Properties/Sailing breaks within Grenadines
About the Caribbean islands
Grenadines
Antigua is the largest of the Leeward Islands and enjoys a fine, warm and healthy climate. It is probably best known for its fine white sand beaches, Antigua Sailing Week and cricket having produced some famous world-class cricketers. It is fast becoming a major tourist destination with fine hotels, good restaurants and a wealth of things to do. It is also historically famous, English Harbour having been the home of Admiral Nelson and the British Caribbean Fleet during the 17th and 18th centuries. Many Georgian building have been preserved and the harbour now provides an excellent marina for visiting yachts from all around the world. Barbuda, Antigua's sister island, 27 miles to the North is also worth a visit with its fine beaches, spectacular diving and is the home and nesting place of the Frigate Bird.
| Antigua | Barbuda |
| Population: 64,000 | Population: 1,500 |
| Size: 108 square miles | Size: 62 square miles |
| Capital/main town: St. Johns | Capital/main town: Codrington |
Although one of the larger islands, Antigua still has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. It offers as little or as much entertainment as required. It has a good mix of quiet beaches and lively resorts.
Beaches
Antigua and Barbuda have 365 beaches with some stretching as far as 10 miles long. Dickenson Bay and Runaway Bay on the north coast are very popular, with Galley Bay attracting the surfers. For a quieter beach try Rendezvous Bay and especially Doigs Beach on the central southern coast. Most beaches have a selection of beach/bars and restaurants.
Things to Do
Water sports, Sailing, fishing, diving and snorkelling. Shirley Heights, Barbuda's bird sanctuary, Museums, art galleries and potteries. Island Tours, Helicopter Tours, Hiking, Horse Riding and Eco-Tours. Golf, tennis & cricket.
Shopping
Good for food, souvenirs, gifts and clothing mostly located in St Johns. Antigua is well known for its colourful local craft sellers. Duty free shopping available at Heritage Quay, the cruise ship terminal close to St Johns.
Restaurants & Nightlife
There are a wide variety of restaurants serving dishes from West Indian to Italian with many specialising in seafood delicacies. Lively nightlife mostly revolving around the resorts & hotels, particularly during the main season.
Getting Around
Easy. Taxis & dollar taxis (minibuses) are numerous. Car and scooter hire readily available.
Getting There
V.C. Bird International Airport has flights from UK, Europe & North America. It is also a hub airport for onward flights to surrounding islands with LIAT, Caribbean Star & other inter island flight operators.
Currency
Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC $), which has a fixed exchange rate to the US $ @ 2.67. US currency, traveller's cheques and major credit cards are generally accepted.