ANTIGUAN THE
2014
The Guide to Antigua & Barbuda
A Warm Welcome to Antigua & Barbuda
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Welcome to Antigua & Barbuda Calendar of Events The Heart of the Caribbean Arriving in Antigua 20 Reasons to Visit Antigua & Barbuda Antigua Events Where to Stay – Antigua Hotels Antigua for the Perfect Wedding Antigua Spas – Relax & Unwind Island Map Exploring Antigua Nelson’s Dockyard Beautiful Barbuda Action & Adventure Sailaway for the Day Real Estate – A Piece of Paradise Super Shopping St. John’s Street Map Antigua…A Preferred Caribbean Destination Dining Out Cruise Tourism Antigua Nightlife Offshore Islands Artistic Antigua Antigua Database Antigua Homegrown
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A Warm Welcome T
he Government and people of Antigua and Barbuda extend a warm ‘Wadadli’ invitation to you to visit our twin islands. Thank you for favouring our beautiful twin-island nation for your next vacation experience. As you will see, there is much in store for you in Antigua and Barbuda and I encourage you to come and explore both our islands as they each offer two distinctly different holiday experiences. While in Antigua, take advantage of the numerous land and sea tours that are available to become personally acquainted with the beauty of our island. You can snorkel, kayak, swim with the stingrays, sports fish or zip through the air amongst the lush rainforest canopy. Let your imagination be set free as the sky is truly the limit here. Then for relaxation, exclusivity and seclusion, take a trip to Barbuda where our 17 miles of unbroken beach and beautiful pink sand beckon you to tranquillity.
Antigua & barbuda Tourist Offices ANTIGUA & BARBUDA
Ministry of Tourism Queen Elizabeth Highway, PO Box 363, St. John’s T: 1 268 462 0480 F: 1 268 462 2483 E: deptourism@antigua.gov.ag Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority ACB Financial Centre High Street, P.O. Box W351, St. John’s, Antigua T: 1 268 562 7600 F: 1 268 562 7602 E: info@aandbtourism.com For further information visit www.visitantiguabarbuda.com
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The quiet warmth of the people will make you feel at home. While there, remember to enjoy the delicious Barbudan lobster that is famous for its unique flavour. Whatever your tastes, I am sure there is something to satisfy you in Antigua and Barbuda. Our succulent cuisine, rich heritage and culture are all waiting to be explored by you. Savour all these experiences and see why our country is called the gem of the Caribbean. We hope you have an unforgettable visit to Antigua and Barbuda and wish you an enjoyable stay with a lifetime of fun and unforgettable memories. Sincerely,
Hon. John Maginley M.P. Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation and Culture
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
3 Dag Hammarskjold Plaza, 305 East 47th Street, Suite 6A, New York, NY 10017 T: 1 212 541 4118/1 646 215 6033 F: 1 646 215 6008 E: info@antigua-barbuda.org
CANADA
60 St. Clair Avenue East, Suite 601, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M4T 1N5 T: 1 416 961 3085 F: 1 416 961 7218 E: info@antigua-barbuda-ca.com
UNITED KINGDOM
2nd Floor, 45 Crawford Place, London, W1H 4LP T: 44 (0) 203 668 3800 F: 44 (0) 207 258 7486 E: tourisminfo@aandbtourism.com
2014
Calendar of Events
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ome and relax in paradise - the beautiful and awe-inspiring islands of Antigua and Barbuda. Located in the heart of the Caribbean, our islands have been endowed with an abundance of natural beauty, fascinating history, rich culture and friendly people.
We welcome you to try a new beach for each day that you spend here. We have 365 beaches, some of the best in the world. “The beach is just the beginning” in Antigua and Barbuda, as there are so many possibilities for leisure and excitement. With everything from a zip line experience through the rainforest canopy to an ecotour to one of our dozen offshore islands, you will find land and sea adventures at every turn. We offer a range of accommodation from the ultraexclusive to the all-inclusive. Whether a romantic resort or a charming escape to a villa or inn, we will help you create that “home away from home” experience. We know that a little taste of paradise may not suffice, so if you wish to purchase your own home, go right ahead and take advantage of the wide range of properties available.
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FEBRUARY
Jolly Harbour Yacht Club Valentine’s Day Regatta: February 13-16 l Royal Ocean Racing Club – Caribbean 600 Race: February 24 l Wadadli Day: February 22 l Antigua & Barbuda Open Golf Tournament: l
MARCH l l
The activities calendar is packed with exciting events, so there are year-round happenings to enjoy. Come and celebrate Antigua’s Carnival, the Caribbean’s greatest summer festival or Caribana in Barbuda. Antigua is internationally known for its variety of sailing events, particularly Antigua Sailing Week which evokes the nautical spirit of English Harbour during one of the world’s top sailing regattas. These events provide special experiences for landlubbers as well as sailors. This warm tropical climate is only matched by the warmth and friendliness of our people. You will find that these little sister islands have an unrivaled quality and flavour that make those who visit our shores reluctant to leave, and planning to return. It is with great pride that I invite you to enjoy the many sights and attractions that our country has to offer. Antigua and Barbuda has it all - from the historic 18th century Nelson’s Dockyard in English Harbour to the largest frigate bird sanctuary in the western hemisphere found only on beautiful Barbuda. Antigua is the home of international cricket icon Sir Vivian Richards, our national hero. Our welcoming ambience and charm has attracted luminaries like Eric Clapton, and Giorgio Armani to make Antigua and Barbuda their home. Please enjoy your stay with us and we look forward to you returning again to our sun kissed shores! Sincerely
Annual Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta: April 17-22 & Barbuda International Kite Festival: April 19–21 l Guadeloupe to Antigua Race (Antigua Yacht Club): April 25 l Yachting World Round Antigua Race: April 26 l 47th Annual Antigua Sailing Week: April 26–May 2 l Back 11 Life Music Festival l l
Antigua
Antigua Tennis Week at Curtain Bluff: May 10-17 Barbuda: May 24-27 l International Anglican Food Fair l
Annual
Caribana
JUNE
& Barbuda Marlin Classic: June 6 & Barbuda Sports Fishing Tournament: June 6-8 l Romance Month: Destination Wedding Sweepstakes l Grown & Sexy UK Party: 13-22 June l l
Antigua Antigua
JULY
57th Annual Antigua Carnival Celebrations: July 26–August 5 l 9th Annual Mango Pineapple Culinary Competition l Turtle Watching Season: July - October l
AUGUST
Monday / J’ouvert (Public Holiday): August 4 Tuesday / Last Lap Jump Up (Public Holiday): August 5 l Mango Pineapple Festival l l
Carnival Carnival
SEPTEMBER
Music Festival Nunes Jr. Memorial Fishing Tournament & Seafood Festival l l
Dejam
Francis
OCTOBER
Annual Gospel Festival Independence Fishing Tournament Spring Gardens Moravian Independence Food Fair l National Dress Day / Heritage Day: October 31 l l
10th
Barbuda
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NOVEMBER
33rd Anniversary of Independence (Public Holiday): November 1 l National Tourism Week l 15th Annual Moods of Pan l Best in the West Fishing Tournament l Jolly Harbour Yacht Club Annual Regatta l
DECEMBER
Annual Charter Yacht Show: December 5–11 Day (Public Holiday): December 8 Christmas Extravaganza (Barbuda): December 24 l Antigua Yacht Club ‘Nelson’s Pursuit’: December 31 l Antigua Yacht Club (AYC) High Tides Series l l
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27th
MAY
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Colin C. James CEO Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority
West Indies Sail Regatta: March 1–2 Antigua Yacht Club International Laser: March 8-9
APRIL
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Dining in Antigua and Barbuda will be a special experience. Sample the delicious cuisine, ranging from the spiny Barbudan Lobster to a succulent snapper or a few slices of our naturally sweet Antigua Black Pineapple. For a unique experience try the roadside local food stalls at weekends.
New Year’s Day Parade: January 1 Super Yacht Challenge Antigua: January 31–February 2
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Heroes
Heritage Quay St. John’s V.C. Bird International Airport 268-562-5662 sterlings@candw.ag
Photo: Joseph Jones Photography
The Heart of the Caribbean Antigua & Barbuda are located in the Leeward Islands right in the heart of the Caribbean. These twin islands are famous for their breathtaking beaches, relaxed way of life and the most comfortable climate in the world ...
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he easygoing English-speaking people who call Antigua and Barbuda home have a reputation for humour, hospitality and a ‘no problem’ attitude towards life. Visitors to these shores rarely want to leave and are usually planning to return even before they take-off. Over the years Antigua itself has become very important as the hub of the Eastern Caribbean and V.C. Bird International Airport has seen a tremendous increase in the number of services from North America and Europe. It is also very easy to visit neighbouring Caribbean islands whilst comfortably based here. Facilities in Antigua and Barbuda are also being developed to add variety to life. There is a great range of hotels from world-famous luxury resorts to homely little establishments where the proprietor knows everybody by name and the famous stay incognito. There are also comfortable beach apartments and fabulous villas to rent, as well as casual beach bars where everyone soon knows everyone else. But don’t worry, many of the reputed 365 beaches remain untouched and are just waiting for you to discover them.
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The capital of St. John’s also has two exciting waterfront developments for you to explore. Heritage Quay is a modern complex of boulevards and duty-free shops offering easy access to cruise ship visitors - not to mention everybody else! Neighbouring Redcliffe Quay is a charming contrast, its carefully restored 18th century buildings forming a cosy complex of boutiques and restaurants. The museum in Long Street and the twintowered cathedral both offer areas of tranquility midst the hustle and bustle of town. Jolly Harbour, on the south-west coast, has developed into a major marina, shopping centre, villa village, sports centre and golf club. But it is Nelson’s Dockyard at English Harbour which long ago put Antigua on the international map and which retains its fascination to this day. The unique setting of the Dockyard, the restored 18th century buildings and the surrounding hills leading to the ruined fortress of Shirley Heights all combine to make Antigua unique in the Caribbean. If you add to this historic dimension the fun of such well-known events as Carnival and Sailing Week, you’ll understand why Antigua is dreamed of by visitors long before they arrive.
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Photo: Joseph Jones Photography
Arriving in Antigua Antigua and Barbuda are located 1,425 miles south-east of Miami and just over 4,000 miles south-west of the United Kingdom. Whichever part of the world you’re coming from you’ll receive the warmest Antiguan welcome ...
v.c. bird international airport
If you arrive by air, you will touch down at V.C. Bird International Airport, named after Antigua’s first Prime Minister, Sir Vere Cornwall Bird Sr. The international airport is bustling round the clock with activity. As the main hub for LIAT, The Caribbean Airline, flights leave 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 dedicated FBOs. Within the next few months, arriving passengers touching down at V.C. Bird International Airport will be welcomed by the staff in a brand new Passenger Terminal Building. The spacious, comfortable environment will ensure that passengers’ first and last impressions are positive. The Terminal, which is currently being constructed on an area of 23,000m2, will have 4 jet bridges, 46 check-in counters, a number of self check-in kiosks and a state of the art baggage handling system. Shopping will be an exciting adventure with a mixture of products and services on offer in its 21 stores and restaurants. The improved facilities for customs and immigration inspection areas will facilitate speedy processing for both incoming and outgoing passengers. The Airport Authority is well on its way to achieving its vision of being the “Gateway of Choice to the Eastern Caribbean and Beyond”. The redcap porter service is excellent and it’s advisable to use one of these friendly Antiguans to speed your way through customs.
Airlines
Many international airlines service Antigua. From North America, Antigua is served by American Airlines, Delta, US Air, United Airlines, Air Canada, Air Transat and WestJet. From Europe, Antigua is served by British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Condor and Blue Panorama. LIAT, Caribbean Airlines and SVG Air operate domestic and regional flights daily.
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taxis
Taxis are available outside the airport terminal. Most fares are fixed rather than metered and should be decided upon prior to the trip. A fare from the airport to St. John’s is about US$11 (EC$29), while a trip to Nelson’s Dockyard or Shirley Heights is about US$31 (EC$82).
Driving
For those wishing to rent a car in Antigua, rental car agencies can be found immediately upon exiting Customs. You will be required to present your current valid driver’s license in order to be issued a local license. The local license may be purchased on the spot for US$20 (EC$50) and is valid for 90 days. Driving in Antigua is British-style, with cars staying on the left. Take particular care at night - you will probably encounter cows, goats and strategically located speed-bumps along the road, as well as other drivers not dimming 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 Airport houses a post office and bank. Close by at the entrance to the Airport is the impressive Eastern Caribbean Amalgamated Bank. There are automated teller machines at either end of the check-in counter. Credit cards are widely accepted. 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.
Yachts
Many visitors arrive in Antigua by yacht, sailing into Nelson’s Dockyard in English Harbour, Falmouth Harbour or Jolly Harbour, as well as Antigua’s sister island of Barbuda. Customs and Immigration procedures have been improved and reshaped to better accommodate the unique nature of the yachting industry in Antigua and Barbuda. Immigration and Customs services are operated at all Ports of Entry making it easy to relax from the moment anchor is dropped in the paradise that is Antigua and Barbuda.
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20 Reasons to Visit Antigua & Barbuda
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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! Photo: Jolly Beach
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Our hotels range from friendly local inns with lots of history to world-famous resorts with lashings of glamour.
We’ve also got 365 beautiful white sand beaches for you to explore one for every day of the year.
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Yet the beach is just the beginning! Our twin islands have plenty to entertain you - whether you want to explore, play or relax.
And it doesn’t get much more relaxing than a couple of hours snoozing in a hammock beneath a palm tree.
Why not treat yourself to a soothing massage? Many of our hotels boast luxury spas that are simply ideal for working out those kinks.
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Photo: Joseph Jones
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.
Our 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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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 has plenty of natural beauty too. Our stunning coastal scenery is matched by wonders like Devil’s Bridge, underground caves and the tropical rainforest. 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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But if you’re more in the mood for duty-free shopping, head for Redcliffe Quay and Heritage Quay in our capital St. John’s.
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We even have a fascinating past! History buffs should make for Nelson’s Dockyard, the world’s only working Georgian dockyard.
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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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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.
We’re also very romantic. Our beaches are perfect for moonlit strolls, and you can get married here soon after you arrive!
We’d love it if you had a permanent base here. We make it very easy for you to find your own little piece of paradise and purchase a second home.
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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 ...
Elegance is an attitude Aaron Kwok
Conquest Classic
ANTIGUA EVENTS
World-Class ANTIGUA SAILING WEEK 26 April – 2 May 2014
Where sailing comes first! by Kathy Lammers Once again Antigua Sailing Week 2013 provided an exceptional finale to the Caribbean racing season. 103 boats and crews from 26 different countries participated in this world-renowned regatta that got underway for the 46th time on 27th April 2013. In 2013 Mother Nature served up lighter trade winds than usual. But the race officers were given several courses to choose from every day, so regardless of the wind conditions and the size of the vessels in each class, all the boats could race for approximately 3 to 4 hours each day. No longer though, as the sailors love to plant their feet back on dry land in plenty of time to enjoy the evening’s festivities! Antigua Sailing Week is famous for its social events that include everything from beach parties and international DJs to local entertainers and big name acts from overseas. Attending these official events is easier now that all the races take place on the south coast of Antigua. In 2013 the daily post-race prize-giving on the lawns of the Antigua Yacht Club proved particularly popular, the venue becoming the place to be after the racing had finished. Crews based in both English and Falmouth Harbours were encouraged to gather here to collect their prizes and exchange on-the-water analysis of the day’s events over a Carib beer, an English Harbour rum or even a glass of Veuve Clicquot Champagne. Online entries for Antigua Sailing Week 2014 open early. www.sailingweek.com features some excellent videos as well as hundreds of photos of on-the-water action. If you can’t bring your own boat to Antigua, there are plenty of ways to participate. Visit the charter pages of the website and look at the many different options available from bareboats to hot racing boats. And if you have any questions or comments, please get in touch with us. See www.sailingweek.com Email: roc@sailingweek.com
Photos: Paul Wyeth www.pwpictures.com
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Sailing Events On Friday the wind increased for the ‘Old Road Race’. This trend continued into Saturday. The seas were rough in places and green water cascaded down the decks of even the larger yachts. Sunday did see improvements, but the winds continued to blow for the ‘Cannon Race’. Then came the customary parade into English Harbour. The yachts glided past the overflowing restaurants at Antigua Slipway, their crews in fancy dress, and bursts of cannon fire adding to the nautical vibe. For the last race on Monday conditions returned to normal and it was a brisk Caribbean day. On Tuesday kids and adults took part in the popular ‘gig racing’ event, rowing and sailing their varnished dinghies around the harbour for fun prizes. Then came the final prize-giving presentation on the stage outside the Copper and Lumber Store, an event where almost everyone wins a prize! The overall prizes in 2013 went to Genesis who won the ‘Traditional Class‘, Sumurun who won the ‘Vintage Class‘ and Petrana who took the ‘Classic GRP Class‘ trophy. Wild Horses just beat Spirit of Rani in a tie-break in the ‘Spirit of Tradition Class‘, whilst Stormvogel won the ‘Classic Class‘ and the ‘Yachting World Trophy‘ for best elapsed time overall. Juno beat Adventuress by 34 seconds to get first overall out of the schooners, and Seljm was the fastest schooner for the ‘Beken of Cowes Trophy‘. The final prize, the Panerai watch for the best total corrected time, went to Sumurun. We look forward to a successful Classic Yacht Regatta in 2014.
ANTIGUA CLASSIC YACHT REGATTA
See www.antiguaclassics.com Email: info@antiguaclassics.com
17 – 22 April 2014 By Captain Kenny Coombs, ACYR Chairman
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The Regatta began as usual with the welcome ‘Red Hat Party’ sponsored by Mount Gay rum, local rock band ‘1761’ getting everyone into the party mood. The yachts took centre stage next morning, Adventuress, a recentlyrestored 1924 William Fife Gaff schooner winning the overall prize in the Concourse d’ Elegance judging. The single-handed race followed in the afternoon. The big boat class was won by Sapheadra; the Herreshoff S boat Aquilla was the victor in the small boat class.
Photos: Jason Pickering
he 26th annual Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta in 2013 saw a record number of entries. The weather proved challenging. High winds and building seas created exciting sailing conditions for the owners and captains of these vintage sailing yachts.
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ANTIGUA EVENTS
RORC Caribbean 600 (Royal Ocean Racing Club) 24 February 2014 Since 2009 the RORC Caribbean 600 has proved to be one of the most challenging races in the Royal Ocean Racing Club’s calendar. RORC members Stan Pearson and John Burnie first came up with the idea of creating an offshore race in the Caribbean, their vision finally becoming a reality when the Royal Ocean Racing Club agreed to organise it in association with the Antigua Yacht Club. After five events, the race’s popularity has gone from strength to strength, attracting crews from over thirty different nations to compete in the 600-mile course. Photo: courtesy of Tim Wright - www.photoaction.com
The RORC Caribbean 600 is not only recognised as one of the classic offshore races but it’s become a firm fixture on the offshore racing calendar of the world’s top boats. Referred to as the ‘Caribbean Fastnet’, it sits alongside the legendary Rolex Sydney Hobart, Rolex Fastnet and Rolex Middle Sea races and has proved to be just as complex and challenging. Starting and finishing in Antigua, the challenging course threads its way through
eleven Caribbean islands. Entries have increased by over 50% since the RORC Caribbean 600 first started in 2009, but interest in the race is expected to be even higher for 2014. See http://caribbean600.rorc.org
Jolly Harbour Valentine’s Regatta & Rum Festival Where sailing meets fun! 13 – 16 February 2014 The Jolly Harbour Valentine’s Regatta celebrated its 20th anniversary in February 2013. This annual Antiguan affair now comes with a plus, the Jolly Harbour Yacht Club having developed it into a professionally-run yet fun event suitable for the international regatta calendar. The all-new event features three days of competition in the turquoise waters off the west coast of Antigua. Offering anything from pursuit races to CSA classes and a Laser Pico fleet, the sailing is designed to suit everyone. The quality of the racing is exceptional and is enjoyed by a growing fleet of yachts. Yet it was the addition of the Rum Festival (complete with seven different Caribbean rums!) that completely transformed last year’s shoreside events.
No other Caribbean regatta is associated with a Rum Festival, and the concept is welcomed by sailors and partygoers alike. ‘Rum and Bites’ on the lawn in 2013 was followed by ‘Rum and Rhythms’ in the middle of Jolly Harbour’s Commercial Centre on the Saturday night. ‘Rum on the Beach’ on the Sunday featured beach games, exciting local entertainment and the final awards presentation. The all-new Jolly Harbour Valentine’s Regatta and Rum Festival is ideally scheduled in the middle of the Caribbean racing calendar. This inclusive regatta offers something for everyone, whether sailor or landlubber. Come and join us in 2014! See www.jollyharbourregatta.com
ANTIGUA – A MAJOR CENTRE FOR WORLD-CLASS SAILING EVENTS As you can see from all these exciting sailing events, Antigua has become a major international centre for the yachting world. Antigua and Barbuda’s strategic location, safe harbours, first class marinas, excellent wind and water conditions and exciting social facilities will continue to attract yachtsmen in every category of this great sport.
COME AND JOIN US! 14
ANTIGUA EVENTS
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ANTIGUA EVENTS
February Half-term l Easter Holidays Duration 10-14 Days
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Summer Holidays by arrangement
What comes to mind when you think about West Indies cricket? Passion, flair and excitement are just a few of the superlatives, although for many people it’s simply the beaming smiles of the players. The Richie Richardson Cricket Academy aims to inspire all its pupils to achieve their optimum standards whilst playing with the widest of smiles. Kids who are enjoying themselves are ready to learn. The academy invites aspiring young cricketers from schools and clubs all over the world to beautiful Antigua & Barbuda. They will be coached by West Indies cricket legends at the Sir Vivian Richards stadium, home of the Academy. They will also get the chance to play against talented young West Indian cricketers. This experience of a lifetime continues with tours of local communities to learn about the history of our cricketing greats like Sir Vivian Richards, Andy Roberts, Richie Richardson and Curtly Ambrose. Tours of famous island attractions like Nelson’s Dockyard and Shirley Heights, as well as excursions into the rainforest, to Stingray City and round the island with Wadadli Cats are also part of this unique package. In addition to Richie Richardson himself, the coaching staff includes Curtly Ambrose, Kenneth Benjamin, Ridley Jacobs and Olly Turnbull. They have played over 350 tests and 500 ODIs, scoring nearly 10,000 test runs, taking over 500 wickets and nearly 400 catches between them. See www.richierichardsoncricketacademy.com
Antigua & Barbuda
International Kite Festival 19 - 21 April 2014
The Antigua & Barbuda International Kite Festival is a two day event held over Easter Saturday and Monday. It has fast become the number one family event in Antigua, all different age groups showing up to enjoy the colourful and dynamic kite flying displays. At Devil’s Bridge 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.
Easter Saturday, 19 April 2014 Freeman’s Village Playingfield - 10am to 5pm Easter Monday, 21 April 2014 Devil’s Bridge - 10am to 5pm
Email: tropikiters@hotmail.com Tel: (268) 774-4879
TENNIS AT CURTAIN BLUFF www.curtainbluff.com
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Fantasy Tennis Camp
Antigua Tennis Week
Tennis Challenge
TENNIS & WELLBEING
April 30 - May 4, 2014
May 10-17, 2014
November 2-9, 2014
November 16-23, 2014
Tennis legends Tracy Austin, Tom Gullikson and Johan Kriek team up to headline Curtain Bluff’s Fantasy Tennis Camp. Designed for adults ranging in skill from recreational to tournament level, the event includes 5 days of instruction and play, a welcome party and an exhibition.
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.
Annabel Croft and Andrew Castle team up with tennis legend Owen Davidson to host Curtain Bluff’s annual Tennis & Well Being week. In addition to clinics and matches with the pros, you can enjoy activities like yoga, Zumba and sailing to historic English Harbour.
ANTIGUA EVENTS
48TH ANNUAL
SPORT FISHING TOURNAMENT 6-8 June 2014
A favourite event in Antigua’s festival calendar, the Sport Fishing Tournament is held over three days at Whitsun Weekend. It attracts entries from Antigua, St. Barths, St. Lucia, St.Thomas, Guadeloupe and St. Maarten and 40 boats took part in 2013. The fantastic dock party is almost as important as the fishing itself, especially for the overseas boats who love the Nelson’s Dockyard backdrop. People come to watch the fish being weighed in, buy fish fresh from the stalls and eat fish straight from the grill. There’s everything from crab backs, conch chowder and lobster to seafood pasta, juicy ribs and the famous EC$5 grill. The Rosé Bar and rum and vodka cocktails are also very popular. The main two day event is a fish and a marlin tournament. The organizers encourage marlin to be released which gains points for the team. There is a minimum weight of 300lbs for marlin brought to the scale and any who come in under weight are disqualified. Points are also deducted from the score of the boat that caught it. Now in its fourth year, the Antigua & Barbuda Marlin Classic will be held on Friday 6 June. The entry fee is US$1,000 and the winning boat takes 80% of the entry fee from all boats. This is great news, particularly for overseas boats able to enjoy an extra days fishing before returning home. In September the Francis Nunes Jr. Memorial Tournament and Sea Food Festival will take place. All these events are great days out for the family, with kids’ entertainment, good food and a friendly atmosphere. Visit www.antiguabarbudasportsfishing.com
GROWN & SEXY PARTY HOLIDAY 13-22 June 2014 ‘Grown & Sexy’ is a 9-day Antigua vacation exclusively for the over-30s. A group of 100-plus people, mainly from the UK but also from the USA and other countries throughout the Caribbean, come to Antigua to party and experience everything the island has to offer. DJs also fly in to take over some of the island’s top nightspots. So if you remember the 80s and like soul, R&B, disco, pop, reggae and rare groove then this is the trip for you. The vibe is relaxed and friendly, it’s just a group of like-minded over-30s who know how to enjoy themselves sharing a common love of music. Prices start from £520 (US$780) and include beachfront accommodation (self-catering apartments, B&B or all-inclusive options available), transport and entrance to all events including beach parties, theme nights, a Sunday trip to Shirley Heights, a horse-riding session along Antigua’s white sand beaches and a catamaran boat cruise with all food and drink. Yes, all of this is really included! The entertainment is relaxed and chilled, so it’s easy to unwind on the beach during the day and then party hard once the sun has gone down. Why don’t you sign up for this unforgettable holiday in paradise!
See www.grownandsexy.co.uk
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ANTIGUA EVENTS
MANGO FESTIVAL July & August, 2014 Antigua’s annual Mango Festival is a unique and fun event that’s not to be missed. There are many different varieties of this exotic local fruit and its versatility is well demonstrated at this special festival. A number of smaller events lead up to the Grand Finale which is held each year at Christian Valley on the south-west coast of the island. The Mango Festival celebrates its 9th year in 2014 and promises to be bigger and better than ever. One especially delectable event is the ‘Mango Pineapple Culinary Competition’. This is where some of the island’s most talented chefs, pastry chefs and bartenders from major resorts, restaurants and bars compete. Their dishes and beverages must have local mangoes and pineapples as the main ingredients, events such as these encouraging the hotels and restaurants to incorporate more locally-grown produce into their menus. The festival culminates in mid-August when visitors are able to sample and purchase unusual, locally-made products such as mango lip gloss and mango lotion. Participants can also taste and buy some of the biggest and juiciest mangoes ever seen! Savour the exotic nature of Antigua by indulging in the sweetest fruit festival in the region.
MOODS OF PAN FESTIVAL
November 2014
Moods of Pan Festival is a three-day steel pan festival hosted by Gemonites Steel Orchestra in November. 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 tuned. 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.
GENERATION NEXT FOOTBALL CLUB (GNFC) Football has become increasingly popular with the Caribbean’s younger generation. The Antigua-based GNFC not only conducts coaching clinics and camps for young footballers, but it also hosts a series of successful football events throughout the year. Now a full-blown Caribbean Academy, the GNFC enjoys ties with international clubs including UK’s Bolton Wanderers FC, Tottenham Hotspur FC, Stoke City FC, Bristol Rovers FC and Spain’s Valencia CF, plus MLS’s New York Red Bulls. The clinics not only give ‘on the field’ coaching, but also classroom tutoring so that youngsters achieve a better understanding of the game’s rules, regulations and tactics. As a result, October 2012 saw two promising young footballers competing in Bolton’s Annual Grand Skills Competition. Four players trained with the Red Bulls in the summer of 2013; later in the year a further twelve trained with Stoke City and six travelled to Bristol for Academy trials. The Under-17 Tournament held during the summer of 2013 secured participation from 15 clubs in the UK and USA. The GNFC motto is ‘preparing the next generation of professional footballers’. The club is confident that there will be many future professional footballers from the Caribbean. See www.generationnextfc.com or www.generationnextfc.co.uk
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SANDALS FOUNDATION PACK FOR A PURPOSE The Sandals® Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Sandals Resorts International. It is committed to programmes which create a positive and sustainable impact on the people of the Caribbean and the environment. The Foundation continually strives to play a meaningful role in the lives of the communities where Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts operate. Therefore it has formed a fitting partnership with ‘Pack for a Purpose®’. This is a non-profit organisation providing vacationers with the opportunity to help local community projects by bringing essential supplies to their vacation destination. Travellers are given a wish-list and encouraged to pack in their suitcases up to five pounds of much needed essentials such as school and medical supplies and sports equipment in Antigua, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Turks & Caicos and the Bahamas. Guests travelling to Sandals Resorts and Beaches® Resorts who wish to participate can thus significantly contribute to The Sandals Foundation’s commitment to foster education in the Caribbean. In less than 18 months, this powerful partnership has proved to be highly successful. Resort guests have donated over 900 pounds of school supplies and equipment which have been distributed throughout 26 primary and secondary schools adopted by The Sandals Foundation throughout the islands. In Antigua, Willikies, Villa and Cedar Grove Primary Schools have received enough reading material to maintain their classrooms and school libraries. Through the weekly Reading Road Trip, the generous donations of more than 200 guests from Grand Pineapple Beach Resort and Sandals Grande Antigua have helped to enhance literacy programmes. Five pounds is always gladly welcomed, but the participating educational institutions are grateful for donations of any weight and amount. The Sandals Foundation is proud to give 100% of all proceeds contributed by the general public directly to a variety of programmes benefitting the Caribbean community each year. To learn more about The Sandals Foundation, or to participate in the ‘Pack for a Purpose’ initiative, visit www.sandalsfoundation.org
CHRONO CLASSIC 1/100 HERITAGE QUAY, ST. JOHN’S | VC BIRD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT 268-562-5662 | STERLINGS@CANDW.AG | STERLINGSANTIGUA ON FACEBOOK
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Antigua Carnival Antigua’s Carnival, the Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival, showcases all aspects of Carnival, music, mas, steel pan and pageantry. This is the perfect time to experience the island’s culture, music and food. Join in the fun between 26 July and 5 August, 2014.
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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! 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. 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.
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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.antiguacarnival.com
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Photo: Joseph Jones Photography
Where to stay Photo: Jumby Bay, a Rosewood Resort
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. ADMIRAL’S INN Nelson’s Dockyard This charming boutique hotel and restaurant comprises several beautifully-restored 18th century buildings used by Nelson. Spectacularly set within a brickwalled enclave, its tropical gardens overlook the harbour. The 22 air-conditioned rooms range from superiors in the historic buildings to newly restored deluxe suites on the adjacent point with an infinity pool overlooking Nelson’s Dockyard. The al fresco, waterfront restaurant and bar serves locally sourced dishes and refreshing Caribbean drinks. Free boat shuttle to the beach takes 5 minutes. Sailing, scuba diving and tennis are available. Tel: (268) 460-1027/1153 Email: contact@admiralsinnantigua.com www.admiralsinnantigua.com
BLUE WATERS HOTEL
ADMIRAL’S GUNPOWDER HOUSE & SUITES
BUCCANEER BEACH CLUB
Nelson’s Dockyard These newly restored deluxe suites, attached to an 18th century gunpowder store on the point opposite the Admiral’s Inn, provide the perfect marriage between historic charm and modern luxury. Each spacious air-conditioned suite has a four-poster bed, lounging area and balcony overlooking English Harbour. Enjoy elegance, timeless appeal and a unique vista from the large infinity pool with scenic terraces overlooking Nelson’s Dockyard. Free boat shuttle to the Admiral’s Inn and beach. Sailing, scuba diving and tennis available. Tel: (268) 460-1027/1153 Email: contact@admiralsinnantigua.com www.admiralsinnantigua.com
ANTIGUA VILLAGE
Dickenson Bay Set in a tropical garden, 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 Fax: (268) 462-0375/4285 Toll Free: 1 866 590 8713 Email: info@antiguavillage.net
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Soldier’s Bay Situated midst 17-acres of tropical gardens in the north-east corner of Antigua, Blue Waters Hotel enjoys a long-standing reputation as one of the Caribbean’s finest resorts. The wide-ranging leisure facilities include 7 freshwater pools, floodlit tennis, a fitness centre, non-motorised water sports, three secluded beaches and a luxurious Elemis spa overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The three restaurants offer specialities from local seafood to French fusion cuisine, while the varied accommodation choices include beachfront rooms, the Cove Suites, Rock Cottage and the new Turtle Cottage. P.O. Box 256, Soldier’s Bay, St. John’s Tel: (268) 462-0290 Email: frontoffice@bluewaters.net www.bluewaters.net
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. Water sports, restaurants, bars and supermarkets are located within walking distance and the friendly staff are always available for you. Tel: +1 (268) 562-6785 Fax: +1 (268) 562-6784 Email: buccaneerbeachclub@candw.ag
CARLISLE BAY
Old Road Situated on the beautiful south coast, Carlisle Bay combines contemporary luxury with a beautiful beach setting. This is one of the most talked-about hotels in the Caribbean! The 82 spacious suites with private terraces or balconies offer breathtaking ocean views and cool calm interiors. There are three great restaurants, three bars and an award-winning spa, all of which are open to non-residents. Day passes are a fantastic way to experience Carlisle Bay with its dive centre, complimentary water sports and Cool Kids Club. Tel: (268) 484-0000 Fax: (268) 484-0001 Email: info@carlisle-bay.com
ANTIGUA HOTELS
ANTIGUA HOTELS
ANTIGUA HOTELS
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 25 individual cottage 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. This 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 cottages 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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ANTIGUA HOTELS
Carlisle Bay
Contemporary luxury on the beach For luxury, sophistication and contemporary style look no further than Carlisle Bay. Set on Antigua’s unspoilt south coast, its pristine halfkilometre beach is sheltered in a secluded bay with a backdrop of rolling hills and lush rainforest. The 82 spacious suites range from the romantic Ocean and Garden Suites to the family-friendly Beach and Carlisle Suites. All have cool, contemporary interiors, balconies or terraces and stunning ocean views. Carlisle Bay also has three enticing bars and three excellent restaurants: East for pan-Asian fare, Indigo on the Beach for grills, seafood and salads, and the poolside Ottimo! serving Italian classics from an authentic wood-burning oven. Total relaxation and wellbeing are fundamental to Carlisle Bay’s philosophy - the Blue Spa was awarded the Condé Nast Traveller ‘Readers’ Choice Award for Best International Spa 2013’. It offers an extensive treatment menu from Natura Bissé, a gym and six treatment rooms including a wet room and couples’ room. There is also a yoga and Pilates pavilion, 9 tennis courts and water sports including sailing, kayaking, snorkelling, windsurfing and diving. Kids clubs offer a variety of fun activities, and there is a private screening room showing movies daily and a library showcasing top beach reads. Above all, this privatelyowned hotel exudes a sense of tranquility and seclusion. Carlisle Bay is also open to non-residents. Buy a day pass and enjoy all the hotel has to offer, or simply stop by for a couple of hours to pamper yourself in the Blue Spa, enjoy a cocktail by the ocean or dine in one of the three restaurants.
Three Ways to Enjoy Contemporary Luxury on the Beach Stay for an hour - Let your troubles melt away with a relaxing treatment at our award-winning spa. Stay for the evening - Relax with a cocktail before eating in one of our three fantastic restaurants. Stay for the day - Enjoy lunch, tennis, watersports, the gym and chill on the beach with a seasonal day pass.
Carlisle Bay, Old Road, St Mary’s, Antigua Tel: +1 268 484 0000 Email: reservations@carlisle-bay.com
carlisle-bay.com
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ANTIGUA HOTELS
Galley Bay Resort & Spa The award-winning Galley Bay is a long-established, intimate, Caribbean hideaway, which delights guests with its gracious unpretentious atmosphere and relaxing, all-inclusive pricing. The long stretch of white-sand beach, and lush tropical gardens create a spectacular natural setting at the edge of a unique lagoon and bird sanctuary. Arriving guests are escorted from the sugar mill reception across a unique causeway which crosses the centre of the lagoon to the beachfront area of the resort. At Galley Bay, the visitor is completely carried away from the hectic pace of the rest of the world. Non-motorized water-sports add a dimension for the adventurous without disturbing the tranquility of the environment. The Indulge Spa offers a posh tree-house atmosphere to pamper yourself with an extensive range of treatments. To maintain this peaceful atmosphere, the hotel only welcomes children 16 years and over. This boutique hotel’s 98 guest rooms are set amid 40 acres of tropical gardens, providing privacy, and are mostly situated along the beachfront providing spectacular ocean views and direct beach access. The distinctive Gauguin-style cottages, tucked away in the gardens, have lagoon views and concealed individual plunge pools. Galley Bay was awarded one of the “Top 25 Caribbean Resorts” named by Condé Nast Traveler and among the “Top 10 Best Resorts for Romance in the Caribbean” by the readers of TripAdvisor.com.
With three romantic open-air restaurants and three welcoming lounges, it’s not necessary to leave Galley Bay. Live entertainment, cocktail parties and Caribbean barbecues fill the tropical evenings. There is a full array of complimentary water-sports with instruction, and optional excursions. It is a pleasure to relax by the dramatic cascading waterfall and swimming pool as if by a natural mountain spring. There are jogging trails, bicycles, and tennis courts for the energetic. Visitors to Galley Bay return year after year to enjoy the unique Caribbean location and the timeless relaxed ambiance.
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: (800) 345-0356 or (268) 462-0302 www.galleybayresort.com ST. JAMES’S CLUB & VILLAS
Mamora Bay This breathtaking 100-acre resort has two pristine white sand beaches, as well as limitless activities for everyone to enjoy. St. James’s Club is the perfect place for singles, couples and families alike. Tel: (800) 345-0356 or (268) 460-5000 www.stjamesclubantigua.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: (800) 345-0356 or (268) 562-6845 www.verandahresortandspa.com 30
ANTIGUA HOTELS
The Verandah Resort & Spa The Verandah Resort & Spa is nestled along Antigua’s pristine east coast. This unique eco-friendly luxury resort encompasses 30 beachfront acres with two powder whitesand beaches and the special attraction of hiking trails. There are 200 luxury villa-style suites featuring delightful Caribbean architecture and decor. The Verandah is bordered by Devil’s Bridge National Park with its dramatic landmark rock arch perfect for exploration and for hosting the 2014 Antiguan Kite Festival. The uninhabited nature sanctuaries of Green Island and Bird Island are easily reached by boat, and the swimming at these locations is superb. Guests can enjoy kayaking, snorkelling and windsurfing, or plunge into Antigua’s largest free-form swimming pool. Exotic treatments are available at the resort’s signature Spa Tranquility. There is a fitness centre and tennis. There are a choice of restaurants – both casual and gourmet - plus inviting bars, live entertainment and a mini-cinema. Children enjoy supervised activities at the resort’s dedicated Kidz Club, featuring its own pool and climbing adventure, while teens gather for volleyball and other fun-filled activities.
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The whole family can play at the newly designed miniature golf course. Experience tranquil waterfalls, serene ponds, tropical landscape, challenging golf and more as you follow the pathways on an unforgettable Caribbean adventure. It’s fun exploring the tropical golf course during the day and at night, under the stars! Grab a putter and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
ANTIGUA HOTELS
St. James’s Club & Villas Situated on a secluded 100-acre peninsula on the south-east coast of Antigua, St. James’s Club Resort & Villas maintains a casual, club-like ambience. This exclusive hideaway with $20 million renovation just completed, caters to couples and families with a variety of accommodation, amenities and activities. The tropical landscape and two magnificent white-sand beaches – Coco Beach on the Atlantic Ocean side and the calm Caribbean waters of Mamora Bay – offer guests a choice of venues. There is a wide array of island and water-based diversions. St. James’s Club provides complimentary nonmotorized water sports such as kayaking, pedal boating, windsurfing, catamaran sailing and snorkelling activities. With its own Mamora Bay Dive Shop, deep-sea fishing options and an entire excursion fleet, plus an 18-slip marina, St. James’s Club has it all. There are six swimming pools, and the therapeutic Spa Tranquility with salon treatments. For the energetic there are six tennis courts and fitness centre.
Families appreciate the award-winning Kidz Club and supervised children’s programmes. Four distinct restaurants offer a range of casual and fine dining options and nightly entertainment is also provided. There are 250 guest rooms, suites and villas to suit every possible requirement. These include the spectacular Royal Suites, the ultimate luxury experience featuring an adultonly atmosphere with private check-in and concierge.
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ANTIGUA HOTELS
CATAMARAN HOTEL 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 COPPER & LUMBER STORE Nelson’s Dockyard Located in Nelson’s Dockyard, the Copper & Lumber Store is one of the finest examples of Georgian architecture in the Caribbean. There are 14 suites or studios. The Georgian theme extends to their décor and all rooms are named after one of Admiral Horatio Nelson’s ships. Excellent meals are served in the restaurants or central courtyard. The hotel’s dockside lawn provides a stunning setting for the popular Seafood Friday, served alfresco and featuring some of the most delightful and tasty dishes to be found anywhere in Antigua. Tel: (268) 460-1058/460-1159/60 Fax: (268) 460-1529 Email: clhotel@candw.ag www.copperandlumberhotel.com 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, water sports, scubadiving, squash and fitness facilities. PO Box 288, St. John’s Tel: (268) 462-8400/1/2 Fax: (268) 462-8409 Email: curtainbluff@curtainbluff.com
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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 close to The Tides Restaurant, these 7 Caribbeanstyle 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 fullyequipped 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 Email: dutchmansbay@gmail.com www.dutchmansbay.com
GRAND PINEAPPLE BEACH RESORT ANTIGUA Long Bay This classically laid-back Caribbean resort invites its guests to take a deep breath and simply relax. It’s located on the edge of a stunning beach and features 180 rooms, many of them with ocean views. Enjoy unlimited meals, cocktails, land and water sports as well as some of the best snorkelling on the island. Welcome to the easy slice of paradise...all at an incredible value. Tel: (268) 463-2006 www.grandpineapple.com HERMITAGE BAY Hermitage Bay A unique concept in Antigua, Hermitage Bay is in total harmony with its surroundings. Individual cottage 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
ANTIGUA HOTELS
Jumby Bay A Rosewood Resort
This is an exclusive retreat on its own 300-acre private island, 2-miles off the coast of Antigua. Accessible only by boat, with no cars disrupting the tranquil ambiance, Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resort, offers a relaxed Caribbean escape midst rare tropical plants, lofty palms and two superb white-sand beaches. The ultra-luxe resort features 40 spacious rooms and suites, as well as a collection of lavish villas and private estate homes with their own pools and full access to the amenities of Jumby Bay. ‘Sense®’, A Rosewood Spa is an open-air sanctuary with five relaxation suites and spa treatments that evoke a sense of local tradition using natural resources. For active visitors there are water sports, tennis, 3-miles of hiking and biking trails, a croquet lawn, a putting green, a fitness centre, a daily complimentary children’s programme, a 25-meter freshwater lap pool and an oceanfront infinity pool. Guests enjoy three dining venues including the open-air beachfront Verandah Restaurant, the bistro-style Pool Grill, and the elegant Estate House, its Italian-inspired cuisine served in a 230-year-old plantation manor.
Readers’ Choice Awards. The resort was also awarded ‘Top 25 Hotels in the Caribbean’ on TripAdvisor: Travelers’ Choice and was among U.S. News & World Report’s ‘Best Hotels in the Caribbean’.
In 2013 Jumby Bay received the AAA Five-Diamond jb among antigua.pdf 1 6/14/12 10:05 Award and060612 ranked the ‘Top 25 Spas in the AM Call 888.ROSEWOOD. Atlantic and Caribbean’ in Condé Nast Traveler’s See www.jumbybayresort.com
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Set on a 300-acre private island two miles off the coast of Antigua, Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resor t casts a spell of serene enchantment. Fresh from a multi-million dollar enhancement, this secluded hideaway offers discerning travelers a relaxed and authentic Caribbean escape with superb white-sand beaches, lush tropical environs, the new Sense, A Rosewood Spa ® and world-class service. Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resort · 268.462.6000 or 888-ROSEWOOD jumbybay@rosewoodhotels.com· rosewoodhotels.com
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ANTIGUA HOTELS
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 Antigua’s best beach by a mile. Amenities include two pools, five restaurants, bars, nightly entertainment, The Casino at Jolly Beach operated by Kings’ Casino, water sports, Jolly Teenz and Kidz Clubs, Palms Wellness Centre, Spa, Gym and Salon, complimentary WiFi in designated areas, as well as conference facilities. The resort is just 7 miles from St. John’s and approximately 20 minutes from the airport. PO Box W2009, St. Mary’s Tel: (268) 462-0061 Fax: (268) 562-2302 Email: info@jollybeachresort.com JUMBY BAY A Rosewood Resort Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resort is set on a 300-acre private island two miles off the coast of Antigua. Following its multi-million dollar enhancement, this secluded hideaway offers discerning travellers a relaxed and authentic Caribbean escape with superb white-sand beaches, lush tropical environs, Sense, A Rosewood Spa® and world-class service. Tel: (268) 462 6000 Fax: (268) 462 6020 Email: jumbybay@rosewoodhotels.com
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Charming 50 room boutique hotel Set on the hillside, within beautiful tranquil gardens overlooking the Caribbean Sea Home of the long-established Bay House Restaurant Serving meals all day with no time limits Within easy reach of the airport, St. John’s, beaches and golf course Ideal for couples, honeymooners and the business traveller Free WiFi, business centre Facilities for cocktails, banquettes, conferences and meetings
Welcome to the intimate peaceful Trade Winds Hotel, offering that “personal touch” and catering to all your needs. Dickenson Bay, PO Box 1390, St. John’s, Antigua
tel: (268) 462 1223
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website: www.twhantigua.com
ANTIGUA HOTELS
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 muslindraped 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. 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
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. Enjoy the exciting and unique Sugar Ridge experience. Sugar Ridge, PO Box 153 Jolly Habour, Antigua Tel: (268) 562-7700 Fax: (268) 562-7701 Toll Free USA 1 866 591 4881 Email: hotel@sugarridgeantigua.com Reservations: (268) 562-7700 Email: reservations@sugarridgeantigua.com
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ANTIGUA HOTELS
Buccaneer Beach Club The Buccaneer Beach Club is located directly on the famous Dickenson Bay beach. The 16 one-bedroom villas and 2 two-bedroom cottages are designed in a colourful Caribbean style and are surrounded by flowers and tropical palms, with views of either the freeform swimming pool or the tranquil turquoise bay. The poolside villas feature fully equipped kitchenettes; the cottages have full kitchens, and all have cable TVs, DVD players, safe, air-conditioning and pull-out beds in the living room. The villas can easily sleep a family of four, while the cottages can comfortably accommodate four adults and two children. Daily maid service, free internet and laundry are included in the rates. While most relaxation-seeking guests spend their days around the swimming pool or on the white sand beach, a whole host of leisure amenities are available nearby including water sports, tennis, horse riding and mountain biking. All the fashionable bars and restaurants of Dickenson Bay are just a stone’s throw away and the helpful staff of Buccaneer Beach Club are always available for reservations and suggestions. The staff speak English, French and Italian. www.buccaneerbeach.com
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ANTIGUA HOTELS
Admiral”s Inn & Suites Nelson’s Dockyard A charming, historic boutique hotel
Enjoy fresh, locally sourced food and drinks on our scenic al fresco terrace overlooking the historic harbor +1 (268) 460 1027 info@admiralsinnantigua.com
LE JARDIN CREOLE ‘the Secret Garden’ Hodges Bay This is an intimate little garden inn with holiday cottages such as ‘Palm Cottage’, ‘Coco Cottage’ and ‘Banana Cottage’. There are guest rooms with equally evocative names like ‘Frangipani Room’, ‘The Flamboyant Treehouse Room’ and ‘The Hibiscus Room’. Le Jardin Creole is located on Antigua’s north coast in Hodges Bay, just minutes away from Dickenson Bay, Jabberwock Beach, Kitesurf Antigua, Cedar Valley Golf Course and The American University of Antigua. It is close to St. John’s and the airport. Your hosts Peter and Kathy will introduce you to the spirit of real island life. Tel: (268) 561-1835 or (268) 464-7576 Email: lejardincreole@candw.ag SANDALS® GRANDE ANTIGUA RESORT & SPA Dickenson Bay Located on Dickenson Bay, considered among the best of Antigua’s 365 beaches, Sandals Grande Antigua has been voted the ‘World’s Most Romantic Resort’ year after year for 14 years. At this ‘Luxury Included ® Resort‘ you’ll find two worlds of romance the intimate and charming Caribbean Grove nestled in tropical gardens beside the sea, and the magnificent six-star-rated all-suite Mediterranean Village with its epic architecture and the largest pool in the Eastern Caribbean. For a uniquely exotic experience, choose a luxury villa suite or a seaside garden Rondoval Suite-in-the-Round, both with private pool and butler service. Tel: (268) 462-0267/484-0100 Fax: (268) 462-4135/484-0213 PO Box 147, Dickenson Bay, St. John’s SIBONEY BEACH CLUB
Dickenson Bay Siboney Beach Club is an intimate all-suite hotel for those seeking an alternative to the all-inclusive resort. An outstanding host and his staff welcome you to the 12 well-appointed one bedroom suites, each with separate living areas and fully-equipped mini-kitchens, set along the white sands of Dickenson Bay with a lush tropical garden and freshwater swimming pool. The renowned Coconut Grove Restaurant is just steps away. A ‘wellness program’ featuring vegan and vegetarian meals, holistic therapies plus a library of relevant books, is also available. Free WIFI. Toll Free: 800-533-0234 Tel: (268) 462-0806 Fax: (268) 462-3356 Email: info@siboneybeachclub.com
SUGAR RIDGE
St. Mary’s With a spectacular 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 Fax: (268) 562-7701 Email: hotel@sugarridgeantigua.com Website: www.sugarridgeantigua.com
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ANTIGUA HOTELS
Jolly Beach Resort & Spa Antiguan hospitality and welcoming staff make Jolly Beach Resort & Spa the perfect choice for a fun-inthe-sun beach getaway at amazing all-inclusive or room-only rates. For couples planning their dream wedding Jolly Beach Resort & Spa is the perfect choice. Antigua’s most experienced, hands-on coordinators plan every detail and offer a choice of packages including the exclusive new ‘Tropical’ and ‘Classical Weddings’ created by Antiguan designer Mark Brown. Guests can relax on the stunning mile-long beach and take to the Caribbean sea for windsurfing and kayaking. Just steps away from the beach there are two pools, tennis and basketball courts, a Games Room and Fitness Centre. Children 3-16 years old can mingle at the ‘Jolly Kidz’ and ‘Teenz Clubs’ with their full schedule of supervised activities and memorable experiences. Live bands and cultural shows keep the fun going after dark, and at The Casino at Jolly Beach gaming enthusiasts can play roulette, blackjack, Caribbean Stud Poker and an array of slot machines owned and operated by King’s Casino.
Dining options abound, the five restaurants offering cuisine as varied as Caribbean, Italian and Indian. Guests can also pamper themselves at the resort’s Palm Wellness Centre Spa. Bridal parties can de-stress and beautify for their big day, and couples can make the most of their precious time together with a massage on the beach. Even the kids will enjoy choosing their own favourite ways to rejuvenate. For more information on Jolly Beach Resort & Spa visit www.jollybeachresort.com
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ANTIGUA HOTELS
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 onebedroom suites that include private sitting areas, or family style two-bedroom units with dining rooms and oversized living areas, plus complimentary in-room Wi-Fi. Swimming pools, water sports, 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 Toll Free: (USA/Canada) 1 888-411-2012 Toll Free: (UK) 0 800-098-8511 Email: reservations@tranquilitybayantigua.com www.tranquilitybayantigua.com
TRADE WINDS HOTEL 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
ANTIGUA VIP
Antigua’s Most Personal Inns, Hotels & Resorts Those seeking an authentic Caribbean experience, and excellent value for money, should consider the Antigua VIP option. Antigua VIP (Very Intimate Places) showcases some of the island’s smaller properties. This select group of hotels, inns and resorts focuses very much on personal service and Caribbean hospitality.
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Scattered throughout Antigua, these locallyowned or managed hidden gems are quite unique. Locations and styles are varied; some are beach resorts, while others are rural properties; some are business hotels while others are historic inns. Wherever you choose you will enjoy an individual sense of style and the pleasure of being pampered in a warm and welcoming environment. See www.antiguavip.com for more information
ANTIGUA HOTELS
THE INN AT ENGLISH HARBOUR English Harbour Historic charm precludes no modern comforts at The Inn at English Harbour, located in one of the most magnificent bays of the Caribbean. Guest rooms feature individually controlled A/C, flat screen cable TVs, free Wi-Fi 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: the inn@candw.ag www.theinn.ag The two hotels in downtown St. John’s are ideal for the business traveller or those wanting to be close to the varied amenities of our capital. The contact details are below:-
CITY VIEW HOTEL
Newgate Street Tel: (268) 562-0259/60 Email: reservations@cityviewantigua.com www.cityviewantigua.com
HERITAGE HOTEL
Heritage Quay Tel: (268) 462-1247/8 Fax: (268) 462-1179 Email: heritagehotel@candw.ag
info@tranquilitybayantigua.com
RESORT • RESTAURANTS & BARS • SPA & WELLNESS | P.O. BOX 256 SOLDIERS BAY ST. JOHN’S ANTIGUA W.I WEBSITE: WWW.BLUEWATERS.NET | E MAIL: BLUEWATERS@THREESIXTYHOTELS.COM
RESERVATIONS: TEL:+44 (0) 870 360 1245 F +44 (0) 870 360 1246 USA TEL 1 800 557 6536 ANTIGUA TEL 268 462 0290
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Photo: courtesy Sandals® Resorts
Antigua for the Perfect Wedding
Antigua and Barbuda attract honeymooners for obvious reasons. Yet there’s another dimension to true love which is now almost as popular - getting married in Antigua. It’s easy to tie the knot here soon after you arrive, but please check you have the correct documents with you … The procedure starts at the Ministry of Legal Affairs on Queen Elizabeth Highway (Tel: 268-462-0017). You must take both passports and a copy of your divorce papers if there has been any previous marriages. There will be a friendly interview, then your licence will be issued. The cost is EC$405.00 (US$150.00). The next step is a visit to the Registrar General’s office which is also on Queen Elizabeth Highway (Tel: 268-462-0609). The fee is EC$100.00 (US$40.00). Please note that this is only for registering at the Court House. An official marriage certificate costs EC$25.00 (US$10.00). If the wedding is performed outside the Court House, there is a Marriage Officer fee of EC$270.00 (US$100.00). The location is left solely up to you! Obviously Antigua is the ideal honeymoon location. All the ingredients for wedded bliss are here. In fact, Antigua is likely to provide such a good beginning that honeymooners will need to return for their anniversaries to keep the romantic momentum alive. It’s also great to make a party of this (hopefully) once-in-a-lifetime event by bringing along special family and friends. An inexpensive group package can be arranged, and a second honeymoon enjoyed by those married in less exotic surroundings! It will encourage single friends to plan an Antiguan wedding experience.
WEDDINGS IN ANTIGUA The Legal Requirements Please bring the following documentation with you:F Valid passports as proof of citizenship F Original divorce decree or, in the case of a widow or widower, the original marriage and death certificate F If there has been a name change, provide affidavits in cases where you are known by another name F Both parties must be over 15. If under 18 written authorisation from parents or guardians is required. NB: All documents presented should be original or certified original by the issuing departments or offices. Your marriage must also be solemnized in the presence of two or more witnesses - just ask some fellow hotel guests to do this for you. Most people choose to get married on their hotel grounds and even the beach. Church ceremonies will require the permission from the church authorities where you wish to be married and some churches ask that the couple attend pre-nuptial consultations. Allow some extra time if planning a church ceremony. The Ministry of Legal Affairs is open Monday to Thursday from 8am to 4:30pm and on Fridays from 8am to 3pm.
Antigua is fortunate to have a first-class wedding photographic service – Joseph and Janet Jones of ‘Antigua Brides’. View their beautiful wedding photos at www.antiguabrides.com Tel: (268) 462 7317/(268) 774 7317
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A
ntigua & Barbuda are a match made in heaven for couples wanting to tie the knot. Named the ‘Romance Capital of the Caribbean’, each island offers something different for visitors planning to say “I do.” Antigua has superior white-sand beaches and activities galore, while Barbuda is a simpler, more reserved place that’s blessed with miles of secluded pink-sand beaches. Getting married in Antigua & Barbuda is a breeze, an island breeze that is! With no residency requirement, one can get married within the hour. The numerous exclusive resorts and stunning beaches make for a fairytale wedding and honeymoon. You can plan in stages or hire a wedding planner who will take care of all the details. Why not wed in Antigua and spend the day in beautiful Barbuda? Perhaps a beachside wedding is more your speed or getting married in a small island church. You can plant a tree at the Martello Tower in Barbuda and visit it yearly as a testament to your growing love. Bring your family along or celebrate your intimate moment all alone.
June is the official ‘Month of Romance’ in Antigua & Barbuda. It’s a month of celebration as a lucky couple from North America will win an Antiguan wedding in the Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority’s Destination Wedding Promotion. In 2013, one lucky couple was the recipient of the Luxury Villa Wedding prize; Jen and Daniel exchanged villa vows at Villa St. James, accompanied by family and tourism officials.
Photo: Jen and Daniel at their wedding at Villa St. James
Passion in Paradise – A Love Story
Our romantic islands are guaranteed to cast a spell of lasting love upon you. Come and experience the perfect wedding. For more information, contact: The Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority Tel: 1-888-268-4227 or Email: info@antiguabarbuda.org Or visit our website at www.visitantiguabarbuda.com
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Photo courtesy St. James’s Club & Villas
Relax & Unwind
Many of Antigua’s hotels have first-class spas. The rejuvenating treatments are perfectly enhanced by our healthy climate, relaxing ambience and serene sea views ... In addition to traditional treatments like 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, seaweed and sea salt, whilst others prefer to pamper you with luxury items like caviar, water lily and pearl extract. Nowadays, of course, these treatments are not just for women. Sports massages and fitness facials are available for men, whilst couples massages are particularly popular with honeymooners. 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. • 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. • The Spa at Blue Waters has a beautiful waterside location. It offers Elemis Signature spa treatments in three treatment rooms. This elegant full-service salon also features a nail area, a hairdressing service, a spa café and an infinity pool, as well as yoga sessions on the deck. • The ultra-stylish Blue Spa at Carlisle Bay offers Natura Bissé facials and a full range of beauty and body treatments. There are six treatment rooms here (including one for couples and a wet room), as well as a sauna, gym, juice bar, and hair and beauty salon.
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• The Indulge Spa at Galley Bay is a rustic multi-level 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • Tranquility Body & Soul Spas are located at both the St. James’s Club and The Verandah. 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. • 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 Bamboo Polish, Caribbean Sea Mud Wrap and Scents of Love Couples Massage.
ANTIGUA SPAS
Spa Finder AVEDA CONCEPT SPA Sugar Ridge, Near Jolly Harbour Tel: 562-7700 www.sugarridgeantigua.com Blue Waters Hotel Blue Waters Tel: 462-0290 www.bluewaters.net Carlisle Bay Old Road Tel: 484-0000 www.carlisle-bay.com CURTAIN BLUFF Old Road Tel: 462-8400 www.curtainbluff.com GALLEY BAY Five Islands Tel: 462-0302 www.galleybayresort.com hermitage bay Hermitage Bay Tel: 562-5500 www.hermitagebay.com Jolly beach resort & spa Jolly Beach Tel: 462-0061 www.jollybeachresort.com JUMBY BAY, A ROSEWOOD RESORT Long Island Tel: 462-6000 www.jumbybayresort.com SANDALS GRANDE ANTIGUA Dickenson Bay Tel: 462-0267 www.sandals.com St. james’s club Mamora Bay Tel: 460-5000 www.stjamesclubantigua.com THE VERANDAH RESORT & SPA Dian Bay Tel: 562-6845 www.verandahresortandspa.com Spa treatments vary and full details are available by contacting the individual salons or hotels. Ask for details on half and full-day packages.
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y Ba
MAP OF ANTIGUA
ck en so n
BLUE WATERS
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Di
HALCYON BY LE JARDIN CREOLE■ REX RESORTS ■ Crosbies SANDALS GRANDE ■ Le Bistro Grand Bay Casino● TRADE WINDS HOTEL ANTIGUA VILLAGE ■ AUA ● ■● Bay House ● Xtreme Coconut Grove● Cedar Valley Golf Course BUCCANEER BEACH CLUB ■ ● Grand Estates ■ Royal Palm Court Studio 79 Nightclub ● ANCHORAGE La Bussola ● ●The Larder Big Banana ● ● Cinema INN Runaway ECAB ● ●1st Choice ● Epicurean Village Walk Bay V.C. BIRD ● Cafe Bella INTERNATIONAL Wood’s Centre AIRPORT
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● Carib World Travel ● Woods Pharmacy ● Sengupta & Associates ● Anjo Insurance
Fort James GRAND ROYAL ANTIGUAN ■
Caribbean Alliance
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AL
L
HERMITAGE ■ BAY
SA
IN
Golden Grove
Five Islands Harbour
Island Provisions
FACT ORY Potters ROA D Village Sir Vivian Richard’s Stadium Townhouse Megastore
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TAMARIND VILLAS HAWKSBILL BY REX RESORTS
AM ROAD
OLD PARH
ST. JOHN’S● King’s Casino ● KFC
GALLEY BAY ■
Piggots
TS
Elvies Pottery
RO
AD
Ebenezer Jennings Jolly Harbour Golf Course
TRANQUILTY BAY ■ Bolans JOLLY BEACH RESORT ■ The Crows Nest JOLLY HARBOUR ■ ◆ RESORT & MARINA ■ ● SUGAR RIDGE Shell’s Fish & Chips ● ● Art at the Ridge
All Saints
Fryers Point Tamarind Hills ❒
Valley Church
Darkwood Beach Jacqui O’s
A SH
Johnsons Point
Y LE
R
KE
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Turners Beach
U MO
Cades Bay
Tyrells Church
Liberta E RIV ◆ Footsteps Hiking D E RE ◆Rainforest Canopy Tour GT
FI
St. Mary’s Church
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SOUTH COAST HORIZONS
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Swetes
S
N AI NT
Old Road
CURTAIN BLUFF ■ ■ Boxer Shack ● CARLISLE BAY
Carlisle Bay
Rendezvous Bay
Frigate Bird Sanctuary
Jabberwock Beach
BAY
Dutchman’s Bay The Tides
CODRINGTON
Low Bay
Long Island
Palmetto Point
Maiden Island
COCO POINT LODGE ■
North Sound
T
Guiana Island
Spanish Point
Crump Island
St. Peter’s Church
Stingray City
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St. Stephen’s Church
Seatons Glanvilles
Betty’s Hope Potworks Dam ◆ Reservoir Range
The Peninsula
Devil’s Bridge
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THE VERANDAH
Willikies
Nonsuch Bay ●■
Newfield
Green Island
■ MILL REEF CLUB
llo Baughb y y
lf Ba Moo y n
Wi
Ha
CATAMARAN HO TEL
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Freetown
Bethesda
● Crab
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Harmony Hall
Donkey Sanctuary
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Pelican Island
GR
Parham
AN D LO P NG INE BA APP Y H LE OT BEA EL CH
RE S
St. George’s Church
Two Foot Bay
OR
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Cecilia’s
The Caves
LIGHTHOUSE BAY RESORT ■
BY JUM
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BARBUDA
Hole Liquors
Falmouth Harbour
ES
UIT INNER S S ’ u L ANTIGUA D Liq A YACHT CLUB Hole MIR POWzi ■ ab AD UN raz ’s r C SOUTHPOINT ■ ● ■ & G apa Dog P alty ●Cloggy’s ●● S
Nelson’s Dockyard ■
COPPER & LUMBER STORE
ors
■ ST. JAMES’S CLUB
■ THE INN
●Shirley Heights
Lookout Restaurant
English Harbour
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Exploring
Photos: Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority
Devil’s Bridge
Antigua is not all about white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters! Why not rent a car or hire a taxi and discover the unique attractions of our island? From scenic drives through ancient rainforests to colourful markets and historic colonial plantations there really is something for everyone ...
DEVIL’S BRIDGE
Situated at Indian Town, this is a 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!
PARHAM
This was the earliest British settlement in Antigua. A road connects the little 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 Antigua and Barbuda Humane Society provides shelter for more than 150 donkeys at its sanctuary in Bethesda about 30 minutes outside St. John’s. Here the neglected, roaming donkeys not only find a haven that is safe from roads and traffic, but they also receive food, water, shelter, medical care and lots of love. The Humane Society also offers an ‘Adopt a Donkey’ programme which provides visitors with a photo of their donkey and an official adoption certificate. We encourage you to take a trip to Antigua’s Donkey Sanctuary and experience for yourself what so many have discovered - there’s more to a donkey than you thought! Admission is free, although donations are greatly appreciated and fund the continued work of the facility. Help save Antigua’s gentle donkeys! Tel: (268) 461-4957 Email: abhumane@candw.ag www.antiguaanimals.com
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MUSEUM OF ANTIGUA & BARBUDA
The Museum, located in downtown St. John’s, provides an interesting background of the nation’s history from 10,000 years ago. Learn how the islands were formed and who lived here, and discover all about the effect the Arawaks and Caribs had on the island. An interesting hour or two can be spent at the museum. Admission is free but a minimum donation of US$2 is encouraged.
Museum of Antigua & Barbuda
Antigua’s Donkey Sanctuary
Antigua
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 St. John’s Cathedral
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.
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.
PUBLIC MARKET
The market in St. John’s provides an extensive and attractive covered outlet for the abundance of Caribbean fruit and vegetables. Upstairs are delightful small boutique-style shops. 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.
FIG TREE DRIVE
The best drive in Antigua! Fig is the Antiguan name for bananas, but the road is lined with lots of tropical fruit trees - guavas, mangoes, oranges and coconuts. Fig Tree Drive is the major road opposite the pink coral Catholic Church just outside the town of Liberta, north of Falmouth. This area of green rainforest is something like the Garden of Eden. Explore the forest from above with the popular Canopy Tour. Go slowly until you descend to Old Road and the Curtain Bluff area, passing the pineapple farm.
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.
BETTY’S HOPE
Betty’s Hope
Built in 1674 by Sir Christopher Codrington, this was the site of one of the first full-scale sugar plantations on Antigua. It remained in the Codrington Estate until the 1920s. Betty’s Hope is located just south of Pares Village.
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Photo: Joseph Jones Photograhy
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...
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JABBERWOCK BEACH
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DUTCHMAN’S BAY
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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. l
This quiet, secluded beach is close to Jabberwock and opposite Long Island, home of the famous Jumby Bay Resort. There are two excellent beach restaurants right on the water, Cecilia’s Café and The Tides which is a spacious venue suitable for functions such as weddings. l
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. l
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. l
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.
RENDEZVOUS BAY
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.
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TURNERS BEACH
This is a perfect beach at Johnson’s Point with excellent local restaurants literally on the sand. Visit Jackie O’s overlooking the Caribbean Sea for delicious fare in a perfect tropical atmosphere. l
DARKWOOD BEACH
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. l
FRYERS 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. l
JOLLY BEACH
The well-known Jolly Beach Resort is located here, with the advantage of Jolly Harbour marina and supermarket. l
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. l
FORT JAMES
The historic ruins of Fort James overlook a lovely beach near the entrance to St. John’s Harbour. l
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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.
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.
THE AMERICAN UNIVERSITY OF ANTIGUA (AUA) College of Medicine
F
or nearly ten years, Antigua is proud to have AUA as part of its community. The University’s modern, impressive campus is located near the airport, adjacent to Jabberwock Road on the north side of the island. With a diverse student body, an experienced faculty, and a U.S.-modeled two-semester curriculum, AUA provides students with an exceptional medical education. AUA is one of the few international medical schools to be approved by the New York State Education Department, recognized by the Medical Board of California, and provisionally
accredited by the Caribbean Accreditation Authority for Medicine and Other Health Professions. AUA’s Wi-Fi enabled campus is one of the most technologically advanced in the Caribbean. BlackboardLearn™ and Echo360 lecture capture technology allows students to learn beyond the classroom and the Center for Simulated Learning contains some of the latest medical simulators. Students also have access to early hands-on training at Mount St. John’s Medical Centre. The campus also includes a gym, tennis courts, cricket fields, lecture breakout rooms, research labs, and a library. There are beautiful white sand beaches just minutes from campus. After two years on the island, students finish their medical education at affiliated hospitals throughout the U.S. and Canada. Alumni have secured residencies at the Mayo Clinic, University of Pennsylvania, Brown University, Case Western Reserve, University of Toronto, and other prestigious universities. For more information about AUA please visit: www.auamed.org
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Nelson’s Dockyard
English Harbour, with its world-famous Dockyard named after Admiral Horatio Nelson, is Antigua’s most prized historic possession. It’s not only a monument to the past but also a focus of activity and a year-round home for yachts.
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n the Dockyard are all the facilities which make it such 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.
Photo: Fort Berkeley courtesy Sarah Scott
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). Continued on page 57 ...
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Just 27 miles off the north coast of Antigua lies the coral-fringed sister isle of Barbuda, renowned for its tranquility, crystalline waters and deserted beaches ... By Annabel Fuller
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ENGLISH HARBOUR
10YR OLD
AWARDED 96 OF 100 POINTS AND RATED AS EXCEPTIONAL by WineEnthusiast Magazine in 2009
FEATURED IN THE BROADWAY PLAY ‘GOD OF CARNAGE’ IN 2009 GOLD MEDAL 2010 AT THE INT’L REVIEW OF SPIRITS
by The Beverage Testing Institute scoring 93 out of 100 points
1981 VINTAGE ENGLISH HARBOUR
AWARDED 96 OF 100 POINTS AND RATED AS EXCEPTIONAL by Wine Enthusiast Magazine in 2009
GOLD AWARD WINNER 2010 RUM MASTER COMPETITION in the Design and Packaging category
PLATINUM MEDAL 2010 AT THE INT’L REVIEW OF SPIRITS by The Beverage Testing Institute scoring 98 out of 100 points
MASTER AWARD – 2013 RUM MASTERS COMPETITION
ENGLISH HARBOUR
5 YR OLD
NAMED AS ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST REMARKABLE RUMS IN 2006 BY FORBES MAGAZINE.
(N.B. English Harbour 5yr was the youngest rum on the list; all the other rums were aged at least 8 years or longer.
GOLD MEDAL AND RATED AS EXCEPTIONAL AT THE INT’L REVIEW OF SPIRITS
by The Beverage Testing Institute scoring 92 & 91 points in 2005 & 2010 respectively
GOLD AWARD WINNER 2010 & 2013 RUM MASTER COMPETITION in the Aged Rums 5-7yr category
GOLD MEDAL – BEST RUM
at the 2011 New York World Spirits Competition
continued from page 54 ...
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. 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.
As well as all the fascinating historical aspects of Nelson’s Dockyard, there are nice little boutiques, shops, restaurants and bars. Restaurants include the famous Admiral’s Inn, the impressive Copper & Lumber Store, and the Hamilton’s restaurant in the old Officers’ Quarters. An addition to Nelson’s Dockyard, Dow’s Hill Interpretation Centre is well worth visiting.
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 recent ‘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 Antiguans in period costume.
Shirley Heights on Sunday afternoons is a legendary venue for fun with a steelband and barbecue, as well as spectacular views of the sunset over Nelson’s Dockyard. And ‘those in the know’ often venture across the water to the Antigua Slipway to Paparazzi restaurant for food and drink with a splendid view of the harbour.
Photo: Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority
Photo: The Dockyard Museum courtesy Cheryl Carter
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, Francis Nisbet.
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Beautiful Barbuda Antigua’s sister island of Barbuda is 27 miles off the north coast of Antigua. This coral-fringed island is renowned for its tranquility, crystalline waters, deserted beaches and delicious lobster!
B
arbuda is easily acessible from Antigua with the ‘Barbuda Express’ ferry or a ‘Tropical Adventures’ tour. The island can also be reached in less than 10 minutes from the V. C. Bird International Airport. Visitors make the journey for the very simple pleasures of sun and serenity, with a pristine pink and white sand beach which seems to stretch forever. Guests can enjoy the luxurious Coco Point Lodge (open from November to April), the Lighthouse Bay Resort in Low Bay, or simple guest houses and smaller hotels that are located around the island’s capital Codrington.
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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. Authorized bird watching trips can be organized through the Park’s office. (Contact tel: 268-460-0217 or email at nationalparksbarbuda@gmail.com). 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.
Formed entirely from coralline limestone, Barbuda is 62 square-miles in size, and flatter than Antigua with a maximum altitude of 40m and an average elevation of 4m 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.
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 for bonefish 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.
The lagoon supports one of the world’s largest colonies of Frigate Birds (Fregata magnificens), which have become a prized tourist attraction. With a wingspan of up to 8ft, 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.
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 fortress, still sitting 56-foot high, was originally used for defence and as a vantage point from which to spot valuable shipwrecks on the outlying reefs.
BARBUDA EXPRESS The best way to get to Barbuda on a daily basis. The ferry leaves each morning from the bottom of Long Street in St. John’s. Check-in is at 8:30am and the return journey is at approximately 5pm. Fully licensed by The Antigua & Barbuda Marine Safety Authority and US Coastguard, drinks are served on board during the 90-minute voyage. A great way to get from A to B by sea! Phone: (268) 560-7989 Email: barbudaexpress@yahoo.com
TROPICAL ADVENTURES 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. Tel: (268) 480-1225
www.tropicalad.com BARX - The Antiguan - 1/4Pg Ad - v1final (06/12/13) Email: tropad@candw.ag
Photo: Joseph Jones Photography
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, Rockstones Lagoon Café and Restaurant, 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 the season. Consider timing a trip to coincide with Barbuda’s Caribana cultural festival which falls annually between May and June, or with horse racing which take place twice monthly, and is a very popular local pastime. The unique natural beauty and peaceful way of life will make a visit to Barbuda the trip of a lifetime and will lure you back again. Visit www.visitantiguabarbuda.com or contact your nearest Antigua & Barbuda Tourist Office - see page 2.
Photo courtesy Martha Watkins-Gilkes
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The #1 Tour Operator in Antigua! Tropical Adventures Antigua
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The Best Island & Sea Tours in Antigua
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 both on land and at sea.
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 Look-out. 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.
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
ISLAND SAFARI & HALF MOON BAY
Half Moon Bay is regarded as one of Antigua’s most beautiful beaches. This tour takes you past many stunning beaches, small villages, and through Fig Tree Drive, Antigua’s tropical rainforest. Visit Walling’s Dam, Convent Hill, and Newfield village before enjoying a delicious local lunch at a roadside café on the way to Half Moon Bay which is a spectacular end to this tour.
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.
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ANTIGUA’S SPORTS COMPLEXES
Jolly Harbour Sports Centre has 4 floodlit tennis courts (2 with synthetic grass and 2 hard courts), plus swimming pool, squash court and basketball court. There’s also a Sports Bar with TVs. Tel: 462-3085 ext. 642.
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To book these tours please contact TROPICAL ADVENTURES Tel: (268) 480-1225 Email: tropad@candw.ag www.tropicalad.com
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The Temo Sports Complex at Falmouth Harbour lies adjacent to the Antigua Yacht Club. It has floodlit synthetic grass tennis courts and 2 squash courts. Court reservations are recommended: 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!
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 OCEAN ADVENTURES
Power boat charters
Tel: (268) 464-7576/561-1835 A selection of first-class motor boats are available for full day, six hour or four hour charters. The boats have wonderful names, ‘Coconut Kiss’, ‘One Love’ and ‘Sunsplash’. The 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.
DEEP SEA FISHING
CARIBBEAN HELICOPTERS V.C.Bird International Airport
Tel: (268) 562-8687/460-5900 www.caribbeanhelicopters.com Caribbean Helicopters offer an amazing bird’s eye view of Antigua, as well as its surrounding waters and offshore islands. Get a special view of our island paradise! For an amazing helicopter experience, take the unique opportunity to fly over Montserrat, now world-famous for its volcanic eruptions reminiscent of Pompeii! An unforgettable helicopter adventure.
Photo: Kelsang Drime
Nightwing Charters Tel: (268) 464-4665 Overdraft Tel: (268) 464-4954/463-3112 Experience the excitement of fishing for marlin, tuna, kingfish, wahoo, barracuda and even shark in the Atlantic fishing grounds of Antigua. Two deep sea fishing charter companies – ‘Overdraft’ and ‘Nightwing Charters’ aim to have you and your family ‘hooked’ by the end of your trip.
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 to the island with a world-class, safe and enjoyable experience whilst exploring the wonders of the underwater realm. They pick up from Jolly Harbour, as well as surrounding hotels, and dive the sheltered west and south coasts of the island, including Cades Reef. The reef offers plenty of dive opportunities for the novice, as well as the experienced diver. Most of the dive sites are about 20-minutes away. PADI courses, special packages and night dives are all available.
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WINDSURFING 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. For daily wind check, rental or lesson, call (268) 773-9463 or (268) 461-9463. ‘Bend de knees feel the breeze’.
ACTION & ADVENTURE
ATV TOURS FREESTYLE ATV TOURS
Tel: (268) 726-3572 Email: freestyletours@yahoo.com Adventure awaits on this guided off-road tour in allterrain 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.
SALTY DOG’S SCOOTER RENTALS
Jolly Harbour Tel: (268) 562-8444 Email: saltydogspub@gmail.com www.saltydogspub.com Discover Antigua at your own pace by hiring one of Salty Dog’s scooters from Jolly Harbour. Motor along the coast on a new Yamaha BWS 50cc or 125cc, taking pictures of distant Montserrat and stopping off at beautiful beaches such as Turners and Darkwood. Carry on through the rain forest and enjoy fresh Antiguan black pineapple at Clemie’s before making a quick stop at the 250-year-old St. Barnabas Church in Liberta. Continue to historical Nelson’s Dockyard and up to spectacular Shirley Heights. Return for refreshments at Salty Dog’s and a cooling paddle-board ride!
GARDEN TOURS GARDENS OF ANTIGUA TOUR
Tel: (268) 480 2999 Email: joyfarrellnyc@hotmail.com The Gardens of Antigua Tour is an exciting new dimension for Antigua, showing visitors the diversity of our tropical island gardens. It is hosted by television garden personality, Joy Farrell. Explore three beautiful and diverse gardens off the beaten track. The first has amazing hilltop views, the second shows local animals and demonstrates organic farming, and the third has a traditional physic garden which is a legacy of Antigua’s original bush medicine. Sample delicious seasonal fruits and healthy bush tea. This is a morning tour, with door to door service, for just US$65.00. Book through Carib World Travel, tel: 480-2999 or email as above.
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antigua rainforest canopy tour Unique eco-tours through Antigua’s lush rainforest. Embark on an unforgettable journey through the verdant forest high above the trees.
T
he choice of four tours all offer uncompromised safety, visitors installed on a complete double wire throughout with a Double Redundant system. The state-of-the-art harness and safety helmet are from the world’s leaders in challenge course equipment. All staff guides have attended and passed the most stringent training programme conducted by the design and construction company for Antigua Rainforest Canopy Tours. They are authorised vendors for ACCT, world leaders for Challenge Course standards in installation, operation and inspection. The Full Challenge Course and the Full Zip Line course begin at an historic pump house in the heart of Antigua’s countryside.
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Exhilaration Amongst Nature
ACTION & ADVENTURE
ACTION & ADVENTURE
A suspension bridge over the water leads to the start of these two tours. After a short forest trail, you meet the twelve aerial zips (up to 360-feet long and 300-feet high) criss-crossing the gorge and three aerial walkways. There are a series of zip lines and suspension bridges connecting to the unforgettable ‘Leap of Faith’ and then it’s onto the magical twin tree houses hidden away from the rest of the world. For those taking the Full Challenge Course you are then led onto the typical rope challenge elements that do not require physical strength and all give you an extra opportunity to have a bird’s eye view of the backdrop of flora, fauna and numerous bird species in the rainforest. All of the tours will finally bring you to the facilities of the bar/café. Here you can relax on the viewing veranda with a refreshing drink or visit the gift shop and collection point for your action photos. Open 6 days per week from 8am to 2pm (closed on Sundays) Reservations are recommended. Fig Tree Drive, Wallings, Antigua. Tel: (268) 562-6363 Fax: (268) 562-6364 Email: arc@candw.ag www.antiguarainforest.com
These tours include physical exertion and are not recommended for pregnant women, persons with a history of heart conditions, seizures, back, knee or shoulder problems or other pre-existing health problems. Participants maximum weight 260 lbs; there is no minimum height for the Zips Tour. Participants need to be 5-feet tall for the Challenge Course.
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ACTION & ADVENTURE
MONTSERRAT ADVENTURE A visit to our 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.
KITESURFING Kitesurf 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.
MONTSERRAT DAY TOURS
Tel: (268) 461-9361/722-8188/9092 Email: jennytours@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 Monday and Thursdays. Check-in 7:30am at Brysons Pier, Heritage Quay.
While in Antigua try to find time for the experience of a lifetime by visiting Montserrat.
SEGWAY TOURS
Visit www.visitmontserrat.com
Fort James Beach Tel: (268) 562-7433/ 720-2609 www.segwayantigua.com Riding a Segway is a fun experience and a unique way to see Antigua’s attractions - especially if you are accompanied by a vehicle and experienced tour guide. Sign up for the ‘Conquerors of the Fort’ signature tour, a TripAdvisor winner which includes the island’s historical and cultural highlights, as well its scenic coastline. If you have time, the longer tours explore Antigua’s beaches, beaten paths, and picturesque historic villages.
SEGWAY ANTIGUA TOURS
HIKING FOOTSTEPS HIKING
Tel: (268) 460-1234 / 773-2345 Email: info@hikeantigua.com www.hikeantigua.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.
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ACTION & ADVENTURE
GOLF IN ANTIGUA 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 is an established par 71, 5,587 yard 18-hole championship golf course lying adjacent to the Jolly Harbour Marina. Designed by leading golf course architect Karl Litton of Florida, it is set in lush tropical parkland, easterly breezes cooling the fairways sculpted into the green hilly landscape. The clubhouse has a pro shop, snack bar, showers and locker room. Tel: (268) 562-6951 Email: golf@jollyharbourantigua.com
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ACTION & ADVENTURE
XTREME HEALTH AND FITNESS GYM Friars Hill Development, corner of Marble Hill Road
The instructors are geared to make you feel the pain and, if you require a specific body workout, extra motivation or more direction, you can request one of the highly-accredited personal trainers to help you reach your fitness goal. Other facilities at this conveniently located gym include showers, sauna and locker rooms, easy parking and excellent customer service. All the equipment is on par with international standards.
Staying fit maximises our levels of health, wellness and happiness. Xtreme Health and Fitness Gym is Antigua’s latest fitness facility, offering everything you need to get into the best shape of your life. Visitors are welcome. This new 6,000 sq.ft. state-of-the-art gym offers a full range of cardiovascular and strength training equipment, along with free weights and a spacious and air-conditioned aerobics centre. Over 50 exciting and challenging classes are scheduled each month, from yoga and Pilates to Hip Hop and the ever popular Zumba. Even Boot Camp workouts are offered.
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ACTION & ADVENTURE
CREOLE CRUISES ANTIGUA
I
magine yourself gliding across crystal clear waters on this custom-built 40-foot speed boat, the Caribbean breeze gently cooling you, while you sit back and enjoy the beauty of Antigua. Visit two islands and discover Antigua’s magical underwater world during the guided snorkelling or relax on the beach taking a swim in the warm Caribbean Sea. For lunch enjoy mouthwatering freshly grilled lobster served on the beach, prepared by your very own chef. The freshest local ingredients are used – fish and chicken lunch on request. Drinks are included – try the famous Creole Cruise homemade old-fashioned rum punch. The Creole Cruises team aims to ensure that you will spend a perfect day in paradise and make this your special vacation experience. The friendly crew will show you secluded spots on the island and answer your questions about island life. The boat provides shelter from the sun, bathroom facility, freshwater shower and comfortable seating. It is equipped with two 300 horsepower engines, G.P.S. Depth Sounder, VHF and radio, and is fully insured and licensed. On board are life and snorkel vests and all snorkel equipment. For information visit www.creolecruisesantigua.com Email: creolecruises@candw.ag
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Sail Away for the Day Don’t miss the chance of a day trip at sea. Antigua’s catamarans and yachts offer a variety of different excursions, with swimming, lunch and an endless supply of drinks usually involved! And look out for the chance to snorkel off Cades Reef.
EXCELLENCE POWER CATAMARAN Photo: Joseph Jones Photography
Tel: 480-1225
The 82 ft. 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.
MYSTIC II SAILING CATAMARAN Tel: 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.
WADADLI CATS
Tel: 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.
ONDECK SAILING
Tel: 562-6696 Skype: ondeckantigua Ondeck is a sailing experience unique in Antigua. It teaches people who want to sail to the highest level, whilst also catering to those who want to take it easy, sip a rum punch and relax on a beautiful beach. Another exciting innovation is the opportunity to race in Antigua Sailing Week or any other of the major Caribbean regattas - you can even sail across the Atlantic to Europe.
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SAILAWAY
WADADLI WADADLICATS CATS
Choose from 3 cruises ...
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 Antigua’s anything crystal clear bays and uninhabited islands and its fiislands sh-stocked from Antigua’s crystal clear bays and uninhabited to its reefs just perfect cruise will also include fish-stocked reefsfor justsnorkelling. perfect forYour snorkelling. Your cruise will great music and company, and it’s easy and to get on boardbeas also include greatfun music and fun company, it couldn’t you willtobe up right on the oneon of the beach easier getpicked on board as you’ll be beach pickedfrom up right island’s main hotels. from one of the island’s main hotels. Wadadli Cats offer 5 well-established catamarans. 66-foot catamarans, The the 66-foot ‘Spirit of Antigua’ is a state-of-the-art vessel that guarantees a state-of-the-art vessel that guarantees thethe fastest and most exhilarating sailing speeds available in Antigua. Such speedy cruising means that you only have access you’llwill notnot only have access to to the the beaches snorkelling but you’ll plenty bestbest beaches and and snorkelling sites,sites, but you’ll alsoalso havehave plenty of of time relax over your Caribbean-style buffet lunch. open time to to relax over your Caribbean-style buffet lunch. AnAn open bar, snorkelling gear, convenient stem ladders and freshwater showers are all part of the deal deal.too, Deck awnings andand spacious deck awnings spacious roofed areas provide you with plenty of also available to provide youshade. with plenty of shade. And, of course, if you’re looking for a special way to celebrate a birthday, anniversary or wedding, consider onetoofconsider the don’t forget company’s private charters. into the Antigua’ one of the company’s privateGet charters. So‘Spirit comeofon, get into and sail away with Wadadli Cats! the ‘Spirit of Antigua’ and sail away with Wadadli Cats!
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 CRUISE Sail the tranquil waters of the north-east coast to Bird Island, one of Antigua’s most famous National Parks. Enjoy a tour of the island and a mouthwatering lunch before swimming in the calm protected bay. This cruise is a particularly good choice for children and beginner snorkellers. 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 ...
wadadlicats.com or 268.462.4792
circumnavigation I cades reef I bird island
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A Piece of Paradise Why not really make yourself at home in Antigua? Renting or purchasing a second home on the island has become very popular and there is a wide choice of villas, apartments and real estate options available ...
Photo: courtesy Island Living
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any visitors to Antigua fall in love with the island and dream of having a second home in the sun. Of course, it’s also a firstclass investment opportunity. But whether you’re buying Antiguan real estate for rental, residential or investment purposes, you’ll be joining an everincreasing band of expatriates who find the idea too good to miss, especially as the new Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP) may qualify them to obtain Antiguan citizenship.
There is a wealth of real estate options available here, many overseas visitors settling in the areas of English Harbour, Jolly Harbour, Browns Bay or Cedar Valley. Location is vital, of course, and will have a great impact on your own enjoyment, as well as on the resale value. As with any real estate transaction, you’ll need to retain the services of a lawyer and legal costs are 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.
If you simply prefer to purchase a piece of land and build your own dream home here, there are many island-based contractors who will be delighted to help with the design and construction. For example, RCL Reitz Construction has many years experience building Caribbean-style properties with swimming pools, contact (268) 464-7576 or 561-1835 or email itstimeinc@candw.ag. Another Antiguan company specialising in the design, construction and maintenance of pools is Waterscaping Limited and they can be contacted on tel: (268) 720-7665 or email: mcgyverpools@hotmail.com. 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 equipped with their own pools and surprisingly cost effective for families or groups of friends. Whilst these villas boast all the amenities of home, the helpful staff take away all the domestic responsibilities and leave you free to relax. Over the following pages we are delighted to showcase some prime developments currently available or in the planning stages ... continued on page 78
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Sugar Ridge Antigua’s ‘sweet spot’, Sugar Ridge is a boutique hotel with luxury homes 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. Some of the best beaches in Antigua are just steps away. Both restaurants, Carmichael’s hilltop fine dining venue and the fashionable Sugar Club enjoy local reputations for excellence, and the bar is the place to ‘lime’ at weekends. The hotel has been open since Christmas 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. Bucking the trend in the market, last year saw the construction and sale of four more homes on Sugar Ridge. Two houses were the client’s own design and builds, two were Sugar Ridge standard specification homes. 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; 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. Sugar Ridge is now in the process of designing two more homes for construction and sale during 2014. The standard homes are coveted for their design, quality and value, and are available from US$950,000 to US$2,500,000. You can still build your own dream home on any of the other 40 plots. Plot prices start at US$375,000. 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
Prices from US$950,000 www.sugarridgeantigua.com
info@sugarridgeantigua.com
+1 (268) 562 7727
Luxury Homes Boutique Hotel Carmichael’s Restaurant Sugar Club Aveda Concept Spa
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designed for contemporar y caribbean living
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amarind Hills is one of the most exciting recent developments in the Eastern Caribbean. Created by the internationally acclaimed architect Lane Pettigrew to take the maximum advantage of its stunning location between two of Antigua’s most beautiful beaches, all properties boast magnificent west facing views, floating infinity edged pools with huge wrap around terraces, and the finest European kitchens and bathrooms. There are a range of one to four bedroom villas, apartments and cottages available for sale on a freehold basis, and owners are free to use their property as often as they choose. A fully managed rental programme is available for those who wish to benefit from a return on their investment. Alternatively owners can live in their property year round, enjoying all the on-site facilities of a five star resort. All properties will feature private infinity edged pools, floor to ceiling glass walls, high speed wi-fi, cable TV, built in entertainment systems and many offer private areas for media rooms, personal gyms or offices. For complete relaxation and reinvigoration the resort will have a signature spa, fully equipped gym, pilates and yoga studios.
The development team at Tamarind Hills have a great deal of worldwide d e v e l o p m e n t experience, and are extremely excited by what they feel is the combination of a world class product on a uniquely beautiful location. Construction has gone well to date with the majority of the first two phases handed over. Visitors are welcome at all times to visit the show homes and sales and marketing suites.
For a no obligations site tour visit the onsite sales office and Other facilities will include a beach club, jetty show home at Ffryes Beach. including bar, day moorings, 24 hour concierge services, tennis courts, running tracks and Call +1 268 736 4028 or email shopping galleria. rufus@tamarind-hills.com
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et on a sunset facing bluff on Antigua’s glorious west coast between Darkwood and Ffrye’s, two of Antigua’s most beautiful beaches, Tamarind Hills takes five star luxury to new heights with a stunning collection of residences designed for contemporary Caribbean living.
• Beach and ocean front villas, cottages and apartments for sale on freehold basis • Rental programme available with 24 hour concierge and butler facilities • Beach Club, restaurant, boardwalk and shopping galleria • Beauty salon, gym, pilates and yoga studio • Prices from $425,000 upwards • Antiguan Citizenship by Investment Programme now live *
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GRAND ESTATES
Grand Estates is set to become the number one privately-gated residential address in Antigua. Boasting a unique location on a peninsula overlooking Dickenson Bay and the tranquil Caribbean Sea, exclusive amenities will include 24-hour security and a fully-serviced marina. Owners can purchase a secluded beachfront estate with the option of their own private service dock in the adjacent marina. After you have selected your waterfront lot, Grand Estates can design and construct a residence that best suits your unique location. All of the estates will be finished to very high standards, yet each one will be engineered and designed to suit the buyer’s own taste and budget. Grand Estates is able to offer a full management service from the approval of the plans to the handing over of the keys. Duty-free concessions on all building materials and furnishings are readily available. Visit www.grandestates-antigua.com
The Peninsula
THE PENINSULA
The Peninsula is located in the North Sound on the Atlantic coast of Antigua. It’s a truly breathtaking setting, the three headlands that make up The Peninsula surrounded by the shallow, navigable waters of Belfast Bay. The stunning harbour is an excellent breeding ground for tropical fish and turtles, whilst small, uninhabited islands with white sandy beaches and coral reefs are easily accessible by boat. The Peninsula is for people who appreciate peace, tranquility and privacy. A small number of quality land plots are available for the construction of waterfront homes. Each plot is approximately one-acre in size, the land sloping towards the inlets within the bay and affording privacy, cooling breezes and picture postcard views. Visit www.antigua-peninsula.com
THE COVE SUITES
This development is located on a secluded and breezy cliffside within the grounds of the Blue Waters Hotel. The Cove Suites offer luxurious island living with easy access to infinity swimming pools, exclusive sun terraces and all the facilities of the hotel. Each suite has a living area with entertainment system, a spacious bathroom with freestanding bathtub, as well as an oversized terrace or balcony with endless ocean views. Suitable for family vacations or romantic retreats with your partner. Visit www.bluewaters.net
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www.grandestates-antigua.com www.grandestates-antigua.com
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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 the fact that if something goes wrong, you have immediate recourse to the store. An exceptional store outlet is the Townhouse Megastore close to St. John’s. This extensive superstore and showroom has a great selection of top name brand furniture, appliances, electronic equipment, tools and household items with a good range of spare parts. Wholesale prices are offered to villa, condominium and apartment owners, with fast delivery service and good parking facilities. www.townhousemegastore.com
INSURE YOUR PROPERTY
Antigua’s insurance business has developed to meet the increased demand for purchasing real estate. Caribbean Alliance Insurance Company Limited is reaching out from their new Head Office in Antigua with an expanding network stretching across the
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Caribbean region. Rated A-(Excellent) at A.M. Best (the independent rating agency based in the USA) Caribbean Alliance Insurance is the only general insurance company with its head office in the OECS that has a Best’s financial strength. The strong reputation of Caribbean Alliance has fuelled the company’s business growth. With over twenty years experience, the company offers high service standards and prides itself on its ability to pay claims promptly and efficiently. The prestigious new Head Office is centrally located on the corner of Newgate Street and Cross Street. This bright new office ambience, with agents providing expert knowledge and professional service, encourages the development of reliable insurance coverage for every need. Antigua is also home to the long-established Anjo Insurances, insurance agents for the United Insurance Company Ltd. Over the years Anjo’s has kept pace with the island’s increasing insurance demands and now has three branches conveniently spread across the island – at Woods Centre, Jolly Harbour and English Harbour. The company has an excellent reputation for dealing quickly and efficiently with insurance matters.
Rated A- (Excellent) at A.M. Best Company
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Photo: courtesy Sea View Heights.
STUDIOS & APARTMENTS
For those looking for independence, there is a wide range of studios or apartments in Antigua. Antigua Village at Dickenson Bay is famous for its comfortable apartments set in tropical gardens beside one of the island’s best beaches. Ideal for honeymooners, it’s also a great way to take a vacation with like-minded friends - just step out from your ‘condo’ straight into the Caribbean Sea.
SEA VIEW HEIGHTS LTD.
Sea View Heights is an Antigua-based real estate agency specialising in the rental and sale of exclusive luxury villas. All of the privately-owned villas have been inspected and selected as the best available on the island. The company’s complimentary concierge service will help to organize all your travel details and assure a carefree and memorable vacation in Antigua. Sea View Heights also offers professional real estate services to guide you in the purchase and/or construction of an Antiguan property. The company’s partnership with New System Ltd., an Antigua-based construction company for more than 20 years, means that they can assist in the development of your own unique luxury villa. Please visit the website below for more information on Galley Bay Heights and Windward Estates Developments. Contact Katia Fattarelli Tel:(268) 462-6266 or visit www.antiguaholidayvillas.com
LUXURY VILLAS RENTAL & SALE
Experience your dream holiday at one of the island’s most elite get-a-way. Based in Antigua, we will be with you every step of your vacation to make it truly memorable and relaxed. Visit our website!
www.antiguaholidayvillas.com M: 1-268-4626266
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E: info@antiguaholidayvillas.com
Antigua Village is also well located for stocking up from the 1st Choice supermarket on the Anchorage Road and the impressive Epicurean supermarket on the Friar’s Hill Road. Nearby at the Woods Centre, you’ll find other useful facilities such as banks, the well-stocked Woods Pharmacy with expert pharmacists, and the state-of-the-art dental clinic of Dr. Sengupta & Associates. This long-established dental practice caters for international and local clients on a regular basis and also handles dental emergencies.
TIMESHARE
Timeshare is also available and has its own associated 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.
SOUTH POINT Falmouth Harbour Luxury Condominium Residences
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ith its sophisticated décor, exclusive waterfront location and first class concierge services, South Point defines contemporary Caribbean living. Combining sleek Italian designs with the tropical appeal of the islands, each open-plan unit features a kitchen, comfortable living area and spacious terrace with a full complement of chic, European furnishings. All the amenities of a four-star hotel are also available, including a fitness centre, high-speed internet access, satellite TV, guest reception, room service and beach and pool service. Ideally situated at Falmouth Harbour, South Point offers numerous entertainment options and is within walking distance of some of the island’s
most popular bars and restaurants, coffee houses and ice cream parlours. Shopping centres and sports facilities are also nearby, each adding to the dynamic atmosphere of this high-profile community. While South Point is designed to operate as a residencehotel, owners may choose to keep their unit for private use. Those who prefer to generate rental income may do so by utilizing South Point’s optional Vacation Rental Programme. Prices for a one bedroom unit start from US$700,000. For more information Tel: (268) 464-8392 or visit www.southpointfalmouth.com
www.southpointfalmouth.com
+1 268 464 8392
a boutique condo hotel · 20 one-bedroom and 3 two-bedroom fully furnished apartments caribbean architecture · modern interiors · italian kitchens, bathrooms & furniture · beach swimming pool · restaurant · lounge · fitness centre · docking · apartment units sold with free-hold condominium title · 12 units sold, 11 units remaining · a great investment opportunity
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Antigua Real Estate Now is your perfect time to invest in Antigua Real Estate. Realise your dream of property ownership with Stanley’s Estate Agents Ltd ‌
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here is excellent choice, availability and value in the purchase of a second home, whether that’s a villa or an apartment. An added incentive for many purchasers is that Antigua passports may be obtained through the new Citizenship Investment Program being introduced on qualified properties. This small island paradise offers visitors endless sun, sea and sand, our economy primarily driven by tourism. Our 365 white sandy beaches are embraced by lush, tropical scenery and warm, crystal clear waters. Our 100,000 permanent residents represent an interesting mix of peoples from other Caribbean islands, as well as expatriates from around the world. Many visitors succumb to the charms of our people, as well as to our lifestyle of sun, sea and sand. Many make the decision to purchase a second home in Antigua, either for vacations and/or investment purposes. Antigua has long enjoyed favorable upward trends in prices, and the rental market is strong with a good variety of accommodation available. Because of the general economic decline, however, we have seen some recent price adjustments. The result is that now, more than ever, is the ideal time to consider an investment in Antiguan property. Residential tourism consists of apartments, condos and homes, many in gated communities offering a mixture of hotel rooms and self-catering residences. Common amenities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, shops and water sports are included. There is an excellent range of residential properties available for inspection and purchase at attractive prices. These include pre-owned homes, as well as new builds. Purchasing property in Antigua and Barbuda starts with a sales purchase agreement which secures the property. The purchaser is responsible for the legal fees of 1 to 1.5% and a Government transfer tax of 2.5%, Noncitizens require an approved licence for each property, which costs 5% of the value of the real property portion
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of the transaction. The purchase process is handled by your estate agent and selected lawyer. Most property buyers today are internet savvy and arrive having narrowed their choice down to certain property types and specifications. Contact a professional estate agent in advance of your arrival. Insist on using agents who are members of the Antigua Barbuda Association of Realtors (ABRA). They will provide you with the most up-to-date market conditions and generally have access to all property listings. Purchasing a building plot for an architecturally designed new build home is a viable option. Antigua has excellent architects, builders and contractors. They handle all building systems, are especially adept at concrete block and wood construction. Materials, windows, doors, cabinets, fixtures and furnishing are readily available or can be imported specifically for your project. Renting a self-contained, fully-serviced property, either short or longer term, is a viable option to a hotel stay and an excellent way to get a feeling for island living. While many second homes are used exclusively by their owners for retirement or personal purposes, many are also rented out to visitors. These rental properties can be found easily on the web and are represented either directly or through agents. Management services can also be handled locally. There are many investment opportunities in Antigua, so make our island a part of your future for years to come. We welcome you to become a part of our friendly, tropical island community. For further information visit www.stanleysestates.com or contact Geoffrey Pidduck E-mail: Geoffrey@stanleysestates.com. Cell (268)720-7702 or Bradley Esty E-mail: Bradley@stanleysestates.com. Cell (268)725-9354
Realize Your Dream
STANLEY’S ESTATE AGENTS LTD Antigua’s Most Experienced Real Estate Agents
With over 60 years of combined professional real estate experience, we provide “Knowledge and Experience You Can Trust”. l
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Antigua Villas and Properties For Sale
Commercial Real Estate
Long-term Villa Rentals
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Vacation Villa Rentals
Property Management Services
Specialists in Waterfront, Beachfront and Ocean View Properties Stanley’s Estate Agents... Your Experienced, Trusted Connection to Luxury Properties on the island paradise of Antigua.
Call us today and realize your dream of property ownership in Antigua.
A Member of The Antigua & Barbuda Association of Realtors
Stanley’s Tavern, Dockyard Drive, English Harbour, Antigua W.I. Tel: +1 (268) 562 7599 Email: info@stanleysestates.com www.stanleysestates.com
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LIVING THE DREAM There are few dreams quite as romantic as the prospect of waking in a beautiful home overlooking the white sands and turquoise waters of the Caribbean. Whether it be for a week or a lifetime, Island Living Caribbean Real Estate aims to assist you in doing just that… Island Living Caribbean Real Estate Specialists have been developing, constructing, selling, renting and managing real estate across the Caribbean since the early 1980s. So whether you are looking to come and test our crystal clear waters on the holiday of a lifetime, finally buy your dream house, or sell your home knowing it is in the best possible hands, the company is here to offer you invaluable expertise, constant support and a service that you will always remember.
and vibrant culture creates a unique charm. With Island Living’s incomparable location, exceptional homes and outstanding service, an experience has been created that encourages comfort, freedom and peace of mind… Start to live your dream by searching on www.islandlivingantigua.com or pay a visit to the Jolly Harbour Office. Email: info@islandlivingantigua.com Tel: + 1 (268) 562 2626
Island Living combines the very best that the Caribbean has to offer here in Antigua - a wonderful year round climate, untouched beaches and unique flora and fauna. The fusion of Antigua’s colonial past, natural beauty
Exclusive Properties Personal Service Exceptional Opportunities
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Villas Holiday Homes Estate Property Rentals Land Development Sales
Pearns Point
P.O.Box 262 Jolly Harbour Antigua
T: +1 (268) 562 2626 info@islandlivingantigua.com www.islandlivingantigua.com
JOLLY HARBOUR MARINA VILLAGE “Dear Maggie, I’m so happy you recommended spending my vacation in Antigua, particularly at the Jolly Harbour Marina Village. I feel like I have the best of both worlds, the tranquil seclusion of a tropical paradise complete with all the amenities of home. (I’m actually writing this emaiI whilst I’m lounging on a mile-long white sand beach enjoying a spectacular sunset with a cocktail in hand!)
(I picked you out a lovely sundress for your own visit to Jolly Harbour.) I also enjoyed a delicious lunch at a quaint restaurant overlooking the marina waterfront As a boat lover, you’ll be happy to know that Jolly Harbour is the largest residential marina in the Eastern Caribbean with over 100 serviced berths. It even hosts its very own Valentine’s Regatta & Rum Festival!
Yesterday I had such a fabulous jet-skiing and diving adventure. Tomorrow I’ve planned a round of golf at the 18-hole championship golf course. You know I’m pretty active so getting in some tennis or squash, a few laps in the Olympic-size pool and a bit of weight training in the air-conditioned gym are all a must too. Earlier today I took a stroll in the Commercial Centre and browsed through the souvenir boutiques and salons.
I’m so charmed by Antigua’s glorious climate that I’m actually considering purchasing a vacation getaway here. And, if you ask me, Jolly Harbour is the perfect place to own a stunning waterfront villa. So that’s the latest on my lovely Antigua vacation. How’s the weather with you by the way? I hear it’s 40 below!
”
Love Jane
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SHOPPING
Super Shopping 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.
Photo: Exotic Antigua
The 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.
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 restaurants and bars. You can buy your starter in one restaurant, your main course in another and your dessert in yet a third! 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. 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, LIME (Cable & Wireless) office and a travel agency - Carib World Travel. 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. There are also excellent shops at V.C. Bird International Airport, including Sterlings, a perfume shop and the legendary CoCo Shop. Here you can buy last-minute gifts and musical memories of Antigua. To take advantage of the duty-free prices at Heritage and Redcliffe Quays, remember to take your passport and travel documents with you.
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SHOPPING
SHOPPING HERITAGE QUAY Abbott’s Jewellery & Perfumery All in the Bag Baobab Cameras Plus Cattleya Kings Casino Land Lipstick Longchamp Shades Shouls Duty Free Liquor & Perfumery Sterlings Tabaco Negro Tropic Wear
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SHOPPING
SHOPPING
ABBOTT’S JEWELLERY
Heritage Quay Tel: 462-3107/8 Abbott’s Jewellery is located at Heritage Quay duty-free shopping complex downtown St. John’s. Abbott’s is the authorized retailer for Rolex and carries renowned Swiss-made brands such as Cartier, Omega, Breitling, TAG Heuer, Gucci, Carl F. Bucherer, Longines, Hamilton, 88 Rue Du Rhone, Frederique Constant and Seiko. Also available are stunning jewellery collections by David Yurman, John Hardy, Roberto Coin, Marco Bicego, Tacori, Chimento and Chamilia. In Abbott’s adjoining Fragrance Boutique there is also a wide choice of Cross & Parker pens, Lladro figurines, crystal ornaments and jewellery by Swarovski. Abbott’s branch in the Airport Departure Lounge has a wide selection of the latest fragrances for your last minute shopping.
ISLAND PROVISIONS COMPLEX
George Walter Highway Island Provisions Complex Tel: 480-5151 Best Cellars Tel: 480-5180 Gourmet Basket Tel: 480-5174 A convenient one-stop shopping experience. Best Cellars is a wine connoisseur’s delight, whilst the adjacent Gourmet Basket provides a fine selection of fruits, vegetables and gourmet products. Caters for hotels, restaurants, yachts and individual shoppers.
TABACO NEGRO SHADES
Heritage Quay Tel: 562-5662 Designer sunglasses at great duty free prices. Maui Jim, Rayban, Oakley, Prada, Gucci, Dior, Versace, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Juicy Couture, D&G, Ralph, Carrera and Polariod. Shop in comfort with the best selection of sunglasses that Antigua has to offer.
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45 Heritage Quay Tel: 562-5866 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
GOLDSMITTY
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!
Redcliffe Quay Tel: 462-4601 www.goldsmitty.com Since 1981 Goldsmitty has created unique jewellery in gold and silver. Owner and designer Hans Smit uses only the finest gemstones collected on exotic trips all over the world. But on realizing that many of his clients were seeking an authentic memory of their Caribbean trip to pass on through the generations, he created ‘Caribbean Corner’ in honour of Goldsmitty’s 30th anniversary. The gems used in his unique designs are only found in the Caribbean and include rare conch pearls, red and blue amber, larimar and a piece of our own rock, petrified coral that’s 30-million-years-old and now officially trademarked as Antiguanite T.M!
CATTLEYA CLOTHING BOUTIQUE
Heritage Quay Tel: 462 8191 Email: lipstickantigua@hotmail.com Style at its best! If you are looking for glamorous, stylish and sophisticated resort wear, Cattleya Boutique offers a wide selection of day wear, evening and dressy attire. Cattleya Boutique will dress you for every occasion with quality brands like CP Shades, Flax, Analili, Eva Varro and Comfy. With two locations; upstairs and downstairs at Heritage Quay, Cattleya Boutique offers the best customer service and experience.
Goldsmitty
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LAND
#108 Heritage Quay Tel: 462-0746 Land is a unique store, and has specialised 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 and wallets – and fine shoes for everybody.
LIPSTICK
Heritage Quay Tel: 562-1130/33 Fax: 562-1131 Email: lipstickantigua@hotmail.com This elegant and strategically located 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 to suit every individual requirement – showing lines of Chanel, Christian Dior, Calvin Klein, Givenchy, Yves St. Laurent, Estée Lauder and many more.
ZEMI LIFESTYLE
Redcliffe Quay, St. John’s Tel: 764-7622 www.zemiartgallery.com Showcasing an extensive selection of originals, limited editions and reproductions, Zemi Lifestyle captures the essence of Caribbean culture through its contemporary art and design collection. This gallery offers an exclusive collection for the true art connoisseur and for those who appreciate beautiful things in life.
arts & Craft
Lifestyle
Indigenous & Authentic Local Art
Caribbean & Contemporary Art & Design
art gallery Redcliffe Quay Mon - Fri 9.30 - 5pm Tel +1 (268) 562 7662
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Saint John’s SAT 9.30 - 4pm Tel +1 (268) 764 7622
SHOPPING
SILVER CHELLES
Redcliffe Quay, St. John’s Tel: 789-2662 This is a beautiful new jewellery boutique which perfectly captures the beauty of the beach and sea. Silver Chelles specialises in polished seashells set in sterling silver, every piece of jewellery handcrafted and unique. There is a wide variety of pendants, bracelets, rings and earrings, plus an elegant selection of specimen shells, gifts, fashion jewellery and seashell-adorned evening bags. Sliver Chelles is not to be missed!
Silver
Chelles
REDCLIFFE QUAY • ST JOHN’S • ANTIGUA t: (268) 789 2662 e: chellebates@aol.com fb: silverchelles
ZEMI ARTS & CRAFT
Redcliffe Quay, St. John’s Tel: 562-7662 www.zemiartgallery.com Discover an authentic collection of indigenous and local arts and crafts from founding artist Stephen Murphy and other local artisans. At Zemi Arts & Craft you will find creations which are absolutely unique, and quite different from the mass-produced souvenirs which too often flood the Caribbean.
TROPIC WEAR
#17 Heritage Quay Tel: 462-6251 This boutique offers premier 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 available. Tropic Wear has clothing to suit everyone’s needs… quality never goes out of style!
Nature becomes Art Handcrafted Sterling Silver Jewellery with Seashells
Tropic Wear #17 Heritage Quay St John's, Antigua Duty Free Shopping (268) 462-6251 95
SHOPPING
ALL IN THE BAG
#106 Heritage Quay Tel: 562-7080 The name says it all. Here you will find Antigua’s largest selection of name brand handbags, luggage & travel accessories - Guess, Fossil, Dooney & Burke, Kipling and Victorinox-Swiss Army. Great duty-free prices and exceptional products; handbags, wallets, purses, business bags, iPad accessories, backpacks, luggage, duffle bags - all are available at All In The Bag!
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 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.
STERLINGS
Heritage Quay Tel: 562-5662 A jewellery store with a difference! Exclusive retailer for Pandora and Alex & Ani. Specialising in Silver but not excluding Gold, Diamonds, Stones & Stainless Steel. Designers such as Marah Lago, Links of London, Foli Follie, DiModolo, Charriol, Roberto Coin, Charles Garnier. Watches from Michele, Michael Kors, Swiss Army, Luminox, Guess, Fossil and Swatch.
SHOUL’S DUTY FREE LIQUOR AND PERFUMERY
#60 Heritage Quay Tel: 462-2606 This enticing one-stop store offers a wide assortment of liquor, perfumes, confectionary, tobacco products and accessories. Choose from the extensive range of international liquors and spirits, or take a little bit of Antigua back to family and friends with a bottle of Cavalier or English Harbour Rum. Explore the fragrance department and take advantage of the duty-free prices on world-renowned brands like Guerlain, Cartier, Estée Lauder, Bvlgari, Hérmes, Hugo Boss, Calvin Klein, Juicy Couture, Paco Rabanne and Prada. The courteous, professional staff are waiting to serve you.
COCO SHOP
V.C. Bird International Airport Tel: 462-1128 www.cocoshopantigua.com Coco Shop nestled in the departure lounge of V.C. Bird International Airport has a traditional Caribbean ambience, and displays locally made island stylish unique clothing. There are many Caribbean style items including purses, placemats and napkins, bottle bags, beach bags, rag rugs and more – all in batik and Liberty of London fabrics. The shop also stocks hand crafted bird houses, warri boards, jewellery and pottery. Coco Shop is perfect for MADE IN ANTIGUA gifts which are created by local Antiguan seamstresses and artisans.
British American Mall Redcliffe Street, St. John’s Antigua, W.I.
giving over 22 years of
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SHOPPING
CAMERAS PLUS
Heritage Quay Tel: 562-4738/462-3619 Cameras Plus specialises in cameras and accessories. With brands such as Nikon, Canon, Sony, Panasonic, Olympus, GoPro, GoPole and Casio, all your photographic needs will be met. Also available is a wide range of batteries, chargers, memory cards, tripods and camera bags, as well as an extensive selection of binoculars, spotting scopes, sunglasses and readers. Cameras Plus wants your stay in Antigua to be picture-perfect!
ART AT THE RIDGE
Sugar Ridge (near Jolly Harbour) Tel: 728-1558 Featured in The Culture Trip’s ‘Top Ten Art Galleries’ in the Caribbean, this gallery and gift shop showcases a diverse range of genuine local art and crafts by well-known Antiguan artists and craftspeople. The cards, paintings, fine art prints and unique handmade crafts make great gifts and souvenirs, and highlight the island’s impressive creative talent. A full art gallery service, including exhibitions, viewings and private commissions is offered. Artwork is also displayed opposite at Sugar Club.
BAOBAB
Heritage Quay – upstairs Tel: 562-8305 Baobab Company is a unique t-Shirt and ready-towear 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.
268-462-1128 V C Bird International Airport, St John's, Antigua and Barbuda www.cocoshopantigua.com
Te l : 5 6 2 8 3 0 5
b a o b a b . a n t i g u a @ g m a i l . c o m # 35 Heritage Quay • St.John’s Antigua • Open Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm • Saturday 9am - 4pm
Martinique Mauritius Seychelles Mayotte Reunion Madagascar Antigua Grenada South Africa French Guiana Senegal Guadeloupe
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SHOPPING
Crab Hole Liquors
CRAB HOLE LIQUORS
Cobbs Cross, Falmouth Nelsons Dockyard, English Harbour Tel: 460-1212 Stop in at one of three 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.
WOODS PHARMACY
Retailer, Wholesaler, Agents, Distributors, Dealers in Fine Wines, Spirits, Cigars, Cigarettes, Juices, Sodas, Party Favours, Groceries, Lottery Agent, Phone Card Distributor and lots more. Cobbs Cross, Falmouth, Tel: (268) 460-1212 Fax: (268) 460-8930 VHF 68 Nelson’s Dockyard, English Harbour, Tel: (268) 462-9082 E-mail: crabholeliquors@candw.ag
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.
UPSCALE
Redcliffe Quay, St. John’s Tel: 562-8381 Email: 212antigua@gmail.com This waterfront boutique offers a wide range of attractive clothing, shoes and accessories for men and women. The top designer brands, all at duty-free prices, include Kenneth Cole, Antony Morato, Diesel, Buffalo, Tiger, Calvin Klein and Birkenstock. Plus-size clothing for women is also available from Susan Miller. Dress in Upscale style in Redcliffe Quay.
upscale duTy-free • redcliffe quay
Duty-free clothing, shoes and accessories for men and women. Brands include Diesel, Kenneth Cole, Buffalo, Antony Morato, Calvin Klein, Tiger and Birkenstock. Tel: 562-8381
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GLOBAL BANK OF COMMERCE Antigua… A Preferred Caribbean Destination By Brian Stuart-Young, Chairman & CEO Antigua and Barbuda is ideally located in the northern Eastern Caribbean islands. This 31-year-old international financial centre has matured into a crossroads for financial services within the Caribbean and overseas. There are eight domestic commercial banks regulated by the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank, as well as twelve financial institutions providing international financial services regulated by Antigua’s Financial Services Regulatory Commission. Antigua’s international financial centre was established in 1982, one year after the country’s independence from the United Kingdom. The jurisdiction is now a mature Caribbean destination for both tourism and international financial services. Despite the international financial crisis impacting both tourism and financial services worldwide, Antigua and Barbuda has maintained its attraction for the more discriminating tourist and investor. Notwithstanding the challenges of the prevailing environment, Antigua and Barbuda has the commitment of both its government and private sector to ensure an infrastructure which can respond to the special business needs of Caribbean and international client relationships. The oldest institution providing international financial services in the jurisdiction is the Global Bank of Commerce, a privately owned and operated institution, licensed and established in 1983. The financial centre has built a solid track record of servicing its clients, and is focused upon technology-driven financial services that provide secure internet banking, e-commerce for online payments, electronic payment systems and wealth management portfolios. Antigua provides
a full range of account options for clients, including multicurrency deposits, foreign exchange, certificates of deposit and other competitive interest-bearing accounts. There is an internationally-certified card processing centre and payment platform which provides card-based facilities for banks, international payroll programmes, employee benefits and remittance services. International businesses that require banking facilities to support commerce will find it convenient and advantageous to transfer their e-business to Antigua. Increasingly, investors have been purchasing properties in Antigua and Barbuda as vacation and second homes. These investments may now also qualify them to obtain citizenship under the legislated provision of a Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP). Antigua and Barbuda’s parliament approved the legislation that allows qualified international persons to apply for citizenship via a regulated due diligence process and investment criteria. This programme is expected to increase the opportunities for alternative investment products to support the portfolios of clients wishing to better manage their wealth. Banks may provide guidance to investors seeking an alternative citizenship and passport, and assist in the application process. The combination of well-regulated financial services, an excellent communications infrastructure and strong professional resources provides a positive environment for electronic and international business and property investment services, making Antigua and Barbuda an attractive location to develop global business. www.globalbankofcommerce.com C
E
an endearing quality
Providing the perfect balance of world class banking services, security and convenience, for 30 years.
Personal Banking Wealth Management Online Banking Electronic Commerce Solutions Global Remittance Services Global Banking Solutions
Global Commerce Centre Old Parham Road P.O. Box W1803 St. John’s, Antigua, West Indies Tel: (268) 480-2240 Fax: (268) 462-1831 email: customer.service@gbc.ag www.globalbankofcommerce.com
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Dining Out
Photo: The Sea Grape Restaurant at Curtain Bluff Hotel
Antigua’s restaurants suit all tastes and pockets. There’s anything from gourmet venues showcasing French haute cuisine to casual beachfront eateries specialising in the island’s freshly-caught seafood. Treat yourselves and sample as many as possible!
LE BISTRO FRENCH RESTAURANT
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 Who of Chefs’ and is featured on Discovery Channel’s ‘Great Chefs of the World’. Reservations are recommended.
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 carte dinner menus served from 6pm, the excellent wine list featuring new world wines and classics from around the world.
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Le Bistro Cecilia’s
LA BUSSOLA Runaway Bay Tel: 562-1545/785-5436 Email: labussolantigua@hotmail.com Family-owned and operated, the La Bussola menu is designed to inspire a symphony of flavours with a great choice of fish, meat and vegetarian dishes. There’s also a selection of thin-crust homemade dough pizzas to satisfy every palate. With its intimate and relaxing atmosphere, this Italian restaurant is the perfect setting for anything from a romantic meal to a dinner party with friends. Buon Appetito!
The perfect setting at the Trade Winds Hotel, Dickenson Bay on the popular north coast. Serving international and regional cuisine on the terrace overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Breakfast and lunch are uniquely served all day without time limit. Open daily and continuously from 7am until 11pm. Romantic dining atmosphere and first class cuisine. This cosy restaurant is available for private functions and conferences. Reservations Tel: 462-1223 Trade Winds Hotel Dickenson Bay www.twhantigua.com
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s
ines
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earth
salads soups sandwiches breakfast e daily specials sweet stuff lif coffees teas smoothies juices y jo our reputation is built on the best grounds
CURTAIN BLUFF HOTEL RESTAURANTS
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.
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 32nd 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. Closed on public holidays. Please call for summer schedule.
Photo: Joseph Jones Photography
The Tamarind Tree & The Sea Grape Old Road Village Tel: 462-8400 A great meal isn’t all about gourmet cuisine. Dine in Curtain Bluff’s two restaurants and the varied international menus are enhanced by beautiful surroundings and the very best service. The Tamarind Tree specialises in Continental cuisine infused with Caribbean flavours. It looks out on a tree-canopied terrace that’s simply perfect for cocktails and afterdinner dancing. The Sea Grape sits right on the sands, this intimate venue open four evenings a week and offering an Italian menu with an Antiguan twist. Call for reservations.
free WiFi
joylifehappiness
peace
Cafe Be a
villagewalk center friar’s hill road lo antigua ve the tel: 462-3552
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's O i u q c a J
ADMIRAL’S INN RESTAURANT
Nelson’s Dockyard Tel: 460-1027 www.admiralsinnantigua.com This alfresco long-established waterfront restaurant is set in an 18th century brickwalled enclave steeped in historic charm. The terrace setting is not to be missed and neither are the freshly-prepared dishes made primarily from local ingredients picked or caught that day. Enjoy a convivial lunch or romantic dinner, refreshing Caribbean drinks and international wines while gazing out at the yachts.
JACQUI O’S
Crab Hill Beach Tel: 562-2218 Email: jacantigua@gmail.com An island hotspot thanks to its beautiful beach setting, rustic yet chic interiors and modern tropical cuisine. Come for lunch, dinner or drinks surrounded by swaying palms and turquoise seas. Sundays are very popular, as is lingering over cocktails waiting for the sun to set. Jacqui O’s evokes the relaxed lifestyle synonymous with the Caribbean. With five moorings, tie up your boat and enjoy the ambiance of this special venue.
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Big Banana’s Pizza’s in Paradise
Redcliffe Quay Tel: 480-6985 www.bigbanana-antigua.com This popular casual dining restaurant is a legendary Antiguan rendezvous - celebrated for serving some of the best pizzas in the Caribbean. While Big Banana has enjoyed local acclaim for over 22 years, its international appeal soared after Rolling Stones rocker, Keith Richards, appeared on the Barbara Walters show sporting the restaurant’s trademark ‘yellow banana-man’ novelty tee. Visitors from around the world come in search of the yellow banana, enjoying great food and fun atmosphere. ‘Pizzas’, as it is affectionately known by locals, has established itself as the primary local hot spot, and is located in downtown St. John’s in the old rum warehouse at Redcliffe Quay; Open Monday to Saturday from 11:00 am until late. Island wide delivery from 11am until 10pm.
BIG BANANA 17° 61°
Tel: 480-6979 The airport restaurant is twinned with Pizzas in Paradise in Redcliffe Quay. Striking design, modern interior, and air-conditioned, this location will surprise you. Open every day from 7am - 9pm. It’s worth a visit for their fabulous and innovative breakfast, lunch and dinner menus. Delivery available.
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SALTY DOG’S
Antigua Slipway, English Harbour Tel: 562-8444 E-mail: saltydogspub@gmail.com www.saltydogspub.com At this hip waterfront lounge/restaurant, enjoy seasonal views of the multi-million-dollar yachts cruising along the slipway on their way to Nelson’s Dockyard. Sip on a chilled glass of Minuti or champagne and choose from an exotic menu including Mediterranean and Indian cuisine served in traditional Moroccan tagines. There is a wide selection of international wines, martinis and liquors, and the best sangria in Antigua! If you fancy popping across to the Dockyard or Galleon Beach you can rent a paddle-board from the private beach.
THE LARDER
Friar’s Hill Road, Royal Palm Court Tel: 562-7880 Email: info@thelarderantigua.com The Larder is a unique catering and gastronomic store, deli, café & sushi bar, the first of its kind in Antigua. The Larder focuses on upscale gourmet takeaways, offering gourmet prepared meals and catering. The daily menu features the finest fresh produce, fish, meats, and chicken available. The sushi bar is the best in Antigua and is renowned for its superb quality. The changing daily menu and fully stocked deli is very popular. The Larder also caters for parties, yacht services, private aircraft, picnics and any special event.
pizza • salads
gourmet lunches
wings • burgers
dinners • sushi
sandwiches
treats • retail store
wraps • lots more
catering • lots more
redcliffe quay open mon-sat 11am until 11pm tel: 480 6985
royal palm place
www.bigbanana-antigua.com info@bigbanana-antigua.com
www.thelarderantigua.com info@thelarderantigua.com
friars hill road mon-fri: 7am-9:30pm sat: 7am-6pm
tel: 562 7880
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The Tides
Dutchman’s Bay Tel: 462-TIDE (8433) www.thetidesantigua.com Tucked away on Dutchman’s Bay just minutes from the airport, this elegant beachfront restaurant specialises in fine meat dishes and fresh local seafood enhanced by international flavours. Relaxed lunches or romantic dinners can be enjoyed on breeze-cooled verandahs. A poolside garden grill is available for more casual fare. Stop by for Friday night ‘Happy Hour’ or mingle with the locals over the ‘Sunday Brunch’ unlimited buffet. Open Sundays to Tuesdays from noon to 3pm and Wednesdays to Saturdays from noon to 10pm. Reservations recommended.
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.
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SUGAR CLUB
Sugar Ridge, St. Mary’s Tel: 562-7700 Sugar Club is the social epicenter of Sugar Ridge. The indoor/outdoor restaurant and bar overlook the resort’s two swimming pools and are informal but smart. High ceilings and large open shutters provide a contemporary atmosphere cooled by Caribbean breezes. A great menu includes Tapas and Sushi. Open every day from 7am to 10pm. There is live entertainment most nights so that Sugar Club is ‘the place to be’ - only 5 minutes drive from Jolly Harbour Marina. Sugar Club offers some of the best party nights in Antigua. See www.sugarclubantigua.com
CARMICHAEL’S
Sugar Ridge, St. Mary’s Tel: 562-7700 Carmichael’s is quite literally above all at Sugar Ridge, commanding stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, neighbouring islands and Jolly Harbour Marina. Carmichael’s is Sugar Ridge’s open air fine dining
restaurant. The service is highly professional but the ambience is relaxing. The chic décor, wooden floors and shutters and contemporary furnishing create the atmosphere. Carmichael’s is considered one of Antigua’s finest restaurants. The international menu reflects fresh produce from Antigua’s local markets with an excellent wine list. Complimentary shuttle from Jolly Harbour Marina. Phone for reservations.
CECILIA’S HIGH POINT CAFÉ
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.
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CLOGGY’S
Falmouth Harbour Tel: 460-6910 Cloggy’s, at Antigua Yacht Club, is beautifully located on the water with yachts in the background. Open for lunch Tuesday to Saturday 11:30 am - 4pm including fresh fruit smoothies. Open for dinner Tuesday to Saturday 6:30pm – 10pm. Dishes include seafood skewers, grilled meats, fresh lobster, fish and sushi. The new tappas lounge has specials every day from 3-7pm. Sunday brunch 10:30am – 4pm includes eggs benedict, gourmet burgers, seafood pasta and juicy steaks. From 2pm there is a DJ and special dinner menu 6pm – 9pm. Reservations recommended.
SHELL’S FISH & CHIPS
BOXER BOXER SHACK SHACK
Jolly Harbour Tel:764-6018 www.shellsfishandchips.com Looking for a fun night out? Shell’s Fish & Chips is the place to be! Located on Sugar Ridge right alongside Valley Road, it is impossible to miss the bright red original London Double-Decker bus. Enjoy delicious English fish and chips on board the bus or in the lush tropical garden. Mushy peas, tartare sauce and fried gherkins all waiting for you, as well as crispy shrimp and succulent battered sausages. Whether you eat in or take it away, Shell’s Fish & Chips brings the London dining experience to you!
BOXER SHACK
BEACH BAR & RESTAURANT BEACH BAROld&Road RESTAURANT
TEL: 723-5143 Tel: (268)(268) 562-8442 or 723-5143 theboxershack@gmail.com
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Old Road Tel: 562-8442/723-5143 Tony and Gill, the original owners of legendary Gibson’s, have returned to the south-west coast of Antigua to open the Boxer Shack. This exciting new beachfront venue serves prime steaks and seafood dishes alongside a fully-stocked bar which includes traditional ales and cider. Open for lunch and dinner Wednesdays to Saturdays, with a traditional roast lunch served on Sundays. Sunbeds are available. Relax and enjoy this special venue.
DINING OUT
BLUE WATERS HOTEL RESTAURANTS
The Cove, The Palm Restaurant & Bartley’s Blue Waters Tel: 462-0290 Blue Waters Hotel has three distinctive and renowned dining options. The Cove takes fine dining in Antigua to a new level, offering French fusion cuisine on a panoramic terrace overlooking the island’s northern coastline. The Palm Restaurant offers all-day dining with splendid ocean views. Rotational menus showcasing Caribbean, Italian or fusion cuisine can be enjoyed in air-conditioned comfort at Bartleys. Please call for reservations.
The Cove, Blue Waters
Ristorante Paparazzi
Antigua Slipway, English Harbour Tel: 562-8136 Email: info@ristorantepaparazzi.net Enjoy fine dining at this waterfront restaurant located across from Nelson’s Dockyard in English Harbour. ‘Ristorante Paparazzi’ brings the special home-style cuisine of the old country of Italy to our island paradise. The menu is stocked with the freshest, highest quality ingredients and a selection of the finest wines from around the world. ‘Paparazzi’ snaps all the right pictures! Enjoy the amazing food and atmosphere at prices that will have you saying “Magnifico!”
THE CROW’S NEST RESTAURANT AND PUB
Jolly Harbour Sports Centre Tel: 562-2637 Email: crowsnestantigua@gmail.com www.crowsnest-antigua.com A popular open-air restaurant overlooking the Jolly Harbour Marina. Enjoy the view, the ambiance and the great 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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HARBOUR VIEW BAR AND CAFÉ
Redcliffe Quay, St. John’s Tel: 462-2972 Email: exoticantigua@gmail.com The Harbour View Bar & Café brings a new dimension to St. John’s Harbour. It is the only waterfront bar and café downtown with a splendid bay view. Its elevated position allows guests to spend time relaxing in the lounge area enjoying the cooling trade breezes. Primarily open for breakfast and lunch, Harbour View serves fresh salads, sandwiches and paninis. Enjoy exotic cocktails and refreshing smoothies! Chippy Antigua
KFC
Fort Road Tel: 481-1531/35/36 Old Parham Road Tel: 481-1527/28/29 High Street Tel: 481-1542 The world’s most popular chicken restaurant chain and Antigua loves it too! The ‘Original Recipe’® fried chicken meals are made fresh every day, french fries, kids’ meals, desserts and soft drinks all available too. “So good.” Open from Sunday to Thursday 10am - 10pm. Friday and Saturday 10am - midnight.
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CHIPPY ANTIGUA
Dickenson Bay, Runaway Road Tel: 724-1166 / 734-8945 Email: chippyantigua@msn.com The only place to be on Wednesday and Friday nights. An authentic traditional fish and chip van run by Dave and Jane. All your favourites available - fish, lobster bites, scampi, curries and pies. All served with chips and good humour in an outdoor casual atmosphere. Dine there or take-away. Open 4pm to 9pm Wednesday and Friday.
Cruise Tourism
Photo: Joseph Jones Photograhy
A
ntigua continues to welcome some of the largest and most beautiful cruise ships in the world.
Our beautiful little sister island, Barbuda, is also opening its shores to smaller, exclusive cruise ships which do not need the infrastructure Antigua can provide. Cruise tourism is a major component of our economy and every effort is made to enhance our facilities and to attract more prestigious ships to our twin island state, strategically located in the heart of the Caribbean. The destination is actively promoted by The Antigua & Barbuda Cruise Tourism Association (ABCTA) in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, The Antigua Pier Group and the Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority.
Now a plan is in place by the Government to undertake a major enhancement of the city of St. John’s. The dredging of the Cruise Port is eagerly anticipated as it will make a striking difference to our facilities on completion. As most of the cruise shipping lines operating in the Caribbean are based in Florida, there are regular meetings between our officials and the Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA). In addition to attending the Florida Caribbean Cruise Association Convention in September 2013, held in Cartagena, Colombia, the European cruise lines were targeted at the Seatrade Europe Convention in Hamburg, Germany, last year. The delegation will be attending the Miami Seatrade Cruise Convention in South Beach, Miami in March 2014. Meanwhile the Antiguan tour operators understand that visitors may want more than our 365 beautiful beaches, and they are 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 state of 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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Photo courtesy St. James’s Club & Villas
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
Dickenson Bay is the number one hotspot on Antigua’s north coast, particularly so on Friday nights. Putters is a casual, island-style bar that is always popular with visitors, locals and families, while Pepperz N Lime generally attracts a livelier crowd in the mood for mojitos, music and showing off their dance moves on the edge of a beautiful beach. You can also boogie the night away to the latest in R&B and Hip Hop at the air-conditioned 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’, but if you’re feeling mellow 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 Cinemas on the High Street have now been joined by the impressive Caribbean Cinemas complex just outside town.
• JOLLY HARBOUR AREA
This is where it’s all happening on the west coast of Antigua. The Sugar Club at Sugar Ridge is a great place for tapas, sushi and live entertainment, or why not enjoy a rum cocktail overlooking the marina at the Crow’s Nest or Westpoint. Expect quite a few yachties to drop anchor here too.
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• ENGLISH HARBOUR AREA
Jam-packed with boats in the winter, English Harbour’s bars are always overflowing with sailors determined to make the most of their shore leave. The Mad Mongoose in Falmouth is traditionally one of the most popular venues, the nearby Scullduggery Café is also much loved for its chocolate martinis! For drinks and dinner on the waterfront head for Salty Dog’s or the Restaurant Paparazzi at the Slipway. Don’t miss out on Abracadabra just outside Nelson’s Dockyard - this might be an elegant Italian restaurant early in the evening, but stick around and watch it transform into a pulsating outdoor nightclub later. Of course everyone heads for Shirley Heights on Sundays. The island’s ‘biggest and best party’ has been taking place here for many years. The evening begins as the sun sets and the steelband music fills the air. It ends at a fast pace with live reggae, soca and calypso music.
• CASINOS
Antigua is also a great choice if you enjoy a flutter, our Vegas-style casinos offering roulette, blackjack and poker, as well as the latest slot machines. Stay at St. James’s Club or Jolly Beach Resort and place your bets without leaving your hotel. Head for King’s Casino in St. John’s and you can take your pick from 16 different table games and 300 slot machines. Dickenson Bay is now home to the glamorous Majestic Isle Casino with its restaurant and live entertainment. You can bet on a memorable evening!
Antigua’s Offshore Islands
Antigua is blessed with many offshore islands. 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 larger yachts – provided you can navigate between the coral reefs! Many of the day-trip cruise boats tie up close to the main islands, most of them located off the northeast coast and all have sandy beaches and a relaxed Robinson Crusoe-like atmosphere. Bird Island is particularly popular, although during the week one can often have the entire island to oneself. A new 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, while 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. 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. It is very pleasant to tie up close to the ‘rocky shore’ and swim around to see the birdlife. Another particularly interesting island is Rabbit Island, home to breeding colonies of pelicans which raise their young in twiggy nests, clearly visible for anyone who is passing. Antiguan residents have the good fortune to see the tiny babies with large beaks open, growing to become awkward and ungainly juveniles, eventually flying off until the next season.
Photo: Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority
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. We have seen tourists strolling across the top, but it’s not recommended because the bridge is fragile - we neither want to destroy this or ourselves!
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Some 25 miles away is Antigua’s ‘third’ possession, Redonda. Also uninhabited, the ruins on top are thought to have been an old weather station - it’s possible to scramble up the sides to the flatter top. Redonda was once home to rare goats, but nowadays only the Frigate Birds wheel about overhead while cormorants perch on the slopes. 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. Jumby Bay can be found here. This exclusive Rosewood Resort is even more luxurious after its recent and extensive refurbishments. 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.
ArtisticAntigua 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 on the island representing a wide range of art, craft and media ...
ART GALLERIES ART AT THE RIDGE
Sugar Ridge (near Jolly Harbour) Tel: 728 1558 Email: ArtAtTheRidge@hotmail.com Art At The Ridge is featured in The Culture Trip’s ‘Top Ten Art Galleries’ in the Caribbean. Genuine and attractive local art and crafts are brought together in one convenient and stunning location. Artwork is also displayed opposite at Sugar Club.
HARMONY HALL GALLERY
Nonsuch 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
Dockyard Drive, English Harbour Tel: 770-788 Email: arawakart@yahoo.com Gallery open November to May. Open by appointment at the Pottery Studio from June to October. Nancy Nicholson uses local clay to produce distinctive blue pottery in elegant shapes and sizes reflecting the Caribbean Sea. Rhythm of Blue Gallery exclusively displays Nancy’s pottery, sculpture and paintings, together with works by other ocean-inspired Caribbean Artists.
THINGS LOCAL GALLERY Shem Alexander
The Best of Antiguan Art and Craft 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.
Officers’ Quarters, Nelson’s Dockyard Tel: 562-5386/461-7595/770-5780/726-7465 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 ART GALLERY
Redcliffe Quay, St. John’s Tel: 562-7662 and 764-7622 www.zemiartgallery.com Here is a unique collection of indigenous and local art a world away from mass-produced souvenirs. Two doors down, Zemi Lifestyle offers a contemporary art and design collection that includes originals, limited editions and reproductions by Stephen Murphy and other local artists.
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Antigua
Katie Shears-McConnachie
DRAGONFLY STUDIO
Gilly Gobinet
BUCKLEYS STUDIO
Jan Farara
Cobbs Cross Tel: 460-1417/720-4342 Email: ktfsh@candw.ag www.katiesfineart.com Katie Shears-McConnachie uses prisma-colour pencils and acrylic for her detailed originals and prints. Also an illustrator of children’s books available at Lord Jim’s Locker, Antigua Yacht Club Marina.
Buckleys Village Tel: 764-8803 Email: janfarara@hotmail.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.
ART STUDIOS
Sallie Harker
PELICAN STUDIO Fitches Creek Tel: 464-6084 Email: gobinetg@candw.ag www.originalcaribbeanart.com Gilly Gobinet’s original paintings and fine art reproductions in acrylic, oil and watercolour all capture the purity of light and intensity of colour so typical of the region. 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. Jennifer Meranto
FIG TREE STUDIO ART GALLERY Uniquely located in the heart of the rainforest. Tel: 460-1234/773-4321 Email: figtree@apuainet. Sallie Harker’s gallery features her oil and water colours capturing the romance of the Caribbean. Also featured are the work of Caribbean artists such as Jacob Scott and Nzimbu Brown.
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Nancy Nicholson
YELLOWBOAT STUDIO
Tel: 764-8035 Email: merantoj@candw.ag www.yellowboat.com Jennifer Meranto’s stunning collection of hand-tinted photos of Antigua and the Caribbean are increasingly popular, as are her unique one-off shots capturing the essence of island life. Jennifer also has original art made from reclaimed materials found on Antigua’s beaches. Visitors welcome at her Turtle Bay Studio by appointment.
SHEM ALEXANDER
Tel: 782-1384 Email: shem.92@hotmail.com Shem Alexander is an emerging young visual artist who works in oils and acrylics on textured surfaces. He is recognized for his innovative and unique paintings on the West Indian Turpentine Tree bark. He also paints portraits and figures inspired by the traditional Antiguan way of life. Shem’s work can be found at Art at the Ridge Gallery in Jolly Harbour.
Stephen Murphy
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. Michael Hunt at Cedars Pottery
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!
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.
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DELIVERING THE GOODS With more than 50 years experience in the region, Geest Line is your direct route to the Caribbean for all your cargo needs. Geest Line has fostered trade links between the UK and the Caribbean for more than 50 years, and today carries more cargo between Europe and the Windward and Leeward islands than any other shipping line. The origins of the service lie in the shipment of bananas eastbound. Instead of the ships returning with ballast, it provided the perfect opportunity for establishing a general cargo service carrying everything from small packages to large project machinery. The flexibility of the service is maintained today, with a wide range of breakbulk and containerised cargo carried on the weekly westbound departures, which sail from Portsmouth in the UK and also Le Havre in France. So whether you are shipping a pallet of goods, a truck, have a requirement for containers or special equipment including open top, flat-rack containers or reefers, Geest Line can handle it. Surveys show that Geest Line has the highest schedule reliability for round-trip crossings and the shortest
transit times to the first port of call in the Caribbean. The movement of perishable fruits means that ships must arrive and depart on time, enabling Geest Line to offer a precise, fixed-day service that allows UK exporters to be certain their goods will arrive at the scheduled time. In addition, our experience in the Caribbean puts us in an unrivalled position to offer efficient, careful handling and swift clearance of cargo. Geest Line’s comprehensive network of island calls also means that we can offer an efficient inter-island service, enabling exporters and importers to ship their cargoes regionally within the Caribbean. A container and break-bulk service is also offered alongside our existing European service. Our services run exclusively to the Caribbean. This means that by concentrating on the region we know best, we can maintain our position as the No.1 shipping line to the Caribbean. Telephone: +44 1489 873500 Email: bookings@geestline.com Website: www.geestline.com
Picture: English Harbour
Supporting Antigua for Over 50 Years
Regular sailings to Antigua, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Martinique, St.Kitts, St.Lucia, St.Vincent and Trinidad – DIRECT from Europe.
THE GEEST LINE
Bookings & Quotations Telephone: +44 1489 873500 E-mail: bookings@geestline.com Website: www.geestline.com
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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, at the airport and in Codrington, Barbuda. Fedex - the agent in Antigua is Unlimited Services Plus located on Redcliffe Street, St. John’s Tel: 562-7587
EMBASSIES/CONSULAR OFFICES
Antigua entertains representatives from the following foreign governments:F British High Commission In Barbados
1 246 430 7800
Hon. Consular Office c/o Grant Thornton
561-5046
F U.S. Hon. Consular Office
463-6531
F Hon. Consulate of Germany
462-3174
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.
F Hon. Consulate of Norway c/o Frances Trading
462-0858
F Hon. Consulate of the Netherlands c/o Gomez Insurance
481-1850
LANGUAGE
F Venezuelan Embassy
462-1574
F Embassy of the People’s Republic of China
462-1125
F Hon. Consulate of Denmark c/o AWH Holdings Ltd
480-3070
F Consulate of Austria
463-8698
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.
CLOTHING
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 16. 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 4pm. On Fridays it is open until 5pm.
GROCERY SHOPPING
Antigua now has a range of excellent spacious airconditioned 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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Photo: Joseph Jones Photograhy
Homegrown Antigua Visitors to Antigua are always looking for locally-made souvenirs and presents to take home. Even the residents prefer to take gifts that reflect Antigua for their friends overseas. It’s not always easy to find Antiguan products, but look around and you will be pleasantly surprised at what is available. Edna Fortescue shares her ‘Home Grown’ favourites. 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 very attractive presents. I always take the plastic bottles of Cavalier as they are light and easy to pack, cannot break and are available at most Antiguan supermarkets, and 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.
to me (!), ‘Caribbean Cookery’, ‘Caribbean Herbs & Spices’ and ‘The Top 20 Places in Antigua.’
Into my luggage always go a few bottles of Antiguan made hot sauce, which are readily available throughout Antigua and much appreciated overseas. In local supermarkets you can find delicious honey and well-packaged local preserves such as guava jelly, pineapple jam and stewed tamarind. At the St. John’s fruit and vegetable market is a shopping mall which sells a variety of handicrafts including coconut oil soap and tee shirts printed in Antigua with local designs.
Close to the airport - and with a pretty shop in Redcliffe Quay - is The Antigua Pottery, which makes a unique range of items ranging from small figurines and dishes to exotic table lamps.
Not to be missed are the delightful little books by Antiguan designer, Gilly Gobinet, long known for her colourful prints and cards. These make excellent presents and the series consists of ‘Caribbean Cocktails’, dedicated
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Look out for Vanessa’s stylish hand-painted tee shirts with fine designs especially incorporating flowers, birds and tropical fishes.
When you depart from the airport, be sure to stop at the long-established and redesigned Coco Shop with a new variety of attractive Antigua cards, fabrics, shirts and ladies tropical clothes. Sterlings Jewellery Store, which stocks the popular Pandora bracelets, has a branch in the duty-free shopping area in the departure lounge. Purchase your perfume from Abbott’s.
Enjoy your homegrown shopping!
The Antiguan
ANTIGUAN 2012
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The Guide
At the entrance to Nelson’s Dockyard you’ll find unique seed jewellery made by Antiguan ladies. The seeds come from the wild tamarind and mimosa trees which grow in Antigua. The seeds are boiled, dried in the sun and then strung with a needle to make original works of art.
come to Ant
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. iguA & BAr
BudA
To advertise in the 2015 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