommodation, innovative dining options and extensive leisure facilities. Hodges Bay is a scheduled $100 million dollar development designed to be the pinnacle of contemporary luxury. The hotel development includes 79 suites ranging from ocean edge penthouses and three storey townhouses to two and three bedroom ocean villas and ocean front executive suites. Many have infinity plunge pools or outdoor Jacuzzis. The property includes three restaurants and five bars including a coffee and a grab-and-go breakfast facility. There is a fine dining steak and seafood restaurant, an ocean side raw bar, a cocktail lounge and mid-level dining and beachside wood-burning pizza and sunset bar.
SOUTH POINT
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At the southern end of the island is the vibrant and historical area of English Harbour with its famous yachting facilities and busy social life. The south-western side of the island has been beautifully developed along the coast with spectacular beaches and views of neighbouring islands. This is also the location of the busy yachting centre of Jolly Harbour.
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South Point at English Harbour combines high-end luxury with chic elegance of a boutique hotel, and has been designed with both the vacation home and investment property buyer in mind. It blends sleek European designs with tropical influences and is the very definition of contemporary Caribbean living. Each spacious open-plan unit features a kitchen, living area, terrace and state-of-the-art amenities. Claim one of the 23 residences as your own vacation hideaway with a view to purchasing, and benefit from participation in the Condo Hotel Rental Programme and from the fully approved Citizenship by Investment Real Estate project.
REAL ESTATE
TAMARIND HILLS
Tamarind Hills is a property development located in the stunning west coast area between two of Antigua’s beautiful beaches, Darkwood and Ffryes. Beach and oceanfront villas, cottages and apartments are for sale on freehold basis. The units are designed to a five star luxury level including private pools. Full management and rental programmes are available. There is a range of facilities which make this an ideal rental investment or permanent residency.Â
TIMESHARE
Timeshare is also available and has its own associate benefits. Not only can you take advantage of thousands of different exchange destinations and a guaranteed high standard of accommodation, but also tremendous savings on vacation costs. The ability to rent, sell or keep a timeshare property as part of your estate gives the owner the benefits associated with a vacation home whilst still enjoying world-wide vacations each year. As you see there is a great variety of excellent accommodation and services available for the vacationer and the potential buyer of a piece of paradise!
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CARE FOR OUR PETS & ANTIGUA’S ANIMALS
Many of our residents have pets particularly dogs. Long-stay visitors often bring their pets with them. Even our yachts sometimes have a resident pet. Fortunately the Veterinary Department of the Government has done its best to ensure that Antigua has no dangerous health problems with the animals. Sadly our visitors often see homeless dogs wandering about. Sometimes they want to adopt or do something to remedy the situation. Some fortunate dogs have found a home overseas. PAAWS is a shelter for dogs and cats. They work with a foster shelter in Toronto where Antiguan puppies quickly find homes. Visit PAAWS and the town of Parham while on your travels through Antigua. PAAWS is entirely supported by voluntary contributions, and any donation is gratefully received. Contact details: Tel: (268) 561-1484, Email: paaws.antigua@gmail.com, www.paaws-antigua.com We no longer have many wandering donkeys in Antigua, as these lovable four legged friends now have their own sanctuary at Bethesda.
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Visitors are encouraged to visit this excellent facility and perhaps take advantage of the ‘Adopt a Donkey’ programme. This project is entirely supported by voluntary contributions. Antigua has an excellent established facility for taking care of pets in your absence and providing first-class veterinary services year-round. This is the Pioneer Kennel and Veterinary Clinic, located in the Bendals area, which offers many amenities as well as the hotel service for your pets! It is excellently landscaped and can be viewed by appointment. Pioneer offers the all-important service of Import and Export assistance for dogs and cats, 30 indoor kennels and outside exercise runs, dog grooming, sales of pet products and dog training. The facility is operated by long-established Dr. Radcliffe Robins with a staff of four including Dr. Diandra Payne. Antigua is developing increasing awareness of the need to take care of the animals on our island.
HOMEGROWN ANTIGUA by Edna Fortescue
Photo: courtesty of Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority
Visitors to Antigua look for locally-made souvenirs to take home. Even residents prefer to take gifts that reflect Antigua for friends overseas. You will be pleasantly surprised at what is available. Antiguan rums - some of the world’s best - are produced by Antigua Distillery and much appreciated as they are not readily available outside Antigua. English Harbour Light Rum and English Harbour Five Year Old Rum make attractive presents. I always take plastic bottles of Cavalier as they are light and easy to pack, cannot break and are available at most Antiguan supermarkets. There is also a miniature collection which is handy for gifts. Antigua Distillery also produces Bay Rum which is used as a cool, restorative aftershave lotion or rubbing compound. While in Antigua enjoy Oasis purified water in attractive packaging, also produced by Antigua Distillery.
These make excellent presents and the series consists of ‘Caribbean Cocktails’, dedicated to me (!), ‘Caribbean Cookery’, ‘Caribbean Herbs & Spices’ and ‘The Top 20 Places in Antigua’.
I always take a few bottles of Antiguan hot sauce, readily available throughout Antigua and much appreciated overseas. In local supermarkets you find products like guava jelly, pineapple jam and stewed tamarind. A great honey is Paige Honey, produced by Alphonso in attractive handy bottles. At St. John’s fruit and vegetable market is a shopping mall which sells handicrafts including coconut oil soap. Pure coconut oil is the latest health craze internationally. Locally grown coconut oil is readily available in Antigua. It turns into a butter-like consistency when cold but runs smoothly and sweetly when warm.
Close to the airport - and with a pretty shop in Redcliffe Quay - is The Antigua Pottery, which makes a unique range of items from small figurines and dishes to exotic table lamps. An attractive local product comes from the Antigua Candle Factory located at Jolly Harbour Marina. The factory produces Mr. Shooz soy wax and anti-mosquito citronella candles in attractive glass jars.
Look for delightful little books by Antiguan designer, Gilly Gobinet, long known for her colourful prints.
Pack your suitcase with homegrown Antiguan gifts!
At the entrance to Nelson’s Dockyard Antiguan ladies sell unique jewellery made from seeds from the wild tamarind and mimosa trees growing in Antigua. The seeds are boiled, dried in the sun and then strung with a needle to make original works of art. Look out for Vanessa’s stylish hand-painted tee shirts with fine designs especially incorporating flowers, birds and tropical fishes.
Established over 50 years ago, is the Coco Shop, originally created by Amos Morrill with island inspired shirts, dresses, purses, and still with the tropical ambiance at the picturesque Redcliffe Quay outlet.
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SUPER SHOPPING T
he main duty-free shopping areas in St. John’s are Redcliffe Quay and Heritage Quay. The boutiques, jewellers, craft shops and adjacent market are complemented by quaint cafés and bars. Modern Heritage Quay extends along a wide boulevard leading from the cruise ship pier. The area is enlivened with a casino and clocktower, leading out towards St. Mary’s Street. Heritage Quay offers a wide variety of duty-free shops and boutiques catering for every taste, from designer clothing and jewellery to local arts and crafts. Nearby are bars and restaurants.
The boardwalk along the waterfront leads into the beautifully restored buildings and courtyards of Redcliffe Quay and adjoining Redcliffe Street, both built with old bricks which came as ballast in sailing ships long ago. There is a cruise ship pier leading into Redcliffe Quay where there are delightful shops in the shade of ancient trees, as well as a number of bars and restaurants including the popular Kitchen Corner Restaurant. Relax in the friendly wine bar at Redcliffe Quay or visit the ice cream parlour to keep cool. Between the two Quays and abutting Redcliffe Street and Thames Street is the colourful two-storey Vendors’ Mall with its myriad souvenirs including T-shirts, hats, shirts, wraps and pareos.
Along the Friars Hill Road is the Village Walk Mall which has a number of shops including a first class liquor store, Quin Farara and the Café Bella which is the perfect place for after-shopping refreshments. Further along is the Royal Palm Mall which has a number of outlets including a beauty salon and The Larder restaurant serving excellent food with the best sushi on island. The enormous Epicurean supermarket is set back from Friars Hill Road. A number of major companies have built new offices in this vicinity. Not far away on the Anchorage Road is the well-stocked 1st Choice supermarket. For last-minute gifts, perfume, jewellery and musical memories of Antigua there are also an excellent range of shops at the new V.C. Bird International Airport. To take advantage of the duty-free prices at Heritage and Redcliffe Quays, remember to take your passport and travel documents with you. 94
Photo: courtesy Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority
On the outskirts of St. John’s along the Friars Hill Road leading north, is the shopping area of Woods Mall. There is a wide range of shops including the excellent Woods Pharmacy, banks, post office, FLOW (Cable & Wireless) office and a travel agency - Carib World Travel. Ticchio store and restaurant is a popular rendevous.
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St. John’s Street Map
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Abbott’s Jewellery & Perfumery Cameras Plus Cattleya Colombian Emeralds Island Beach Bums Jeweler's Warehouse Kings Casino Land Lipstick Longchamp Shades Shouls Duty Free Liquor & Perfumery Sterlings Tabaco Negro Tropic Wear World of Bags World of Watches
ST. JOHN’S HARBOUR
SHOPPING
ABBOTT’S JEWELLERY & PERFUMERY
Heritage Quay Tel: 462-3107/8 Abbott’s Jewellery & Perfumery in duty-free Heritage Quay is the authorised retailer for Rolex and carries renowned Swiss-made timepieces by Omega, TAG Heuer, Gucci, Tissot, Carl F. Bucherer, Longines, Rado and Frederique Constant. Also available are timepieces by Seiko, Hugo Boss, Lacoste, Tommy Hilfiger and Timex. Abbott’s has stunning jewellery collections by John Hardy, Le Vian, Marco Bicego, Tacori, Chimento, Rebecca, Breuning and Chamilia as well as coloured gems, diamonds and pearls. Their adjoining Fragrance Boutique carries the latest selection of fragrances and gift sets. There’s something for every occasion such as Cross Pens, Lladro figurines, Swarovski crystal ornaments and jewellery, dazzling crystal by Mikasa and a variety of delightful pieces from the Nursery Rhyme collection by Aynsley. They also have a collection of Maui Jim sunglasses.
CATTLEYA CLOTHING BOUTIQUE
Heritage Quay Tel: 462-8191 Email: cattleyaantigua@hotmail.com If you’re looking for glamorous, stylish and sophisticated resort wear, Cattleya Boutique offers a wide selection of day and evening attire suitable for every occasion. Cattleya’s excellent customer service and quality brands is complemented by a convenient location next door to Longchamp in Heritage Quay.
EXOTIC ANTIGUA
Redcliffe Quay Tel: 562-1288 Email: exoticantigua@gmail.com Wrap yourself in lush tropical clothing! Exotic Antigua specialises in jewellery, bags, hats and linen clothing for both men and women at affordable prices. No visit to Antigua is complete without calling in at Exotic Antigua voted the number one shop in the Caribbean!
SHADES
Heritage Quay Tel: 562-5662 Shades offers a wide range of designer sunglasses at great duty-free prices. Shop in spacious comfort with the best and latest selection of sunglasses available in Antigua: Maui Jim, Rayban, Oakley, Prada, Gucci, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Juicy Couture, Michael Kors, Coach and D & G.
LIPSTICK
Heritage Quay Tel: 562-1130/33 Fax: 562-1131 Email: lipstickantigua@hotmail.com This elegant beauty boutique offers the widest selection of luxury fragrances, skin care and cosmetics on the island. The gracious, expert staff can guide you through the wide range of products. Showing lines of Chanel, Christian Dior, Tom Ford, Hermes, Dolce and Gabana and many more.
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The Antiguan SHOPPING
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Free delivery available island-wide. Open Monday-Saturday. Central Offices: t. (268) 462-3197/8 • f. (268) 462-2704 • e. quinfararaliquors.com Duty Free Store - Heritage Quay, St. John’s • Village Walk Store, Friar’s Hill Road: t. (268) 562-7552
QUIN FARARA
Village Walk, Friar’s Hill Rd., Tel: 562-7552 Central Office & Warehouse, St John’s: 462-3197/8 www.quinfararaliquors.com Established in 1924, Quin Farara is the island’s longest serving, wine, spirit and tobacco merchant. With a local and international reputation, Quin Farara offers the finest selection of these specialised products. The Village Walk store, located on Friar’s Hill Road, is a sophisticated showroom for an impressive collection. The original store in St. John’s retains its historic architectural features. Dutyfree shopping is available at the Heritage Quay branch. Bulk purchases and special requirements available.
THE MAP AND BOOK SHOP
Redcliffe Street, St. John’s Tel: 462-3993 Over 22 years of unique service and experience. Maps; prints and charts; tourist guides; books on tropical fish, birds, flowers, cookery and history of the Caribbean; academic books; vocational books
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for health, nursing and hospitality training; bibles of all kinds; religious books for adults and children; greeting cards for all occasions. What they don’t have in stock they will order for you. So come and share in the ‘2 for 1’ experience of The Map and Book Shop.
TABACO NEGRO
45 Heritage Quay Tel: 562-5866 Email: admin@tabaco-negro.com www.tabaco-negro.com This wonderful oasis of aromas is a must for cigar lovers. The only authorised dealer for fine Cuban cigars in Antigua, its wide range includes Cohiba, Hoya de Monterrey and Romeo & Juliet. Whether you enjoy the occasional interlude with your favourite flavour or whether you are a serious connoisseur, the knowledgeable staff will help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
SHOPPING
LAND
#108 Heritage Quay Tel: 462-0746 A unique store specialising in leather goods for over 20 years - operated by the owner Debra Merchant. Land’s finest 100% leather products are on show permanently at Land’s Miami showroom with three new collections each year. Visit Land in Antigua for travel goods, handbags, briefcases, belts, wallets and fine shoes.
TROPIC WEAR
#17 Heritage Quay Tel: 462-6251 This boutique offers duty-free shopping for men and women’s Levis and Dockers clothing. Tropic Wear stocks the famous 501 original button fly jeans and skinny, straight, de-stressed and bootcut styles. Also available is the full line of Levi’s men’s underwear and accessories including wallets, caps and belts. The essential dress shirt, t-shirt and polo are also available.
STERLINGS - WORLD OF BAGS
Heritage Quay Tel: 562-8917 This bright, welcoming store carries a great collection of designer handbags together with the latest fashionable beach bags and straw hats. Famous brands include Dooney & Bourke, Michael Kors, Coach, Kate Spade, Fossil, Guess, Spartina and Sakroots.
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NATURA
Jardine’s Court, St. Mary’s Street Tel: 725-6402 Email: info.naturacreations@gmail.com Natura offers handmade, all-natural, organic, herbal health and wellness products, gourmet preserves and condiments using fresh local and Caribbean fruit, herbs and spices. There are healing creams, after-sun soothing products, DEET-free mosquito repellants, herbal soaps, all-fruit reduced-sugar jams, pepper sauces, vegan honey. Natura’s unique and beautifully packaged gift items are lightweight and easy to pack for travelling. All ingredients 100% organic and sustainably grown.
ISLAND BEACH BUMS
#34 Heritage Quay Tel: 562-8961 Email: islandbeachbumsantigua@gmail.com www.islandbeachbums.com Island Beach Bums presents lifestyle beachwear for men, women and children. There is a great selection of affordable swimwear, souvenir t-shirts, cover-ups, hats, bags, flip flops, towels and other great beach accessories. Visit this stylish new boutique, second floor, Heritage Quay.
STERLINGS
Heritage Quay Tel: 562-5662 Sterlings - a jewellery store with a difference - the exclusive retailer for Pandora and Alex & Ani, watches by Michele, Michael Kors and Swatch. They carry unique amber pieces and locally made jewellery. Their international collection includes stunning silver, gold and stainless-steel jewellery from top designers: Marah Lago, Lauren G Adams, Tous, Uno de 50 and Roberto Coin. Sterlings is the home of Hearts on Fire, the world’s most perfectly cut diamonds.
COCO SHOP
Redcliffe Quay Tel: 562-8656 www.cocoshopantigua.com This charming boutique, established in 1949, specialises in unique island-style gifts and clothing all made by local seamstresses and artisans, using colorful batiks and Liberty of London fabrics. Chic items include: cosmetic and toiletry cases, purses, iPad covers, quilted placemats, napkins, bottle bags, beach bags, stuffed animals and their famous rag rugs. Take home a legendary piece of Antigua.
CAMERAS PLUS
Heritage Quay Tel: 562-4738/462-3619 Cameras Plus specialises in cameras and accessories to ensure your Antigua vacation is picture perfect! With brands such as Nikon, Canon, Sony, Panasonic, Olympus, GoPro, GoPole, ISAW sports cameras and Casio, your every need will be satisfied. Also available is a wide range of batteries, chargers and memory cards, as well as an extensive selection of binoculars, spotting scopes, sunglasses, tripods, readers and camera bags. 100
SHOPPING
SILVER CHELLES
Redcliffe Quay  Tel: 789-2662 Email: info@silverchelles.com www.silverchelles.com Silver Chelles is a beautiful jewellery boutique. Specialising in polished seashells set in sterling silver, all jewellery is handcrafted and unique with a wide variety of pendants, bracelets, rings and earrings. You will also find an elegant selection of seashell-adorned evening bags, small gifts, fashion jewellery and specimen shells. Silver Chelles is a boutique not to be missed.
TICCHIO - ITALIAN FOOD AND WINE
Woods Centre, Friars Hill Road Tel: 562-8673 Ticchio Italian Food and Wine - a new concept store includes a store and restaurant. The store sells a wide range of deli products from Italy, from pasta to ham to extra virgin olive oil. Special products arrive weekly from Italy by air including gluten free pasta, confectionary and much more... In the wine area, Ticchio has created a cellar with wines from all over Italy.
CRAB HOLE LIQUORS
Cobbs Cross, Falmouth Nelsons Dockyard, English Harbour Tel: 460-1212/462-9082 Stop in at one of two outlets in the area for a great selection of fine wines and spirits. Crab Hole Liquors is also a handy convenience store providing you with all the essentials from groceries to phone cards.
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WOODS PHARMACY
Woods Mall Tel: 462-9288/7 This excellent pharmacy has a first class range of pharmaceutical products and is well located with convenient parking. This cool, spacious and efficient pharmacy offers a wide range of necessities and luxuries with good customer service and reasonable prices. Open Monday-Saturday 8am-9pm, Sunday 8am-6pm.
ANNALEA MILLS LEATHERWORK
• Prescriptions - Qualified Health Professionals • Home health aids • Toiletries & cosmetics • Greeting cards • Household goods • Excellent customer service • Convenient parking • Spanish speaking pharmacist Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 8am - 9pm, Sunday 8am - 6pm Woods Shopping Center, Friar’s Hill Road, St. John’s Tel:(268) 462-9288/7 Fax:(268) 462-9289 Email: genevievefuller@hotmail.com
Dockard Drive, Falmouth Harbour Tel: 788-1445 Email: annalea_mills@hotmail.com www.annaleamills.com This attractive boutique has something very special to offer as it is also the studio where the leatherwork is created. With a variety of high quality imported leather ranging in colour from vibrant turquoise to classic chocolate brown, these beautiful hides are then handcrafted by Annalea Mills into unique designs. Choose from handbags, belts, wallets and accessories off the shelf or customize a design to have an item handmade just for you. Open 9am to 3pm.
ISLAND SECRET
Nelson’s Dockyard, English Harbour Tel: 562-3035 Nestled in historic Nelson’s Dockyard, the Island Secret Boutique and giftshop carries a wide range of unique items including clothing made by top Caribbean designers. Other specialities include shoes, bags, hats, sarongs, pottery, soaps, body salts, lotion, Susie’s hot sauce, artwork and a wide selection of locally made gifts and souvenirs.
STERLINGS - WORLD OF WATCHES
Heritage Quay Tel: 562-7080 For the latest styles in trendy watches, plus a distinctly personal shopping experience, a visit to Antigua’s only watch boutique is a must. A great selection is available including Tissot, Hamilton, Citizen, Shinola, Michael Kors, G-shock, Fossil, Swiss Army, Emporio Armani, Diesel, Bulova and Luminox.
BAOBAB
Heritage Quay Tel: 562-8305 Baobab Company is a unique T-Shirt and ready-to-wear clothing collection born in the Indian Ocean in 1995. The brand’s casual yet highly graphic style beautifully conveys the soul and culture of the islands. Much emphasis is placed upon ethnic patterns and textures that are always creatively presented. 102
SHOPPING
ZEMI ARTS & CRAFT
Redcliffe Quay Tel: 562-7662 www.wadadli-watercolours.com Discover an authentic collection of indigenous and local arts and crafts from founding artist Stephen Murphy and other local artisans. These creations are absolutely unique and a world away from the mass-produced souvenirs that too often flood the Caribbean. The contemporary art and design collection that includes originals, limited editions and reproductions is geared towards the true art connoisseur and captures the very essence of Caribbean culture.
GOLDSMITTY
Redcliffe Quay Tel: 462-4601 www.goldsmitty.com Since 1981 Goldsmitty has offered unique jewellery in gold and silver. Owner and designer Hans Smit uses the finest gemstones collected on trips to world-wide exotic locations. Hans realised many longtime clients and first-time visitors want authentic, indigenous momentos. Therefore for Goldsmitty’s 30th Anniversary, Hans created ‘Caribbean Corner’. Each unique design is made with rare local conch pearls, or beautiful blue larimar, or amber containing insects, both from the Dominican Republic. In 2011, Hans discovered our own ‘piece of the rock’ - 30 million-year-old petrified coral, officially trademarked as ‘Antiguanite’. The great variety of stones are cut and polished in various shapes, set in gold and silver.
Redcliffe Quay • ( 268) 562-7662 wadadliwatercolours@yahoo.ca
Choose stones and designs to be specially made for collection before you depart.
VERA PELLE BAGS & MORE
Redcliffe Quay Tel: 562-8826/721-1769 Email: verapelle.antigua@gmail.com Valentina Nonini opened Vera Pelle Bags & More to bring to Antigua her love of Italian hand craftsmanship in the form of timeless ladies’ accessories. The boutique offers a beautiful selection of leather bags, shoes and other accessories, and complements them with a handmade selection of Valentina’s own one of a kind costume jewellery pieces. Open Monday - Friday 10am-5pm.
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DINING OUT Antigua’s restaurants are varied to suite all tastes and pockets - from gourmet venues at international level to small casual beachfront restaurants and bars specialising in freshly caught seafood and local vegetables. A variety of well-known international wines are generallyLeavailable. Enjoy dining in the 2 Bistro antiguan magazine Final.pdf special ambience of Antigua!
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Hodges Bay Tel: 462-3881 Recommended by Gourmet Magazine, this charming and long-established restaurant delivers a heartfelt welcome combined with a real sense of occasion. The French haute cuisine is enhanced by a superb range of vintage wines and champagnes, the service reliably polished yet distinctly personal. Chef/owner Patrick Gauducheau is in the ‘Who’s 13/07/2016 09:40 Who of Chefs’ and is featured on Discovery Channel’s ‘Great Chefs of the World’. Reservations are recommended.
SOUTH POINT
English Harbour Tel: 562-9600 Email: info@southpointantigua.com www.southpointantigua.com With a dining deck that extends right out over the harbour, South Point’s restaurant is a popular choice for lunch or dinner. The signature small plate menú showcases authentic flavours inspired by the best of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and Asian cuisine. There is also a Sushi Bar. The Lounge Bar opens for breakfast from 7am. An excellent cocktail menu, discerning wine list and delicious aperitifs ensure there’s always a cosmopolitan gathering enjoying its relaxed vibe.
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Hodges Bay, St. John’s • T: (268) 462 3881 E: gbistro@candw.ag
Open Tuesday - Sunday from 6:30pm with last orders at 10:30pm. Closed on Mondays. www.antigualebistro.com
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The Tamarind Tree & The Sea Grape Old Road Village Tel: 462-8400 Dine in Curtain Bluff’s two restaurants, the international menus are enhanced by beautiful surroundings and the very best service. The Tamarind Tree specialises in Continental cuisine infused with Caribbean flavours. It overlooks a tree-canopied terrace, perfect for cocktails and after-dining dancing. The intimate Sea Grape venue, right on the sands, is open four evenings a week offering Italian menu with an Antigua twist. Call for reservations.
Photo: Le Bistro
CURTAIN BLUFF HOTEL RESTAURANTS
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BAY HOUSE RESTAURANT & BAR
Trade Winds Hotel Tel: 462-1223 One of Antigua’s ‘top-tables’, the Bay House offers fine dining at affordable prices. Open daily and continuously between 7am and 11pm, you are not tied to conventional meal times here. Get your day off to a great start with the Antiguan breakfast, or enjoy the spectacular views over Dickenson Bay as you treat yourself to something from the deck menu. Selected local produce inspires the à la carte dinner menu served from 6pm, the excellent wine list featuring new world wines and classics from around the world. Daily Happy Hour and tapas 5pm to 7pm.
SHEER ROCKS
Cocobay Resort, St. Mary’s Tel: 464-5283/562-4510 www.sheer-rocks.com With its unique waterfront setting, spectacular views and sunsets, the award winning Sheer Rocks is one of Antigua’s must-visit restaurants. Open daily for lunch and dinner, the Mediterranean-inspired menus are created with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced, seasonal produce. Spend your day sampling inventive tapas and cocktails, lounging on a daybed and taking a dip in their plunge pool. From sunset the restaurant transforms into a romantic and stylish retreat for a la carte dinner. Reservations recommended. Sheer Rocks is one of Trip Advisor’s Top 10 Best Restaurants in the Caribbean Traveller’s Choice Awards 2014 and 2015.
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COCONUT GROVE RESTAURANT & BEACH BAR
Dickenson Bay Tel: 462-1538 Dine right on the waterfront at the Coconut Grove Restaurant & Beach Bar on Dickenson Bay. This is surely one of the most romantic restaurants in the entire Caribbean and specialises in the freshest seafood with a Caribbean flavour. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, it is also the perfect place for watching the sun go down - join them for ‘Happy Hour’ from 4pm to 7pm.
CLOGGY’S
AYC Marina, Falmouth Harbour Tel: 460-6910 Cloggy’s, at the AYC Marina, offers unique Mediterranean-influenced cuisine accompanied by beautiful views of yachts at anchor and sunsets. The stylish, nautical vibe is enhanced by menus including a large selection of grilled seafood and meats, and fresh lobster. Popular weekend events include Sunday brunches, and sundowner specials on Saturday afternoons. Enjoy a wide range of foreign beers, and view major sporting events on the large flat TV screen. Reservations recommended. Lunch - Tuesday to Saturday: 11:30am to 4:30pm. Dinner - Wednesday to Saturday: 6pm to 9:30pm. Sunday: Brunch 11am to 4:30pm with afterwards bar only. Closed Mondays.
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SUGAR CLUB
CECILIA’S HIGH POINT CAFÉ
TICCHIO - ITALIAN FOOD AND WINE
CARMICHAEL’S
Sugar Ridge, St. Mary’s Tel: 562-7700 The informal but smart indoor/outdoor restaurant and bar overlook the resort’s swimming pools. High ceilings and large open shutters provide a cool contemporary atmosphere. A great menu available daily from 7am to 10pm, plus live entertainment most nights and party nights... only five minutes drive from Jolly Harbour. Woods Centre, Friar’s Hill Road Tel: 562-8673 Ticchio’s modern concept includes an Italian restaurant, deli and excellent wine store - providing a uniquely Italian atmosphere. The Ticchio chef suggests a variety of dishes with clams, mussels and fish from the Mediterranean sea and platters of prosciutto and formaggio. Fast, smiling service gives the taste of Italy!
Dutchman’s Bay Tel: 562-7070 Email: cecilias@highpointantigua.com Cecilia’s offers waterfront dining in a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. You can look forward to an enticing menu, fresh seafood, pleasant music, attentive and friendly service, a comfortable setting and a view you will always remember. Cecilia’s High Point Café is five minutes from the airport and available for private functions. Sugar Ridge, St. Mary’s Tel: 562-7700 Carmichael’s provides stunning views of the Caribbean sea, neighbouring islands and Jolly Harbour Marina. It is an open air fine dining restaurant with a chic decor and a relaxing ambience. The international menu reflects fresh produce from Antigua’s local markets with an excellent wine list. Complimentary shuttle from Jolly Harbour Marina. Call for reservations.
RESTAURANT • STORE • DELI AREA • WINE CELLAR • APPETIZERS • WEEKLY ARRIVALS OF FOOD FROM ITALY Monday to Thursday 8:30am-5:30pm / Friday 8:30am-4pm, 7pm-10pm, Saturday 10am to 5pm / Closed on Sunday
WOODS CENTRE, Friars Hill Road, St. John’s, Antigua / Tel + 1 (268) 562-867 3 / ticchiofood.com, ticchiofood@gmail.com
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CHIPPY ANTIGUA
Dickenson Bay, Runaway Road Tel: 724-1166/734-8945 Email: chippyantigua@msn.com This is an authentic traditional English fish and chip van, run by Dave and Jane. It features fish and chips, fresh lobster bites, scampi (shrimp), sausages, meat pies and gravy - all served with chips. Unique dishes include Indian curries. Casual outdoor dining atmosphere or take-away. Open Wednesday and Friday evenings 4pm to 9pm. Available for special occasions, call for details.
Chippy Antigua
BEACHLIMERZ GARDEN GRILL
Dutchman’s Bay Tel: 464-0207 Instagram: @gardengrillanu The Garden Grill is dedicated to flavour, sustainability and nutrition with farm fresh locally sourced produce daily. Dine in the attractive garden setting with tasty unusual items on the menu. Sunday brunches are very popular - with a cool-off dip in the Garden Grill pool! Lunch: Tuesday - Saturday, Dinner: Friday, Brunch: Sunday 9am-1pm
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Fort James Beach Tel: 562-8574 Email: info@beachlimerz.com “Where Food & Drink Make Waves”. Just steps from the water on the historic Fort James Beach, BeachLimerZ celebrates Antiguan and Caribbean culture with great food, ambience and music. The menu offers the best of traditional Antiguan cuisine, street-foods and unique specialities. Music and live entertainment is a priority. In 2015, BeachLimerZ was recognized as a ‘Top Performing Restaurant’ and was awarded the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2016. Open daily from 11am until...
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CAFÉ BELLA
VillageWalk Center, Friars Hill Rd Tel: (268) 46BELLA (462-3552) This is the perfect place to relax and meet friends in air-conditioned comfort, with a tasty menu of breakfast and lunch specials. The decadent deserts are all made fresh in-house every day. All your favourite coffees are available, Espresso, Cappuccino, Latte, Bellaccino plus fruit smoothies and a wonderful selection of refreshing teas. Make Café Bella your second office as free WiFi is available.
LA BUSSOLA RESTAURANT
Dutchman’s Bay Tel: 462-8433/785-5436 Email: labussolantigua@hotmail.com La Bussola is an authentic beachfront Italian restaurant recently relocated to Dutchman’s Bay which is handy for the airport. It is right on the beach with a beautiful garden and a panoramic view of Jumby Bay. It is perfect for romantic dinners. Open since 2007, La Bussola has been providing quality homemade Italian cuisine and delicious wood-oven cooked pizzas. The wine selection is one of the most extensive on the island. Ideal for large events. Buon Appetito! Open Monday to Saturday, lunch from midday to 3pm, dinner from 6.30pm to 10pm.
ADMIRAL’S INN PILLARS RESTAURANT
Nelson’s Dockyard Tel: 460-1027 Email: reservations@admiralsinnantigua.com At Nelson’s Dockyard visit Pillars Restaurant with the outdoor waterfront terrace and 18th century pillars and lush gardens. The stunning setting, overlooks the historic harbour, an ideal venue to relax and enjoy cocktails and lunch; dine watching the moonrise over Shirley Heights. Popular dishes include tuna tartare, beef duo and catch of the day. Wednesday is Caribbean night and Saturday offers special menus. 109
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BOOM RESTAURANT AT GUNPOWDER SUITES
Nelson’s Dockyard Tel: 460-1027 Email: reservations@admiralsinnantigua.com Experience Boom’s stunning vistas of Nelson’s Dockyard from its outdoor terraces and infinity-edged pool and the remodeled 18th century Gunpowder Art Gallery. Come for lunch, spectacular sundowners and Thursday night Supper Club. Spend the day lounging on daybeds, enjoy a massage at the Powder Room Spa, dip in the pool, sip cocktails and sample dishes such as moules mariniere and steak aioli sandwich.
SHIRLEY HEIGHTS LOOKOUT
Shirley Heights, English Harbour Tel: 728-0636 Enjoy lunch or dinner in a magnificently-restored 18th century building or dine outside in the courtyard with its spectacular views of Nelson’s Dockyard, English and Falmouth Harbours. Local lobster and fresh fish are daily specials as are spectacular sunsets. The Sunday barbecue party, now in its 34th year, is indeed an Antiguan institution which National Geographic Traveler endorsed many years ago and heralded as ‘The Place to be on Sunday’. Come to Shirley Heights Lookout for your private parties, your wedding, or just come for an intimate drink…and panoramic view. 2016 Winners of a Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor. Closed on public holidays. Please call for summer schedule.
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THE LARDER
Royal Palm Place, Friars Hill Road Tel: 480-6940 Email: info@thelarderantigua.com The Larder is a unique gourmet deli-café popular with locals and visitors in search of great food and service. Renowned as Antigua’s best sushi bar and deli-café, The Larder also offers an upscale takeaway and catering service. The bar provides an excellent selection of fresh juices, Premium spirits and fine wines. There is a “Build Your Own Salad” bar, Illy coffee, Gelateria and genuine Napolitano style thincrust pizzas, baked to-order in a woodstone oven. Breakfast 7am to 11am. Deli-café, sushi bar, salad bar, gelateria, pizzas 11am to 9:30pm Monday to Saturday.
ANA’S ON THE BEACH RESTAURANT & ART GALLERY
Dickenson Bay Tel: 562-8562 Email: info@anas.ag www.anas.ag The hot pink doors at Ana’s are a beacon of style, culture, glamour and a gourmand’s delight. A team of excellent chefs, whose experience spans the Caribbean, Italy, Spain, and the UK, has created the exciting Mediterranean menu. The Infinity Bar at the water’s edge, offers signature cocktails from awardwinning bartenders, and the on-demand “Anapasti” menu. A hub for regional and international artists, Ana’s has an eclectic selection of art, and the tastefully designed surroundings add to the ambience of this charming restaurant. Open daily 11:00am to 12:00am.
gourmet deli-café · sushi bar · neapolitan pizza · homemade gelato · awesome salads · premium bar royal palm place · friars hill road mon-sat 7am-9:30pm tel: +1 268 480 6940 www.thelarderantigua.com
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Kitchen Corner R E S T A U R A N T
KITCHEN CORNER RESTAURANT
Redcliffe Quay, St. John's Tel: 562-1820 Kitchen Corner Restaurant situated in historic Redcliffe Quay is located in an old picturesque sugar warehouse. Known for its quality food and excellent service. Lisa and the chefs work together to create unique dishes influenced by European and Caribbean cuisine, incorporating fresh local herbs and vegetables. Kitchen Corner Restaurant offers relaxed, shaded, alfresco dining specialising in a perfect venue for a dining date.
BIG BANANA 17º 61º
LOCATED IN BEAUTIFUL HISTORIC REDCLIFFE QUAY. European and Caribbean cuisine in a relaxed shaded alfresco dining area. Open Monday to Friday: 9am to 10pm Saturday: 9am to 5pm, Sunday: Closed TEL: 268.562.1820
V.C. Bird International Airport Tel: 480-6979 www.bigbanana-antigua.com Still located in the old terminal at V.C. Bird International Airport on the second floor, Big Banana 17º61º has been providing travellers and locals tasty dishes for over 20 years. Big Banana offers a super selection of local and international dishes (plus its famous hot dogs and signature pizzas). Open from breakfast through dinner. The exciting news is there is a Big Banana Cafe inside the new Airport terminal. The Cafe offers a wide range of great dishes including international specialities, sushi, gelato and Illy coffee with fast, efficient service. Open daily 7am - 9pm.
antigua’s favourite pizzas wings burgers sandwiches wraps & more
Pizzas in Paradise, Redcliffe Quay, Mon-Sat 11am-11pm, 268 480 6985 17º61º, V.C. Bird Intl Airport, Old & New Terminal Open daily 7am-9pm, 268 480 6979 www.bigbanana-antigua.com
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HARBOUR VIEW BAR & CAFÉ
Redcliffe Quay, St. John's Tel: 462-2972 Email: exoticantigua@gmail.com Harbour View Bar & Café brings a new dimension to St. John's Harbour. The only waterfront bar and café downtown has a splendid bay view. Spend time relaxing in the elevated lounge area enjoying the cooling trade breezes. Primarily open for breakfast and lunch, serving fresh salads, sandwiches and paninis. Enjoy exotic cocktails and smoothies.
BIG BANANA PIZZAS IN PARADISE
Redcliffe Quay Tel: 480-6985 www.bigbanana-antigua.com “Pizzas”, affectionately known by locals, established over the last 30 years, is a legendary casual dining rendezvous and hot spot. Recognised for serving some of the best pizzas in the Caribbean, it is renowned for great food featuring international favourites and local specialities. The fun atmosphere and historic setting in the old rum warehouse attract locals and tourists, plus visiting celebrities. A visit to Big Banana Pizzas in Paradise is a must. Eat in, takeaway or delivery. Open Monday to Saturday from 11am until late.
RUNWAY 10 CAFÉ
Gate 11 Burma Road Shell Beach Tel: 562-8523/779-0243 www.ebcantigua.com Runway 10 Café is a hidden gem with lush gardens close to the airport. It offers affordable Caribbean cuisine full of exotic tastes and flavours. Runway 10 Café, open from Thursday to Sunday, transforms into a hip hangout spot with live reggae music, a full service bar and grill, and eclectic music by local DJ’s. It’s an ideal location for intimate parties, events and business gatherings.
THE CROW’S NEST RESTAURANT AND PUB
Jolly Harbour Sports Centre, Marina side Tel: 562-2637 Email: crowsnest2014antigua@gmail.com www.crowsnest-antigua.com A popular open-air restaurant overlooking the Jolly Harbour Marina. Enjoy the view, the ambience and The Crow’s Nest signature international and local cuisine using only the finest products. Check out Facebook at the Crow’s Nest Antigua. Open daily from 7:30am to midnight.
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ANTIGUA NIGHTLIFE Antiguans know how to party and the fun continues long after you leave our famous beaches. Many of our hotels offer live entertainment after dinner, while our island restaurants, bars, nightclubs and casinos often stay open until the small hours. This is particularly true in the winter months between December and April when our visitors are celebrating their escape from the freezing weather back home. The temperatures certainly heat up when the sun goes down! Dickenson Bay is the number one hotspot on Antigua’s north coast, particularly so on Friday nights. Putters and Coconut Grove are casual, island-style bars popular with both visitors and locals alike. Nearby, Ana’s on the Beach is a chic beachfront venue offering anything from mellow mood music as the sun sets to the latest tunes for dancing on the sands. You can also boogie the night away to the latest in R&B and hip-hop at the airconditioned Studio 79 Nightclub in nearby Runaway Bay.
ST JOHN’S
King’s Casino still ranks as the number one nightspot in our capital. The Yard in St. Mary’s Street is also very popular on ‘Thirsty Thursdays’. Make for the quaint C&C Wine Bar in Redcliffe Quay where Cutie and Claudine will welcome you with a glass of South African wine. Prefer to take in a movie? Deluxe Cinema on the High Street and the impressive Caribbean Cinemas complex just outside town show the latest movies. For a party scene with a distinctly Caribbean flavour head for BeachLimerz overlooking Fort James Beach. At weekends BeachLimerz presents live entertainment from Thursday night until Sunday night with a variety of well-known entertainers and the famous Harmonites Steelband on Sunday afternoons.
JOLLY HARBOUR AREA
Jolly Harbour is where it’s all happening on the west coast of Antigua. It is now a major yachting centre with a development of attractive condominiums ideally suited for boat owners. The residents and visitors share a great nightlife in a most picturesque environment often illuminated with lights from all the yachts. The Sugar Club, at Sugar Ridge Hotel, overlooking the whole beautiful scene is a great place for a bite and live entertainment. Enjoy a rum cocktail at the popular Crow's Nest in Jolly Harbour. 114
Sheer Rocks at Cocobay Resort - close to Jolly Harbour - is a gracious, stylish venue for sunset cocktails at the tropical bar with a beautiful view overlooking the sea.
ENGLISH AND FALMOUTH HARBOURS
Jam-packed with boats in the winter, the restaurants and bars are always overflowing with sailors determined to make the most of their shore leave. Long established Abracadabra just outside Nelson's Dockyard is a legendary venue with a restaurant that transforms into a popular nightclub. Cloggy’s and South Point offer a more sophisticated ambience combined with views of the yachts at anchor in Falmouth Harbour. Scullduggery Café is much loved for its chocolate martinis! This famous yachting centre of Antigua throbs with life round every corner and is a magnet for the entire yacht community, hotel guests and Antiguan residents of all ages. Proceed onward up the beautiful, historic area of the National Park to the famous bar and restaurant of Shirley Heights. It is constructed in the ruins of an old fort with spectacular views over English and Falmouth Harbours. On Sunday afternoons Shirley Heights is the venue of the most exciting party on the island. There is steelband music as the sun sets and the party ends with live reggae, soca and calypso. Experience for yourselves!
CASINO
If you enjoy a flutter, Antigua’s Vegas-style King’s Casino in St. John’s offers 16 different table games including roulette, blackjack and poker, with over 250 slot machines. There is live music on Friday and Saturday nights, karaoke on Sundays, and bingo on Thursday nights. Plus there is a sports bar, live sports betting, and horse racing simulcasting. The attractive ambience of Kings Casino makes this a focal point for all those wishing to enjoy a special evening out.
Photo: courtesy Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa
DICKENSON BAY
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CRUISE TOURISM A
ntigua continues to welcome some of the largest and most beautiful cruise ships in the world. Our unique little sister island, Barbuda, is a focus for cruise expansion for smaller exclusive cruise ships. Plans are being prepared for a small cruise pier in Barbuda and the visiting ships already include Windstar Cruises, Club Med and Ponant Cruises. Cruise tourism is a major component of our economy and every effort is made to enhance the islands’ facilities and to attract more prestigious ships to our twin-island state strategically located in the heart of the Caribbean. The Government of Antigua and Barbuda contracted the well-established engineering firm, CH2m Hill, to assess the lengthening of the present Heritage Quay pier to accommodate the Mega Quantum class cruise ships. The Heritage Pier is now under construction, with the joint firms of Meridian Construction from the British Virgin Islands and the Florida based BEA Architects.
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Meanwhile the Antiguan tour operators understand that visitors may want more than our 365 beautiful beaches, and they are continually developing adventurous activities to suit every taste. It is hoped that a cruise ship visit of one day will inspire visitors to take a longer vacation in our twin-island nation of vibrant Antigua and our Robinson Crusoe island of Barbuda. Nathan Dundas, long time President of the ABCTA, spearheads the continued drive for Antigua and Barbuda to welcome cruise ship visitors, and for our country to benefit from this dynamic, developing industry.
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THE ANTIGUAN is the definitive tourist guide to Antigua and Barbuda. This pocket-sized handbook enjoys the distinction of being the first comprehensive guide to the twin-island nation, and since 1990 has been an important marketing tool for the Ministry of Tourism. Now available on-line, on-island and from Antigua and Barbuda tourist offices around the world, it not only encourages new visitors to the islands’ shores, but keeps them well informed whilst they are here.
TO ADVERTISE IN THE 2018 EDITION CONTACT FT CARIBBEAN, PO Box 2686, St. John’s, Antigua, West Indies Tel: (268) 462-3292 Fax: (268) 462-3292 Email: ftcarib@apuainet.ag www.theantiguan.com gua
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The Government plans to continue a major enhancement of Antigua’s capital city of St. John's, a major component being the important new car park.
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The dredging of the harbour continues, and the lengthening of the Heritage Quay pier on the north side is constructed to accommodate the Quantum Class vessels of the Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines.
ANTIGUA The purity of light and colour in Antigua combines with its intrinsic tranquillity to inspire a whole host of Caribbean artists. There are some excellent galleries and studios on the island representing a wide range of art, crafts and media ...
ART GALLERIES & STUDIOS ADMIRALS INN & GUNPOWDER ART GALLERIES
Nelson’s Dockyard Tel: 460-1027 Admirals Inn has two art galleries, one in the lobby and the other at Gunpowder Suites in the 18th century building. In Admirals Inn Kate Spencer has a changing exhibition of her original oil paintings of Caribbean life. At Gunpowder Suites, the Antigua Pride Exhibit features dramatic 1960s black and white photos by Margo Davis. Special shows featuring local artists.
HARMONY HALL GALLERY
Brown’s Bay Tel: 460-4120 Email: harmony@candw.ag www.harmonyhallantigua.com This spectacularly set gallery hosts a wide variety of high-quality Caribbean arts and crafts. Every first Sunday (December to April) is an opening of the work of a special artist.
RHYTHM OF BLUE GALLERY
Jan Farara
Dockyard Drive, English Harbour Tel: 770-7888 Email: arawakart@yahoo.com Inspired by the Caribbean Sea, Nancy Nicholson uses local clay to produce her distinctive blue pottery. The Gallery displays Nancy’s pottery and her sculptures, paintings and hand-crafted silver jewellery. Original works by other ocean-inspired Caribbean artists are also on display. Open November to May and by appointment at the Pottery Studio from June to October.
TAINO’S ART GALLERY ONLINE DIRECTORY
Featuring the Best Antiguan Arts & Crafts www.antiguanartists.com
This useful website is an online directory of professional artists (painters, potters, photographers etc.) living and working in Antigua, listing websites, email addresses, telephone numbers, an image of each artist’s work and a brief description of media, styles and inspiration. Visitors to their work places are welcome following a telephone appointment; a map indicates their respective locations.
Jolly Harbour Tel: 562-5852/773-3544 Luis Jarvis at Taino’s has been long-established at Jolly Harbour, and you will find his work stacked inside and out of the Gallery together with collections from many other Antiguan artists. Sometimes he has a work in progress, with vibrant Caribbean colour. Look at his unique shell light fixtures – an unusual souvenir from Antigua.
THINGS LOCAL GALLERY
Nelson’s Dockyard Tel: 776-9657/770-5780 Owner Carl Henry is Antigua’s foremost wood carver. Using Antiguan mahogany and wood from trees naturally felled, his boats, fish and warri boards are much sought-after.
ZEMI ARTS & CRAFTS
Redcliffe Quay, St. John’s Tel: 562-7662 www.wadadli-watercolours.com A unique display of indigenous and local art a world away from mass-produced souvenirs. The contemporary art and design collection includes originals, limited editions and reproductions by Stephen Murphy, as well as other local artists. 117
ANTIGUA Nicholas Hadeed
KATIE MCCONNACHIE
Cobbs Cross Tel: 460-1417/764-0340 Email: wildlifefineart@gmail.com www.katiesfineart.com Katie's favorite medium is prismacolor pencils, which afford her drawings an incredible amount of detail. She also works a great deal in acrylic paints. Her subject matter spans from pet portraits of birds, cats, dogs etc. to native island and underwater wildlife. She is also an illustrator of children’s books and a Muralist.
BUCKLEYS STUDIO
Gilly Gobinet
Buckleys Village Tel: 764-8803 Email: janfarara9@gmail.com www.janfarara.com From abstracts to impressionist seascapes, Jan Farara paints large acrylics on canvas and carries out many commissions. Paintings, prints and cards are on sale at the studio. Open everyday. Call to make an appointment.
ART GALLERY
Fitches Creek (near the airport) Tel: 464-6084 Email: gillygobinet@me.com www.gillygobinet.com Gilly Gobinet's beautiful original paintings are in acrylic and watercolour of Caribbean flora and fauna, marine art, nudes and pet portraits. She has also written and illustrated a series of very attractive small format 'Cool Caribbean' books - her 'Cool Caribbean Cookery Book' won her the 2008 'Best Illustrated Cook Book in the World' award for Antigua. Open Mon-Fri 9am - 1pm and by appointment - commissions welcome. See the Art Gallery of Gilly Gobinet art on TripAdvisor. Sallie Harker Katie McConnachie
FIG TREE STUDIO ART GALLERY
Uniquely located in the heart of the rainforest Tel: 460-1234/773-4321 Email: sallieharker@me.com www.sallieharker.com Sallie has developed an innovative technique using gold leaf and oil paint on wooden shingles for designs of birds and sea life in a distinctive style and patterns. Sallie exhibits her work in her picturesque Fig Tree Gallery which also carries art from other Caribbean artists. The Gallery features contemporary art including limited edition prints, ceramics and Caribbean craft. 118
ANTIGUA Cedars Pottery
EDISON LIBURD
Best of Books Lower St. Mary’s Street, St. John’s Tel: 562-3198/723-6513 Email: edisonartsgallery@gmail.com Edison Liburd is an Antiguan artist whose love of nature, music and people is reflected in his expressive mannerism style. With formal training in the United States, Edison’s uninhibited fluidity and sense of freedom perfectly captures the vibrant energy and varied moods of Caribbean life. Each piece is originally hand done and available in a variety of shapes and sizes.
YELLOWBOAT STUDIO
Turtle Bay Tel: 764-8035 Email: merantoj@candw.ag www.yellowboat.com Jennifer Meranto’s hand-tinted photos of Antigua and the Caribbean are increasingly popular, as are her oneoff shots capturing the essence of island life. Jennifer also sells art made from reclaimed materials found on Antigua’s shoreline, the proceeds from her ‘Vintage Beach Collection’ going towards cleaning up the island’s beaches. Visitors welcome at her studio by appointment.
NICHOLAS HADEED
Tel: 464-9836 Email: hnh@candw.ag Nicholas Hadeed is an Antiguan abstract artist specialising in acrylics. His work is not only strongly influenced by the Impressionists, but also by the heat, light and vibrant colours of the Caribbean. Nick came to painting late in life, his degree in Civil Engineering having led him to a successful career in the construction industry. Today though all his energies go into his paintings, his passion creating distinctive art characterised by bright hues and either intense movement or serene stillness.
Zemi
Nancy Nicholson
JANE SEAGULL
Tel: 734-8945 www.janeseagull.com Jane has an eclectic and, at times quirky, approach to art. Whilst acrylic, oil and watercolour is the standard palette, her papier maché creations are ‘off the wall’ fun!
POTTERY STUDIOS CEDARS POTTERY
Buckley’s Road Tel: 460-5293 Email: potteryc@candw.ag Imogen Margrie and Michael Hunt produce original pieces in urban ware and porcelain clay. Michael’s sculptures in stone and wood are much sought-after.
ELVIE’S POTTERY
Seaview Farm Tel: 463-1888 Hyacinth Hillhouse continues in the tradition begun by her grandmother and mother of making coalpots and other items from local clay – a pleasure to behold.
THE POTTERY
Coolidge Tel: 562-1264 The Pottery Shop, Redcliffe Quay Tel: 462-5503 Email: Sarahfuller51@gmail.com The longest-established pottery in Antigua is where Sarah Fuller produces her unique mobiles and sconces, together with bowls, plates and lamps finished in highly attractive glazes. 119
ANTIGUA DATABASE GEOGRAPHY
Strategically located in the heart of the Caribbean, Antigua is 108 square-miles, Barbuda (27 miles north) is 62 square-miles plus the tiny uninhabited rock of Redonda (20 miles to the north-west). There are about 80,000 people in Antigua, 1,500 in Barbuda and only seagulls on Redonda. From Antigua you can see Guadeloupe, Montserrat, Nevis and St. Kitts.
CLIMATE
Post Offices are located at the Woods Centre, Dockyard, All Saints village and in Codrington, Barbuda. Fedex - the agent in Antigua is Francis Trading located on High Street, St. John's Tel: 462-3339.
EMBASSIES/CONSULAR OFFICES
Antigua entertains representatives from the following foreign governments:
Temperatures range from an average low of 73°F (23°C) in the winter to about 85° (30°C) in the summer. The trade winds blow fairly constantly except in September. The average rainfall is only about 45 inches so there is constant care not to waste water. The rainy season is September, October and November but there are usually only short showers.
British High Commission In Barbados 1-246-430-7800
CLOTHING
Antigua retains a semblance of formality and swimsuits are limited to beaches. There is a nude beach beyond Hawksbill but this is not generally frequented by the residents of Antigua! Casual clothes are the unwritten rule for dining and trips to town.
LANGUAGE
Although English is the only language ever adopted in the island, you may wonder what Antiguans are saying when they chat in their lilting accents. Everybody sooner or later acquires a few idiomatic phrases such as “No big ting” or “Antigua me come from”.
ELECTRICITY
Antigua has a definite current quirk. Most hotels operate on 110 volts, 60 cycles (the same as in the US and Canada). However, some have 220 volts and some homes even have a bit of both. Check before plugging in appliances.
CALCULATING COST
Since there is such diversity of hotels it is best to check with the Antigua Hotels & Tourist Association, Newgate Street, St. John’s, Tel: 462-0374/3703/4928 if you wish to budget exactly. There is 10% service charge (which saves the bother of tipping for everything) and a 12.5% ABS Tax. Rates are cheaper throughout Antigua outside the ‘season’ from December to April. Many hotels offer special packages for golfers, tennis players, gamblers, honeymooners - check with your travel agent.
CURRENCY
The unit of currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC$), issued by the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) and pegged to the US$ at an official rate of EC$2.70 to US$1.00. The ECCB quotes daily rates for the Canadian $, the Euro and £ Sterling and other international currencies.
POST OFFICE
The Main Post Office is centrally located at the foot of Long Street in St. John’s and is open Monday to Thursday from 8.15am to 3:30pm. On Fridays it is open 8am to 2pm. 120
Hon. Consular Office of Britain c/o Grant Thornton
462-3000
U.S. Hon. Consular Office
463-6531
Hon. Consulate of Germany Hon. Consulate of Norway c/o Frances Trading
462-3174 464-3174 462-0858
Hon. Consulate of the Netherlands c/o Gomez Insurance
481-1850
Venezuelan Embassy
462-1574
Embassy of the People’s Republic of China
462-1125
Hon. Consulate of Denmark c/o AWH Holdings Ltd
480-3075
Consulate of Austria
463-8698
GROCERY SHOPPING
Antigua now has a range of excellent spacious air-conditioned well-stocked supermarkets including a wide variety of imported goods. These are located in the north of the island close to St. John’s. The long-established Epicurean has grown into a supersupermarket just off Friars Hill Road. There is also an Epicurean at Jolly Harbour. A splendid supermarket, 1st Choice is located on the Anchorage Road close to Dickenson Bay.
EMERGENCIES
We hope you have a safe and enjoyable vacation in Antigua and Barbuda. However, it is comforting to know that if you run into problems help is not far away. Most hotels are serviced by a 24 hour ‘Duty Doctor’ and in an emergency the reception desk staff will contact their doctor. Mount St. John’s Hospital is situated just off Queen Elizabeth Highway Tel. 484-2700; the Adelin Clinic is on Fort Road Tel. 462-0866; there is also the Hanna Thomas Hospital in Barbuda Tel: 460-0076. The Police Headquarters is on American Road Tel. 462-0125. There is also a station on Newgate Street in St John’s. The emergency helpline is 911
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