Visit Antigua & Barbuda 2020

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA HOTELS & TOURISM ASSOCIATION

2020

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Welcome

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very warm welcome to you from the government and people of Antigua and Barbuda! We sin cerely thank you for making the “Gem of the Caribbean” your next vacation experience.

We invite you to discover two picturesque islands that have so much more in store for you with our 365 stunning white- and pink-sand beaches and sparkling, turquoise waters. Do explore both of our islands, as they each offer two distinctly different vacation experiences.

Be it a romantic resort or a charming escape to a villa or inn, we can help to create that “home away from home” experience with our wide range of accommodations, from the ultra-exclusive to the all-inclusive.

In Antigua, take advantage of the many land and sea tours available to become personally acquainted with the beauty of our island. You can swim with stingrays,

Ffryes Beach

snorkel, kayak, kite-surf or zip through lush rainforest canopies. Let your imagination run free, as the sky is truly the limit here.

Another unforgettable pleasure is dining in Antigua and Barbuda. Sample our delicious and varied cuisine, ranging from the spiny lobster to a succulent snapper or even a few slices of our naturally sweet Antigua black pineapple.

Pop over to Barbuda, our beautiful sister isle, where more than 17 miles of unbroken beach and beautiful pink sand beckon you to tranquillity and provide the perfect secluded escape. The quiet warmth of the people will be sure to make you feel right at home.

Whatever your desire for your vacation, you are guaranteed to be satisfied here.

Our sumptuous cuisine and rich heritage and culture are all waiting to be explored by you. Slow down and savour the experience for an unforgettable vacation.

We hope you have an incredible visit to Antigua and Barbuda and that you leave with only warm memories of your stay with us.

THE HONOURABLE CHARLES FERNANDEZ MINISTER OF TOURISM AND INVESTMENT

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Top photo: Jorge Ramirez

SINCERELY,

BECAUSE...

YOU D E S E RVE T H E P E RF E CT G I F T

© 2019 Pandora Jewelry, LLC • All rights reserved

Heritage Quay St. John’s Antigua Tel: 268.562.5662

Welcome

T

he twin-island paradise of Antigua and Barbuda welcomes you to our shores! Our islands over flow with C aribbean charm, rich history, culture, picturesque settings and 365 fabulous pink- and whitesand beaches.

Antigua is home to a fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Site — Nelson’s Dockyard — the only working Georgian naval dockyard in the world. The historic dockyard bustles with activity daily as the museum, bakeries, restaurants and gift shops swing into operation.

Barbuda, our “little sister,” is home to spectacular beaches and the largest colony of magnificent frigate birds in the Western Hemisphere.

Our islands are definitely worth exploring. We invite you to journey through colourful St. John’s City, to the seaside village of Old Road, to the fruit-laden Fig Tree Drive, and to the nautical scene at English Harbour. Your journey can continue to the dramatic twin sugar mills of Betty’s Hope and the crashing waves at Devil’s Bridge, an impressive natural attraction.

If adventure is what you are looking for, take a hike to our highest peak, Mount Obama; swim with stingrays or take on the

Our Lady of Perpetual Help

challenging canopy zip line tour in our lush tropical rainforest. Book some extreme action with an ecotour speed boat adventure or an island safari. For a slower pace, witness a game of warri with the islanders, join an herbal garden tour or take a city walking tour led by a local guide.

Visitors to Antigua will discover the vibrant culture of our island and the friendliness of the people who welcome you to participate in amazing celebrations and events that provide the perfect insight into our music, art, culture, cuisine and sports.

In Antigua and Barbuda, there is always some activity that you can be a part of: the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta, Antigua Sailing Week — the Caribbean’s premier sailing regatta — and, of course, Antigua’s Carnival, the Caribbean’s greatest summer festival.

Regardless of when you visit, the weekly seafood Fridays in Nelson’s Dockyard and the popular Sunset Party at Shirley Heights are also events not to be missed.

Join in the festivities and you will soon realise that you came as a visitor but will leave as a friend!

COLIN C. JAMES CEO, ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA TOURISM AUTHORITY

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V ISIT A NTIGUA & BA R BUDA 2020

Top photo: J. Kevin Foltz

SINCERELY,

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Welcome

T

he team at the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels & Tourism Association (ABHTA) welcomes you to our beautiful islands.

Whether you are basking on one of our 365 beaches, taking a tour of the Frigate Bird Sanctuary or zipping through the rainforest, we wish you an unforgettable vacation. Enjoy your escape to ultimate rest and relaxation and get to know our warm, friendly people. In fact, we invite you to join our island family and make this place your home away from home. All it takes is a small donation

to the Tourism Development Fund, a voluntary programme set up by ABHTA, which pays for projects and activities that add value to the tourism experience in Antigua and Barbuda.

By donating just US$1 for each night of your stay, you will be helping to provide training opportunities for tourism workers and scholarships to young people who want to pursue careers in hospitality.

Please visit antiguahotels.org to learn more about how you can make a positive impact on the continued development of our islands.

Then come back home to us, again and again — back to your island home — and the people who will always welcome you with open arms.

VERNON A. JEFFERS, SNR. The beachfront at Antigua Village on Dickenson Bay

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V ISIT A NTIGUA & BA R BUDA 2020

CHAIRMAN, ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA HOTELS & TOURISM ASSOCIATION

Bottom photo: Neil Forrester

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Contributors

2020

PUBLISHED FOR THE ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA HOTELS & TOURISM ASSOCIATION CHAIRMAN Vernon A. Jeffers, Snr.

BRENDA LEE BROWNE

Brenda Lee Browne is a writer, creative writing teacher and event organiser. She was born in the United Kingdom and now lives in Antigua and Barbuda. Her first novella, London Rocks, was published by Hansib in the United Kingdom. Her personal interests include cricket, Carnival and handbags.

JOANNE C. HILLHOUSE

Joanne C. Hillhouse’s articles have appeared in Essence, the Huffington Post, Writer’s Digest and Caribbean Beat. As a freelance writer, editor and trainer, she’s worked on a variety of projects. She’s published six books of fiction and has been published in a number of Caribbean and international journals and anthologies, most recently, New Daughters of Africa.

Find her online at jhohadli.wordpress.com.

Executive Director Patrice Simon

NORTH SOUTH NET INTERNATIONAL CUSTOM CONTENT SOLUTIONS

P.O. Box 133, Grand Cayman, KY1-1101, Cayman Islands Tel: 345-949-7282 Email: info@northsouthnet.com CHAIRMAN Peter D. Savill EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Vanessa Molina Santamaria ART DIRECTOR Sarah Rusin VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Luis Sardinas OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Thomas Savill

NEIL FORRESTER

After heading up the Antigua Hotel & Tourist Association for many years, Neil Forrester now works with Azingo Hospitality to provide a wide portfolio of services to small enterprises within the tourism sector, ranging from marketing to operational support. He’s worked with North South Net on all the editions of Visit Antigua & Barbuda, providing local support and photography.

TED MARTIN

Based in historic Nelson’s Dockyard in English Harbour, Ted Martin provides a unique portfolio of services to anyone requiring a photographer. He offers custom photography services for weddings and special events, as well as portraits in his Dockyard studio opposite the Copper & Lumber Store Historic Inn.

FINANCE DIRECTOR Paul Lewis ACCOUNTING MANAGERS Linda Villena, Robert Villena CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Carol Bareuther, Brenda Lee Browne, Shanna Challenger, Gilly Gobinet, Tracy Guerrero, Joanne C. Hillhouse, Jeffrey Dollar Laign, Rana-Jamila Lewis, Jonathan Monje, Dayana Rivero, Alicia E. Simon, Alison Sly-Adams CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS J. Kevin Foltz, Neil Forrester, Ted Martin, Jorge Ramirez MAP PRODUCTION Cartographics LLC U.S. REPRESENTATIVE OFFICE

GILLY GOBINET

Antiguan artist Gilly Gobinet runs her own Art Gallery in her secluded waterfront residence in leafy Fitches Creek.

It showcases her eclectic paintings in watercolour and acrylic, inspired by the rich Caribbean fauna and flora of the surrounding nature. Commissions are also gladly accepted, including pet portraits.

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ALICIA E. SIMON

Alicia Simon is an accomplished writer.

Her body of work includes journalism, screenplays and literary fiction. The New York native, of Antiguan descent, lives with her husband, two sons and two dogs in beautiful Antigua.

PRESIDENT & CEO Garry Duell, Jr. ADVERTISING SERVICES MANAGER Rosana Duell 4848 SW 74 Court, Miami, Florida 33155 Tel: 305-222-7244 Email: gduell@northsouthnet.com Copyright © 2019 by North South Net International, Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction by permission only.

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Welcome To Antigua and Barbuda

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History Heritage highlights

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Exploring Must-do attractions

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Land Activities Explore ashore

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Ecotourism More than the beach

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Beaches 365 spectacular shores

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On the Water Watersports paradise

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Sailing & Regattas Boatloads of fun

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Barbuda Just a day trip away

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Dining & Nightlife Taste of Wadadli

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Download the new Visit Antigua & Barbuda app to have the latest information about what to see and do at your fingertips.

From left: J. Kevin Foltz, Jorge Ramirez

Contents

Exclusively sold at Diamonds International & Tanzanite International SafiKilima.com

204 Heritage Quay St. John’s, Antigua Tel: 268-481-1880

Jorge Ramirez

Contents

100

106

110

112

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122

Useful Information Helpful travel tips

Arts & Culture Island art, music and Carnival

124

Weddings Where dreams come true

ABHTA Membership Directory

125

Index of Advertisers Guide to shopping, dining and activities

Health & Wellness Staying active on vacation Investing in Antigua Real estate and financial services

Welcome

Welcome TO ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA

With 365 stunning beaches, historic attractions, international cuisine and mouth-watering island flavours, world-class shopping and exciting activities for all ages, this dual-island paradise will satisfy all your travel cravings.

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA HOTELS & TOURISM ASSOCIATION

2020 Paul Wyeth/pwpictures.com

Shopping Retail offerings

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ABOUT THE COVER

Turtle Enjoying Life is an original watercolour painting by local artist Gilly Gobinet. gillygobinet.com

V ISIT A NTIGUA & BA R BUDA 2020

STAY CONNECTED In-room copy. Please do not remove.

Take us with you on the go! View the digital edition of Visit Antigua & Barbuda at antiguahotels.org.

Welcome TO ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA

Antigua Sailing Week

Paul Wyeth/pwpictures.com

With 365 stunning beaches, historic attractions, international cuisine and mouth-watering island flavours, world-class shopping and exciting activities for all ages, this dual-island paradise will satisfy all your travel cravings.

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Betty’s 18 V I S IHope T A NTIGUA

& BA R BUDA 2020

J. Kevin Foltz

History

BY JONATHAN MONJE

Heritage Highlights There are many well-preserved historical sites waiting to be explored in Antigua.

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History

Nelson’s Dockyard

MUSEUM OF ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA Start out here to get a comprehensive perspective on the sites you’ll want to visit. Established in 1985 in the 18th-century St. John’s Court House, the museum features exhibits that take you from the Amerindian and colonial eras through slavery and its abolishment in 1834, and independence from the United Kingdom in 1981.

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Did You Know?

Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the only working Georgian-era dockyard in the world.

ST. JOHN’S CATHEDRAL Destroyed twice by natural disasters, this church is a religious cornerstone not only for Antigua but for the surrounding region. Built on a fossilised reef, the neo-Baroque-style Anglican church in its third incarnation is the seat of the Diocese of the North East Caribbean and Aruba in the Church in the Province of the West Indies.

ST. BARNABAS ANGLICAN CHURCH This is one of the oldest churches in Antigua. It was rebuilt after an earthquake in 1834 levelled the building. Now it stands atop a hill known for the glimmering, green limestone originally used to build it.

HOLY TRINITY CHURCH Dating from 1833 as the slavery era came to a close, this deeply rooted church is considered

J. Kevin Foltz

I

t goes without saying that Antigua cherishes its many postcard-perfect beaches. But the island also has done a wonderful job of restoring a wealth of historic sites. Explore the shores but don’t forget to marvel over the island’s timeless architecture, from Nelson’s Dockyard to Betty’s Hope Sugar Plantation. Here are some of the top historic sites you won’t want to miss.

St. Barnabas Anglican Church

Fort Berkeley held hundreds of barrels of gunpowder and was outfitted with more than 20 cannons. From a distance you can still see a 24-pound cannon that could fire an 8-pound charge over a range of a mile and a half.

NELSON’S DOCKYARD This UNESCO World Heritage Site at Nelson’s Dockyard National Park is the only working Georgian-era dockyard in the world. British Admiral Horatio Nelson oversaw the Royal Navy Dockyard, which was integral to repairing ships and protecting the island from possible attacks.

From left: The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, Jorge Ramirez

The view from Shirley Heights

Shirley Heights offers a spectacular 360-degree view of the harbour and incoming vessels.

the first ever built here. After many restorations, it opens its doors to all races and beliefs.

SHIRLEY HEIGHTS Once a British defensive outpost, this lookout with artillery quarters and a blockhouse offers a spectacular 360-degree view of the harbour and incoming vessels. Don’t forget to bring your camera!

FORT BERKELEY It’s hard to miss this behemoth of an attraction. Constructed from 1704 to 1745,

DOCKYARD MUSEUM Built in 1855 as officers’ quarters in the Royal Navy Dockyard, the museum features exhibits on the British colonial site and also on current archaeological research. The Victorian building houses several items belonging to Nelson, as well as an area dedicated to the military history.

BETTY’S HOPE Established in the mid-1600s, this restored sugar plantation is testament to what was once one of Antigua’s most profitable commodities. Antiguan authorities estimate that more than 100 sugar mills lie in ruin across the island.

Betty’s Hope is the best preserved and well worth a visit.

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History

Wharf, Customs House and Westerby Memorial, 1907

Governor’s House, 1971

St. John’s Harbour, 1910

A Look Back at St. John’s

The past is alive in Antigua’s capital city.

A

s the capital city of Antigua and Barbuda, St. John’s boasts a rich history filled with cultural treasures that will give you a glimpse into the islands’ heritage.

St. John’s City dates back to the 1600s, but today, wooden buildings reflective of colonial-era architectural aesthetics stand amongst glass-and-concrete high-rises in streets meticulously laid out in the early 1700s.

Market Street runs the length of the city, south to north — from the main market, a feature of which is the sculpture of

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Father of the Nation V.C. Bird Sr., to Newgate Street, where you’ll find the iconic St. John’s Anglican Cathedral. Known locally as Big Church, it was completed in the early 1840s and helped to elevate St. John’s status to capital city. Market Street was also called Scot’s Row because of the Scottish presence on the island — as locals would say, before time.

The most notable street cutting east to west through Market is Tanner Street. It is dominated by a big gutter. Children coming up in the early 20th century remember floating paper boats here when it was

impassable during heavy rains. The overflow came through Country Pond, which some historians believe was once called Congo Pond — likely built by enslaved people from the Congo.

Country Pond is on Independence Avenue (formerly East Street), which, with North and South streets, once marked the perimeter of the city. A number of streets were renamed after independence in 1981, a move called for by calypsonian King Obstinate in his classic ‘True Heroes.’ There are streets named for national heroes like educator Nellie Robinson and cricketer Viv Richards, with a bust alongside his childhood home in the Ovals community. And don’t miss the monument to the leader of the 1736 rebellion, Prince Klaas, whose slave name was Court. The sculpture was created by Reginald Samuel, who also designed the national flag.

Several streets still retain their British names: Newgate, named after the famous London prison; St. Mary’s and Redcliffe, believed to be named for St. Mary Redcliffe, a sailor’s church in Bristol, England; and Temple. The route to the south entrance of Big Church is

Museum of Antigua and Barbuda

BY JOANNE C. HILLHOUSE

St. John’s Cathedral, 1960

High Street St. John’s, 1900s

View of St. John’s and Rat island, 1977

Museum of Antigua and Barbuda

St. John’s Anglican Cathedral, 1910 guarded by statues of St. John the Baptist and St. John the Divine, believed to have been pilfered from a French ship during the Seven Years’ War (1756–1763) by the HMS Temple.

The past also is evident in the twostoreyed wooden shops along Market Street that once doubled as residences.

From here coins would be tossed for masqueraders — Long Ghosts, Moko Jumbies, John Bull, House-Coat Band — between Christmas and New Year’s, before Carnival moved to summer in 1957.

Some city markers speak to the battles for equal rights — for example, 39ers Public Square at the bottom of High and Long streets, where the old market used to be.

The site is named for those who helped Antigua make the transition from colony to nation.

The Museum of Antigua and Barbuda is housed in the oldest building in the city, St. John’s Court House, which dates from 1750. The former seat of justice now preserves historic artefacts such as a 17th-century marble bath salvaged from a once-opulent townhouse on St. Mary’s Street, and two city post boxes — one from the Victorian era, the other made during the more recent reign of Elizabeth ll.

Learn more at the museum shop and be sure to envision the bricks of history as you savour a slow stroll through the streets of St. John’s.

The Museum of Antigua and Barbuda is housed in the oldest building in the city, St. John’s Court House, which dates from 1750.

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History and administered the Karin Boden charitable fund for disabled and disadvantaged children in Antigua and Barbuda.

Small wonder, then, that the nonagenarian Master of Trades was recognised in 2016 as Antigua and Barbuda’s Grand Officer of the Most Illustrious Order of Merit.

RENAISSANCE MAN

A Storied Life ANTIGUA WAS NEVER THE SAME AFTER TONY JOHNSON ARRIVED.

BORN IN ENGLAND AND REARED IN AUSTRALIA, Graeme Antony John-

son is known by many as the father of the tourism industry in his adopted home of Antigua and Barbuda.

His accomplishments speak for themselves. During the past 50 years, Johnson has constructed hotels throughout the islands, including Siboney Beach Club, which he managed for 35 years; founded the twin islands’ first watersports operation; designed the islands’ first glass-bottom boat;

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built the first sports fishing boat, as well as cutting-edge catamarans made of fibreglass; taught tourists how to water ski and scuba dive — after teaching himself by reading books; popularised windsurfing after taking up the sport at age 59; supplied text and photos for the nation’s first overseas tourism brochure; served as chairman of the Antigua Hotel & Tourist Association (AHTA), which presented him with a Lifetime Achievement Award; and, in his “spare time,” founded the Amazing Grace Home

Johnson’s story begins in 1925, when he was born in England. A year later he moved with his family to Australia, where he studied, amongst other things, electrical and mechanical engineering and property surveying.

When the Japanese threatened to invade Australia in World War II, the teenaged Johnson enlisted and trained with an engineering division of the Australian Imperial Forces. He underwent more training as a radar engineer and later served in engineering, infantry and small ship division, at one stage acting as skipper of a 96-foot ship working New Guinea and neighbouring islands. Whilst spending time in a military hospital, he read all he could on yacht design. His studies subsequently led him to write for yachting, travel and engineering magazines.

A pivotal move for Johnson — and Antigua and Barbuda — came when he delivered the yacht Georgiana from England to the islands. It was in Antigua soon thereafter that Johnson became construction superintendent of the Long Bay Hotel on the eastern coast of Antigua. Subsequently, he oversaw construction of hotels, office buildings and schools in Antigua, Barbuda, St. Maarten, Nevis, Montserrat, St. Lucia and Barbados.

Johnson’s legacy lives on throughout his adopted island home, especially at his beloved Siboney Beach Club. In 2016, at the age of 93, he sold the hotel to three local investors who later renovated the suites. At the end of 2018, the hotel embarked on an expansion project to add 18 junior suites. Summer 2019 saw a full overhaul of the restaurant, Salt Plage.

Siboney now offers guests a 30-room boutique beachfront hotel.

Today, Johnson continues to call Antigua home as he writes about his life and how tourism development has changed the lives of Antiguans and Barbudans.

We can only imagine what an amazing tale that will be.

C A P T I VAT I N G C L A R E N C E H O U S E THIS RESTORED “LIVING MUSEUM” HAS A FASCINATING TALE TO TELL.

Ted Martin (2)

C O N S T R U C T E D I N T H E E A R LY 1 8 0 0 S O N RE M NANTS OF AN EARLIE R STRUCTU RE said to

have been built for the Duke of Clarence, Prince William IV, this historic site has hosted countless guests and events. The building was used as a base for commissioners and supervisors at Nelson’s Dockyard. In 1856, Clarence House became the official residence for governors of Antigua and the Leeward Islands. From stone masonry to interior décor, the house has been meticulously restored to its former colonial glory.

Clarence House, in fact, is where British royals stay whilst visiting Antigua and Barbuda. In 2016, Prince Harry visited Antigua and Barbuda on behalf of Her Majesty the Queen. Many events were planned to introduce His Royal Highness to Antiguan life, and it was the first time an event was held at Clarence House following its massive renovation.

Today, Clarence House is a major addition to the magnificent collection of Georgian architectural structures in Nelson’s Dockyard and is considered the crown jewel of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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The Officers’ Quarters at Shirley Heights V ISIT A NTIGUA & BA R BUDA 2020

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Jorge Ramirez

Exploring

BY JEFFREY DOLLAR LAIGN

Top 10 Reasons to Towel Off

This top-shelf holiday destination offers endless experiences that don’t require a beach towel. All you need is your imagination and a sense of adventure.

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Exploring

Island Safari Tour

1. TACKLE THE TERRAIN Antigua and Barbuda are low-lying

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islands characterised by limestone formations and a highly variegated coastline. Hop aboard an island safari Land Rover from Tropical Adventures Antigua and discover off-the-beaten-track marvels like Devil’s Bridge, a rock formation that has taken thousands of years to form. Learn more about wildlife with Salty Dogs Adventures as you pass through lush rainforests and fields of fragrant lemongrass. Or rent a scooter and explore on your own.

2. SAVOUR A SUNSET There’s nothing more romantic than an Antiguan sunset. The best sunset watching is, naturally, on the western coast of Antigua where the sun dips into the sea behind neighbouring islands like Nevis and Montserrat.

You’ll find a wealth of oceanfront and hillside vantage points from which to bid the day farewell.

V ISIT A NTIGUA & BA R BUDA 2020

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Not sure where to start?

The indispensable Maps of Antigua & Barbuda, available at various hotels, attractions and other locations throughout the island, covers different points of interest.

Courtesy of Tropical Adventures Antigua

I

f you’re like most visitors to Antigua and Barbuda, you probably were attracted to the islands because of their magnificent beaches. Antigua alone boasts 365 — one for every day of the year — and Barbuda is blessed with miles of pristine coastline.

Of course, you’ll want to get your fill of sun, sand and sea. But Antigua and Barbuda offer so much more than shore. Make time to explore these majestic isles. Traverse the backroads and discover historic and natural treasures. Treat yourself to a little retail therapy or cuddle up with a loved one and watch the sun go down in a blaze of glory.

Ready to get out and explore?

Here’s our take on the islands’ Top 10 must-do experiences.

Exploring Map of

Antigua & Barbuda

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V ISIT A NTIGUA & BA R BUDA 2020

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Sir

Long Island

Winthorpes Bay

St.

Mt. Thomas 160 mx

Dutchman Bay

New New Winthrope Winthorpes

Friars Hill Rd.

d Fort James

ray

Elys Bay

Walter Hwy.

Paradise View

St. John's Harbour

Five Islands Village G

Rd.

Beggars Pt.

Cedar Grove

Runaway Bay

Galley Bay

Table xHill

Bay Hodges

Dickenson Beach

Fort Bay

135 m

Boons Bay

Dickenson Bay

Fort Barrington

Hawksbill Bay

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Prickly Pear Island Soldier Bay

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Smith Island

Half Moon Bay Little Cove

Courtesy of The Admiral’s Inn

3. TRAVEL THROUGH TIME Amerindians inhabited Antigua and Barbuda centuries before Christopher Columbus worked up the courage to set out for parts unknown — hence the mysterious megaliths that dot the summit of Green Castle Hill and the petroglyphs carved in Barbuda’s Indian Cave. In the 1600s English colonists arrived in the islands to grow cane for sugar, molasses and rum.

At Betty’s Hope are two fine, photoworthy sugar mill towers. By the end of the 18th century, Antigua had become a significant British naval base overseen by Admiral Horatio Nelson.

Today Nelson’s Dockyard, the world’s only continuously working Georgian dockyard, is the focal point of Nelson’s Dockyard National Park, which also offers a museum, shops, restaurants and hotels.

4. LET THE RHYTHM GET YOU Local musicians keep the beat going with calypso, soca, steel pan and reggae. Tap and sway at concerts and festivals, and, if you’re lucky enough

The Admiral’s Inn

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Exploring to visit in summer, take time to turn out for Carnival. The Antiguan Carnival in late July and early August celebrates emancipation of slavery in 1834. Held in June, Barbuda’s Carnival, known as Caribana, is a 10-day festival marked by colourful costumes and the best of island music, including calypsonian marches, steel band competitions and the spectacular Parade of Bands.

5. SHOP, SHOP, SHOP Antigua’s best shopping is in St. John’s, amongst stores that line St. Mary’s and High streets. Discover duty-free deals at Heritage Quay, a two-level shopping centre chock-full of marked-down treasures. The adjacent Redcliffe Quay boasts more than a dozen art and gift shops, as well as clothing boutiques, restaurants and tour companies. Between the quays, vendors proffer local crafts and souvenirs. You won’t find a lot of “shoportunities” on Barbuda, but there is a small community of crafters who sell their wares in Codrington.

6. LOOK DOWN From Shirley Heights, 500 feet above sea level, you’ll enjoy impressive views of English Harbour and beyond. On a clear day, in fact, you may catch a glimpse of French Guadeloupe or Montserrat’s smoking volcano. Also magnificent are the views from nearby Dow’s Hill Interpretation Centre, which overlooks the harbour and the ruins of Fort Berkeley. Originally the residence of British naval officers, the centre now offers visitors a fascinating multimedia presentation spanning the island’s history from Amerindian settlement to independence.

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Did You Know?

Antigua’s original inhabitants called their island Wadadli, which means something similar to “our own.”

7. WALK ON THE WILD SIDE The islands of Antigua and Barbuda are home to several species of creatures found nowhere else — the Barbuda Warbler, for example, and the Antiguan racer snake. Indigenous lizards and exotic birds thrive on uninhabited Redonda and Great Bird Island. Barbuda, moreover, provides a sanctuary for throngs of frigate birds.

8. HANG OUT Liming — kicking back with family and friends — is a time-honoured Caribbean tradition. It’s also a great way for tourists to get an insider’s perspective that they may not find in a guidebook.

BeachLimerZ, a breezy bistro bar overlooking Antigua’s stunning Fort James Beach, is a great place to get out and mingle. And at Dickenson Bay there are many places to soak up local culture as you treat your taste buds to Caribbean classics.

9. TRIP OUT Your holiday in Antigua wouldn’t be complete without a day trip to Barbuda. Board the Barbuda Express, a high-speed catamaran ferry, and in 90 minutes you’ll be strolling along rose-coloured shores. Or book a tour with Caribbean Helicopters Ltd. to get a bird’s-eye view of the sister island. Your helicopter will land on a beach at Low Bay, a spectacular stretch of pink and white sand bordered on one side by the sparkling Caribbean Sea and on the other by the waters of the Codrington Lagoon.

Come as a Guest, Leave as a Friend.

Dickenson Bay, St. John’s Antigua

1-268-562-6785

www.buccaneerbeach.com

10. MAKE LIKE A PIRATE Rum was the drink of choice for the buccaneers who played a key role in Antigua’s colourful history. Today the pirates are gone, but their favourite potable is as potent as ever. Antiguan rum, amongst the Caribbean’s best, is sure to warm your innards; but for cooling off after a day in the sun, there’s nothing quite like one of Antigua’s crisp artisanal beers.

Looking for other ways to experience the islands?

The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority will be happy to provide you with more ideas. visitantiguabarbuda.com

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Exploring

Devil’s Bridge

Gotta Go

Devil’s Bridge, at the head of Antigua’s Indian Creek, is an ancient rock formation that mesmerises with blowholes and spouting surf. Legend says that if you throw two eggs into the water, the devil will keep one and throw the other back. Fiction or fact?

See for yourself.

ANTIGUA MOMENTS

Dot Kid Chavy

Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon

Daniel Bakka Bailey

One of my favourite things to do in Antigua is cruising around the island, whether it’s on a party boat or just visiting different offshore islands. I especially enjoy going to Green Island with friends, mainly because it’s just super quiet to chill at and the beach is incredibly beautiful and calm. @dotkidchavy | @chavdakid

Antigua famously has 365 beaches, one for every day of the year. But I’d be happy to spend the entire year on this one, at Prickly Pear.

The islet — 165 feet long and populated only by a flock of “laughing gulls” — is just a fiveminute boat ride from Hodges Bay Resort but feels a world apart. Come here and it’s just you, the gulls and a cup of potent rum punch that you serve yourself from the island’s leanto beach bar. Cheers to that! @jetsetsarah

We have some of the world’s best beaches.

They’re perfect for riding Jet Skis and chilling with friends. Eating local food like goat water, rice pudding or salt fish with chop-up is also something I enjoy; but playing golf or working out at the Cedar Valley Golf Course is my most favourite thing to do. I’m there almost every day working out, training clients or taking it easy with some friends and perfecting my golf game. @danielbailey100m

Photographer and cultural curator

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THESE INFLUENCERS SHARE THEIR TOP ANTIGUA EXPERIENCES.

V ISIT A NTIGUA & BA R BUDA 2020

Travel writer and on-camera host

Professional athlete

Diego Tam Photography

INSTA-WORTHY MOMENT BY @diegotamphotography

Swash Water Park

by

DAYANA RIVERO

Fun for All I Neil Forrester

t’s no secret Antigua and Barbuda has captured the hearts of honeymooners with its clear blue skies and beautiful blue waters. Now the islands are capturing the hearts of families, too. With so many activities on water and land, families are sure to find fun-filled adventures for grown-ups and kids alike.

If you’re looking to create memories that will last forever, here are just a few of the many attractions sure to please every member of the family.

SWASH WATER PARK The perfect playground for water lovers, Swash Water Park features a slide, clubhouse and trampoline, as well as obstacle courses that make for plenty of spills and lots of laughs. Swash is not only great for kids; adults are sure to have fun whilst trying to complete the playground course without making a splash.

Did You Know?

Swash Water Park features a slide, clubhouse and trampoline, as well as obstacle courses.

STINGRAY CITY ANTIGUA Enjoy a day with the brightest rays in the Caribbean. Your Stingray City adventure will be one to remember. A speedboat will take you to a shallow pool with a whitesand bottom surrounded by colourful coral reefs and tropical fish. You and your family can stand up or swim with the rays.

You can also feed, take pictures or snorkel with your newfound friends.

TROPICAL ADVENTURES ANTIGUA Explore land and sea with a wide variety

BRING THE WHOLE FAMILY TO ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE HOLIDAY. of tours from Tropical Adventures. Set sail for Barbuda and enjoy a boat ride across beautiful turquoise waters. Guides on the sister island will be waiting for you in a boat to take you into the heart of the mangroves to see the Frigate Bird Sanctuary. Back at the beach you can take a swim before enjoying a delicious Caribbean lunch.

WADADLI CATS Remember the day forever with a tour from Wadadli Cats. You can choose from exciting cruises amongst uninhabited islands and fishfilled reefs. Bird Island is the perfect place for your little ones. Its tranquil waters and protected bay make for the ideal spot for a swim.

FRED’S BELGIAN WAFFLES AND ICE CREAM Who doesn’t love ice cream? Discover the creamiest ice cream you have yet to taste at Fred’s Belgian Waffles and Ice Cream. With more than 50 available flavours, Fred’s will satisfy every family member’s sweet cravings.

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Land Activities

BY CAROL BAREUTHER

Explore Ashore

Island Tour 36 V I SSafari IT AN TIGUA

& BA R BUDA 2020

Courtesy of Tropical Adventures Antigua

Antigua was made for landlubbers, too.

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Land Activities

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urrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, the twin-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda is a water lover’s dream. But landlubbers won’t be left high and dry. Blessed with volcanic peaks, lush rainforests and a culture rich in history, the islands beckon with a multitude of ways to explore ashore.

STEP BACK IN TIME It’s easy to imagine Admiral Horatio Nelson standing at command aboard the frigate HMS Boreas in what is now his namesake Nelson’s Dockyard at Nelson’s Dockyard National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s the only continuously working Georgian-era dockyard in the world. Visit the Dockyard Museum and learn more about the British naval hero of the Napoleonic Wars. Also worth seeing are cannons, cauldrons used to boil tar for ships’ caulking and a trio of ship careening capstans that today are a festive gathering place for locals to celebrate Christmas Day. The site also features two inns, restaurants and shops.

DRIVE ON THE WILD SIDE Rev up on an off-road tour with Salty Dogs Adventures. Drive sturdy automatic or manual 5-speed off-road vehicles on a 2.5hour off-the-beaten track excursion over palm-studded beaches, on fields of fragrant lemongrass and under rainforest canopies.

You’ll stop at scenic overlooks and visit St. John’s market district, where you can buy lush tropical fruits and fragrances handcrafted from island-grown ingredients. The company also rents scooters for those who’d like to explore on their own.

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Cedar Valley Golf Club

Tee Time

Golf aficionados will enjoy Cedar Valley Golf Club, a world-class golf course with inspiring views and a challenging layout.

FORE! Club swingers can head to Cedar Valley Golf Club, three miles north of St. John’s. This 18-hole, par-70, 6,157-yard course offers a variety of challenging holes and panoramic views of the sea. There’s also a 300-yard driving range. Carts and clubs are available for rent. Lessons can be booked with the club’s resident professionals. Restroom and shower facilities are on-site as is a café serving light fare such as salads, sandwiches, burgers and pizza, plus a fully stocked assortment of beverages.

BEST BET Take a break from the tropical sun and try your luck in airconditioned comfort at King’s Casino. In St. John’s, near the cruise ship pier on Heritage Quay, this entertainment destination boasts over 350 state-of-the-art slot machines. Meet Colossus, the world’s largest slot machine. Towering at more than 15 feet, Colossus offers colossal prizes of up to $50,000.

There are table games, too: blackjack, poker and roulette.

King’s also live-simulcasts races from all major U.S. horse tracks and features off-track betting.

J. Kevin Foltz

SAY CHEESE! Those who want to see the Dockyard and beyond on a unique tour can meet photographer Ted Martin at his shop, Photofantasy Antigua, across from the Copper & Lumber Store Historic Inn. Martin takes you to some of the most photogenic places on his home island and documents your experience with photographs. He may capture your spontaneous pose on the beach or have you stage a kiss with your honey on historic Market Street in St. John’s. He packages these images into a personalised portfolio of memories to take home and last a lifetime.

18 Hole Championship Course • Clubhouse Bar and Restaurant Pro Shop • Practice Greens and Driving Range Top Name Golf Club Rentals including Callaway and Taylor Made www.cvgolfantigua.com Virtual Tour Tee; Time Bookings; Event updates Cedar Valley Road, Saint John’s, Antigua and Barbuda

Land Activities by

ALICIA SIMON

Crossing the Line EVER SINCE SHE WAS LITTLE, RENÉE EDWARDS AMBROSE HAD BIG PLANS FOR HER LIFE.

brose, is spreading a message of unadulterated girl power — powering her way through what has long been considered a “man’s world.”

Ambrose had a plan even as a child. When she told her mother what she wanted to be when she grew up, her mother said, “Well, what are we going to tackle first?”

Ambrose was never the typical carefree child; she seemed to have been imbued with laser focus and a keen sense of self. Rather than counting sheep as she fell asleep, she counted cars that zipped passed her roadside home in the country. “I could even tell whose car it was, just by the sound,” she said.

Having a knack for fixing things and a penchant for all things mechanical, she became one of the only female aviation mechanics in Antigua and Barbuda, working for regional airline Liat by the age of 19. Ambrose spent her evenings under the hood of cars, working as an auto mechanic during her free time — and she still made time to train and become a pilot.

In 2014, Ambrose purchased a derelict 1986 Mazda RX7 and transformed it into a speed machine that she christened the “Black Widow.” Thereafter, she founded the all-woman drag-racing team Lady Horsepower Farm. Together they have competed in four countries and placed in nine of 11 races.

“When people see women being a part of something that is male dominated, they take notice. We don’t just jump in the car and drive; we are very knowledgeable, and we can troubleshoot problems, too,” she said.

After realising her life’s goals before the age of 30, Ambrose embarked on a new journey, one that scared her more than driving a car at speeds exceeding 10.8 seconds per quarter mile. She wanted to be a model.

“I was a little curvier than everyone else, so I didn’t have the confidence,” Ambrose revealed.

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Conquering her fears, Ambrose entered and won the Caribbean Plus Competition in 2013 and became Antigua’s first Miss Carnival Plus International in 2014. She has also held the crown of Miss Curvy Idol. Buttaz, as she is known, is now a highly sought after plus-sized model.

“When I get in front of the camera, I am someone else,” she says. “The diva takes over.”

Today Ambrose remains on the fast track to success, expanding her brand and focusing on her latest venture, Lady Mex Workshop, empowering and teaching women how to maintain and operate their vehicles.

J. Kevin Foltz

RACE CAR DRIVER, PILOT, MECHANIC AND MODEL, Renée “Buttaz” Edwards Am-

J. Kevin Foltz

SEE THE SITES Tropical Adventures Antigua offers a sixhour soup-to-nuts excursion that includes spectacular stops, a swim break at worldfamous Half Moon Beach and a delicious Caribbean lunch. Ride in an open-air safari bus or air-conditioned SUV. Best of all, a guide provides the scoop on the island’s history and culture. If you’d like a surf-andturf trip, try Antigua Reef Riders’ full-day Wet ’n’ Dry Tour. This combines stops at famous sites like historic Nelson’s Dockyard, Shirley Heights Lookout and Fig Tree Drive, plus a chance to helm your own twoperson powerboat along the coast and stop to snorkel along the way. Or sightsee at your own speed in a rental car, SUV or minivan. Choices are many and include Carter’s Rent-A-Car, L&S Car Rental and New Level.

There are many must-see sites. Betty’s Hope is a restored sugar plantation. Signs throughout the estate provide a selfguided tour of structures like the Boiling House, Still House and Great House. Devil’s Bridge, on Antigua’s Atlantic coast, is a natural rock arch where the sea shoots through blowholes. The 10,000-seat Sir Viv-

ian Richards Stadium, a 15-minute drive from St. John’s, is named for the famous Antiguanborn West Indies cricket captain and is the best spot to watch national and international teams play.

ENJOY A BIRD’S-EYE VIEW Circumnavigate Antigua by air with Calvin Air Helicopters, offering the newest luxury heli tours and charters. Enjoy spectacular sites as you discover the Caribbean from a whole new perspective. Or you can board Caribbean Helicopters Ltd. for a full-island tour and see sunsoaked west coast beaches including Cades Reef and Rendezvous Bay, look down at the mega-yachts docked at Falmouth and English Harbours, and fly over the lush Shekerley Mountains. Caribbean Helicopters also offers a 4.5-hour air-land-and-sea trip to Barbuda.

This includes a 40-minute round-trip flight over the Caribbean Sea, with a landing on the spectacular pink and white sands of 14-mile Low Bay beach for a locally prepared lunch.

Then you’ll board a motorboat to Codrington Lagoon to see one of the largest frigate bird colonies in the world. Back on Antigua, ziplining through treetops is another great way to see the island’s gorgeous rainforest.

Sir Vivian Richards Stadium

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Ecotourism

How to Be an Ecotourist

BY SHANNA CHALLENGER

It’s in nature that you’ll discover the real Antigua and Barbuda.

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ou’ve come to Antigua and Barbuda to enjoy blue skies, white sandy shores and turquoise waters; but as islanders will tell you: The beach is just the beginning. If you’re a nature lover, you’ll have a unique opportunity here to dive deeper and immerse yourself in the diversity these stunning habitats provide. Before you know it, you’ll be calling yourself an ecotourist.

Ecotourism is defined by The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.” Ecotourists view the islands through a different lens, gaining environmental and cultural awareness through interactions with local guides and residents. Also, revenue generated from ecotourism can provide funding to support conservation, help wildlife and habitats, and boost economic development.

So, are you ready to make the switch?

It is the most rewarding way to travel and the best way to ensure your adventures are positive for local people and the planet. The EAG (Environmental Awareness Group) offers several ways to embrace your inner ecotourist whilst visiting Antigua and Barbuda.

Courtesy of Shanna Challenger/EAG

Lesser Antillean Bullfinch

HIKING If you’re interested in exploring the lush landscape of Antigua’s hills and valleys, hit one of the many nature trails with a trained guide. Tours allow travellers to appreciate green spaces whilst learning about rare and threatened species, as well as traditional uses of the forest. This is the real Antigua.

From top: Courtesy of Trek Tours Antigua, Courtesy of Shanna Challenger/EAG

BIRDWATCHING Although small in size, the islands will surprise and delight you with a variety of bird species. A birdwatching tour of Antigua will introduce you to many of 135 species and 37 birding hotspots. Awaiting you in the mangroves are unparalleled views of Ruddy Ducks, Yellow-crowned NightHerons, West Indian Whistling-Ducks and Black-necked Stilts. The Christian Valley Trail offers stunning views of land birds, including the Antillean Crested Hummingbird, Pearly-eyed Thrasher, Lesser Antillean Bullfinch and the shy, forestdwelling Scaly-naped Pigeon. Or take a trip to Barbuda to view the twin island’s sole endemic, the Barbuda Warbler. Your EAG guide will enlighten you on the efforts being done to afford protection to these species and their habitats.

TURTLE TOURS Antigua and Barbuda boasts three nesting species of sea turtle: hawksbill, green and leatherback, as well as a visiting species sometimes found feeding in waters here: the loggerhead. The Antigua Sea Turtle Project is a subset of the EAG, composed of a group of volunteers monitoring turtle nesting sites. Visitors are not encouraged to go out seeking nesting turtles, but the EAG conducts supervised turtle watches led by trained guides on the mainland and on a small island from June to November.

SNORKELLING AND KAYAKING Experience the magic and beauty of Antigua’s tropical ecosystem when you embark on a kayak and snorkelling expedition by Antigua Nature Tours (ANT).

This will put you up close and personal with Antigua’s wondrous wildlife and spectacular scenery. The tour includes an exciting speedboat ride out to the Kayak

Trek Tours Antigua

Dock for a paddle amongst the lush mangrove inlets of the North Sound Marine Park, which will open your eyes to the wondrous world of the Red Mangrove on Antigua’s east coast. It’s home to several varieties of birds, including the Brown Pelican, and beautiful yet bizarre creatures like the sea cucumber and upside-down jellyfish. Your guides will educate you on the importance of the mangroves and are always at hand to offer assistance.

By now you surely know what it takes to be an ecotourist. The next time you plan a trip to Antigua, be sure to let it be a trip with a difference!

To receive more information about any of the EAG’s tours, or to make a direct donation to assist with conservation efforts, call the office 462-6236 or email the EAG: eagantigua@gmail. com. Also, feel free to email ANT at info@antiguanaturetours.com or call 720-1761.

Leatherback Sea Turtles

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Jorge Ramirez

Beaches

BY JEFFREY DOLLAR LAIGN

Spectacular Shores

A beach is a beach is a beach? Not in Antigua and Barbuda. There are hundreds of them here, and they’re all magnificent, protected by reefs and covered with sparkling sand. But don’t assume that every beach is just like another.

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Beaches

Darkwood Beach

BEST FOR FAMILIES Shaped like a horseshoe, Mamora Bay offers crystalline waters calm enough for the

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Did You Know?

Darkwood Beach in Antigua was selected as one of the Best Caribbean Beaches for 2019, according to Forbes.com. most inexperienced of swimmers. More accomplished water lovers may want to take out a kayak or pedal boat. One of two beaches at St. James’s Club, it’s close to a slew of restaurants and attractions. Your clan will clap for family-friendly amenities like restrooms and shower facilities, making it a breeze to transition to your afterbeach activities.

BEST FOR COUPLES Stake out a spot on the sugary, blushcoloured sand that covers the crescentshaped beach at Half Moon Bay National Park. Wade hand in hand through the surf and stroll down a secluded stretch of sand until you reach a collection of picturesque rock formations carved by crashing Atlantic waves. It’s the perfect place to catch the sun setting in a sea of vibrant colours.

BEST FOR LIMERS Liming is Caribbean-speak for chilling with the gang, perhaps over an ice-cold Wadadli beer. Shoot the breeze at Turner’s Beach and order up superb seafood at Turner’s Beach Restaurant. Or bond with buddies over a rousing game of beach volleyball at Fort James Beach and then unwind with a cool one from Inspiration at Miller’s by the Sea.

Neil Forrester

A

s you’ll discover soon after you arrive in the islands, beaches here vary in topography, ambience and charm. Some are perfect for practicing watersports, others are just right for relaxing with a good book — one of native novelist Jamaica Kincaid’s, perhaps. If you love to shop or simply watch pretty people stroll by, there’s a beach with your name on it. And if you’ve come here to get away from the hustle and bustle of the workaday world, you’ll find rejuvenating solitude amongst the islands’ many hidden coves and lagoons.

How do you discover that stretch of sun-kissed sand that was made just for you? Here’s our guide to the best beaches these idyllic islands have to offer.

Beaches

BEST FOR LONERS Easily accessible and not a building in sight — that’s what makes Darkwood Beach a great place to get away from it all. Though popular on weekends with locals and cruise ship passengers, it’s virtually deserted on weekdays. The water is warm and tranquil, and the sand is like confectioners’ sugar.

BEST FOR SWIMMERS Tucked in a cosy inlet, Nonsuch Bay is the perfect spot to spread your towel on pink sand and let your worries float away.

Calm, gentle waters are perfect for swimming or simply wading.

BEST FOR SPORTIES Kitesurfing and windsurfing have become increasingly popular in recent years, and Jabberwock Beach is a great place to ride the waves on a board. It’s especially appealing from December through August, when warm trade winds blow strongest.

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Snorkellers and divers, meanwhile, will want to explore the accessible reefs and wrecks at Deep Bay and Cades Bay, which forms part of an impressive marine park.

BEST FOR NATURE BUFFS Endangered racer snakes and West Indian Whistling-Ducks frequent the beach on Great Bird Island, just off the coast of Antigua; and thousands of frigate birds flock to the sanctuary on pristine Barbuda. Colourful corals, eagle rays, blue tangs and sea turtles hang out below the waves.

BEST FOR BROWSERS If you like shores with stores, bring cash and cards to Jolly Beach, a mile-long stretch of sand lined with vendors selling crafts and souvenirs. After you’ve had your fill of sun and sea, take a short stroll to the marina complex full of restaurants, bars and boutiques — even a supermarket where you might find a unique local treasure to take back home.

Snorkellers and divers will want to explore the accessible reefs and wrecks at Deep Bay and Cades Bay, which forms part of an impressive marine park.

From left: Neil Forrester, Courtesy of Sunseakers in Heritage Quay

Curtain Bluff

make your visit one to remember!

Pillars of Hercules

Neil Forrester

Gotta Go

A brief walk around the point at Antigua’s Galleon Bay brings you to the Pillars of Hercules, an impressive cliff carved into awe-inspiring columns by centuries of crashing waves and pounding winds.

Mistic Beach Bar & Restaurant Runaway Bay, St. John’s

268-723-4589 misticbeachbar.com

Open Every Day | Tel: 728-4301 or 462-8240

OJ’S

Bar & Restaurant

Crabbe Hill, Crab Hill, Saint Mary's, Antigua +1 268-460-0184

Specializing in Seafood & Local Cuisine

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Beaches

Best Barbuda Beaches

MILES OF UNSPOILT SEASHORE AND TURQUOISE-COLOURED WATER AWAIT YOU ON ANTIGUA’S SISTER ISLAND.

you’ll love the pristine shores of sister island Barbuda, where you can walk for miles in some places without encountering another beachgoer. Protected by a barrier reef, the waters of Barbuda are warm and welcoming. Rose-coloured shores and otherworldly limestone formations add to the splendour. Here are a few that are not to be missed.

swaths of pink sand. Tie up here, snorkel or sunbathe and enjoy a picnic lunch.

GOAT POINT

This pretty cape near the northern tip of Barbuda enchants with white sand and flawless turquoise waters. Bring a good book or simply lose yourself in thought as you take in the natural beauty surrounding you.

PALM BEACH

Isolated, pristine Palm Beach dazzles beachgoers with blindingly white sand peppered with patches of pink. The water offshore is good for snorkelling. Slip your feet in a pair of fins and see what you can find just beneath the waves.

PRINCESS DIANA BEACH

Named for the visiting royal who came to love the soft sand and greenery at Coco Point, this beach rewards with safe, shallow water and magnificent sunsets.

TWO FOOT BAY

PALMETTO POINT

At the southernmost tip of Barbuda, Palmetto Point is a favoured destination of boaters, especially those who enjoy watching the sun sparkle across long

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Here on Barbuda’s east coast you’ll discover soft white sand and mysterious limestone caves that look much as they did when Arawaks carved petroglyphs on the walls.

Did You Know?

Protected by a barrier reef, the waters of Barbuda are warm and welcoming.

Courtesy of Barbuda Express (2)

IF YOU PREFER BEACHES less travelled,

JOHNSON’S POINT ST. MARY’S, ANTIGUA TEL: 462 9133 FAX: 560 8114

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On the Water

BY JEFFREY DOLLAR LAIGN

Water Play

Adventure 52Mystic V I S ICatamaran T A NTIGU A & BA R BUDA

2020

Courtesy of Tropical Adventures Antigua

Having fun in the water is a way of life in Antigua and Barbuda, and there are myriad ways to make the most of the warm, clear, welcoming waters that surround these idyllic Caribbean islands.

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On the Water

Did You Know?

Antiguan swimmer Malique Williams was just 15 years old when he qualified for the men’s 50m freestyle at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens. kitesurfing, windsurfing and stand-up paddleboarding. Enthusiasts converge on Jabberwock Beach and Nonsuch Bay from December through August, when winds are at their strongest. Don’t be intimidated by expert riders who skim the waves with the grace of a figure skater.

These sports do take some skill, but instructors are on hand to help you find your sea legs.

Antigua Reef Riders

S

lip on a snorkel mask or gear up with a wetsuit and tank. Savour the sights on an island cruise or rent a boat and explore on your own. Throw caution to the wind and try your hand at something dauntingly different: a surfing sport, perhaps. Experts are there to teach you, and remember, you’re on holiday. It’s the perfect time to let go of inhibitions and challenge yourself.

Why not pick up a sport that may turn into a lifelong passion? Even if it’s clear you’re not going to be the next Aquaman (or woman), you’re sure to have the time of your life trying. So, what are you waiting for? Hit the blue!

BOARDING Increasingly popular with aqua-athletes are above-the-surface watersports like

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SNORKELLING Cades Bay, part of a protected marine park, is Antigua’s most visited snorkelling spot — and for good reason. The 2-mile-long barrier reef teems with colourful marine life, including spiny lobsters, conch, parrotfish, moray eels, eagle rays and cruising barracuda. Snorkel trips tend to focus on the landward side of the reef, where the water is only about 35 feet deep and visibility ranges from 50 to 140 feet, depending on the weather. New to snorkelling? Let Antigua Reef Riders show you a novel, easy way to see the sights. Board a self-propelled Reef Ray and you’ll be gliding through the water on or below the surface. After a day of riding the reefs, you may find yourself wanting to discover more of what lies beneath Antigua’s waves.

DIVING Colourful reefs and sunken ships await you in the briny deep, and you can make the scene — whether you’re a wetsuit vet or a novice in need of PADI certification.

DiveCarib offers a full range of tours and training options, and Mamora Bay Divers will instruct and outfit you with all you’ll need to explore mysterious marvels like the three-masted Andes, a merchant ship that sank a century ago in the middle of Deep Bay.

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Drive your own boat as you and your friends explore the beautiful west coast of Antigua out to the stunning Cades Reef on our fantastic, award-winning Antigua Reef Rider Snorkeling tour.

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On the Water SAILING Antigua’s protected waters and advantageous trade winds draw yachters from around the world each spring to compete in races and regattas. Don’t feel left out of the festivities. Antigua is a great place to learn to sail. Ondeck Sailing offers several training courses to get you ready for a race. In the meantime, there are many guided sailing adventures to prime your interest in watercraft.

BOATING Antigua Reef Riders offers a thrilling three-hour water tour in a 10-foot, twoperson inflatable boat you navigate yourself. You’ll also appreciate a funfilled excursion aboard one of Wadadli

Wadadli Cats

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COASTING Boating isn’t just about adrenalinepumping speed. Meandering along the

Neil Forrester

Cats’ comfortable, twin-hulled catamarans. Take in palm-fringed scenery, get up close and personal with marine life and marvel at magnificent ocean views.

The Brightest Rays in the Caribbean.

On the Water coves and beaches of Antigua and Barbuda is a wonderful way to while away a perfect day. Board the catamaran Mystic and let Tropical Adventures Antigua introduce you to the scenic bays and shores along the coast. On this six-hour excursion, you’ll encounter natural wonders, relax on a sunny beach and then chow down on a succulent lobster lunch.

CRUISING One of the best ways to experience the islands is to take a sightseeing cruise. Upload pics for the folks back home as your captain takes you to places you’ve only imagined. But the fun doesn’t stop as the day begins to wane. There is, in fact, no better way to make an Antiguan memory or rekindle a romance than by catching a dazzling sunset from the sea. The ambience aboard Tropical Adventures’ Mystic II is as lovely as the glowing horizon and the shoreside palms waving on shore in the cool evening breeze.

DAY-TRIPPING Antigua may be just 100 square miles, but it’s smack dab in the middle of paradise, a

short day trip from island jewels like Montserrat and St. Kitts and Nevis. Ecotourists will enjoy exploring untrammelled islets such as Great Bird Island. Grown-ups and kids alike will clamour for videos to remind them of a short speedboat ride to Stingray City Antigua, where friendly, hungry southern rays congregate around a coral reef in shallow, crystalline waters. Make a ray’s day by serving it a handful of squid for lunch. The flat, kite-shaped creatures glide right over your palm and suck up the snack with beaky mouths on their undersides. And no holiday in Antigua would be complete without a visit to sister island Barbuda. Hop on the high-speed Barbuda Express ferry or fly high with Caribbean Helicopters Ltd., and in no time you’ll be snapping selfies as you frolic along the island’s iconic pink-sand shores.

SPLASHING With hundreds of balmy beaches at your disposal, you’ll no doubt want to go for a swim — or several — whilst on holiday in Antigua and Barbuda. The islands’ sandy shores are idyllic and inviting. But if lounging on a towel leaves you thirsting

RESERVATIONS: +1(268) 464-7112 or 764-3474 Website: fishingantigua.com Email: info@fishingantigua.com 58

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for more, get wet at Swash Water Park, a floating complex of fun in the sun. Slide, climb, bounce and challenge yourself on an inflated obstacle course. Children and grown-ups alike will want to play the day away — and come back for more — at this unique offshore attraction.

SPORTFISHING Antigua’s waters are brimming with wahoo, tuna, kingfish, mahi-mahi and barracuda, to name just a few of the top catches. Several tour operators will have you reeling in fishing memories to last a lifetime. The 31-foot Mystic Amara III is perfect for discovering the best fishing spots in and around Antigua. After a rewarding day of deep-sea or bottom fishing, you’ll understand why boatsful of anglers make for English Harbour each year to compete in the annual Antigua and Barbuda Sportfishing Tournament, a qualifying event for the prestigious Offshore World Championship.

Have we whet your whistle for a wet and wild island adventure? The Big Blue awaits you. You’ll be amazed at what you can do above and below these spectacular turquoise waters.

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On the Water

by

GILLY GOBINET

Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge

ANTIGUAN WOMEN MAKE ROWING HISTORY.

Canary Islands to Antigua. Two all-male Antiguan teams have completed the annual Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge.

But the 2017/18 race marked a milestone for Antigua and Barbuda. For the first time, an all-female Antiguan team crossed the finish line — the only all-black crew in the world to accomplish the feat.

Despite the failure of their autopilot system, which lost them valuable time, the triumphant women took just 34 days to complete their exhausting journey from La Gomera, off the African coast. The athletes were greeted to tremendous acclaim as they arrived at the finish line in Antigua.

Exhausted, they were but delighted to step back on terra firma and enjoy a hot meal.

The history-making crew was composed of Captain Kevinia Francis, a health and fitness trainer; RYA-certified yacht captain Samara Emmanuel; wellness coach Elvira Bell and swimming coach and travel writer Christal Clashing.

The champion rowers said they enjoyed encountering marine wildlife during their voyage, particularly pods of dolphins and whales, and agreed that valuable lessons

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were learnt on the way. Bell, for example, overcame a deep-seated fear of claustrophobia whilst spending a month with teammates in the cramped interior of the rowing boat.

All four crew members, moreover, had to learn to live harmoniously alongside each other in close quarters — with no privacy.

The women forged strong bonds with one another as they made history for their homeland. But would they do it again? A resounding, “Yes!” In a few years, perhaps…

The historymaking crew was composed of Captain Kevinia Francis, a health and fitness trainer; RYA-certified yacht captain Samara Emmanuel; wellness coach Elvira Bell and swimming coach and travel writer Christal Clashing.

Ted Martin (2)

IMAGINE ROWING 3,000 MILES IN A GRUELLING RACE from the

BY GILLY GOBINET

Boatloads of Fun

Ed Whiting

Thrilling races and colourful regattas mark Antiguans’ long-standing love of the sea.

Vintage 65-foot wooden cutter The Blue Peter, built in 1930, with 88-foot steel gaff schooner Ocean Star, built in 1991 as a sailing school vessel, from the Classic Yacht Regatta

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Sailing & Regattas

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ailing is synonymous with Antigua and Barbuda — for many good reasons. Protected harbours, safe anchorages and constant trade winds make for perfect sailing conditions — and, of course, thrilling races. Throughout the year, Antigua draws hundreds of sailors from around the world to compete in international regattas. In addition, the island celebrates its seafaring heritage with a slew of local sailing programmes and funfilled races.

ANTIGUA SAILING WEEK The oldest and best-known regatta takes place in late April/early May and draws hundreds of participants for an intense race that lasts a week. There are many social events organised for crews after a day of

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Top and bottom: Optimist World Championship

Marco Gradoni with Richard Schultheis, first and second in the individual races for Italy and Malta, respectively

A Sailor’s Paradise Protected harbours, safe anchorages and constant trade winds make for perfect sailing conditions.

serious sailing. A break in the middle, known as Lay Day, is basically a beach party with various competitions, such as tug-of-war, and other fun activities so everyone can relax and have a few drinks before resuming their fiercely competitive racing. Rum parties and spectacular musical events — with international reggae, soca artists and bands — make Antigua Sailing Week a popular event for sailors, locals and visitors alike.

ANTIGUA CLASSIC YACHT REGATTA Started 30 years ago, this event is held in early April, before Antigua Sailing Week.

Smaller and more laid-back, it involves spectacular vintage and classic yachts, some dating back to the 1920s. Antigua was the first to introduce the Spirit of Tradition class, which includes more recent yachts built along classic designs.

This category has since been adopted by other classic regattas all over the world.

There is a distinctive camaraderie associated with this regatta. Once the day’s serious racing is over, sailors from the biggest and smallest yachts relax together on the docks over drinks and stories. After the four main races and Prize Giving are over, everyone enjoys Gig Racing at the Admiral’s Inn in Nelson’s Dockyard, followed by traditional Cream Teas served by women in flowery hats and printed frocks.

Matias Capizzano (2)

OPTIMIST WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP In July 2019 the island hosted this prestigious event for the third time. The Optimist race attracted 255 young sailors from 65 countries for eight days of challenging racing. Optimists are one-person sailboats measuring just over seven feet. They are skippered by children ages 11 to 15. Held a few miles in the open sea off English Harbour, last year’s event was a huge success despite rainy conditions one day and an enormous swell on another.

Italian Marcus Gradoni won for the third year in a row. Richard Schultz from Malta and Jaime Ayarza from Spain came in second and third, respectively. Maria Perello from Spain was the top female sailor, and Theodore Spencer the top Antiguan sailor.

Italy, Spain and the United States were the winning countries overall.

Competition was fierce in Team Racing, which depends on the racing skills of each member of a team of four and also collective offensive tactics. Playoffs were intense, with Italy closely beating Thailand, whose team had won the past two years.

At the colourful Prize Giving event, the Antiguan team handed over the Optimist Flag to the Italian team, which will host the event in 2020 at Lake Garda.

The young sailors proved they were pros by handling the occasional capsized boat and baling for all they were worth when big waves swamped their boats. Also laudable were the efforts of many Antiguan volunteers who devoted so much to the event.

Ted Martin

CARIBBEAN 600 In its 12th year, this Royal Oceanic Race Club event is a 600-nautical-mile circuit of 14 Caribbean islands. The start from English Harbour is spectacular. After the yachts have disappeared from view, their progress is tracked online. Boats may return at any time, so welcoming committees are on constant watch. The race began with a handful of events. Now 100

participating yachts must exceed 80 feet.

Races, from 12 to 30 miles out of English Harbour, are super!

yachts are registered for the February 2020 race.

some of the very latest.

THE SUPER YACHT CHALLENGE Held in January, the 2020 race heralds the 10th edition of this exclusive, high-priced event. Entries are limited to 15, and all

OYSTER REGATTA This annual event at the beginning of April starts at Nelson’s Dockyard in English Harbour. It’s exclusively for owners of Oyster yachts from all over the world. The impressive fleet includes older models, as well as

ANTIGUA YACHT CLUB Traditional annual races organised here include Nelson’s Pursuit Race on December 31; the High Tide series, also in December; and the Round the Island Race in January.

JOLLY HARBOUR YACHT CLUB Enjoy regular Saturday afternoon races out of Jolly Harbour. The club also organises a popular Valentine’s Regatta and another well-attended one in November.

THE NATIONAL SAILING ACADEMY Extensive youth sailing programmes are sponsored by the academy and the Antigua Yacht Club. The aim is to teach children to sail and swim. Mini-regattas also are organised throughout the year to introduce sailors to racing. The Sailing Academy, moreover, hosts Sailability, a programme affiliated with the U.K. Royal Yachting Association, which caters to disabled sailors.

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Race, Chase and Celebrate Antigua Sailing Week is a time-honoured event offering something for everyone.

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Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority

BY RANA-JAMILA LEWIS AND ALISON SLY-ADAMS

T

Paul Wyeth/pwpictures.com (2)

he beach is just the beginning of the adventure that awaits you in Antigua during the 53rd Antigua Sailing Week (ASW) in late April and early May. The end-of-season regatta has maintained its popularity through the years — whether you are a member of a highly trained crew, on a state-of-the-art race boat, or a family racing, it has become a bucket-list event for many — an opportunity to experience racing excellence amongst the most beautiful of landscapes.

On April 25 don’t miss the Peters & May Round Antigua Race. The prize giving for this one-day race doubles as a festive kickoff to the week of racing ahead. The events are guaranteed to be challenging and exhilarating for sailors and participants.

Antigua’s central location and international airport make it a cinch to fly in from Europe and the United States to join an arranged bareboat with or without a skipper from Dream Yacht Charter or a race charter for those who want to fly a spinnaker.

NOT A SAILOR? NOT A PROBLEM Spectators are encouraged to get involved, too, whether that’s appreciating the action from a bird’s-eye vantage point like Shirley Heights or by taking one of the many hiking trails to viewpoints along the coastline. Daily Chase the Race tours also head out from Falmouth Harbour Marina to the racecourse to view the on-the-water battles up close. In addition to top-notch racing, ASW is also known for its exciting post-competition festivities and shoreside entertainment, including beach parties.

On April 28, visitors to the island are invited to attend the spectacular Reggae in the Park concert, which is now in its 11th year. Top-notch artists have included Damian & Ziggy Marley, Third World, Steel Pulse, Junior Kelly, Tarrus Riley, Maxi Priest and more. For the 2020 edition, the event organisers guarantee that racing crew, sailing enthusiasts and holidaymakers will all have a memorable night.

For an epic daytime shoreside experience, come down to Pigeon Point beach on Lay Day, April 29. This typical islandstyle beach bash, also colloquially called a “Lime,” is where we have curated the best local entertainers and DJs for a carefree,

mid-regatta afternoon of music, games and competitions, not to mention beers, babes and bros.

When the racing ends and the scores are in, it’s time to recognise the best achievers. The Final Awards Ceremony, on May 1, inside the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nelson’s Dockyard is like no other. A magnificent array of silverware and trophies will be presented by the Governor General to the crews that made the best scores. It all climaxes with live entertainment and a farewell to the friends that were inevitably made during the seven days of competition and camaraderie.

JOIN THE FUN

ANTIGUA SAILING WEEK APRIL 25–MAY 1 SAILINGWEEK .COM @SAILINGWEEK @SAILINGWEEK

@SAILINGWEEK ANTIGUA @REGGAEINTHEPARK _ ASW

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Barbuda INSTA-WORTHY MOMENT BY @mohammidwalbrookphotos

BY JONATHAN MONJE

Beautiful Barbuda is just a day trip away.

B

rilliant sunshine, a unique atmosphere and alluring beaches. These are just a few of the reasons to visit Barbuda.

Antigua’s pristine sister island resonates with those who prefer a low-key but spectacular getaway. You won’t find shop-filled streets or world-class restaurants. What you will find are unexpected treasures to enrich your stay in the islands. Here are just a few reasons to add a Barbuda day trip to your holiday to-do list.

THE BEACHES Protected by barrier reefs, Barbuda’s coastline is edged with long pink- and white-sand beaches. You can walk for miles along the shores without running into developments.

When Princess Diana wanted to get away from it all, she escaped to Barbuda — not for its high-end shopping, gourmet restaurants or sizzling nightlife but to soak up the serene beauty of Coco Point Beach, which was renamed Princess Diana Beach in July 2011 on what would have been the late royal’s 50th birthday.

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GLAMPING IN PARADISE Barbuda boasts no mega-resorts, but you may enjoy shoreside camping in tents and cabanas.

It has always been a tradition in Barbuda for locals to go camping on various beaches for periods ranging from a weekend to an entire eight weeks of school summer vacation.

Now there’s a new option for tourists, thanks to Frangipani Glamping. Glamorous camping, in other words. Imagine luxuriating in a queensize bed on the shore as the music of lapping waves fills you with serenity under a canopy of twinkling stars. Sweet dreams are just a sand dune away.

Nature lovers will also appreciate the Barbuda Belle Hotel in Codrington Lagoon Park.

Choose from six solar-powered bungalows on a breathtaking beach. A top-notch staff, cuisine at your fingertips and the ocean at your side.

What more could you ask for?

FLOCK TO THE WILDLIFE Home to the largest colony of its kind in the western hemisphere, Barbuda’s Frigate Bird

Mohammid Walbrook

The Other Side of Paradise

Map of

Barbuda

Sanctuary harbours more than 170 different species of birds, most of them frigate birds. The sanctuary at Codrington Lagoon is a paradise for birdwatchers, so don’t forget your binoculars and camera.

Tour operators are up and running, ready to show you this prized natural treasure.

SURF’S UP! North Palmetto Point features some of the most sought-after surf on the island. Currently there are no organised group surfing tours, but that doesn’t stop dedicated wave riders from Hawaii and the mainland states from flocking to Barbuda at the peak of U.S. winter season. In fact, when a cold front heads this way, waves can get big.

Neil Forrester

Right off the beach at Diamond Cay is a long coastline of beaches protected by barrier reefs. What marks North Palmetto Point as a favourite amongst those seeking waves is the fact that there are no crowds, miles of empty beach and some of the most consistently strong winds and fast waves in the Caribbean.

MAKE THE TRIP Visit Barbuda in style and hop aboard the Barbuda Express at St. John’s Harbour. You can expect to arrive within 90 minutes aboard a wave-piercing catamaran. The ferry service also offers all-day tour packages from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. It’s a great way to visit the Frigate Bird Sanctuary and the island’s famous caves or soak up the sun at rose-coloured Princess Diana Beach.

Interested in getting a bird’s-eye view of the island? Caribbean Helicopters Ltd., 10 minutes from St. John’s, offers daily tours from a unique perspective. Operating from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week, the company offers the opportunity to experience an unforgettable panoramic view of the islands.

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Carmichael’s at Sugar Ridge V ISIT A NTIGUA & BA R BUDA 2020

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J. Kevin Foltz

Dining & Nightlife

BY ALICIA SIMON

Taste of Wadadli The island’s palate-pleasing cuisine and unique island flavours will leave you hungry for more.

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Dining & Nightlife

Sheer Rocks

Perched atop a rocky cliff, in the centre of Antigua’s gorgeous west coast, Sheer Rocks creates a stunning backdrop for lounging in the sun, enjoying tapas lunches, and romantic sunset dining in the evening.

Make your way through the bougainvilleadraped walkways, twinkling lights, billowing white curtains and lush greenery. From the cliff-side plunge pools and daybeds to the elegant oceanfront dining pavilions, this luxurious venue is mesmerising.

Sheer Rocks’ mouth-watering Mediterranean-inspired menus are created around carefully selected and sustainably sourced ingredients, making use of the island's best and freshest ingredients. Open every day, tapas are served from 12 noon, and guests can dine a la carte or from the tasting menu for dinner.

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STAY CONNECTED FOR THE LATEST RESTAURANT NEWS

sheer-rocks.com Enquiries: info@sheer-rocks.com

Weddings and events: events@sheer-rocks.com Tel: 464-5283

SheerRocks @sheerrocks

Catherine’s Café

Catherine’s Café can be found along Antigua’s southern peninsula at stunning Pigeon Point Beach. This much-loved gem is tucked into the corner of English Harbour, a sailor’s paradise. Referencing its French roots, Catherine’s Café channels an elegant yet beachy charm. The beachfront venue offers classic French cuisine with Provence-style influences and local ingredients. The menus are based on the freshest produce from local farmers, which complement the bespoke cocktails perfectly.

Catherine’s Café is surrounded by lush greenery and mesmerising neem trees, providing an idyllic backdrop for long daytime lunches or fine dining on the beach. Luxurious daybeds are sprawled across the sand, with a suiting beach menu designed for sharing. Sit back and relax in Catherine’s refinedyet-chic, sun-dappled setting.

PLAN YOUR VISIT Catherine’s Café is open seven days a week for lunch and three nights a week for dinner.

Reservations are recommended.

Tel: 782-5050 Email: reservations@catherines-cafe.com Website: catherines-cafe.com @catherinescafe

Lunch (Monday through Friday): 12 noon to 4 p.m.

Lunch (Saturday and Sunday): 12 noon to 5:30 p.m.

Dinner (Wednesday through Friday): 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

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W

ith as many dining and nightlife options as there are whitesand beaches, Antigua is the place to please your palate and replenish your spirit.

Cuisine in the twin-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda is a delicately balanced fusion of robust local dishes steeped in tradition and cosmopolitan fare brought here by chefs and settlers from around the world. Take a culinary tour with us and you’ll see what we mean.

DICKENSON BAY Flavourful food and fabulous views make this popular area a haven for the hungry tourist.

Just steps from the Caribbean Sea, newcomer Salt Plage Beach Bar & Restaurant offers

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a varied menu every day. Ana’s on the Beach boasts Mediterranean fare and eclectic ambience, and Stella Ristorante, nestled on a nearby hillside with a stunning view of the bay, serves up mouth-watering Mediterranean-influenced Italian cuisine in a rustic setting.

Halcyon Cove is home to the famed Warri Pier Restaurant, where you can savour dinner on a romantic private pier or sit down to a typical English afternoon tea. The Bay House Restaurant & Bar at the Trade Winds Hotel is another culinary landmark at Dickenson Bay. The winner of a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence award, it offers karaoke every Friday and is rated as one of Antigua’s finest. Mistic Beach Bar & Restaurant is the perfect place to catch a quick, fresh bite on Runaway Bay; and

J. Kevin Foltz

Salt Plage

Just steps from the Caribbean Sea, newcomer Salt Plage Beach Bar & Restaurant offers a varied menu every day.

Quintessential beach bar meets chic waterfront dining

Salt Plage Beach Bar & Restaurant Dickenson Bay | Tel: 462-0806

Whether you are after a relaxing day on the beach with friendly beach service or a special meal, Salt Plage has it all. Located at the water’s edge on the renowned Dickenson Bay, take in the sunset while enjoying one of our signature cocktails. Our friendly team will ensure that your day on the beach or dining experience in the evening is a truly memorable one.

A celebration of local cuisine, music and decor just steps from the white sands and turquoise waters of Fort James Beach

ABSOLUTELY!

Fort James Beach, St. John’s, Antigua • Tel: 268 723-9534 • info@beachlimerz.com • beachlimerz.com

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Dining & Nightlife

Palate Pleasers

Inspiration at

Cuisine in the twin-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda is a delicately balanced fusion of robust local dishes and cosmopolitan fare.

the candy-coloured beachfront oasis offers cabanas perfect for relaxing after a cool dip.

There’s no on-site restaurant at Buccaneer Beach Club, but the front desk will shop for you and deliver groceries to your room.

FORT JAMES Midway between St. John’s and Runaway Bay, enjoy a refreshing drink and some memorable fun at Inspiration at Miller’s by the Sea Beach Bar & Restaurant, which specialises in seafood just a stone’s throw from the beach. If you’re looking to hang out and have a good time, then you’ll want to head over to BeachLimerZ, just off the waters of historic Fort James. Ever had mac and cheese on a three-patty burger? Well, check out their signature Nyamburger.

FORT JAMES, ANTIGUA ON THE BEACH

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268.462.9414

V ISIT A NTIGUA & BA R BUDA 2020

ST. JOHN’S Along and near the Boardwalk in Redcliffe Quay are a number of not-to-miss restaurants, bars, cafés and shops.

Your home away from home BOOK DIRECTLY WITH US AND BECOME A VIP GUEST! info@oceanpointantigua.com

2 PRIVATE BEACHES

LARGE OUTDOOR SWIMMING POOL

FREE WI-FI

FREE PARKING

ANTIGUA & BARBUDA WEST INDIES

Hodge's Bay, Saint John's / +1 (268) 562 8330 - info@oceanpointantigua.com

Dining & Nightlife of international and Caribbean dishes, served with a side of Antiguan hospitality.

If you’re looking for a simple menu and sophisticated selection of South African wines, look no further than the open-air C&C Wine Bar. After dinner, take a short walk to Fred’s Belgian Waffles and Ice Cream for refreshing treats like sorbet and freshly made Belgian-style waffles.

And “do-nut” miss Donut Ace in Redcliffe Quay.

The butter rum doughnut is heavenly.

If you’re in the mood for a light lunch, Ticchio Italian Food and Wine is a great choice.

The shop, which flies in wine, cheese and fresh seafood from Italy every week, is in Village Walk on Friars Hill Road. You can also indulge in authentic Indian and Pakistani fare at New Taste of India, which boasts fresh ingredients and serves only halal meat.

You’ll find a bevy of international delights Hemingways Caribbean Café, in a West Indian– style building from the 1800s, is the perfect place to satisfy your appetite whilst people-watching from the terrace overlooking the city. Enjoy paninis and fresh salads or sip a latte whilst taking in scenic vistas at Harbour View Bar & Café. Also in Redcliffe Quay, Cutie’s Bar & Restaurant is set in a quaint garden oasis and serves up an array

at Epicurean Fine Foods & Pharmacy. Browse the buffet and fill your fridge at this St. John’s landmark, which boasts another location at Jolly Harbour.

HODGES BAY/DUTCHMAN’S BAY La Bussola Restaurant & Pizzeria offers fresh, delicious Italian specialities along with the cool breeze off Dutchman’s Bay. Nearby,

Antigua’s Premiere

Grocery Stores & Pharmacy

Your Destination for Yacht & Villa Provisioning in Antigua • Huge Grocery Selection • Fresh Meat, Poultry & Produce • Full Deli & Bakery • Beer, Wine & Liquor • Hot Food, Pizza & Sushi • Full Service Pharmacy FRIAR’S HILL LOCATION 65,000 sq ft STORE

JOLLY HARBOUR LOCATION 10,000 sq ft STORE

(268) 562-1820

CALL 268.484.5400 Hours 6:00a.m. to 11:00p.m.

CALL 268.481.5480 Hours 6:00a.m. to 11:00p.m.

Antigua and Barbuda

EpicureanAntigua.com

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#2 Redcliffe Quay Saint John’s

J. Kevin Foltz

BeachLimerZ

Garden Grill is a local hot spot with a menu that features deliciously decadent farm-to-table dishes in a cool alfresco setting.

Say “Oui” to authentic French cuisine at Le Bistro, featuring an exquisite menu peppered with Caribbean flair. Between the airport and St. John’s, Ocean Point Resort & Spa’s Sottovento Beach Club Restaurant & Bar is an alfresco restaurant on the beach, serving Italian and Mediterranean specialities. It’s a romantic place to eat whilst listening to the sound of lapping waves. Boaters also can easily reach the restaurant, with dock mooring available to guests.

J. Kevin Foltz

JOLLY HARBOUR Sugar Ridge Resort features two distinctive restaurants: Carmichael’s for gourmet fare and Sugar Club Restaurant, with its international menu and themed nights. Homemade pasta beckons from the southern end of the island at Basilico Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria, another popular spot where you’ll enjoy homemade pasta and breads, as well as authentic beer and wines. A local favourite,

Hemingways

Le Bistro French Restaurant

www.lebistroantigua.com

Hodges Bay, St. John’s, Antigua T: (268) 462-3881 • C: (268) 464-0893 E: lebistroantigua@gmail.com • FB: @antigualebistro Open Tuesday - Sunday from 6:30pm with last orders at 10:00pm.

Closed on Mondays.

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@Area51BarAndGrill @Area51Antigua

Trade Winds Drive Halcyon Heights, Antigua

Tel: 562-9290 Area51barandgrill@gmail.com

Open 6 pm to 2 am Tuesday to Saturday

Carmichael’s at Sugar Ridge

J. Kevin Foltz (2)

Turner’s Beach Restaurant, is perfect for a Caribbean-style lunch. And don’t miss Sheer Rocks at Cocobay Resort. Poised on a bluff overlooking Ffryes Bay, this hot spot offers a delicious Mediterranean menu in a stunning setting.

With a name like Rum Bus Beach, you can probably figure out its main attraction; but don’t forget the quirky atmosphere and great food. You can’t miss it — the staff serves you out of a converted red bus.

Salt Plage

ENGLISH HARBOUR Trappas Bar and Restaurant offers great service, quality food and decadent desserts. The casual Caribbean surroundings and cool atmosphere make this one of the favourites in English Harbour. Another great choice is Pillars Restaurant at The Admiral’s Inn, overlooking the waters Nelson made famous. A short shuttle ride brings you to Boom, in front of historic Gunpowder House, where you can cool off

Table for Two

Perched at the highest point in Sugar Ridge, Carmichael’s offers a romantic dining experience whilst enjoying spectacular sunset views. in the infinity-edge pool before enjoying a scrumptious meal. La Brasserie d’Antigua, on the Slipway at English Harbour, features a French menu and extensive wine selection. How about a taste of Provence at Catherine’s Café on Pigeon Beach? Incanto Restaurant, meanwhile, features authentic Italian cuisine with ingredients sourced from local farmers.

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Jacqui O’s candlelit dinner on the beach

Mainbrace Restaurant in the Copper & Lumber Store Historic Inn offers notable entrees and Dockyard views. Reservations are encouraged.

The pioneers of peri peri chicken in Antigua!

TWO LOCATIONS Jolly Harbour Tel: 268-726-6899

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’ROUND SOUTH Darkwood Beach Bar & Restaurant is the longest-running beach bar, with over 40 years of food, fun, sun and service with a smile. Savour the signature Darkwood Sunset cocktail to welcome the end of the day. Jacqui O’s chic St. Tropez–like design and atmosphere is just the beginning, boasting an imaginative menu and attentive staff. Perfect for a candlelit dinner, you'll find yourself sitting on a lounger sipping a custom-made drink, listening to Pavarotti as the sun sets over Montserrat in the distance.

BY ALICIA SIMON

Moonlight makes Antigua.

Boogie Nights

A

fter the sun sinks below the horizon, it’s time to dance “to the beat of the rhythm of the night,” as the old song goes.

Forget your cares and enjoy Antigua’s breezy nights and scorching hot nightlife.

Captivating music, contagious vibes, alluring island ambience — and that’s just scratching the surface.

J. Kevin Foltz

FUN FOR FOODIES Have a hankering for seafood? Of course you do! The Copper & Lumber Seafood Friday is the most popular Friday dining activity in Antigua. The magical ambience provided by historic Nelson’s Dockyard and an amazing array of delicious seafood dishes are just a couple of the reasons for its immense appeal. It’s perfect for a gettogether with friends or a romantic escape.

TRY YOUR LUCK Bet on a good time at King’s Casino in the heart of St. John’s. Play table games and

be sure to tackle the “world’s largest slot machine.” Maybe you’ll go home with big winnings. Certainly, you’ll have a great evening. Weekends welcome karaoke, a live band and discount drinks.

NIGHTCLUB AND BAR CENTRAL Come “lime” with the good folk over at BeachLimerZ set at the end of Dickenson Bay, just off the waters of historic Fort James. Limin’ is the Caribbean way to have a good time with good friends, old and new. Karaoke is a staple on Thursdays, and live bands often entertain. On the scenic Valley Church beach in Jolly Harbour, The Nest Beach Bar & Restaurant is steps from the shore and known far and wide for its delicious drinks and simple beach menu.

Savour a taste of true Antiguan flavours at OJ’s Beach Bar and Restaurant in Crabbe Hill Village, just South of Jolly Harbour, as you head towards English Harbour.

Shirley Heights Lookout, part of the National Parks, is a great place to spend a

Kontiki Bar on Dickenson Bay

Sunday afternoon. At 4 p.m., you are welcomed onto the grounds of this former military complex by the rhythms of a steel band, the aroma of barbecue and breathtaking views of English Harbour. The mood changes when the sun sets, as evening ushers in a reggae band and lively party vibe.

Steps from historic Nelson’s Dockyard in English Harbour is Abracadabra, a nightclub that has been going strong for over 30 years.

Bodog Beach, formerly Castaways on the Beach, is the quintessential beach bar where you can savour Caribbean and Indian delights. Rumbus Antigua is a newcomer to the scene, with rum, of course, being the main attraction. Here you’ll find a quirky atmosphere and good food after it opens for the season on October 1.

If you’re looking for an old haunt with new-fangled vibe, head to Road House Restaurant & Bar in Newfield, a quaint place that offers an authentic local experience. On Sunday evenings, a live band rocks the party; and later a DJ plays music late into the night.

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T H AT ’ S T H E S P I R I T

RAISE A GLASS OF EXPERTLY DISTILLED RUM OR A PINT OF AN ARTISANAL BEER AND TOAST THIS PLACE YOU’VE COME TO LOVE. MADE BY ANTIGUA DISTILLERY LIMITED (ADL), top-shelf English Har-

bour rum, amongst the Caribbean’s finest, soaks in oak for a minimum of five years.

Drink it neat to appreciate its many nuances.

Lighter rums like Kokocaribe, reminiscent of coconuts and almonds, is perfect for cocktails, as are Cavalier white and gold rums, which develop their distinctive tastes by aging in bourbon barrels for at least two years. Cavaliers as well are flavouring agents used to enhance other products. Pour a Cavalier over a sponge cake under the tutelage of culinary al-

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chemist Dolcie Christian and you’ve got the island-famed Dolcie’s Rum Cake, a must-buy taste of Antigua to take back home.

Get your “Yo-ho-ho” on at Skullduggery Café, which produces its own tot with a twist in collaboration with ADL. At the bar you can drink it out of a “dead man’s skull” or, if you’d rather, carry it out in a collectable ceramic bottle, corked and waxed by hand.

Rum will warm your innards, but for cooling off after a day in the sun, there’s nothing quite li ke a ha ndcra f ted beer brewed to perfection. Beer is fermented, like rum, but not distilled.

Master microbrewers, 2SIX8, bot tle uniquely flavoured potables that aptly capture the spirit of Antigua. Just have a look at some of the labels — Goat Farm Pale Ale, Frig It (as in Frigate) Amber Ale, The Admiral’s (as in Nelson) Stout — and you’ll know you’re paying homage to Antiguan culture with every thirst-quenching sip.

Courtesy of Sunseakers in Heritage Quay

Shopping

Sunseakers 84 V ISIT A NTIGUA

& BA R BUDA 2020

BY GILLY GOBINET

Glorious Shopping

From fine jewellery and island-inspired fashion to captivating art pieces, Antigua has something for everyone.

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Zeitgeist

SHOP ’TIL YOU DROP IN ST. JOHN’S Heritage Quay in the capital city is the main duty-free centre. It’s where the cruise ships

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The Goldsmitty

dock, so high-end shops abound.

If you are interested in jewellery, you will be spoilt for choice. Diamonds International, for example, carries Cartier and Bulgari.

Abbott’s Jewellery and Perfumery stocks

From top: Courtesy of Zeitgeist, J. Kevin Foltz

I

t may be a small island, but Antigua has all your basic needs as well as some wonderful finds, including duty-free luxury goods, unique gifts and handcrafted souvenirs to remind you of your visit.

Let’s start with some basic info. Most stores are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Bargaining in shops is discouraged, but local vendors are often happy to haggle, cash only. Credit cards, U.S. dollars and Eastern Caribbean dollars, the national currency, are welcome in all retail outlets. And remember, if you’re buying duty-free items, you will need to present your ID and travel information, such as an airline ticket or booking reference, to benefit from reduced prices.

Ready to shop? Here are the hot spots.

Shopping

204 Heritage Quay St. John's, Antigua Tel: 268.481.1880

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Rolex and other designer watches, as well as a stunning display of jewellery and fine porcelain. Colombian Emeralds International (with another outlet at the airport) offers popular jewellery and watches, and Sterlings and Silverado specialise in silver. Jewels sparkle as well at AMA Caribbean Gems and Bijoux Terner.

Natural skin-care products at Beauty, Sea and Spa will pamper you after days on a sunny beach. You’ll also want to stop by Yofi-Inspired

by Nature.

Fashion Dock is a paradise for fashionistas, where you’ll find Italian and French designer wear for men and women. More casual are the traditional Dockers and Levi’s sold at Tropic Wear. You can buy beachwear at Beach Bums and Sunseakers, which has a great range and variety of swimsuits for all ages, shapes and sizes.

At Aquasports you’ll find everything you need for fun on the beach and water: snorkelling and diving gear, clothing, towels and toys, and an array of sun-care products. Also playing your tune is The Music Shop. On the first floor opening onto Thames Street is Complete Sports, which stocks sports footwear such as sneakers.

Looking for souvenirs? Try Antiguan rum, cigars and perfumes at Quin Fafara liquor store.

Or hang with the life-size models of pirates at the Shipwreck Shop and pick up some local arts and crafts.

J. Kevin Foltz

Silverado

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Colombian Emeralds International

HISTORIC REDCLIFFE STREET & QUAY The other duty-free area is in the historic part of St. John’s, where many buildings were constructed using ballast bricks from British ships coming to Antigua to take sugar back to the home country.

Between Heritage Quay and Redcliffe Street is Vendors’ Mall, where locals sell colourful clothing and crafts. Once on Redcliffe Street, stop in at The Goldsmitty for exquisite and unique handmade

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Courtesy of CEI

Suitcase not big enough? AmaBella has a whole range, along with men’s designer clothing. LAND also features beautifully crafted leather goods.

J. Kevin Foltz

jewellery. Silver lovers will love the silverembellished, polished seashells at the aptly named Silver Chelles.

At Zeitgeist you’ll find cool, comfortable resort wear and luxurious clothing in Italian linen for men and women. Exotic Antigua always has something cool and tropical to wear, and to complete your outfit, consider eye-catching jewellery and other accessories from Miranda Askie Designs.

Zemi Art Gallery showcases Antiguan artist Stephen Murphy’s creations. Opposite is Zemi Bush House, where you’ll find local artisanal products and souvenirs.

The nearby Toy Shop, which combines fun with Caribbean flair, is a great place for kids.

DELIGHTFUL DOWNTOWN The Museum of Antigua and Barbuda in the old Court House on Long Street is worth a visit to learn more about the history of the country. A little farther, on Temple Street, is Howell Jewellers, a long-standing establishment specialising in beautiful creations in silver and gold inlaid with precious and semiprecious

Diamonds International

#8 Redcliffe Quay, Saint John’s, Antigua and Barbuda OPEN Monday - Saturday: 9 am - 5 pm | 1-(268)-562-2259

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stones. On High Street is Flo’s Perfume+ (with another outlet at the airport).

Stroll down busy Market Street, where you’ll find fresh fruits and vegetables and all sorts of crafts. Farther along, crafts and other local goods are for sale at the Workshop for the Blind.

WORTHY STOPS AT FRIARS HILL ROAD North of St. John’s is one of the main thoroughfares, Friars Hill Road, featuring three shopping malls and the island’s

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largest supermarket: Epicurean Fine Foods & Pharmacy. It covers a variety of needs, including freshly prepared meals to go, just-baked breads and desserts, baby supplies, clothes, liquor, an ATM and more.

In nearby Woods Mall are banks, small supermarkets, Woods Pharmacy, doctors’ offices and an emergency clinic and laboratory, as well as a few retail stores such as RadioShack. Flow has its office there for digital phones, SIM

cards, internet and TV with Digicel just down the road.

Village Walk Mall next door has a bank, a food court, an Italian restaurant, a clothing shop, a stationer, an excellent liquor store, Café Bella and a hardware shop.

Turn down Abbotts Farm Road, just after Jasmine Court, and visit The Gazebo, which has striking imports from Mexico and Indonesia. Next door is Bacchus Divine Wines, purveyor of fine French wines and Champagnes.

Courtesy of Sunseakers in Heritage Quay

Sunseakers

The next shopping mall is Mandolin Place, where Sea Island Trading has an enticing array of clothing, ceramics, silverware and gift items. It’s well worth a visit.

Keep going to Royal Palm Place, where there’s a photo studio and framer, stationer, optometrist, dentist, Solange and Sunny — an excellent hair and beauty salon — an orthopaedic doctor, a sushi bar and restaurant, The Larder and the American Airlines ticket sales office.

PICTURESQUE ENGLISH AND FALMOUTH HARBOURS To cater for the sailing community and visitors alike, this area features some excellent shops, restaurants and bars. At the top of Horsford Hill, looking down over Falmouth Harbour, is Carib Bean Coffee Roaster with its delicious blends roasted on-site, sold ground or whole bean.

At the Antigua Yacht Club Marina in Falmouth Harbour is the delightful boutique Portobello, specialising in Italian clothing Continued on page 97

#17 Heritage Quay St. John’s Antigua

(268) 462-6251

Duty Free Shopping for Levi’s® and Dockers® Clothing and Accessories!

New Styles! Great Quality for Men, Women & Children!

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ALICIA SIMON

MIRANDA ASKIE DESIGNS CREATES STATEMENT PIECES WITH AN ECLECTIC, ISLANDINSPIRED AESTHETIC.

Fiery Boldness

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ality, the artist is dedicated to spreading her very own brand of beautiful to customers at her Redcliffe Quay–based design house in St. John’s. She creates and adorns her clientele with statement-making pieces.

The fashionista has set out to “accessorise the positive” and bring out the inner diva in each of her clients — ensuring that they leave with a signature piece skilfully crafted with thought and care.

“It’s not only about selling a piece to the individual… I want them to feel classy. I don’t want them to feel that I am selling them a piece that I want them to have but rather a piece that they need,” Askie says.

Jorge Ramirez (2)

WITH JEWELLERY, CLOTHING AND HANDBAGS AS INTREPID AND UNIQUE as Miranda Askie’s person-

Her design begins somewhere in the recesses of her imagination, where, before she ever gets started, she imagines every curve of the bangle, drape of the fabric or embellishment on the purse. And for Askie, design resides everywhere — even in the blush and subtle inflections of colour on a mango. The palette must “speak” to her and whisper its path.

Natural materials such as coconut husk, copper, lava stone and coral and semiprecious stones — including her signature quartz, amethyst and jade — are ever present in her designs.

Askie’s designs are made not only with gems and semiprecious stones but also with the inspiration of the land itself. An equally important component to her fashion is her diverse heritage. The “afro-creole” flare of Dominica, the calm serenity of Barbuda and the “fiery boldness” of Antigua are all endemic in her distinctly small-island creations.

In the end, Miranda Askie is about inspiring a sense of magnificence when someone is adorned with one of her designs. “Everyone should leave here feeling like royalty,” she says.

Miranda Askie Designs

Located at #7 Redcliffe Quay, St. John’s, Antigua Tel: (268) 736-2236 or 560-8050

Specializing in one-of-a-kind statement pieces as well as everyday-wear accessories and clothing.

All are designed by Miranda and inspired by the Caribbean’s natural beauty. Her unique style shows in all her designs, from her unisex leather/upholstery bags to her elegant casualwear. The ambience of the boutique boldly emphasises the designer manifesto: Accessorising the positive!

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Moringa Powder

by

GILLY GOBINET

Only in Antigua ANTIGUANITE IS PROBABLY THE MOST UNUSUAL ITEM. It’s a local

semiprecious stone found exclusively at Hans Smit’s The Goldsmitty on Redcliffe Street. Formed by volcanic upheavals millions of years ago, Antiguanite is fossilised coral, which Smit grinds and polishes into stones of subtle shades of mauve, grey, sepia or creamy white with hints of blue, highlighting the still-visible tiny polyps. These are then set into unique rings, bracelets, earrings and necklaces in gold and silver They’re suitable for any occasion.

Cades Reef Plantation is home to Antigua’s indigenous black pineapple. The iconic fruit’s sweetness is matchless and should be sampled. The Queen of England receives

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Paddling Duck Teas

a gift of them every year. Try other local delicacies at farmers markets in English Harbour, Jolly Harbour and at Royal Palm Court in St. John’s.

For those who like spicy food, Susie’s Hot Sauce, the award-winning Antiguan bestseller, is a must. It’s sold amongst other brands at Zemi Bush House in Redcliffe Quay. Also on hand are local Moringa Tea

by Cheryl’s Garden, exotic offerings from Island Works Soaps and beautifully packaged soaps in a variety of perfumes made with goat’s milk and olive oil from Twenty Hill Farm. Then there are the health and wellness products from Natura Creations, Magnificent Mango Body Butter and, for your little ones (or your own inner child),

Topsy Turvy Dolls dressed in Antigua’s traditional costumes.

Carla Gonsalves-Barreiro, founder of Paddling Duck Tea Company, creates natural, organic tea blends steeped in flavour and tradition. You’ll find Paddling Duck teas across the island and at hotels, boutiques and even Epicurean Fine Foods & Pharmacy.

Of course, the drink most associated with Antigua is rum, and there’s plenty of it in stores and shops around the island.

Zemi Bush House stocks white, skull-like porcelain bottles of its signature Antigua Skullduggery Rum. And liquor stores and supermarkets all carry the locally made and aged, award-winning English Harbour and Cavalier (light and dark) rums.

Right photo: Jorge Ramirez

ANTIGUA HAS MANY TALENTED ARTISANS AND CRAFTSMEN WHOSE PRODUCTS MAKE EXCELLENT SOUVENIRS AND GIFTS.

Shopping at Heritage Quay

J. Kevin Foltz

Continued from page 93

just right for the climate, as well as original accessories, small objets d’art and antiques. It is here that the Farmers’/Artisans’ Market sets up on Thursdays from 5 p.m. onwards in season.

Turtle’s Surf Shop, with its eclectic beachwear, is next to the lively Skullduggery Bar; and stop in at the nearby Seabreeze for Italian ice cream.

Just before entering English Harbour, on your right, is Nancy Nicholson’s Rhythm of Blue Art Gallery and Pottery, which features her distinctive designs and local arts and crafts.

At English Harbour is historic Nelson’s Dockyard, part of Nelson’s Dockyard National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the only working Georgian dockyard in the world. Don’t miss Carl Henry’s handcarved mahogany pieces, on the right, just after entering. The museum, formerly Admiral Horatio Nelson’s house, has an excellent gift shop.

Locally made coffees and teas, Susie’s hot sauce, candles, batik and Dolcie’s Antiguan Rum Cake are all available from Island Secret, across from the beautifully restored Copper & Lumber Store Historic Inn. You’ll also find a range of prints by local artists. These are on sale, too, at the gift shop and at Shirley Heights, which overlooks English Harbour.

v l i S

o d a r e

Antigua West Indies

268-562-7575

silverdoantigua@live.com

Silveradoantigua

# 7 H E R I TA G E Q U A Y, S T. J O H N ’ S , A N T I G U A 97

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ALICIA SIMON

A Unique Island Souvenir

HANS SMIT, OWNER OF THE GOLDSMITTY, DISCOVERED ANTIGUANITE IN 2011.

Antigua and Barbuda; now it’s time to discover its very own gemstone, Antiguanite. Upon first glance these carefully cut and polished stones resemble delicately painted chrysanthemums.

However, what you hold in your hand is infinitely more exciting.

Thirty million years ago — though volcanic cataclysm, the death of coral and pressure — the process of fossilisation began. Coral was slowly replaced with quartz, and what remained was agatised petrified coral. Though common throughout the world, every country’s distinct fossil coral has its own character.

Antiguanite can be mauve, grey or have a creamy white hue with blue flashes. These striking shades highlight the tiny polyps still visible in its gleaming surface. Living just below the surface of Antigua and Barbuda’s sacred earth for centuries, it was rediscovered

by Dutch jeweller Hans Smit in 2011.

“Petrified coral is very rare and Antiguanite is the birthstone of our island,” Smit says. Although the stones themselves vary in colour and detail, Smit lets each piece tell its own tale.

“You never know what you’re going to find. Its beauty can be difficult to discover for someone who doesn’t know what they’re looking for. But for me, I can see deeper, beyond the surface,” the master jeweller says.

Smit recalls his tale of venturing to isolated areas, digging through thorny brush and battling centipedes to unearth this jewel. He coined the word Antiguanite, but he has kept the location of his bounty secret. The jeweller and only one other person know where to find Antigua-

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nite — and he intends to keep it that way.

To understand how Smit’s passion for gems of all kinds began, it is necessary to go back in time to when he was a very young child. “I’ve been collecting stones since I was four years old in my parents’ garden, digging through the garden for bits of jasper,” Smit says.

The passion persisted and is still evident today, whether Smit is looking for topaz in Brazil or blue-green tourmaline in Namib-

ia. He takes pride in the fact that he can share Antigua’s very own gemstone with the world from The Goldsmitty, his fascinating jewellery store in Redcliffe Quay.

As the sole authorised dealer in Antiguanite, The Goldsmitty is the only jewellery store where you can purchase this unique gemstone. If you take a piece of Antiguanite jewellery back home with you, you’ll be forever wearing a reminder of your vacation in this island paradise.

J. Kevin Foltz

YOU HAVE ALREADY DISCOVERED THE JEWEL OF THE CARIBBEAN,

TROPICAL ADVENTURES

Map of

Redcliffe Quay

REDCLIFFE

MARKET ST.

THAMES ST.

8

Downtown St. John’s

STREET

MIRANDA ASKIE DESIGNS

ZEITGEIST THE GOLDSMITTY

EXOTIC ANTIGUA

ZEMI ART GALLERY SILVER CHELLES

HARBOUR VIEW BAR & CAFE

THE BEST GIFT STOP

ZEMI BUSH HOUSE

Insider Tip

Most stores are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Shops are closed on Sundays and public holidays.

(UPPER LEVEL)

CUTIE’S RESTAURANT

DIAMONDS INTERNATIONAL

King’s Casino

NEVIS

SALTY DOGS RENTALS

STREET

Heritage Quay 4

Heritage Pier

High St Thames St

St. John’s Harbour

Lon g Street Post Office

(UPPER LEVEL)

Redcliffe Stre et

REET PIER NEVIS ST

Feet Meters

0 0

50 10

100 20

30

Redcliffe Quay

15 0 40

50

Nevis Street Pier

Nevis Street

Enjoy a taste of Exotic Antigua!

OPEN: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Redcliffe Quay, Upstairs Exotic Antigua St. John’s Antigua

harbourviewanu

+1 (268) 462-2972

JOYOUS JOLLY HARBOUR On the west coast of the island is Jolly Harbour Marina. The shopping complex here houses various boutiques, such as Things Antiguan; an art gallery; a bank; real estate and car rental businesses; a pharmacy and another well-stocked branch of Epicurean Fine Foods & Pharmacy.

LAST-MINUTE FINDS IN AIRPORT AREA Ten minutes from the airport you will find Sarah Fuller’s breezy Pottery in Coolidge, with her unique designs and fabulous mobile hangings inspired by the colours of the sea. On the east coast is Gilly Gobinet’s Art Gallery in Fitches Creek, featuring original paintings in watercolour and acrylic.

V.C. Bird International Airport is perfect for lastminute gifts from the many duty-free shops. After you have passed through Customs and Immigration, you can spend those remaining Eastern Caribbean dollars on Antiguan souvenirs at The Tailor’s Daughter, as well as fragrances from Flo’s Perfumes+, jewellery from Colombian Emeralds International and rum and spirits from Rocky’s Duty-Free Liquor Store.

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J. Kevin Foltz

Arts & Culture

BY BRENDA LEE BROWNE

Island Expressions Artists find inspiration throughout Antigua and Barbuda.

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Zemi Art Gallery

Y

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Art Gallery by Gilly Gobinet

out the painting process, from blank canvas to completed works.

Art shows pop up across the island, from Sugar Ridge to Ana’s and Vin Joes, as well as the upstairs gallery at the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda on Long Street. Be on the lookout for unexpected spaces, such as the Barnes Hill Reservoir community project and shows by new collectives, such as Spilling Ink, a group of young writers, spokenword smiths and artists who are taking their work to a younger audience at night clubs.

Sugar Ridge has hosted two Bliss Events.

The third is slated for 2020 — a day of art, music, dance, spoken word, literature, food and music designed to immerse you in local culture.

The Artisans Antigua Travelling Market showcases and sells works by local artisans and artists as it moves from venue to venue.

From left: J. Kevin Foltz, Gilly Gobinet

ou won’t find a national gallery in Antigua and Barbuda, but you will find a vibrant arts scene throughout the islands.

Here’s where to look.

The Artisans Antigua Travelling Market showcases and sells works by local artisans and artists as it moves from venue to venue. Browse amongst original offerings, including paintings, photography, hand-carved wooden pieces and decorative bags, as well as homegrown soaps and foods.

See visual artists like Gilly Gobinet and Jan Farara at work. Visit Stephen Murphy of Zemi Art Gallery, Sally Harker of Fig Tree Drive, Nancy Nicholson of Rhythm of Blue Art Gallery and potters Sarah Fuller at Dutchman’s Reef and husband and wife team Imogen Margrie and Michael Hunt of Cedars Pottery, which now boasts a studio space where you can view and buy their works.

Or maybe you’d like to bring out your own inner artist? Cedars Pottery serves up “Paint a Pot” sessions for adults and children. Kim Derrick of Hodges Bay offers pottery workshops for novices with a passion to learn. Are you a budding poet or novelist? Just Write Antigua features creative writing sessions at various locations.

Let’s Paint Antigua guides groups through-

Social media has brought attention to the aesthetic, stylised photography of Chevel Thomas. Anson J. Henry’s hyper-realistic works blur the lines between pencil drawings and black-andwhite photography. Other young artists to check out include photographers Emile Hill, Maritza Martin, Yensa Werth, Antoinette Saidy Mason-Aflak and acrylics artist Sonu Murphy.

The fine art portraiture of Mark Brown is an homage to old masters and a modern statement on the complexities of Caribbean societies. His work is sold to collectors in Antigua, Europe, the United States, Canada and Guadeloupe.

Enthusiasts and collectors also enjoy the works of wood carver Carl Henry, pop artist Naydene Gonnella and fine portrait specialist Dina Di Brozzi. Guava De Artist in Redcliffe Quay offers works that display whimsy and social commentary in a distinctive graffiti style on canvas, clothes, furniture, walls and bodies.

Jennifer Meranto educates and inspires with her “Adopt a Coastline” project that recycles items found on beaches.

The Tailor’s Daughter in the Departure shopping gallery at

Rhythm of Blue Art Gallery

V.C. Bird International Airport carries the work of Heather Doram, who designed the national Independence dress of madras fabric and also many Carnival costumes. She is as well renowned for her vibrant picture boxes, trays and fabric wall hangings.

You can also find copies of the Just Write Antigua Journal — a creative writing class in a book with black-and-white images taken across the island.

Other names that pop up include Vernon Grigg, who runs a free drawing workshop every summer to encourage all to sketch.

RHYTHM OF BLUE ART GALLERY

Dockyard Drive in English Harbour 268.770.7888 rhythmofblue.com Open mid-Nov until mid-May every day except Sunday 10am-6pm or by appointment

ART GALLERY Fitches Creek (near the Airport) Original paintings in watercolour and acrylic

by Antiguan artist Gilly Gobinet www.gillygobinet.com +1(268)464 6084 gillygobinet@me.com

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ALICIA SIMON

Meet the Mural Man

THIS TALENTED SELF-TAUGHT ARTIST HAS BEEN DRAWING SINCE HE WAS JUST FIVE YEARS OLD.

scapes resemble paintings you might find hanging in a SoHo gallery. But here’s the rub: He creates them with pencil, eraser and graphite powder. What’s more, the 31-yearold artist embraces imperfections.

“My style isn’t smooth,” says the Guyana-born founder of ArtZtic Creations. “I like seeing f laws in skin tones, pores, bumps and scars.”

Henry began drawing at the age of 5. By his teens, the self-taught artist realised he could use simple tools to re-create almost anything. Through the years he has honed his skills to produce colour and black-and-white portraits, as well as landscapes and wildlife reliefs. But his most challenging endeavour to date is a mural commissioned by the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority.

“I had to work outside of my comfort zone,” Henry says. “I generally paint on canvas with a pencil. It was the hardest project I’ve ever done, and I have wider respect for muralists.”

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Henry was tasked with creating a “distinctly Antiguan” mural at V.C. Bird International Airport. At 800 feet long, the mural is currently the longest in the Caribbean.

The mural that welcomes visitors at the airport is a collage of different styles — including caricature, portraiture and surrealism — showcasing Antiguan culture, the island’s lush landscape, historical sites and cultural icons.

What’s next for Henry? “I want my pieces in every home and business in Antigua,” he says, “and then worldwide.”

His most challenging endeavour to date is a mural commissioned by the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority.

J. Kevin Foltz

AN SO N H E N RY ’ S H Y PE R REALISTIC PORTRAITS and land-

by

BRENDA LEE BROWNE

C O M E

T O

C A R N I V A L

EXPERIENCE MEMORABLE MOMENTS AND A VARIETY OF ACTIVITIES FOR ALL TO ENJOY.

J. Kevin Foltz (2)

FOR MORE THAN 60 YEARS,

Antigua’s annual summer Carnival is the island’s high point of cultural and artistic expression. It’s 10 days of cultural expression, colour and music. August 1, Emancipation Day, is celebrated with a “Watch Night” service at the Botanical Gardens. Antigua’s Carnival also features pageants, a Carnival Queen, and calypso and soca competitions.

One place to really experience the splendour, colour and exuberance of Carnival is during T-Shirt Mas. It provides the first opportunity for revellers to take to the streets to dance and express themselves in themed troupes, wearing specially designed T-shirts.

J’ouvert morning starts at 4 a.m. with pan, troupes and groups weaving and dancing through the streets of St. John’s.

The action winds down by 10 a.m. Crowds return to town later that day for the first of two days of street parades. Mas groups resplendent in colourful costumes fill the streets of St. John’s on Carnival Monday and Tuesday with steel bands, iron bands and festive troupes. Carnival City (Antigua Rec-

Did You Know?

Carnival brings 10 days of cultural expression, colour and music to Antigua each year.

reation Grounds) is a mélange of sound, colour and exuberance.

Panorama has become one of the most anticipated shows of the season as steel pan orchestras vie for the title of the best in the country. In 2019, young guns arrangers Zahra Lake and Khan Cordice showed that pan is alive and well in the islands. Winning Hells Gate enthralled enthusiasts and pan masters.

Panorama now fittingly honours leading arranger Victor Babu Samuel.

If you are in Antigua in late July, you will have an opportunity to go on a pan-crawl where you can listen in on practising musicians from pan yard to pan yard.

You can also hear bands at hotels, restaurants, special events and the famous Shirley Heights Sunday afternoon party. Don’t overlook smaller bands like Cutting Edge, featuring pan player extraordinaire Aubrey Lacu Samuel.

Hungry for more? Art and Carnival will combine in 2021 when Antigua and Barbuda hosts CARIFESTA, the leading regional art festival. It should be magical.

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Indigo Event Services

Weddings

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BY TRACY GUERRERO

Where Dreams Come True An island wedding is a perfect day in paradise.

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Weddings

destination

a

boasts a cocktail lounge and restau-

dream come true for many

wedding

is

rant, Jacqui O’s can accommodate up

couples who are looking to

to 40 guests.

go somewhere different or do

something unique for their special day.

Or you can choose from amongst an array of gorgeous villas, fabulous

Maybe your dream is about bare toes in

resorts, hotels and guesthouses to suit

the sand; saying “I do” aboard a yacht; ex-

every budget. Some are family-friendly;

changing vows overlooking a majestic site,

others cater to adults. You’ll find ac-

or under a cooling canopy of palm trees

commodations right on the beach, high

in a rainforest. Whatever your preference,

in the hills, close to the action in charm-

you can make it come true in Antigua and

ing towns or hidden away in quiet, re-

Barbuda. The twin-island nation is often

mote spots.

listed amongst the world’s top romantic

There is no need to bring your own

destinations for many good reasons: its

planner or photographer. Many hotels

temperate climate and friendly, welcoming

and resorts offer wedding and/or hon-

people; its lack of residency requirements

eymoon packages, and there are also

and licensed Marriage Officers who can ar-

independent wedding planners who

range the ceremony almost anywhere.

specialise in custom island ceremonies.

Choosing from such a wide range of

It makes for a much smoother occasion

beautiful venues, in fact, may be your

when you have someone who knows

hardest decision. Antigua boasts 365 pub-

the island intimately and knows who to

lic beaches — and no two are alike. There

call to make things happen.

are soft sandy beaches with turquoise wa-

Indigo Event Services has been or-

ters lapping gently at the shoreline, rug-

ganising

ged Atlantic beaches peppered by boul-

events on Antigua and Barbuda since

ders and saltwater pools, and lonely coves

2006. Working with the islands’ best

that seem to exist for just the two of you.

contractors, the close-knit team at In-

destination

weddings

and

Located on a beautiful stretch of sand

digo ensures that every aspect of your

that’s aptly named Love Beach, Jacqui

wedding is as beautiful as can be and

O’s BeachHouse is one of these unique is-

goes the extra mile to help you make

land venues. With a romantic setting that

memories that will last a lifetime.

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V ISIT A NTIGUA & BA R BUDA 2020

ROCKS GROUP, KNOWN IN ANTIGUA FOR THEIR TWO AWARD-WINNING RESTAURANTS, Sheer Rocks and Catherine’s Café, are officially introducing their event management branch, Rocks Group Events.

Dedicated to creating lifelong memories, Rocks Group Events delivers bespoke, luxurious and intimate occasions that are customised to the vision of the client offering complete planning and production, design, décor, catering, and staffing for weddings, celebrations, private dining and more.

The highly experienced team, who has spent years sourcing and building relationships with a network of suppliers, are at the forefront of creating iconic and trendsetting experiences.

They work closely with each individual client and world-renowned chefs, in-house mixologists and sommeliers to ensure seamless planning and execution, down to the smallest detail.

Providing not just large-scale celebrations, but intimate private dining as well, Rocks Group offers individually curated concepts such as Street Food & Cocktail Booth Pop Ups, Long Table Dining, Tasting Menus with Wine & Cocktail Pairing, as well as small and exclusive in-home Cocktail & Canapé Events. Rocks Group Events offers an in-villa dining service for those who want to host their event at home, offering personal chefs and wait staff to accompany catering.

From left: Indigo Event Services, Rocks Group Events

A

CATERING AND CELEBRATIONS

VOWS AND WOWS

Indigo Event Services

INDIGO EVENT SERVICES HELPS COUPLES PLAN THE PERFECT WEDDING. INDIGO’S COUPLES COME FROM across the United States, Canada and Europe, as well as from other islands in the Caribbean. Some couples are here for a day on a cruise ship, and some are staying in a villa, at a resort or a guesthouse.

Julie and Drew came to Antigua and got engaged, then returned two years later to exchange their vows.

“We visited various hotels on the island and checked out their packages, but they were all so similar and standard and just didn’t have the flexibility to give us what we were looking for.

Then we found Indigo Event Services, led by Tracy Guerrero. She filled us with confidence, and her calm, friendly approach made us instantly comfortable. Our wedding day incorporated everything we could have wished for and more.”

Gwenda and Mark wanted something different, so they held their reception on a boat.

“Tracy and her team are fantastic,” Gwenda says. “We decided to get married in Antigua at quite short notice. I was in the U.K., and my fiancé was in Barbados. We arrived in Antigua on June 12 and wanted the wedding on Sunday the 16th. We had no idea where, but we knew we wanted a small reception on a boat. It was the perfect day. I cried all the way through. Thank goodness for waterproof mascara.”

May and Joel love windsurfing and other watersports, so Antigua was their natural choice for the wedding.

“Planning a destination wedding in beautiful Antigua has its challenges,” May says, “but Indigo Event Services made it so much easier for us. Tracy was always prompt with her responses, even on the weekends. She was also such a joy to work with. Our ceremony and reception exceeded our expectations, and no detail was missed.”

Take it from those who know. Antigua and Barbuda will welcome you with open arms and a smile to light up the islands when you choose to spend that special day in a very special place.

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Health & Wellness

BY DAYANA RIVERO

Fit for Adventure

Staying active whilst on vacation just got easier.

Trek Tours Antigua

With hiking, kayaking, ziplining and watersports galore you can maintain your workout regimen and have the time of your life.

V

acation is all about kicking back and relaxing, but that doesn't mean you have to give up your healthy lifestyle. There are plenty of options for staying in shape whilst exploring and enjoying Antigua and Barbuda. With hiking, kayaking, ziplining and watersports galore you can maintain your workout regimen and have the time of your life.

HIKES FOR ALL FITNESS LEVELS Whilst on holiday you may not be keen about keeping up with a treadmill. You’d rather devote your energy to discovering island spots and exploring them. Hiking is the perfect replacement activity. Footsteps Rainforest Hiking Tours of-

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INSTA-WORTHY MOMENT BY @traveltomtom

Courtesy of Travel Tom Tom

fers tours where you get to discover one of Antigua’s great conservation areas. Hike with a veteran guide and learn more about Antigua’s rainforest. Also consider signing up with a Signal Hill Tour. Your tour starts from the Fig Tree Studio Art Gallery and winds through the rainforest to historic Walling’s Dam. The dam and lake are surrounded by a picnic area that makes for a perfect pit stop. Continue to follow the trail and you end up at Signal Hill.

With a beautiful 360-degree view of Antigua you will be able to see historic sites as well as various bird species and plants in the rainforest. The company also offers custom tours and visits other locations such as Rendezvous Bay. Trek Tours Antigua introduces hikers to the beautiful scenery of Antigua. Guests make a deep connection to a tropical paradise, gaining insights that other tourists may overlook.

Tours include Hike and Swim, Hike and Drive, Hike and Zip, and Hike and Ray. The hike/swim is the perfect combo as you hike the historic ruins of Fort George and take in phenomenal views of Falmouth Harbour. The last stop is Ffryes Beach, which offers a saltwater bath perfect for those sore muscles.

You can also exercise your body and mind with one of Sugar Ridge’s guided tours, offered three days a week. A three-hour leisurely walk, for instance, can take you through the village of Bolans, where you can sample rum and visit an old estate house.

For a more intense hike, take a guided tour through Orange Valley to Ffryes Beach and learn all about the plants that thrive in the area.

Kayaking in the Mangroves

TOURS TO PUMP YOU UP Tropical Adventures Antigua offers an Island Safari Eco-Kayak Tour that takes you to an island in North Sound. There is nothing better for an arm workout than kayaking. Grab your paddles and row your way into the mangroves whilst your tour guide tells you about the marine life around the island. After all that paddling, you’ll need to cool down. Snorkel or dive in the refreshing blue waters around Bird Island as you swim next to some newfound friends.

If you want to see Antigua from two different points, the Great Super Saver Tour is the perfect excursion. Take a view of Antigua by land or sea. If you decide to go by land, your day will begin with a 4x4 safari of the south side of the country. Your guide will accompany you as he shows you Falmouth Harbour and its fantastic views. If you decide to go by sea, the Mystic II Catamaran will take you to Antigua’s west coast. As you enjoy the beautiful views of the sea, the sunny sky and tropical breeze, savour an expertly barbecued meal. There are also stops where you can snorkel or swim — and burn off a few barbecue calories.

Ziplining is another good way to burn calories as you become one with nature. Antigua Rainforest Canopy Tour lets you zipline your away through the treetops. The tour begins at the Old Pump House. Once you make your way over the bridge, your journey across the forest begins. Zip lines from 52 feet to 328 feet give a perfect view of various bird species along with the flora and fauna of the forest.

No matter what your preference, Antigua has plenty of adrenaline-filled activities to keep you moving. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore this island paradise. It’s a holiday workout that rewards you with loads of fun and memories to take home with you.

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Investing in Antigua

Paradise Found Purchase property and you may become a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda.

Tamarind Hills V ISIT A NTIGUA & BA R BUDA 2020

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Tamarind Hills

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ntigua and Barbuda presents an attractive environment for investing in real estate. In fact, Antigua and Barbuda’s realestate sector has witnessed an increase in interest from foreign buyers in recent years. In addition, Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP), one of the most highly considered CIPs in the world, is attracting the attention of overseas investors who are seeking a second citizenship and alternative residency, as well as international investment opportunities.

The government of Antigua and Barbuda has approved a number of realestate development projects that qualify for citizenship. The programme presents a winwin proposition for the economy of Antigua and Barbuda, as well as for investors seeking profitable returns on investment within a stable business environment.

With some of the most sought-after properties in the Caribbean, the country has been blessed with 365 stunning whitesand beaches and is surrounded by the azure seas of the Atlantic Ocean and the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea.

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Take into consideration whether you want to be able to walk straight out onto one of the islands’ stunning beaches or to wake up each morning with spectacular views over the sea and the surrounding islands.

The cost of a luxurious beachfront villa may well run into the millions of dollars, but if the property is higher up in the hills, a short distance inland, the price may be significantly lower.

The choice is yours, and with many residential projects currently under development, there exists a wide range of real-estate options across the island.

Consider location and lifestyle when investing in Antigua and Barbuda. The west coast, with its stunning vistas of beaches and crystalline seas, has been very popular with overseas investors. The area around Jolly Harbour offers a plethora of realestate options, from marina-front condos to luxury beachfront villas.

Just south of Jolly Harbour, Tamarind Hills is an ongoing beachfront mixed-use residential and resort development. Here on the south-west corner of the island are luxury condominiums and villas offering superlative views over the ocean and the

neighbouring island of Montserrat.

English Harbour on the south coast is the yachting capital of the Eastern Caribbean and home to Antigua Sailing Week, making it another area popular with overseas investors. There are a number of CIPapproved real-estate projects in the area.

On the eastern coast of Antigua is Nonsuch Bay, a gated community laid out over 40 acres and surrounded by water on three sides. At hand are apartments and villas within a world-class resort with all the requisite facilities.

Because many of the real-estate offerings are within developments or properties that are already operating successfully, returns on investment may be realised sooner; and with resorts achieving a high occupancy rate, investors are able to make wise decisions based on solid evidence.

Antigua and Barbuda offers investors the opportunity to gain an alternative citizenship passport, which is a powerful tool for international tax planning, offering mobility and freedom to travel and extra privacy in banking, as well as the safety of an additional country in which to reside.

Investing in Antigua • Antigua and Barbuda is a stable “Westminster”-style democracy • Well-established legal and regulatory framework, supporting civil and commercial relationships • Well-educated workforce, skills and abilities for modern workplace • Active and committed member of the international community In addition to visa-free travel, CIP-eligible investors have the right to reside permanently on the islands. The recent elimination of personal income tax makes it even more attractive.

FREEDOM, SAFETY AND MOBILITY ARE PRICELESS In an age of the increasing need for mobility, becoming a global citizen has never been more desirable.

L

ike many countries around the world, Antigua and Barbuda’s economy suffered a major setback after the 2008 global economic crisis. Citizens in the country’s source markets — Europe, the United Kingdom and the United States — began experiencing a reduction in their disposable incomes and, therefore, began travelling less frequently.

With tourism being the main driver of the economy, the government, in considering various options to jump-start the economy, saw the CIP as the most effective way to re-attract foreign direct investments, renew interest in the real-

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estate market and spur investment in the general economy.

When was the programme established?

The Antigua and Barbuda CIP Act was passed in April 2013. The Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) was staffed on August 26, 2013, and opened for business on October 10, 2013. The CIU is responsible for processing applications and for recommending the approval of real-estate and business investment options. The first application was received in November of that year with the first citizenship granted in February 2014.

What are the benefits of Antigua and Barbuda citizenship?

• Visa-free access to over 150 countries, including Hong Kong, Singapore, United Kingdom and Schengen area • Decision rendered in 60 to 90 days on most files • No restrictions on dual nationality • Citizenship for life, once residency requirement is met • Straightforward application process; no minimum net worth requirement or previous business experience • No tax on worldwide income, inheritance, capital gains or investment returns • History of a stable currency: USD $1 = EC $2.70 (XCD) since 1976

OPTION 1: CONTRIBUTION TO THE NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT FUND A. For a single applicant, or a family of four or less: USD $100,000 contribution (processing fees: USD $25,000) B. For a family of five or more: USD $125,000 contribution (processing fees: USD $15,000 for each additional dependent) OPTION 2: INVESTMENT IN APPROVED REAL ESTATE A. USD $400,000 plus the payment of government processing fees and due diligence fees B. For a single applicant, or a family of four or less: USD $50,000 processing fees C. For a family of five or more: USD $15,000 processing fees for each additional dependent OPTION 3: INVESTMENT IN AN APPROVED BUSINESS Where a person proposes to make an investment in an approved business, two thresholds apply: A. A minimum of USD $1,500,000 for a single investor B. Where at least two persons propose to make a joint investment in an approved business, the investment must total at least USD $5,000,000, with each of those persons individually contributing at least USD $400,000 to the joint investment.

Jorge Ramirez

Galley Heights

What are the four options offered under the CIP? Applicants must be 18 and older and submit to a rigorous due diligence (DD) or background check process. The only residency stipulation is that new citizens spend at least five days in Antigua and Barbuda in the five years following the granting of citizenship.

Peace of mind. Piece of paradise.

We’ve got you covered.

For over 35 years, Global Bank of Commerce, Antigua’s oldest institution providing international financial services, has offered its clients the perfect balance of world class banking, security and convenience.

Antigua is an independent and sovereign jurisdiction since 1981, and GBC is well positioned to manage the portfolios of the more selective investor, who may also qualify to obtain citizenship via a regulated process.

Contact us and learn how we can support your financial goals, today and tomorrow.

Wholesale Banking 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

Private Banking Wealth Management Portfolio Services Card Programmes Citizenship Services

Investing in Antigua OPTION 4: UNIVERSITY OF THE WEST INDIES FUND A. A family of a minimum of four: USD $150,000 (processing fees: USD $25,000, increasing by USD $15,000 per additional applicant) B. After approval, one member of the family will be eligible for one year’s paid tuition.

include the opportunity to live and study for a year in the country.

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Falmouth Harbour

In addition, new citizens are afforded the opportunity to add dependents after approval. There is also a no-HIV-test requirement for minors under 12.

How are applicants vetted?

All applicants must apply through a locally licensed agent* and are subject to processing and due diligence/background (DD) check fees, depending on the ages of the members of the family. The due diligence process is an extremely involved and stringent procedure.

The CIU employs a multi-tiered process, which involves, but is not limited to, searches in global sanctions and embargo lists, alerts and watch lists issued by financial regulators, law enforcement and other governmental agencies from around the world. These lists contain the profiles of high-risk and potentially high-risk individuals and entities, Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs) and their relatives and close associates, high-profile criminals and blacklisted entities.

Also included are individuals and entities appearing on lists such as the World Bank Ineligible Firms List, Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).

The unit engages the services of international DD providers to conduct extensive research on all members of the family in every place they have lived for more than six months during the past 10 years.

The CIU also collaborates with regional and international law enforcement agencies and focuses on such things as direct or indirect involvement with terrorism, interna-

tional investigations or cross-border money laundering activities.

It is only after this entire process is completed that a decision is rendered. If derogatory information is discovered at any of these stages, the applicant is denied.

What are some of the benefits that have been derived from the programme?

Over the life of the programme, Antigua and Barbuda has seen a resurgence in the country’s real-estate sector and renewed interest in the hotel sector. This economic boost has allowed for development of environmentally responsible projects such as solar energy and reverse osmosis.

The local populace has also benefited from direct contributions to social development plans. Additionally, the construction boom expected as a result of the programme will create more employment opportunities to improve the economic livelihood of Antiguans and Barbudans.

Looking to the future, the country anticipates that the revenue flows from CIP will assist in fostering cottage industries such as agro-processing, improve the agricultural sector and support the creation of new industries, thereby ensuring diversification of the economy.

For more information about the Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program, go to cip.gov.ag or email info@cip.gov.ag. *A locally licensed agent is a natural person who is a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda or who is lawfully ordinarily resident for a period of not less than seven years.

Neil Forrester

What makes the Antigua and Barbuda Programme so successful?

There are several factors that contribute to the rapid success of the programme, including the unit’s highly competent staff, drawn almost exclusively from the private sector.

In addition, with a turnaround time of about 60 days, the CIU has quickly become one of the most efficient units in the region, surpassing countries that had been in the industry much earlier.

Also, because Antigua and Barbuda has maintained a strong presence in the highend tourism sector for more than four decades and already had advanced investment infrastructure in place, the country has quickly become an attractive portal for those seeking to invest in real estate and business.

The twin-island state, as well, has had the opportunity to learn from alreadyestablished programmes and to model its real-estate offerings and escrow arrangements to craft a robust programme. In order to assure investors that developers would deliver quality real estate, the unit exerts some control over the management of escrow funds.

Moreover, the CIU has been very visible in the international community by participating in various industry conferences and establishing a strong presence in a number of high-quality publications. This visibility, along with the culture of efficiency, a robust due diligence process, transparency and accountability of the programme, has made international industry partners like Henley & Partners and Arton Capital confidently brand Antigua and Barbuda as the numberone programme in the region. Henley & Partners went a step further and ranked the programme third globally.

As far as innovation is concerned, Antigua and Barbuda was the first Caribbean nation to permit investment in approved businesses. Other programmes have since integrated this feature. The nation also was the first to expand investment offerings to

Unlock Antigua Helping you set up and thrive Doing business or living in a new country can be challenging. As Antigua’s leading professional service firm, our Unlock Antigua service can provide expert advice and insight to support you every step of the way in achieving your business or lifestyle goals: • location advice • back office services • structuring and set-up • financing • taxation • business growth support • work and residency • audit and assurance.

• citizenship-by-investment

Contact us to find out more:

E gtinfo@ag.gt.com W grantthornton.ag

Audit | Tax | Advisory © 2017 Grant Thornton. All rights reserved. Grant Thornton Antigua is a member firm of Grant Thornton International Limited (GTIL). GTIL and the member firms are not a worldwide partnership. Services are delivered by the member firms. GTIL and its member firms are not agents of, and do not obligate, one another and are not liable for one another’s acts or omissions. Please see www.grantthornton.ag for further details.

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Investing in Antigua

INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES

T

he independent jurisdiction of Antigua and Barbuda represents a crossroad for financial services within the Caribbean, and its more than 36-year-old financial centre is conveniently time-zoned to support international financial services.

Located in the Eastern Caribbean and best known for its 365 white-sand beaches, Antigua enjoys a growing reputation as a trusted Caribbean destination for tourism, second citizenship and international banking services. The government is vigorously pursuing programmes to enhance and strengthen these sectors as key pillars of the economy.

Notably, the appreciation of the Caribbean as a “climate-change conscious zone” is triggering visitor growth and investments towards the Caribbean. Whilst Antigua’s financial centre is relatively small, there is every indication that its low crime, non-volatile, politically stable and sovereign jurisdiction is attracting clients seeking more personal attention for their wealth management portfolios. Antigua and Barbuda is positioned as an up-market tourism destination for the more discriminating visitor and similarly appeals to client relationships for banking services.

Antigua has successfully reshaped its regulatory and business operations to meet the requirements of being a safe harbour for foreign direct investments and to attract business services wishing for a more stable environment. Antigua and Barbuda’s banking sector is well regulated, and the jurisdiction undergoes regular peer evaluation by the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force as well as reviews by the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, giving enhanced scrutiny to its financial centre’s operations.

Balancing the client’s needs for confidentiality with the requirements of meeting all international financial regulatory standards, it has a number of Tax Exchange Information Agreements, including ones with North American and European jurisdictions. Antigua complies with the high-

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Did You Know?

Antigua and Barbuda was the fastestgrowing economy in the English-speaking Caribbean region in 2018. est international standards of transparency and exchange of information as set by the Global Forum of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and has complied with the OECD requirements for Common Reporting Standards. The country is also cooperative with the U.S. Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA), and all banks have been duly registered and work through an approved Inter-Governmental Agency (IGA) arrangement.

Antigua is also a member of the Egmont Group, which provides a platform for the secure exchange of expertise and collaboration between 156 financial intelligence units worldwide to fight against money laundering and the financing of terrorism.

The fact that we are a small, sovereign, stable, tourism-related jurisdiction, and compliant with international regulations, is appealing to many investors.

Antigua provides ideal support for tourism-related investments, information technology services and internet-driven business opportunities that demand more sophisticated financial services. The Antigua & Barbuda Investment Authority assists investment enquiries and identifies related incentives for certain investment categories. Domestic and international business companies (IBCs) conducting business external to Antigua will also benefit from attractive concessions. There is a fully experienced and professional sector comprised of attorneys-at-law and licensed company providers that can as-

sist in the clearing of names, registration of corporate entities and the referral of clients for bank account relationships in the jurisdiction.

Antigua is increasingly

attractive

to international investors from Latin America, Europe, the Middle East and Far East seeking priority banking services and wishing to balance their portfolios with real-estate investments in the jurisdiction. There are a number of residential developments taking place in Antigua and Barbuda which would be considered attractive as vacation and second homes. These investments may also qualify investors for permanent residency or to make application for citizenship under the legislation known as the Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP). This provides qualified applicants for citizenship and an Antigua and Barbuda passport to be granted on the basis of approved persons and families who satisfy a high standard of due diligence requirements and satisfy personal investment requirements in Antigua and Barbuda.

Antigua and Barbuda was the fastestgrowing economy in the English-speaking Caribbean region in 2018, according to a report by the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC). Antigua’s investment environment enjoys the commitment of its public and private sectors to meet the challenges of a connected financial world. It has appropriately reorganised itself to meet the requirements of modern business and the surge of global demands for financial solutions to serve international business, wealth management and e-commerce services.

It is redefining the role of international and wholesale banking relationships and complementing business opportunities that need technology-driven solutions.

The combination of well-regulated jurisdiction and the ability to offer modern financial services in a stable environment makes Antigua and Barbuda a premier location for doing global business.

Brian Stuart-Young CEO, Global Bank of Commerce, Ltd. globalbankofcommerce.com

Jolly Harbour

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Neil Forrester Jorge Ramirez

Useful Information

V ISITO R I N FO RM ATIO N Use these helpful tips to navigate your way around Antigua and Barbuda.

Banking Banking hours in Antigua and Barbuda are Monday to Thursday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. On Fridays, banks have extended hours, until 4 p.m.

MAIN COMMERCIAL BANKS • The Bank of Nova Scotia: Branches located on High Street and in Woods Centre • ECAB: Branches located at Coolidge, Redcliffe Street, Woods Centre and

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Dockyard in English Harbour • Antigua Commercial Bank: Branches located at Thames and St. Mary’s Street, Village Walk Shopping Centre, High Street and Barbuda • First Caribbean International Bank: Branches located at High and Market streets and Old Parham Road • Royal Bank of Canada: Branch on High and Market streets Currency The official currency of Antigua and Barbuda is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC$). The official exchange rate is fixed to the U.S. dollar: U.S. $1.00 is EC $2.67, but shops and taxis will often exchange it as low as EC $2.60 to the U.S. dollar. U.S. currency is widely accepted, as are all major credit cards. Change is generally given in EC, even when paying in EC dollars.

Driving A temporary driver’s licence is required for all drivers in Antigua and Barbuda. As

long as you possess a valid international driving licence, you are all set! For U.S. $20 you can purchase a local temporary licence from your car rental agency, Coolidge or English Harbour Police Station and the Antigua Barbuda Transport Board. The licence is valid for three months.

Motorists should always be cautious and diligent whilst driving. Be sure to pay attention to all road signs and drive on the left side of the street. The national speed limit is 40 mph, and 20 mph in some areas. Beware of stray livestock, such as cattle and sheep, as they may cross the road.

Emergencies If you need emergency medical assistance during your stay, dial 911 or 999.

Mt. Saint John’s Hospital is located in St. John’s just off Queen Elizabeth Highway.

Tel: 268-484-2700 Police Headquarters is located on American Road. Tel: 268-462-0125

J. Kevin Foltz

Attire Wear light-coloured, lightweight clothing.

Antigua and Barbuda can be quite hot, and you want to be prepared for every eventuality. Cotton, linen, shorts and short sleeves are perfect choices. Sandals are a must, and sneakers or hiking boots are a plus if you are interested in doing outdoor activities. And don’t forget your favourite swimwear. It’s best to throw on a sarong or cover-up, or Tshirt for men, when going from the beach to a business or restaurant. But, most importantly, you are never fully dressed without a smile and some sunscreen.

St. John’s Police Station.

Tel: 268-462-0045 Government Antigua and Barbuda is a constitutional monarchy with a British-style parliamentary system of government. An appointed Governor General represents the reigning British monarch locally as head of state. Sir Rodney Williams is the current Governor General. Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister is the Honourable Gaston Browne.

Gratuities As a country based almost exclusively on the service industry, tipping is appreciated and widely accepted. Depending on the level of service, anything from 10 to 18 percent is average. Often, parties of more than five will be charged gratuities within the bill. Most bills will calculate costs in both EC and U.S. dollars.

Language English is the official language of Antigua and Barbuda. However, as does every country, residents speak with their own distinctive twang or dialect.

August 4: Carnival Tuesday November 1: Independence Day December 9: V.C. Bird Day December 25: Christmas Day December 26: Boxing Day Religion Christianity is the predominant religion practised in Antigua and Barbuda, with Anglican, Methodist, Moravian and Catholic being the dominant faiths. There are numerous churches, so you can find a house of worship in pretty much every community.

Telephone Services • International Operator: 0 • Directory Assistance: 411 • Dialling code (for Antigua and Barbuda): 268 • North America or the Caribbean: 1 + area code + 7 digit number • To dial other countries: 011 + country code + number Travelling All visitors to Antigua and Barbuda must

have an onwards or return ticket. Citizens of the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom do not require a visa to enter the nation. For more information, visit immigration.gov.ag.

Utilities In Antigua and Barbuda, the standard voltage is 220 volts; however, 110-volt service may be available. If you brought appliances from your home country, check to determine what system is being used in case you need an adapter. Tap water is treated and drinkable; however, many prefer bottled or boiled water for drinking.

Weather Antigua and Barbuda enjoys a comfortable, balmy tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 22°C (72°F) to 35°C (95°F) throughout the year. June through September is the hottest time of year, with average temperatures of 25°C (77°F) to 32°C (89°F). Cooling trade winds from the south-east generally temper the heat, making for a comfortable stay. The rainy season runs from June to November, and showers are common during this time.

Population The population of Antigua and Barbuda is approximately 90,000, 1,700 of whom resided on Barbuda prior to Hurricane Irma in 2017. Redonda is only populated by birds and a herd of goats.

Post Office Want to send a postcard or letter home to your loved ones? The nation has four post offices throughout the island: • Long and High streets in St. John’s • The V.C. Bird International Airport at the old terminal • Woods Shopping Mall on Friars Hill Road • Nelson’s Dockyard in English Harbour The post office is open Monday to Thursday from 8:15 a.m. to 4 p.m., and until 3 p.m. on Fridays. There are also global mail services available, including Federal Express and DHL. 2020 Public Holidays January 1: New Year’s Day April 10: Good Friday April 13: Easter Monday May 4: Labour Day June 1: Whit Monday August 3: Carnival Monday

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ABHTA Membership Directory HOTEL MEMBERS THE ADMIRAL’S INN 460-1027 admiralsantigua.com THE ANCHORAGE INN 462-4065 antiguaanchorageinn.com ANTIGUA VILLAGE 462-2930 antiguavillage.com ANTIGUA YACHT CLUB MARINA 460-1544 aycmarinaresort.com BARBUDA BELLE 783-4779 barbudabelle.com BLUE WATERS ANTIGUA 484-4305 bluewaters.net BUCCANEER BEACH CLUB 562-6785 buccaneerbeach.com CARLISLE BAY ANTIGUA 484-0000 carlisle-bay.com CATAMARAN HOTEL 460-1036 catamaranantigua.com COCOBAY RESORT 562-2400 cocobayresort.com COCOS 462-9700 cocoshotel.com COPPER & LUMBER STORE HISTORIC INN 460-1058 copperandlumberstore.com CURTAIN BLUFF HOTEL 462-8400 curtainbluff.com ELLEN BAY COTTAGES 561-2003 ellenbaycottages.com GALLEY BAY RESORT & SPA 462-5601 galleybayresort.com HALCYON COVE BY REX RESORTS 462-0256 starfishresorts.com HAMMOCK COVE RESORT & SPA 888-841-2582 hammockcoveresort.com HAWKSBILL BEACH RESORT BY REX RESORTS 462-0301 rexresorts.com HERITAGE HOTEL 481-7531 HERMITAGE BAY 562-5500 hermitagebay.com HODGES BAY RESORT & SPA 484-8000 hodgesbay.com

KEYONNA BEACH RESORT 562-2020 keyonnabeachresortantigua.com NONSUCH BAY RESORT 562-8000 nonsuchbayresort.com OCEAN POINT RESORT & SPA 562-8330 oceanpointantigua.com PINEAPPLE BEACH CLUB 463-2006 pineapplebeachclub.com SANDALS GRANDE ANTIGUA 462-0267 sandals.com

KENNEDY’S CLUB LTD. 481-1300 GOLF CLUB CEDAR VALLEY GOLF CLUB 462-0161 facebook.com/cedarvalleygolfclub HARDWARE STORE NORTHCOAST HARDWARE 734-2222 northcoasthardware.com INSURANCE ANJO INSURANCES 462-0182 anjoinsure.com

SIBONEY BEACH CLUB 462-0806 siboneybeachantigua.com

BRYSONS SHIPPING & INSURANCE 480-1200 brysonsantigua.com

SOUTH POINT 562-9600 southpointantigua.com

CGM GALLAGHER 562-3305 cgmgallagher.com

ST. JAMES’S CLUB 460-5000 stjamesclubantigua.com

STATE INSURANCE COMPANY LTD. 481-7835 sicantigua.com

STARFISH JOLLY BEACH RESORT 462-0061 starfishresorts.com SUGAR RIDGE RESORT 562-7700 sugarridgeantigua.com TAMARIND HILLS 562-7380 tamarind-hills.com THE VERANDAH RESORT & SPA 562-6848 verandahresortandspa.com

ASSOCIATE MEMBERS ACCOUNTING SERVICES BDO EASTERN CARIBBEAN (KPMG) 462-8992 bdoecc.com GRANT THORNTON 462-3000 grantthornton.ag AIRLINES AMERICAN AIRLINES 481-4650 aa.com BANKS ANTIGUA COMMERCIAL BANK 481-4240 acbonline.com GLOBAL BANK OF COMMERCE, LTD. 480-2206 globalbank.ag BUSINESS SERVICE ORGANIZATION ANTIGUA BARBUDA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY LTD. 462-0743 facebook.com/antigua.chamber CATERING SERVICES GODDARD CATERING 462-3173 gcggroup.com

THE INN AT ENGLISH HARBOUR 460-1014 theinnantigua.com

DISTRIBUTORS A.S. BRYDEN & SONS LTD. 462-1810 brydens.com

JUMBY BAY RESORT 462-6000 oetkercollection.com

ANTIGUA DISTILLERY LTD. 480-3200 antiguadistillery.com

JEWELLERY ABBOTT’S JEWELLERY AND PERFUMERY 462-3107 abbottsjewellery.com COLOMBIAN EMERALDS INTERNATIONAL 462-7903 colombianemeralds.com DIAMONDS INTERNATIONAL 481-1880 diamondsinternational.com THE GOLDSMITTY 462-4601 goldsmitty.com STERLINGS ANTIGUA 562-5662 sterlingsantigua.com REHABILITATION CENTRE CROSSROADS CENTRE 562-0035 crossroadsantigua.org RESTAURANTS ANA’S ON THE BEACH 562-8562 anas.ag BIG BANANA HOLDINGS LTD./ THE LARDER 480-6985 bigbanana-antigua.com MAP PUBLICATION SKYVIEWS 246-434-3434 skyviews.com MARINE SERVICES EASTERN CARIBBEAN MARINA & BOATYARD LTD. 462-6042 jolly-harbour-marina.com MARKETING SERVICES ANTIGUA NICE LTD. 561-0405 antiguanice.com AZINGO HOSPITALITY 764-8001 azingohospitality.com SIGNCOM 461-6209 signcomanu@gmail.com

OFFICE SUPPLIES AND SERVICES HARPERS OFFICE DEPOT 462-5562 sales@harpersoffice.com PRIVATE JET MANAGEMENT SIGNATURE FLIGHTS 764-8181 signatureflight.com PUBLICATION TREASURE ISLANDS 463-7414 tiguideantigua.com REAL ESTATE SERVICES ISLAND LIVING 562-2626 islandlivingantigua.com JHR CARIBBEAN LTD. 562-6042 facebook.com/JHRCaribbean LUSH LOCATIONS 562-7814 lushlocations.com MAJESTIC REALTY 464-5310 majesticrealtycaribbean.com SEA VIEW HEIGHTS 462-6266 antiguaholidayvillas.com STANLEY’S ESTATE AGENTS 562-7599 stanleysestates.com TOURISM/CRUISE GPH (ANTIGUA) LTD. COMPANY globalportsholding.com TOURS ANTIGUA CHIAMA ITALIA 783-3395 antiguachiamaitalia.it ANTIGUA RAINFOREST ZIPLINE TOURS 562-6363 antiguarainforest.com CARIBBEAN HELICOPTERS LTD. 460-5900 flychl.com DESTINATION ANTIGUA/TROPICAL ADVENTURES 480-1296 tropicalad.com NATIONAL TOURS & SERVICES 462-7979 nationaltoursandservices.com SUNTOURS 462-4788 suntourscaribbean.com WADADLICATS LIMITED 462-4792 wadadlicats.com TRAVEL AGENCY ALEXANDER PARRISH 462-0638 apalantigua.com CARIB WORLD TRAVEL 480-2990 carib-world.com ST. JAMES TRAVEL & TOURS 562-2192 stjamesgroup.com WEDDING ORGANISERS/PLANNERS INDIGO EVENT SERVICES 726-5098 indigoeventservices.com

Index of Advertisers ACCOMMODATIONS BUCCANEER BEACH CLUB, p. 33 Tel: 562-6785 buccaneerbeach.com

The Buccaneer Beach Club is a cosy beachfront property on famous Dickenson Bay beach. The property is surrounded by a tropical garden, which assists in providing a tranquil atmosphere that only a premier Caribbean resort can offer.

OCEAN POINT RESORT & SPA, p. 75 Tel: 562-8330 oceanpointantigua.com

Just a few steps from the sea, Sottovento at Ocean Point Resort Spa offers a mix of exquisite Mediterranean flavours prepared by a Michelin-starred chef who combines the freshest local seafood and vegetables with delicacies imported from Italy.

PARADISE PROPERTIES, p. 119 Tel: 561-1563 / 725-4128 paradisepropertiesconnection.com

Paradise Properties is a vibrant, efficient and professional real-estate agency. With five years’ experience, multilingual services and an office located in English Harbour, they have become one of the top leading estate agents in Antigua. Paradise Properties specialises in beachfront, ocean-view properties for sale and exclusive villa rentals throughout the island. Paradise Properties also provides efficient and reliable property management services.

SIBONEY BEACH CLUB, p. 51 Tel: 462-0806 siboneybeachantigua.com

With newly refurbished rooms, the property caters to couples looking for a lowcost Caribbean honeymoon or getaway, as well as larger groups seeking an affordable family vacation. With free Wi-Fi and comfortable in-room working space, it’s also a popular Antigua business hotel for working travellers who want a taste of the vacation experience whilst on the job. The on-site restaurant is fantastic.

ACTIVITIES ANTIGUA REEF RIDERS, p. 55 Tel: 728-5239 antiguareefriders.com

Captain your own 10-foot, two-seater inflatable Reef Rider. Located in Jolly Harbour, Reef Riders allows guests to test their skills as they cut through the waves. On arrival at Cades Reef you can snorkel and marvel at the diverse marine life.

CALVIN AIR HELICOPTERS, p. 31 Tel: 789-HELI (4354) calvinair.com

Calvin Air Helicopters offers a new way to fly in the Caribbean. Operating the stateof-the-art Airbus EC130 helicopter, a tour

or charter with Calvin Air promises safety, comfort and the highest calibre of service.

Explore the Montserrat volcano, lunch in St. Barth's, or a picnic in Barbuda – the sky truly is the limit!

CARIBBEAN HELICOPTERS, LTD., p. 32 Tel: 562-TOUR (8687) flychl.com

Up, up and away! For more than 18 years, the skilled pilots of Caribbean Helicopters have been offering panoramic, bird’s-eye tours of Antigua and neighbouring islands.

CEDAR VALLEY GOLF CLUB, p. 39 Tel: 462-0161 cvgolfantigua.com

Cedar Valley Golf Club is just the place to tee off. Close to town, the 18-hole championship complex boasts awe-inspiring vistas and a challenging course. This 6,157yard, par-70 course offers an enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels.

MYSTIC AMARA FISHING CHARTERS, p. 58 Tel: 464-7112 / 764-FISH (3474) info@fishingantigua.com fishingantigua.com

Step aboard the Mystic Amara III for a day of great fishing with Captain Leroy on his newly refurbished Bertram 31. Fish the local waters for snapper, grouper, hind and a variety of tasty table species or head offshore in search of big game pelagic like mahimahi, wahoo, kingfish, tuna and marlin.

NELSON’S DOCKYARD NATIONAL PARK, p. 29 Tel: 481-5021/22 nationalparksantigua.com

Historic Nelson’s Dockyard National Park, once a British fort named for Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson, is arguably the most visited site in Antigua. The buildings have been modernised, but they retain their original naval heritage. Be sure to visit the numerous shops and restaurants there.

SALTY DOGS ADVENTURES & RENTALS, p. 41 Tel: 562-8341 saltydogsrentals.com

Be an explorer in a two-seater off-road, automatic buggy with their friendly and informative guides leading the way. The route starts at Redcliffe Quay in St. John’s and heads out of town on rural dirt tracks to scenic Body Pond. Savour unique sights, sounds and tastes as you drive along the trails of the island’s only tropical rainforest to Fig Tree Drive. Enjoy stunning views of Antigua and have some off-road fun!

STINGRAY CITY ANTIGUA, p. 57 Tel: 562-7297 stingraycityantigua.com

Meet up with friendly stingrays as you snorkel around a magnificent coral reef at Stingray City Antigua. Enjoy swimming and feeding these cuddly creatures and other reef dwellers. Afterwards, head back to the coast and relax with complimentary rum or fruit punch.

SWASH WATER PARK, p. 58 Tel: 771-1676 / 726-7179

Get ready to swim, jump and splash on Antigua’s only open water park, boasting 150 feet of epic fun and 28 obstacles. Located on the western side of the island, the park also offers beach volleyball and a floating pool for those who wish to sit back and relax. Swash Water Park caters to all ages.

Open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in Darkwood Beach.

TROPICAL ADVENTURES ANTIGUA, p. 59 Tel: 480-1225 tropicalad.com

Discover Antigua by land, sea and sky on a day tour with Tropical Adventures Antigua. Savour unique experiences that allow you to see the natural beauty of the country, whether on a 4x4 off-road adventure, kayaking through mangroves or circumnavigating the sea on a catamaran.

WADADLI CATS, p. 56 Tel: 462-4792 wadadlicats.com

Wadadli Cats offers three different catamaran tours through Antigua’s clear waters.

Take a 60-mile tour around Antigua’s coast, snorkel at Cades Bay Reef or commune with nature on the Bird Island Tour.

ART GALLERIES & POTTERY ART GALLERY, p. 103 Tel: 464-6084 gillygobinet.com

Discover suitcase-friendly original paintings in acrylic and watercolour of Caribbean flora and fauna and marine art by Antiguan artist Gilly Gobinet. Commissions welcome and pet portraits are a speciality. Visit this stunning, eclectic waterfront location in leafy Fitches Creek Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. or by appointment. Call or email gillygobinet@me.com.

RHYTHM OF BLUE ART GALLERY, p. 103 Tel: 770-7888 rhythmofblue.com

Come and experience a dynamic display of pottery, jewellery, paintings, wellness products and sculptures designed and created with a passionate love of the sea. Rhythm of Blue is the sole outlet of Nancy Nicholson’s sought-after vibrant blue pottery, as well as a selection of artists whose work complements the spirit

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Index of Advertisers of the gallery. Located in English Harbour.

Open every day except Sunday from midNovember until mid-May; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. or by appointment.

SARAH FULLER’S POTTERY, p. 103 Tel: 726-1550

A fusion of art and nature, stunning, unique hangings combine beachcombing treasures with Sarah’s pottery talents. Sarah’s studio is one of Antigua’s oldest and most original.

Natural clays of Antigua are transformed into unique originals, with glazes inspired by the vibrant hues of the Caribbean. Visitors welcome; open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

DINING & NIGHTLIFE ANA’S ON THE BEACH, p. 74 Tel: 562-8562 anas.ag

Ana’s Restaurant & Art Gallery combines an exquisite Mediterranean menu with artistic décor and eclectic style. A stone’s throw from the beach on Dickenson Bay, enjoy the menu whilst taking in the stunning views.

Then relax on cabanas and lounge beds and enjoy entertainment and local art.

AREA 51 BAR & GRILL, p.78 Tel: 562-9290

For the young and the young at heart, Destination Area 51 Bar & Grill is a dynamic place to dance the night away or grab a bite to eat and enjoy the music. Unwind in the Caribbean breeze and get your groove on with spectacular drinks that are out of this world. Open from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

BEACHLIMERZ, p. 73 Tel: 562-8574 beachlimerz.com

This stylish, informal, rustic beach bar features the liberal use of local woods for bar and furniture, together with hand-made copper light fixtures fashioned by an island artisan and interesting rope lights in the main restaurant. The breezy beachside ambience and the owners’ obvious commitment to the music heritage and culinary culture of the island ensure an authentic Caribbean experience, which will create memories that the language of travel books can never quite capture.

BODOG BEACH RESTAURANT & BAR, p. 82 Tel: 562-4446 bodogbeach.com

Bodog Beach is the quintessential Caribbean restaurant and beach bar. Located on the white sands of Jolly Beach, it boasts a laid back, Riviera-type vibe. Featuring authentic Caribbean and Indian cuisine, beach service and a DJ, experiencing this iconic

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Antiguan hotspot is a must. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks.

BOOM RESTAURANT, p. 32 Tel: 460-1027 admiralsantigua.com

Boom, the new poolside restaurant at Gunpowder House, has spectacular views overlooking Nelson’s Dockyard and the harbour. Enjoy delicious fresh lunches and your favourite cocktail or glass of wine.

CARMICHAEL’S AND SUGAR CLUB AT SUGAR RIDGE, p. 15 Tel: 562-7700 sugarridgeantigua.com

Sugar Ridge is a modern, intimate boutique hotel for the discerning traveller who wants to connect with the beauty of Antigua. Dine at the hotel’s two distinctive restaurants, Carmichael’s and Sugar Club, and enjoy the spectacular views.

CATHERINE’S CAFÉ, p. 71 Tel: 460-5050 / 782-5050 catherines-cafe.com

Catherine’s Café offers classical French cuisine with Provence-style influences and local ingredients. The classically Frenchtrained chefs have created an innovative and fresh new menu, whilst of course sticking to some old French classics that regulars know and love. It’s an incomparable chill-out experience and has earned itself the reputation of luring in the sunkissed and beautiful, who come to enjoy long leisurely lunches, sur la plage.

CUTIES’S BAR & RESTAURANT, p. 76 Tel: 562-1820 facebook.com/cutiesantigua

Cutie’s Bar & Restaurant is the trendy new eatery in historic Redcliffe Quay that offers a wide variety of fresh local and international dishes for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

The exotic drinks are the exact refreshment you’re looking for on a sunny day.

DARKWOOD BEACH BAR & RESTAURANT, p. 49 Tel: 728-4301 / 462-8240

Located on one of the most beautiful beaches on the island for its clear waters and white sand, this relaxed beach bar and restaurant offers a full line of services to all beachgoers. Whether you are arriving on a cruise ship or staying on Antigua and exploring many of the beaches, it’s the perfect place to taste some local specialities, experience local culture, bask in the gorgeous Caribbean sun and explore the underwater life.

FLATTIES FLAME GRILL, p. 80 Tel: 726-6899

The pioneers of peri peri chicken, a musthave dish while in Antigua. They also serve

Portuguese and South African styled meat and seafood dishes including large rack of ribs, fresh fish, lobster and prawns. Serving two locations: Jolly Harbour and English Harbour.

HARBOUR VIEW BAR & CAFÉ, p. 99 Tel: 462-2972 exoticantigua@gmail.com

In Redcliffe Quay, this is the only waterfront bar and café downtown with a splendid bay view. Its elevated position allows you to relax in comfort in the lounge area. Stop in for breakfast and lunch. Harbour View Bar & Café serves fresh salads, sandwiches and paninis, along with exotic cocktails and refreshing smoothies.

HEMINGWAYS CARIBBEAN CAFÉ, p. 77 Tel: 462-2763 hemingwayantigua.com

Located on the verandah of a West Indies– style house in St. John’s that dates to 1829, this is a perfect example of a Hemingway haunt during the time this celebrated author spent in the Caribbean. Family-owned and -run for the past 30 years, enjoy authentic Caribbean-style cooking that caters to all for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Food can be prepared to your dietary needs (vegan, no salt and gluten-free).

INSPIRATION AT MILLER’S BY THE SEA BEACH BAR & RESTAURANT, p. 74 Tel: 462-9414 deborah2868@gmail.com

On the white-sand beach at the end of Runaway Bay, Miller’s by the Sea specialises in fresh seafood of all kinds prepared the Antiguan way. Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the restaurant offers live entertainment nightly and a happy hour Monday through Friday.

JACQUI O’S BEACHHOUSE & RESTAURANT, p. 47 Tel: 562-2218

Jacqui O’s has received accolades from Trip Advisor, Frommer’s and Fodor’s as one of the best rated restaurants in Antigua. Using fresh seasonal produce and both local and international sources to create sensational, modern French cuisine and cocktails, this beach chic place has an amazing setting and is a mustvisit whether you want to lounge on the beach all day or stop in for a delicious candlelit dinner at sunset.

KINGS’S CASINO, p. 83 Tel: 462-1727 kingscasino.com

Since 1988, King’s Casino has been Antigua’s number-one entertainment destination with state-of-the-art slot machines, all the best table games, a live-action sports book, bar and more. It’s in the heart of St. John’s just off the cruise ship pier.

LE BISTRO, p. 77 Tel: 462-3881 lebistroantigua.com

For over three decades, they’ve delighted in sharing with their loyal guests the unique experience of French cuisine in a distinctly Caribbean, luxurious yet relaxed atmosphere. Relax and enjoy a seamless dinner, complete with a supremely polished and personalised service. It will be hard to choose from the medley of outstanding cuisine.

MAINBRACE RESTAURANT, p. 80 Tel: 460-1058/1159/1160 copperandlumberstore.com

Its stony architecture, held together by huge wooden beams, keeps the inside fresh, cosy and relaxing, perfect for breakfast and lunchtime dining. Lunchtime choices include grilled chicken, lightly glazed with balsamic honey, sitting against a julienne of vegetables. Their staff recommends trying the grilled mahi-mahi, their personal favourite. Remember to attend Seafood Fridays, a favourite for locals and visitors alike.

MISTIC BEACH BAR & RESTAURANT, p. 49 Tel: 723-4589 misticbeachbar.com

Located at Runaway Bay, just 15 minutes from Heritage Quay in the heart of St. John’s, Mistic Beach Bar & Restaurant takes pride in providing exceptional service, with a friendly and professional staff that’s ready to make your visit one to remember. Enjoy the beautiful white sandy shoreline with crystal-clear blue waters, sip a refreshing rum punch, and relax on a beach chair with umbrella that’s available for rent.

OJ’S BAR & RESTAURANT, p. 49 Tel: 460-0184 facebook.com/ojsbeachbar

You can’t go wrong trying one of OJ’s outstanding meals for lunch or dinner. Lobster salad, sautéed garlic shrimp and seafood pasta are island favourites.

PILLARS RESTAURANT, p. 80 Tel: 460-1027 admiralsantigua.com

Pillars, named after the 18th-century pillars lining the outdoor terrace, serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The tree-shaded terrace is a delightful place to sit and eat looking out over the water. Local seafood is their speciality, and they use fresh local produce whenever possible.

SALT PLAGE BEACH BAR & RESTAURANT, p. 73 Tel: 462-0806 siboneybeachantigua.com

Quintessential beach bar meets chic waterfront dining. Whether you prefer a relaxing day on the beach with friendly beach service or a special meal, Salt Plage has it all. Located at the water’s edge on the renowned Dickenson Bay, take in the sunset while enjoying one of their signature cocktails. Their friendly team will ensure that your day on the beach or dining experience in the evening is a truly memorable one.

SHEER ROCKS, p. 70 Tel: 464-5283 sheer-rocks.com

Poised on the edge of a bluff overlooking Ffryes Bay, Sheer Rocks offers a Mediterranean menu eclipsed only by its beautiful setting. Enjoy tapas for lunch, aperitifs at sunset and dinner overlooking floodlit rocks. Afterwards, dip your feet in the plunge pool as you enjoy a nightcap.

TURNER’S BEACH RESTAURANT, p. 51 Tel: 462-9133 facebook.com/turnersbeachantigua

Set on a beach of the same name, Turner’s Beach Restaurant is known for its Caribbean menu and seafood dishes. Between dips in the azure sea and frolicking on the beach, this is the perfect place to have a bite and a drink. Turner’s is open for lunch daily. Dinner by reservation only.

REAL ESTATE, INVESTMENT AND FINANCIAL SERVICES CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT UNIT, p. 115 Tel: 481-8400 cip.gov.ag

Antigua and Barbuda now grants citizenship to foreigners who invest in certain island properties or businesses, or contribute to the National Development Fund.

GLOBAL BANK OF COMMERCE, LTD., p. 117 Tel: 480-2240 globalbank.ag

Global Bank of Commerce, Ltd. (GBC) is a Caribbean-managed and -operated international bank, offering attractive financial products to its regional and international customers since 1983.

GRANT THORNTON, p. 119 Tel: 462-3000 grantthornton.ag

Grant Thornton is one of the world’s leading organisations of independent assurance, tax and advisory firms. These firms help dynamic organisations unlock their potential for growth by providing meaningful, forwardlooking advice. In Antigua, the office is on Old Parham Road, just outside the capital city of St. John’s.

SHOPPING ABBOTT’S JEWELLERY AND PERFUMERY, p. 7 Tel: 462-3107 abbottsjewellery.com

Abbott’s Jewellery is Antigua’s leading duty-free shop offering the most extensive assortment of luxury lines. They are a successful, locally owned and operated business located in Heritage Quay since 1999. The official Rolex retailer on Antigua, they also offer many internationally renowned Swiss-made brands, including Omega, TAG Heuer, Carl F. Bucherer, Longines, Gucci, Tissot and Raymond Weil.

DIAMONDS INTERNATIONAL, Inside front cover, 1, 2, 3, 9, 13, 88, back cover Tel: 481-1880 diamondsinternational.com

They say diamonds are a girl’s best friend.

Enjoy duty-free shopping at Diamonds International in Redcliffe Quay or Heritage Quay. Both locations offer breathtaking selections of fine jewellery and watches. If you are looking for fine watches, DI is the exclusive agent for Cartier and Bulgari.

EPICUREAN FINE FOODS & PHARMACY, p. 76 Tel: 484-5400 epicureanantigua.com

Epicurean Fine Foods & Pharmacy is Antigua’s largest and most extensive grocery store and pharmacy. Groceries for your family, hot food to go, beer and wine for your next beach party, or yacht provisioning — Epicurean has it all.

EXOTIC ANTIGUA, p. 99 Tel: 562-1288 exoticantigua@gmail.com

Exotic Antigua in Redcliffe Quay specialises in jewellery, bags, hats, linen and cotton tropical clothing for both men and women, all at affordable prices. The store offers excellent customer service to create a great shopping experience.

GINGERLILY, p. 89 Tel: 462-4523 info@gingerlilyantigua.com

Gingerlily has beautiful resort wear clothing totally suited for this sunny landscape. Located conveniently on the second floor of Sunseakers swimwear shop, you will be greeted with a colourful selection of short dresses, maxi dresses, floaty tops and their magic stretch pants in a rainbow of colours. Shapewear by Spanx, contemporary jewellery pieces, comfortable sandals and bags. A muststop shop! Open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Bring travel info and ID to receive duty-free price.

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Index of Advertisers THE GOLDSMITTY, p. 87 Tel: 462-4601 goldsmitty.com

At Silverado they sell mostly silver, but their focus is on their customers.

Discover unique jewellery with original gemstones collected by owner-designer Hans Smit from mines all over the world.

A 30-million-year-old petrified coral gem, discovered locally in 2011, is now officially recognised as Antiguanite and is sold exclusively at The Goldsmitty in Redcliffe Quay.

Choose your own “piece of our rock” and polish it yourself.

STERLINGS, p. 5 Tel: 562-5662 sterlings@candw.ag

HOWELL JEWELLERS, p. 90 Tel: 784-0458 facebook.com/HowellJewellers-196736574744

SUNSEAKERS, p. 89 Tel: 462-4523 info@sunseakers.com

Stop by this small manufacturing plant and discover the finest in handcrafted jewellery of gold and silver, as well as other metals such as copper and brass.

ISLAND SECRET, p. 90 Tel: 562-6220

Located in Friar’s Hill in the Mandolin Mall.

Carrying an assortment of local and imported apparel for male, female and children in addition to shoes, bags, scarfs, jewellery, candles, toys and so much more.

LAND LEATHER COLLECTION, p. 93 Tel: 462-0746 landantigua@gmail.com

This quaint leather goods store carries 100 percent LAND leather items for men and women. The esteemed brand offers unique, premium leather goods with exquisite craftsmanship. Obtain your handbags, briefcases, travel accessories, belts and much more at the LAND leather shop today.

MIRANDA ASKIE DESIGNS, p. 94-95 Tel: 736-2236 / 560-8050

Miranda Askie Designs is located at Redcliffe Quay. The shop specialises in oneof-a-kind statement pieces, as well as everyday-wear accessories and clothing. All are designed by Miranda and inspired by the Caribbean’s natural beauty. Her unique style shows in all her designs, from her unisex leather/upholstery bags to her elegant casualwear. The ambience of the boutique boldly emphasises the designer manifesto: Accessorising the positive!

SILVERADO, p. 97 Tel: 562-7575

Silverado is a “Stable of Silvers” located in the centre passageway, two shops from the entrance of the Quay. People from all over the world are mesmerised at what they see at Silverado because they have neither the size nor the brands. What they have are the truly unique pieces that would catch your eye, fill your hearts and satisfy your pockets.

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Sterlings specialises in silver jewellery but also offers pieces in 14k and 18k gold, as well as stainless steel. In Heritage Quay, the retailer is the exclusive agent for Pandora and Alex and Ani jewellery. The store also offers numerous brands of designer watches.

Dressing women, men, children and “yachties” since 1981, Sunseakers carries a swimsuit for EVERYbody! You’ll find women’s sizes from 2 to 24 and men’s sizes S to XXXL. Nautica, Roidal, Luli Fama, Sunflair, VIX, La Blanca, Trina Turk, Quiksilver and Reef, to name a few. Flip flops by Havaianas, Ipanema, OKA B., beach towels, suntan lotion, beach to bar cover-ups. Show proof of travel on phone and ID to receive duty-free prices. Open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

TROPIC WEAR, p. 93 Tel: 462-6251 facebook.com/tropicwear

Tropic Wear at Heritage Quay is the place for duty-free shopping for Levi’s and Dockers clothing for men and women. You’ll find a wide selection of authentic styles and colours in clothing and accessories.

ZEITGEIST, p. 91 Tel: 562-2259

They specialise in beautifully crafted clothing made from the finest and most luxurious Italian linen. Their 120% LINO cruise collection from Italy is timeless and classically chic and comes in vivid colours for warmweather occasions. Also available in-store is their more affordable TOTEM collection from Brazil and bohemian FEATHER & FIND from Bali, made from natural fabrics in vibrant 1970s-inspired prints.

TOURISM SERVICES ANTIGUA & BARBUDA TOURISM AUTHORITY, p. 11 Tel: 562-7600 visitantiguabarbuda.com

The Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) is charged with marketing and promotion for the twin-island nation and the development of the tourism product. With four offices in the United Kingdom, United States, Canada and France, ABTA is dedicated to delivering a diverse and distinctive tourism experience for visitors.

TRANSPORTATION BARBUDA EXPRESS, p. 67

Tel: 560-7989 barbudaexpress.com

Enjoy a 90-minute catamaran ride to Antigua’s sister island. Spend the day touring beautiful Barbuda or just relaxing on the pink-sand beaches. Barbuda Express also offers economical touring packages to explore and discover the island.

L & S RENTALS & LEASE, p. 30 Tel: 464-3778 / 725-0168

L & S Rentals & Lease strives to fit a variety of budgets, whilst still providing a luxurious experience. They’ll also deliver the vehicle to you.

USEFUL INFORMATION BEE CONNECTED, p. 123 tripservice.me

TripService.Me is a unique reservation application and website, founded in Antigua and Barbuda. You will be able to make table reservations, book a taxi, order internet services and more to make your Caribbean journey as easy as possible, leaving you all the time in the world to enjoy your trip!

Our easy log in allows you to begin making reservations immediately and start gaining loyalty points.

WEDDINGS & EVENTS INDIGO EVENT SERVICES, p. 109 Tel: 726-5098 indigoeventservices.com

Based in Antigua, they offer boutiquestyle destination wedding planning. They don’t work with packages but use their local knowledge to create a bespoke day as individual as you are. From intimate weddings, luxurious weddings, vow renewals and everything in between, they are with you every step of the way and a little after.

Indigo can organise the venue, catering, décor, entertainment, photography and pretty much anything else you’d like on your special day.

PHOTO FANTASY — TED MARTIN, p. 41 Tel: 726-3148 photofantasy.zenfolio.com

Based in historic Nelson’s Dockyard in English Harbour, Ted Martin offers a unique portfolio of services to anyone requiring a photographer. Book the “Famous for a Day” photo tour and receive a CD with all your photos. Photo Fantasy also offers photoprinted T-shirts and a range of other unique souvenirs.

WELLNESS WOODS PHARMACY, p. 111 Tel: 462-9288/9287

Woods Pharmacy provides the best service in prescriptions, patent medicines, Hallmark cards, toiletries, household items and lots more.

WHAT SUGARCANE

WANTS TO BE WHEN IT GROWS UP AWARDS GOLD AWARD WINNER 2010 AND 2013 RUM MASTER COMPETITION IN THE AGED RUMS (5 TO 7 YEAR CATEGORY)

GOLD MEDAL BEST RUM AT THE 2011 NEW YORK WORLD SPIRITS COMPETITION

91 OUT OF 100 POINTS 2016 ULTIMATE SPIRITS CHALLENGE

DOUBLE GOLD & BEST RUM 2016 WINE & SPIRIT WHOLESALERS OF AMERICA (WSWA)

FORBES MAGAZINE TOP TEN RUMS

NAMED AS ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST REMARKABLE RUMS (ONLY 5YR OLD RUM TO MAKE THE LIST, ALL OTHER RUMS WERE AGED FOR AT LEAST 8 YEARS)

@englishharbour.rum

www.facebook.com/englishharbourrum

SUPEROCEAN HERITAGE

The Surfer Squad Sally Fitzgibbons Kelly Slater Stephanie Gilmore

204 Heritage Quay | St. John’s | Antigua Tel: 268-481-1880