Antigua

Types of trips: Holiday/Relaxation, Sports Tours, Cultural, Geographical, Nature

Best known for: Beaches/Holiday Destination, Nelson's Dockyard

Why Go?: Antigua is what everyone thinks of when they imagine the Caribbean - white sand, blue sea and warm sunshine. It has all this and more, with opportunities for sailing, cricket and experiencing nature foreign to that in the UK. Antigua will be unforgettable for anyone who visits it. 

Fact File

Population: 80,000

Capital: St John's

Language(s): English

Ties to the UK?: Decent political relationship, popular travel destination

Landscape: Generally low/flat land with some higher points, with many beaches and some forested areas.

Climate/Seasons: Generally tropical climate, with the coolest (but still warm) period between December - February and low overall humidity. 

When to Go: Going to Antigua in the coolest period will avoid the uncomfortable peak heat and the busiest summer season, and will be a great opportunity to avoid the cold weather of the UK at that time!

Reasons to Visit: Great weather and experiences of a geography/nature drastically different to those in Great Britain

How to Get There: Air travel is the only way to get to Antigua from the UK - there is an international airport near the capital city you can fly to.

Places to Go: Nelson's Dockyard, Museum of Antigua and Barbuda, Fort James

Famous People: Jamaica Kincaid, Maurice Hope, Melvin Claxton, Vivian Richards

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Falmouth Harbour, Mount Obama

History: Joined the Commonwealth in 1968 and became disassociated from Britain in 1981

Architecture: St. John's Cathedral, Dockyard Museum

Culture: Varied cultural influences thanks to mixed immigration and ethnicities - also many different practicing religions

Sport: Cricket, Football, Basketball, Golf

Events: Kite Festival, Seafood Festival, Dance Festivals

Watch Out For: Avoid the hurricane season, generally between June - November.

Medical Issues: There are no mandatory vaccines but some may be advised - check here for a good general overview and always consult with a doctor if you have concerns.