THE

2016

ANTIGUAN

The Guide to Antigua & Barbuda

A Warm Welcome to Antigua & Barbuda

A Warm Welcome O

n behalf of the Government and People of Antigua and Barbuda, I would like to extend a warm Wadadli-style welcome to our beautiful shores. Thank you for making the ‘Gem of the Caribbean’ your next vacation experience. You will soon find out that there is much in store for you in Antigua and Barbuda and I encourage you to explore both our islands, as they each offer two distinctly unique vacation experiences. Whether a romantic resort or a charming escape to a villa or inn, we can help you create that “home away from home” experience with our wide range of accommodation from the ultra exclusive to the all inclusive. In Antigua, take advantage of the many land and sea tours available in order to become personally acquainted with the beauty of our island. You can swim with the stingrays, snorkel, kayak, kite surf, or zip through the air above lush rainforest. Let your imagination run free, as the sky is truly the limit here! Dining in Antigua and Barbuda is certain to be an unforgettable pleasure. Sample our delectable cuisine, ranging from the spiny lobster to a succulent snapper or a few slices of our naturally sweet Antigua Black pineapple.

For secluded relaxation, take a trip over to Barbuda our beautiful sister isle, where our 17 miles of unbroken beach and beautiful pink sand beckon you to tranquility and provide the perfect antidote to stress. The quiet warmth of the people will make you feel right at home. While there, remember to sample the delicious Barbudan lobster that is truly second to none. Whatever your desire in a vacation, I can guarantee that there is something to satisfy you in Antigua and Barbuda. Our delicious cuisine, rich heritage and culture are all waiting to be explored by you. Slow down and savour them, for an unforgettable vacation experience. We hope you have an incredible visit to Antigua and Barbuda and that you leave with only warm memories of your stay with us. Sincerely,

Hon. Asot A. Michael Minister of Tourism, Economic Development Investment and Energy

ANTIGUA & BARBUDA TOURIST OFFICES ANTIGUA

CANADA

Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority Third Floor, ACB Financial Centre High Street, St John’s, Antigua Tel: 1-268-562-7600 Fax: 1-268-562-7602 Email: info@aandbtourism.com

60 St. Claire Avenue East, Suite 601 Toronto, Ontario, Canada M4T 1N5 Tel: 1-416-961-3085 Fax: 1-416-961-7218 Email: info@aandbtourism.com

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

2nd Floor, 45 Crawford Place London W1H 4LP Tel: (0) 44-203-668-3800 Email: info@aandbtourism.com

Antigua and Barbuda Tourist Office 3 Dag Hammarskjold Plaza - Suite 6A 305 East 47th Street, New York, NY 10017 Tel: 1-212-541-4117 Fax: 1-646-215-6008 Email: info@aandbtourism.com

UNITED KINGDOM & EUROPE

For further information visit www.visitantiguabarbuda.com

Contents 2 6 8 10 12 16 24 50 52 54 56 58 62 64 73 74 76 90 92 99 100 112 114 115 118 120

Welcome to Antigua & Barbuda The Beach is Just the Beginning Arriving in Antigua 20 Reasons to Visit Antigua & Barbuda Antigua Events Antigua’s Famous Beaches Where to Stay – Antigua Hotels Antigua for the Perfect Wedding Antigua Spas – Relax & Unwind Island Map Exploring Antigua Nelson’s Dockyard Beautiful Barbuda Action & Adventure Antigua’s Offshore Islands Sail Away for the Day Real Estate – A Piece of Paradise Super Shopping St. John’s Street Map Antigua Homegrown Dining Out Antigua Nightlife Antigua... A Caribbean Home, A Global Market Artistic Antigua Antigua Database Cruise Tourism

THE ANTIGUAN is written, produced and published by FT CARIBBEAN, PO Box 2686, St. John’s, Antigua, West Indies Tel: (268) 462-3292 Fax: (268) 462-3292 Email: ftcarib@apuainet.ag www.theantiguan.com

THE PUBLISHERS AND TOURISM AUTHORITY OF ANTIGUA & BARBUDA WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE GEEST LINE FOR THEIR GENEROUS ASSISTANCE WITH THE TRANSPORTATION OF THE ANTIGUAN.

Why did the readers of Condé Nast Traveler vote Curtain Bluff ‘one of the top ten Caribbean Resorts’? Was it our 2 spectacular beaches, the extraordinary value of our everything-included pricing, our 2 award-winning restaurants or our sensuous spa just feet from the sea? Or was it something else, something that can’t be bought, built, programmed or planned the absolute finest service and the warmest welcome under the sun? There’s one way to find out … USA: 888-289-9898 • UK: 0800-051-8956 • Direct: (268) 462 8400/1/2 • Email: curtainbluff@curtainbluff.com • www.curtainbluff.com

2016 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

elcome to the beautiful twin-islands of Antigua and Barbuda! Here you will find stunning beaches, lush scenery and friendly, hospitable people. We invite you to experience our unique Antiguan and Barbudan charm and hospitality. From the moment you step into our new airport terminal until that final swim before leaving our sunny shores, you will experience warm memories that will last a lifetime. We really have 365 of the best beaches anywhere in W the world, and yet, there is still much more to see and do. If you seek excitement, take a zip through the rainforest, go kite surfing or simply kayak through a south coast mangrove for unforgettable experiences. You can take a step back in time by visiting one of our many historical sites. Popular among visitors and locals is Nelson’s Dockyard, the world’s best-preserved Georgian Naval dockyard which is still in operation today, and home from home to some of the greatest yachts on the planet, with fabulous offshore sailing. Be sure to sample the delicious, local cuisine which is a great way to interact with us. If your visit is around the end of July/beginning of August, you will experience the Caribbean’s ‘Greatest Summer Festival’ – Antigua and Barbuda’s Carnival! You will be mesmerized by the colourful bands, and amazed at the kaleidoscope of vivid costumes and the pulsating rhythms of the bands parading through St. John’s in a spectacular celebration of our heritage.

JANUARY l l l

FEBRUARY l l l

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Barbuda Caribana Celebrations: May 13-16 Antigua & Barbuda Marlin Classic: May 13 Antigua & Barbuda Sport Fishing Tournament: May 14-15 Antigua & Barbuda Half Marathon Run in Paradise: May 29

JUNE l l

Antigua & Barbuda Romance Month Turtle Watching season begins: June-October

JULY

Antigua & Barbuda Mango Festival Antigua Carnival: The Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival: Opening July 23

AUGUST l

Carnival Monday/J’ouvert (Public Holiday): August 1 Carnival Tuesday / Last Lap Jump Up (Public Holiday): August 2

SEPTEMBER l

Francis Nunes Jr. Fishing Tournament: September 25

OCTOBER l l

Independence Week of Activities National Dress Day/Heritage Day: October 30

NOVEMBER l

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35th Antigua and Barbuda’s Independence Celebrations: November 1 Best in the West Fishing Tournament: November: 4-5 Jolly Harbour Yacht Club Annual Regatta: November 19-20

DECEMBER l l

AUA Rory Tinman Triathlon: April 9 29th Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta: April 13–19 Guadeloupe to Antigua Race: April 21 Pearns Point Round Antigua Race: April 22 49th Antigua Sailing Week: April 23-29 Dockyard Day: April 30

MAY

Your visit would not be complete without a trip to our sister island of Barbuda, known for its 17 miles of unbroken pink-sand beach and the largest frigate bird sanctuary in the western hemisphere, with over 5,000 frigate birds inhabiting the Codrington Lagoon.

Colin C. James CEO, Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority

Antigua Yacht Club Annual Laser Open: March 12-13 Antigua & Barbuda International Kite Festival: March 28

APRIL

Sincerely,

Wobbly Boat Club Race: February 5 Jolly Harbour Valentine’s Regatta: February 12–16 Royal Ocean Racing Club Caribbean 600 Race Race Start: February 22 Windies Legends Charity Cricket Challenge: February 28

MARCH

If total relaxation is your aim, you can while away your days at any of our beautiful beaches enjoying the cool ocean breezes, sparkling turquoise water and soft, white powdery sand.

You will see that everything is planned for your comfort and enjoyment, and designed to create warm and lasting memories of your vacation in Antigua and Barbuda. You have heard it all. Now it is time to experience true paradise. We invite you to enjoy one of the most charming and memorable Caribbean destinations to give you very long-lasting memories. Enjoy your stay here with us in Antigua and Barbuda. We look forward to seeing you again soon.

‘Minival’ New Y Year’s Day Cultural Parade: January 1 Antigua Yacht Club Round the Island Race: January 16 Super Yacht Challenge: January 28–31

55th Antigua Charter Yacht Show Nelson’s Dockyard Christmas Day Champagne Party: December 25 Nelson’s Pursuit Race: December 31 Nelson’s Dockyard Old Year’s Night Party: December 31

Photo: courtesy Keyonna Beach Hotel - Alfred Saerchinger

THE BEACH IS JUST THE BEGINNING The twin-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda lies right in the heart of the Caribbean. Visitors come back again and again to take advantage of the idyllic climate, easygoing way of life and famous 365 white sand beaches.

et as you’ll soon discover, the islands have a lot more to offer than just sun-kissed sands and crystal clear waters. Award-winning hotels, world-class sailing, duty-free shopping and fascinating history all await you here. English is Antigua’s official language, although the locals often speak a dialect that can sometimes be a challenge to understand! An atmosphere of warmth and good humour prevails, as well as a ‘no problem’ attitude towards life. Everyone quickly adapts to the unhurried pace of ‘the islands’. The brand new V.C. Bird International Airport promises smooth arrivals and departures, and also confirms Antigua’s status as the gateway to the Eastern Caribbean. Frequent non-stop ights from Europe and North America make it easy to get here. Antigua is also convenient as a hub for visiting neighbouring islands with our regional airline LIAT. Day trips to our neighbours can be arranged. Hotels range from cosy small inns where the owners know everyone by name, to world-class luxury resorts where the famous stay incognito. Catering for those seeking more independent visits, there are beautiful villas and apartments available. A wide range of beach bars and restaurants offer anything from our award-winning rums to our fresh lobster.

The capital St. John’s is a vibrant city well worth a visit. Its two waterfront shopping areas offer easy access to cruise ship visitors. Heritage Quay is a modern boulevard of duty-free shops, and neighbouring Redcliffe Quay is a charming contrast with its restored 18th century buildings forming a cosy complex of boutiques and restaurants. The museum in Long Street and grounds of the twin-towered cathedral both offer areas of tranquillity midst the hustle and bustle of town. The cathedral is currently undergoing extensive renovation. Antigua’s reputation as a sailing centre is unsurpassed throughout the Caribbean. Over the years Jolly Harbour has developed into a major yachting marina complete with a shopping centre, villa village, sports centre and golf club. But it is English Harbour that long ago put Antigua on the international nautical map and which retains its traditional atmosphere to this day. You can stroll among the restored 18th century buildings of Nelson’s Dockyard surrounded by eets of beautiful yachts, or you can visit the ruined fortress of Shirley Heights and enjoy the panoramic views from the terrace with a rum punch in hand. All these attractions combine to make Antigua a unique Caribbean destination with many excellent reasons to come back soon …

Photo: courtesy Hermitage Bay Hotel

‘The Gateway of Choice to the Eastern Caribbean and Beyond’, Antigua is located 1,425 miles from Miami and about 4,000 miles from the UK. Whichever part of the world you are travelling from, you’ll receive the warmest of Antiguan welcomes ...

ARRIVING IN ANTIGUA V.C. BIRD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

TAXIS

Most people arrive by air at V.C. Bird International Airport, named after Antigua’s first Prime Minister, Sir Vere Cornwall Bird Senior. Located 4-miles from the capital of St. John’s, this busy international airport bustles around the clock with activities. As the hub for LIAT, the Caribbean Airline, ights depart as early as 5am and arrive well into the night. The runway stretches 3,040 metres and can accommodate the largest commercial aircraft. Private jets y in regularly as the Airport is serviced by a prominent FBO.

Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal. Most fares are fixed rather than metered and should be decided upon prior to the trip. A fare (for one to four persons) from the airport to St. John’s is about US$12 (EC$32), while a trip to Nelson’s Dockyard or Shirley Heights is about US$31 (EC$82).

The new passenger terminal offers improved facilities for arriving and departing passengers. These facilities include 4 passenger loading bridges, 46 check-in counters, 13 boarding gates, 15 self-check-in kiosks and a sophisticated baggage handling system. There are premium class lounges for passengers and VIP’s. The Airport-operated Executive Lounge is the ideal place to relax with drinks served by friendly concierges. A distinct feature of this lounge is a balcony with openair viewing of Maiden Island and Jumby Bay. There are improved shopping opportunities and restaurants. Increased space and facilities for customs and immigration inspection areas will speed processing for passengers. There is no traffic congestion as short term and long term car parks are situated in front of the new terminal. The Airport Authority is well on its way to achieving its vision of VCBIA being “The Gateway of Choice to the Eastern Caribbean and Beyond”.

DRIVING Car rental car agencies can be found on exiting Customs. You must present your current valid driver’s license in order to be issued with a local license. The local license can be purchased on the spot for US$20 (EC$50) and is valid for 90 days. Driving is British-style with cars staying on the left. Take particular care at night - you will probably encounter cows, goats and speed-bumps on the road, as well as other drivers forgetting to dim their headlights! It is generally advisable to reserve a car in advance, especially during the peak winter months and at Sailing Week in April and Carnival in July/August.

CASH The new airport houses a bureau of exchange, as well as automated teller machines. Close by at the entrance to the airport is the impressive Eastern Caribbean Amalgamated Bank. Visitors to Antigua find that US dollars are accepted everywhere and the exchange rate of US$1 = EC$2.70 is general knowledge to all. Credit cards are widely accepted.

AIRLINES

YACHTS

Many international airlines service Antigua and Barbuda. From North America, Antigua is served by American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue Airlines, US Air, United Airlines, Air Canada and WestJet. The airlines ying in directly from Europe include British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Condor, Eden Viaggi and Seaborne. Caribbean Airlines serves the North American and regional travel market. SVG Air and Fly Montserrat operate daily domestic and regional ights. The airport is the hub of LIAT- the Caribbean Airline.

Many visitors arrive by yacht, the recognised Ports of Entry being Jolly Harbour, St. John’s, Nelson’s Dockyard in English Harbour, Falmouth, as well as Antigua’s sister island of Barbuda. Customs and immigration procedures have been streamlined in recent years to accommodate the unique nature of the yachting industry in Antigua and Barbuda, so that you can relax from the moment anchor is dropped in this twin-island paradise.

YOUR JEWELRY ISN’T JUST JEWELRY IT’S THE STORY OF YOU. EVERY DAY, A NEW CHAPTER. AN EXPLORATION OF CHARACTER AND MOOD. WHO WILL YOU CREATE TODAY? SHOWN: HAND-ENAMELED ORCHID WITH PAVÉ DETAIL FOR WRIST OR NECK.

Heritage฀Quay,฀St.John’s฀•฀268-562-5662฀•฀Sterlings@candw.ag

Heritage฀Quay,฀St.John’s฀•฀268-562-5662฀•฀Sterlings@candw.ag Heritage฀Quay,฀St.John’s฀•฀268-562-5662฀•฀Sterlings@candw.ag

20 Reasons to Visit Antigua & Barbuda Hermitage Bay hotel

It’s so easy to get here! There are non-stop ights from London, New York and Toronto, as well as easy connections from Europe.

Antigua has plenty of natural beauty too. Stunning inland scenery like the tropical rainforest is matched by coastal wonders such as Devil’s Bridge and the Pillars of Hercules.

The climate is warm and sunny all year round. The trade winds cool you down and even the ‘liquid sunshine’ is refreshing!

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The hotels range from friendly local inns with lots of history to world-famous resorts with lashings of glamour.

There are also 365 beautiful white sand beaches for you to explore one for every day of the year.

Don’t miss a day trip to Barbuda, with its 17 mile pink sand beach and the largest Frigate Bird sanctuary in the world.

Yet the beach is just the beginning! These twin-islands have plenty to entertain you - whether you want to play, relax or explore.

A trip along Fig Tree Drive is a great way to see the island’s ora and fauna and pick up some unique local crafts.

You can even zip through the rain forest on a canopy tour - definitely one of the most exhilarating ways of getting to know the island!

But if you’re more in the mood for duty-free shopping, head for Redcliffe Quay and Heritage Quay in the capital St. John’s.

Photo: courtesy Raquel Hadeed

Or why not treat yourself to a soothing massage. Many of the hotels boast luxury spas that are simply ideal for working out those kinks.

Joseph Jones Photography

Of course exploring is never more fun than on board a helicopter - enjoy a bird’s eye view of the island as you soar overhead.

The crystal clear waters are just as restorative. Snorkel amongst pristine coral reefs and get up close and personal to tropical fish.

You can even pet, feed and swim with stingrays in the middle of calm, clear, tranquil waters.

There are plenty of boat trips on offer. Speedboats, catamarans or yachts - the choice is yours.

10 Photos: Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority

Antigua even has a fascinating past! History buffs should make for Nelson’s Dockyard, the world’s only working Georgian dockyard.

And if you time your visit right you can attend a music festival, live it up at Carnival or have fun at Sailing Week.

The islands are also very romantic. The beaches are perfect for moonlit strolls and you can even get married here soon after you arrive!

Why not make your permanent base here? It’s very easy for you to find your own little piece of paradise and purchase a second home. Most important of all, Antiguans and Barbudans are some of the friendliest people in the world, and will give you the very warmest of welcomes ...

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ANTIGUA EVENTS

World-class Thanks to our harbours, marinas and breezy trade winds,

Photo: Paul Wyeth – pwpictures.com

ANTIGUA SAILING WEEK Where sailing comes first! 23 - 29 April 2016 Yachts from all over the world arrive in English and Falmouth Harbours to participate in one of the world’s major sailing events, Antigua Sailing Week. From small beginnings this regatta has developed over more than 48 years to become one of the pre-eminent yacht racing events in the Caribbean and one of the most prestigious worldwide. For five days, crews are challenged with a variety of coastal race courses that encourage tacking duels around the buoys in the deep blue Caribbean Sea off Antigua’s south coast with the ever-present trade winds. One highlight of the week is the optional Pearns Round Antigua Race which takes place on the Saturday before Antigua Sailing Week begins. Following each day’s racing, sailors retire to Antigua Yacht Club for passionate race analysis and daily prize-givings before the evening’s party venue. The big parties start with the official welcome party and Pearns Point Round Antigua Race prize-giving;

Tuesday party night is international band and DJ night; Wednesday is Lay Day and features a huge beach party at Pigeon Beach. The grills fire up from midday until late in the evening. Cold beers quench one’s thirst while visitors enjoy beach games, great music, watching the Nonsuch Bay RS Elite Challenge and a champagne sunset party. Other features of the week are seafood under the stars and a vibrant restaurant scene before the week is brought to a close in historic Nelson’s Dockyard. Then comes the final awards presentation attended by Antigua’s government representatives alongside the owners and skippers of the yachts with their crews, friends, well-wishers and race officials. The final event is Dockyard Day and the Beating of the Retreat as the Antiguan ag is lowered to signal the close of Antigua Sailing Week for yet another year. Come and be part of an amazing week of racing and parties. www.facebook.com/antiguasailingweek, www.twitter.com/antiguasailingweek or download the APP on IOS or Android. www.sailingweek.com

ANTIGUA EVENTS

Sailing Events Antigua has become a major centre for world-class sailing events.

Photos: Tim Wright - photoaction.com

ANTIGUA CLASSIC YACHT REGATTA by Jane Coombs 13 - 19 April 2016 The 29th Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta is an impressive assembly of classic yachts and passionate sailors gathering together from all over the world to enjoy competitive racing in ideal Caribbean Trade Wind conditions. This unique world-class event attracts a wonderful variety of competitors from the almighty J-Class, Tall Ships and magnificent schooners to traditional island craft and family live-aboards. Some yachts date back to the early 1900’s whereas others are modern-day reproductions classed as Spirit of Tradition. Each yacht has its own fascinating story, and this individuality is part of the magic of Classics where the eclectic mix of owners and crew recount dockside tales well into the night. Racing begins with the Single-Handed Race along with the Concourse d’Elégance where the condition and maintenance of the yachts are judged. This is followed by four days of racing for the full eet where the

courses are designed to take the best advantages of wind, sea, scenery and skill. Spectators view all races from high points along the south coast; Fort Charlotte, Shirley Heights and Block House. On the Sunday, after racing, the yachts pass through Nelson’s Dockyard for the Parade of Classics which always offers a wonderful opportunity to see the boats close up and learn of their history from the lawn at the Copper and Lumber Store and Antigua Slipway. The prize-giving ceremony takes place on the evening of the last day of sailing followed by dancing into the early hours. The Regatta finishes next day with gig racing and cream teas at the Admiral’s Inn. The sailing, combined with Antiguan hospitality, plenty of rum, sunshine and camaraderie in a friendly relaxed atmosphere, make Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta a favourite in the yachting calendar. Join in every year for this extraordinary rendezvous! www.antiguaclassics.com Email: info@antiguaclassics.com

ANTIGUA EVENTS

Photo: Tim Wright/Photoaction.com/RORC

RORC CARIBBEAN 600 Royal Ocean Racing Club 22 February 2016 Since its inception in 2009, the Royal Ocean Racing Club’s ‘RORC Caribbean 600’ has not only earned recognition as one of the world’s classic offshore races, but it’s also become a firm fixture on the international offshore racing calendar. Starting and finishing in Antigua, the unique 600-mile course was conceived by Antiguan sailor and RORC member Stan Pearson. It uses eleven islands of the Eastern Caribbean as turning marks and provides an interesting challenge for both navigators and crew alike.

The RORC work with the Falmouth-based Antigua Yacht Club. Their army of local volunteers not only supports the race management, but also meets every yacht that finishes the race with a welcoming beer. The race attracts professional sailors the world over, not to mention the enthusiastic amateur adventurer. Indeed the ‘RORC Caribbean 600’ has seen steady year-on-year growth, just 24 boats competing in the inaugural event and now 60 boats taking part in 2015. Everyone agrees the quality of the racing - the warm blue ocean and guaranteed trade winds combined with the perfect surfing conditions and amazing scenery - will ensure the ‘RORC Caribbean 600’ continues to grow in popularity. See http://caribbean600.rorc.org

JOLLY HARBOUR VALENTINE’S REGATTA 12 - 16 February 2016 The annual Jolly Harbour Valentine’s Regatta is a professionally run yet fun event featuring 3 days of competition off the west coast of Antigua. Designed to suit everyone, the schedule includes anything from pursuit races to a Laser Pico eet, the quality of the racing exceptional and enjoyed by a growing eet of yachts. See www.jollyharbourregatta.com

ANTIGUA EVENTS

SEABOARD MARINE NORTH AMERICAN OPTIMIST DINGHY CHAMPIONSHIPS The Seaboard Marine North American Optimist Dinghy Championships were held out of Nelson’s Dockyard, English Harbour between 5th and 12th July 2015. It was universally agreed the event was an outstanding success - and some said it was the best Optimist event ever! Optimist dinghies are sailed by youngsters aged 8 to 15. They reveled in the challenging conditions with a total of ten races in the open sea and a day of team racing in the calmer waters of Falmouth Harbour. The racing and the venue were considered to be exceptional, and the opening and closing ceremonies highly praised. The organisers were congratulated on their efficient handling of the Championships, and all competitors claimed they wished to return. Antigua faced some considerable challenges in setting courses for 8 ft. single-handed dinghies out in the Atlantic Ocean, with 5 to 8 ft. waves, 20 knots of wind and 200 ft. of deep water. To top everything, an Antiguan, Rocco Falcone, came second in the North Americans category and Antigua has been invited to bid to host the Optimist World Championships in 2018.

Photo: Matias Capizzano

BUDGET MARINE AT YOUR SERVICE! With three locations, Budget Marine is the most convenient, modern and well-stocked chandlery on Antigua, offering marine parts and products for a range of boats, from smaller cruising vessels to mega yachts. If the part is not in stock, Budget can streamline the process of ordering and shipping marine supplies for customers, which can be in Antigua within 24 hours. Budget Marine also stocks snorkelling gear, in atable SUP’s and rash guards.

28 - 31 January 2016 The 6th edition of the Superyacht Challenge Antigua is a well-established event. Up to 15 superyachts (80 ft. and over) enjoy a wonderful celebration of sailing, solely for the pleasure of owners, guests and crew. The eet take part in 3 days of spectacular racing governed by the International Superyacht Rule with daily pursuit races along Antigua’s south coast. The racing is competitive but the Challenge is dedicated to pure fun, particularly ashore where all participants enjoy a relaxed atmosphere free from commercial endorsements. Hosted by Admiral’s Inn and Antigua Rigging in association with National Parks Antigua. www.thesuperyachtchallenge.com

Antigua’s Famous Beaches Photo: Courtesy COCOS Hotel, Valley Church - Alfred Saerchinger

Stop off at one of our 365 beaches to swim in the calm, blue Caribbean in the west or the wilder Atlantic Ocean in the east. Antigua’s main claim to fame is the quality of the white sand beaches. Here are suggestions for spectacular beach stops, taking a clockwise direction from the most northerly part of the island... l

JABBERWOCK BEACH

Part of the National Park, Jabberwock is a long, white sand Atlantic beach. It is popular with local people taking morning and evening walks, and also the base for windsurfing and kitesurfing. l

DUTCHMAN’S BAY

This quiet, secluded beach is close to Jabberwock and opposite Long Island, home of the famous Jumby Bay Resort. Here you will find three excellent restaurants set on the waters edge, Cecilia’s High Point Café, La Bussola and the Garden Grill. l

LONG BAY

This beautiful beach on the east coast is exceptional for its calm waters and snorkelling. It is an ideal family venue with small restaurants. There is one well-known resort hotel right on the beach. Round the corner with a secluded beach is the popular Verandah Resort. l

HALF MOON BAY

Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, its white sands stretch round a picture-postcard bay. Half Moon is on the south-east of the island with some spectacular wave action. There is a small locally-owned beach bar. l

PIGEON POINT BEACH

The Pigeon Point Beach is in a sheltered cove with tranquil waters and shady trees. It has recently been environmentally developed into a beautiful recreational facility with camping areas, children’s playground, and bathroom facilities. Historic Nelson’s Dockyard is within easy reach.

RENDEZVOUS BAY

This pristine beach on the south coast is very popular for picnics and family outings. A four-wheel drive vehicle is usually the best way to get to this beach. l

MORRIS BAY

Located opposite Old Road village, the Morris Bay beach is one of Antigua’s best kept secrets, even though it is easily accessible from the main road - it’s an ideal picnic area with calm seas and beautiful sands. l

TURNERS BEACH

This is a perfect beach at Johnson’s Point with excellent local restaurants literally on the sand. Visit nearby Jacqui O’s overlooking the Caribbean Sea for delicious fare in a perfect tropical atmosphere. l

DARKWOOD BEACH

The road runs alongside this spectacular beach which takes your breath away as you come round the corner. Montserrat is often clearly visible from the beach. l

FRYERS BEACH

This off-road beach with a good access road is located between Darkwood and Jolly Harbour and is popular with locals and visitors alike. l

JOLLY BEACH

The well-known Jolly Beach Resort is located here, with the advantage of Jolly Harbour marina and supermarket. l

HAWKSBILL BEACHES

It is reputed that Hawksbill has five beaches including a nudist beach! This is the home of Hawksbill by Rex Resorts which is a well-known and popular hotel. l

FORT JAMES

The historic ruins of Fort James overlook a lovely beach near the entrance to St. John’s Harbour. l

DICKENSON BAY

The most developed beach on the island has hotels, restaurants and watersports facilities. It is a popular meeting place. The shallow calm waters and golden sands provide a perfect setting for an active day.

ANTIGUA EVENTS

RUN IN PARADISE The 2nd Antigua & Barbuda International Half Marathon 29 May 2016 The 2015 event attracted many international runners including Kenyan road racer Mike Korir, who won the inaugural event. This Half Marathon will be bigger and better in 2016. ‘Run in Paradise’ runners traverse the scenic northern coast of the island with its beautiful beaches and historic sites. www.runinparadise.com

INTERNATIONAL KITE FESTIVAL 28 March 2016 • Easter Monday • Devil’s Bridge This Easter Kite Festival has become a popular family event in Antigua. All different age groups show up to enjoy the colourful and dynamic kite ying displays on the island’s stunning north-east coast. Some people cruise by on yachts and power boats, whilst others take the opportunity to picnic on the nearby beach. The kites show great originality in their design and the participants display great skill in keeping them ying in the breeze. Tel: (268) 774-4879 Email: tropikiters@hotmail.com Photo: courtesy EAB photography

CURTAIN BLUFF TENNIS

FANTASY TENNIS CAMP

TENNIS CHALLENGE

13 - 17 APRIL 2016 Tennis legends Tracy Austin, Tom Gullikson and Johan Kriek team up to headline Curtain Bluff’s Fantasy Tennis Camp. Designed for adults ranging in skill from recreational to tournament level, the event includes 5 days of instruction and play, a welcome party and an exhibition.

31 OCT - 6 NOV 2016 Top players from the United States (such as former Davis Cup winner Dick Stockton and Grand Slam champion Gene Mayer) team up with Curtain Bluff’s tennis pros to provide a week of clinics, guest doubles, pro-am play and social fun for players of all levels.

www.curtainbluff.com

ANTIGUA TENNIS WEEK

THE PERFECT MATCH

30 APRIL - 7 MAY 2016 Guests can join ‘Fiery’ Fred Stolle, winner of 18 Grand Slam titles, for an incredible week of tennis. Stolle leads this international pro-am tennis festival along with former Aussie champion Ross Case. Started in 1975, it attracts some of the biggest names in the game.

8 - 14 NovEMBEr 2016 Annabel Croft teams up with tennis legend Owen Davidson to host Curtain Bluff’s annual Tennis & Well Being week. In addition to clinics and matches with the pros, you can enjoy activities like yoga, Zumba and sailing to historic English Harbour. For further details go to www.curtainbluff.com

ANTIGUA EVENTS

SPORTS FISHING 50th ANNUAL ANTIGUA SPORTS FISHING TOURNAMENT May 13 – 15 2016 The 2015 49th Annual Antigua Sports Fishing Tournament attracted the highest number of foreign participants in 15 years and a record number of spectators. Even before the competing boats arrive back at the dock, the party on land begins with music and with food and drinks available - EC$5.00 drink specials! As the boats arrive, their catches are weighed in and recorded. Fresh fish such as mahi mahi, tuna, wahoo, and more can be purchased from the onsite fish stall on both days. The main two-day event is a fish and a marlin tournament. The organisers encourage marlin to be released and this gains points for the team. There is a minimum weight of 400lbs for marlin brought to the scale, and any who come in under weight are disqualified. Points are also deducted from the score of the boat that caught it. The Antigua Sports Fishing Club aim to make the 2016 50th Annual Antigua Sports Fishing T Tournament the biggest and best ever.

ANTIGUA & BARBUDA MARLIN CLASSIC 13 May 2016 With an increase of boats participating in this one day contest, the 2016 Marlin Classic is set to be a huge attraction, especially for foreign vessels, which stand a chance of winning 80% of the entrance fees collected by all competing boats. With a high number of marlin caught and released in 2015, the 2016 Marlin Classic expects even more action as organisers aim to extend the event over the full three days. See www.antiguabarbudasportsfishing.com

FRANCIS NUNES JUNIOR MEMORIAL TOURNAMENT & SEAFOOD FESTIVAL 25 September 2016 The Francis Nunes Junior Memorial Tournament & Seafood Festival started in 2008 in honour of the Antigua Sports Fishing Club’s past President, Francis Nunes Jr., who was an avid fisherman and had a love for all seafood. This popular one day tournament continues to grow each year, and aims to gain more support from neighbouring islands. www.antiguabarbudasportsfishing.com

TURTLE TOURS JUNE TO OCTOBER Nature-lovers will love the Friday turtle watching trips run by The Environmental Awareness Group (EAG) of Antigua & Barbuda ... Tours are offered typically on Friday nights during the nesting season of June through October. They generally begin at 7:30pm and include about 3 to 3½ hours of beach patrol, usually on an offshore island, but sometimes on the mainland. Sights can include anything from hatching baby turtles to witnessing a mother climbing up onto the beach to lay her eggs. Two field team members collect data on the turtles, whilst a trained EAG guide accompanies the tours and provides interesting facts. Did you know a warmer incubation temperature makes the turtle female, for example?

Photo: courtesy Antigua Sea Turtle Project (ASTP)

Prices vary and tour availability is subject to change every year pending approval by Turtle Project Team Manager(s). For more information and how to book email: eagantigua@gmail.com

ANTIGUA EVENTS

MANGo FESTIvAL July 2016 Antigua’s annual Mango Festival is a unique and fun event. here are many diferent varieties of this exotic fruit grown in Antigua, and its versatility is well demonstrated at this special Festival. A number of smaller events lead up to the Grand Finale held each year at Christian Valley on the island’s south-west coast. The Mango Festival celebrates its 11th year in 2016 and promises to be bigger and better than ever. One especially delectable event is the ‘Mango Pineapple Culinary Competition’ when some of the island’s most talented chefs, pastry chefs and bartenders compete. Such a unique event encourages the hotels and restaurants to use fresh, tasty locally-grown produce. Visitors can purchase locally-made mango products such as lip gloss and lotion. The highlight is buying and tasting some of the biggest and juiciest mangoes ever seen!

MOOD OF PAN FESTIVAL November 2016 his 3-day steel pan festival is hosted by Gemonites Steel Orchestra at the Dean William Lake Cultural Centre ... Steel bands are traditionally made up of pieces of metal such as old irons, tyre rims, steel pipes etc. Over the years, the Caribbean steel bands have evolved into highly technical instruments which are honed out of steel drums, sunken and burned over a hot fire, chromed and turned. The festival gives individuals, especially the young, the opportunity to showcase their talent and creativity in performances demonstrating all genres of music, including classical, gospel, reggae, jazz and calypso. A key component of the festival is the ‘Five Alive’ competition which allows competitors to portray a creative and often comedic presentation. Musical storylines and themes are brought to life to evoke laughter and excitement as the crowd responds. Several regional and international steel orchestras enter the competition hoping to win the coveted title. Don’t miss the unique super sounds of the Caribbean steel bands. Photo: courtesy Joseph Jones Photography

GENERATION NEXT

he Antigua-based GNFC is dedicated to teaching the skills and techniques of football to the next generation of footballers.

Football Club

GNFC offers regular camps and coaching sessions, and organises island and regional tournaments. It hosted the 3rd annual Youth Challenge Cup in July 2015. GNFC’s partnership with international partners like Stoke City FC of the UK’s Barclay’s Premier League sets it apart from other Caribbean football academies. For the past four years, over 50 young footballers have attended the Stoke’s Advance Development Training Programmes. GNFC hosted the Caribbean’s first Youth Football League in five divisions from U7 through U16, from February through June 2015 with 40 teams participating. GNFC also started the GN Sports Show in April 2015 to develop media skills for Antigua’s young athletes. In 2016, GNFC will continue with the 2nd Annual Youth Football League and its Youth Challenge Series Cup. GNFC will also embark on a new initiative, The GN Youth Athletic Games, to include all sports. www.facebook.com/GenerationNextFc.

PACK FOR A PURPOSE The Sandals Foundation is the non-profit arm of Sandals® Resorts International. Now celebrating its 6th year anniversary, this Foundation is committed to programmes that create a positive and sustainable impact on the people and environment of the Caribbean. Continually striving to play a meaningful role in the lives of the communities where Sandals Resorts and Beaches® Resorts operate, the Sandals Foundation has formed a fitting partnership with ‘Pack for a Purpose®’. This non-profit organisation provides vacationers with the opportunity to help local community projects by bringing essential supplies to their vacation destination. Travellers to Antigua, Jamaica, St. Lucia, Turks & Caicos, the Bahamas, Grenada and Barbados are given a wish list by the local schools in each region with which the Sandals Foundation co-operates. Travellers are encouraged to pack up to five pounds of much needed essentials such as books, school and medical supplies, toiletry items and sports equipment which can be conveniently dropped off at the front desk of any Sandals or Beaches Resort. Guests travelling to Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts can thus significantly contribute to the Sandals Foundation’s commitment to foster education in the Caribbean. In it’s first 18 months, this partnership has been highly successful. Resort guests donated over 900 pounds of supplies and equipment for distribution to the schools adopted by the Sandals Foundation throughout the islands. In Antigua, Willikie’s, Villa and Cedar Grove Primary Schools have received enough reading material to maintain their classrooms and school libraries. Through the Sandals Foundation’s weekly ‘voluntourism’ programme The Reading Road Trip - the generous donations of more than 200 guests from Grand Pineapple® Beach Resort Antigua and Sandals Grande Antigua have helped to enhance literacy programmes. The participating educational institutions are grateful for donations of any weight and amount. The Sandals Foundation is proud to give 100% of all proceeds contributed by the general public directly to a variety of programmes benefitting the Caribbean community each year. To learn more visit www.sandalsfoundation.org

Antigua CARNIVAl Antigua’s Carnival, the Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival, showcases all aspects of Carnival, music, mas, steel pan and pageantry. This is the perfect time to experience the island’s culture, music and food. Come and join in all the carnival fun between 23 July and 2 August, 2016.

his celebration of Emancipation lasts a little over a week with a great calendar of events. The festival climaxes on Emancipation Day, starting with (4am) J’ouvert Morning when people take to the streets dancing to the local jam bands, steel bands and iron bands often dressed in the most unusual outfits. This is the true meaning of freedom … Emancipation! The great carnivals of the world are judged primarily on their music and mas. Carnival Monday and Tuesday fall on the first Monday and Tuesday of August every year. On these two days the carnival troupes descend on the streets of St. John’s adorned in their carnival costumes bursting with colour and dancing to the pumping soca rhythms, steel bands, iron bands and popular DJs. Carnival mas costumes depict colourful and magical themes often with national or regional significance. Their beading, feathers and jewels represent months of work in the various mas camps where the costumes are handmade. Mas makers often work into the early hours of the morning to produce hundreds of costumes in the hope of winning the coveted title of ‘Band of the Year’. Other events in the Carnival line-up include a fiercely competitive Calypso competition, where masters of the art compete with songs of social commentary. The high-energy party-style Soca Monarch competition draws a party crowd. Artists are judged on various criteria, since crowd participation carries significant weight, so the audience is encouraged to join in the fun. The Queen of Carnival Show is always eagerly anticipated by pageant aficionados.

Young ladies are judged on performing talent, interview, poise and grace, all aiming to be crowned Miss Antigua & Barbuda. ‘Teensplash’ is a talent competition for talented teenagers, which creates a school rivalry atmosphere increasing in intensity every year. Carnival City is bursting with teenagers on this night. No Carnival festival would be complete without a Panorama competition. The bittersweet rivalry that exists among the various steel orchestras fuels the passion to practise musical renditions for months in advance of the competition. The hard work and dedication is evident on Panorama night when the steel orchestras grace the stage at Carnival City with high-energy performances often punctuated with dramatic antics. The audience is always captivated. Carnival closes off with Last Lap where the jam bands wind their way through the streets of St. John’s pumping out the most popular songs of the Carnival season. It’s the perfect time to come and experience the culture, music and food of Antigua & Barbuda. For more information on Antigua Carnival visit www.antiguacarnival.com

Photo: Audray Nelson, Shades Inc. Photography

WHERE TO STAY

Photo: Courtesy Hermitage Bay

Antigua’s hotels suit all tastes and budgets, and range from small traditional inns to world-class resorts. These pages give you a good idea of what is available and further information is available from your nearest Antigua & Barbuda Tourist T Office. ADMIRAL’S INN

Nelson’s Dockyard A charming, historic boutique hotel located on the waterfront in Nelson’s Dockyard with 22 distinctive airconditioned rooms and suites housed in 18th century buildings with all modern amenities. Enjoy dining and cocktails at Pillars terrace restaurant, a free boat ride to the beach or to the hotel’s infinity-edged pool and second restaurant Boom, where guests can lounge in daybeds and enjoy a massage. Sailing, scuba-diving and tennis are available nearby. Enjoy casual elegance and friendly, personal service. Tel: (268) 460-1027 www.admiralsinnantigua.com

BUCCANEER BEACH CLUB

ADMIRAL’S INN GUNPOWDER SUITES Nelson’s Dockyard The popular Gunpowder Suites comprise four deluxe suites built around a remodeled 18th century gunpowder store on a two acre point with a stunning infinity-edged pool overlooking historic Nelson’s Dockyard. Featuring king-size beds, tea/coffee facilities, ipod docking stations, minibars, WiFi and AC, these suites offer a sophisticated, serene retreat where guests enjoy daybeds, hammocks and spa, and tasty meals and cocktails at Boom poolside restaurant or Pillars terrace restaurant. Tel: (268) 460-1027 www.admiralsinnantigua.com

CARLISLE BAY

ANTIGUA VILLAGE

Dickenson Bay Set in a tropical garden, the long-established Antigua Village is situated on one of the island’s most beautiful beaches. Spacious studios, suites and villas combine with the two open-air restaurants to create a great vacation experience. PO Box 649, St. John’s Tel: (268) 462-2930 Toll Free: 1 866 590 8713 Email: antiguavillage@candw.ag

Dickenson Bay Located on the popular beach of Dickenson Bay, this Caribbean-style resort is ideal for informal, independent visits to Antigua. Perfect for families and for couples, it offers 16 one-bedroom villas and 2 two-bedroom cottages all with kitchen facilities, private balconies or verandahs. On-site amenities include a pool, free laundry, free internet and mountain bikes. Watersports, restaurants, bars and supermarkets are located within walking distance and the friendly staff are always available for you. Tel: +1 (268) 562-6785 Fax: +1 (268) 562-6784 Email: buccaneerbeachclub@candw.ag Old Road Situated on the beautiful south coast, Carlisle Bay combines contemporary luxury with a beautiful beach setting. This is one of the most talked-about hotels in the Caribbean! The 82 spacious suites with private terraces or balconies offer breathtaking ocean views and cool, calm interiors. There are four great restaurants, three bars and an award-winning spa, all of which are open to non-residents. Day passes are a fantastic way to experience Carlisle Bay with its dive centre, complimentary watersports and Cool Kids Club. Tel: (268) 484-0000 Fax: (268) 484-0001 T Email: info@carlisle-bay.com www.carlisle-bay.com

CATAMARAN HOTEL Falmouth Harbour This 14 room family-run hotel is situated on the edge of Falmouth Harbour and has a very relaxed and friendly atmosphere. All the rooms have air-conditioning, cable TVs and free internet. It’s a great place to relax and get away from it all, but is also close enough to English Harbour for Nelson’s Dockyard, as well as nightlife. Tel: (268) 460-1036 Fax: (268) 460-1339 T Email: catclub@candw.ag

ANTIGUA HOTElS

Hermitage Bay Hermitage Bay has been created with artistry and a true sense of the spirit of the location. The secluded and peaceful setting is on the edge of a hidden bay, enclosed by 17-acres of tropical gardens and surrounded by hundreds of acres of untouched land. The stunning beach stretches for over 1,250 feet in front of 25 individual suites located on the hillside or just steps away from the sand.

All the luxurious suites feature an outside deck area. The hillside suites have the added attraction of their own private plunge pools and sunbathing areas. Hermitage Bay is the place for those seeking to unwind, retreat from busy lives and rejuvenate minds, bodies and souls. www.hermitagebay.com

tropical gardens ine white sand secluded bay warm and friendly spacious comfortable individual suites right on the beach hillside vistas luxury privacy tranquillity natural paradise hermitage bay Hermitage Bay tel (268) 562 5500 reservations (268) 562 8080 fax (268) 562 5505 www.hermitagebay.com

ANTIGUA HOTElS

Carlisle Bay ContEmporary luxury on tHE BEaCH For luxury, sophistication and contemporary style look no further than Carlisle Bay, a member of Leading Hotels of the World. Set on Antigua’s unspoilt south coast, its pristine half-kilometre beach is sheltered in a secluded bay with a backdrop of rolling hills and lush rainforest. The 82 spacious suites range from the romantic Ocean and Garden Suites to the family-friendly Beach and Carlisle Suites. All have cool, contemporary interiors, balconies or terraces and stunning ocean views. Carlisle Bay also has several enticing bars and excellent restaurants: East for pan-Asian fare, Indigo on the Beach for grills, seafood and salads, the poolside Ottimo! for Italian classics from an authentic wood-burning oven, and the newly-opened, adults-only Jetty Grill located on the beach and serving grills, fresh seafood, crisp salads and wines by the carafe. Total relaxation and wellbeing are fundamental to Carlisle Bay’s philosophy - the Blue Spa was awarded the Condé Nast Traveller ‘Readers’ Choice Award for Best International Spa 2013’. It offers an extensive treatment menu from Natura Bissé, a gym and six treatment rooms including a wet room and couples’ room. There is a yoga and Pilates pavilion, 9 tennis courts and watersports including sailing, kayaking, snorkelling, windsurfing and diving. Kids clubs offer fun activities and there is a private screening room showing movies daily, as well as a library showcasing top beach reads. Above all, this privatelyowned hotel exudes a sense of tranquility and seclusion. Carlisle Bay is also open to non-residents. Buy a day pass and enjoy all the hotel has to offer, or simply stop by for a couple of hours to pamper yourself in the Blue Spa, or dine in one of the four restaurants.

Three Ways to Enjoy Contemporary Luxury on the Beach Stay for an hour - Let your troubles melt away with a relaxing treatment at our award-winning spa. Stay for the evening - Relax with a cocktail before eating in one of our three fantastic restaurants. Stay for the day - Enjoy lunch, tennis, watersports, the gym and chill on the beach with a seasonal day pass.

Carlisle Bay, Old Road, St Mary’s, Antigua Tel: +1 268 484 0000 Email: reservations@carlisle-bay.com

carlisle-bay.com

ANTIGUA HOTElS

Galley Bay resort & Spa The award-winning Galley Bay Resort & Spa is a long-established, intimate Caribbean hideaway, which delights guests with its refined yet unpretentious atmosphere, and stress-free all-inclusive pricing. The three-quarter mile long stretch of white sand beach and lush tropical gardens create a natural setting at the edge of a lagoon and bird sanctuary. The resort is located on the tranquil west coast, which is ideal for spectacular sunset viewing. Arriving guests are escorted from the main reception area, which is situated next to an historic sugar mill, across a unique wooden causeway above the lagoon to the beachfront area of the resort. At Galley Bay, visitors are completely carried away from the hectic pace of the rest of the world. Non-motorised watersports add a dimension for the adventurous without disturbing the tranquility of the environment. The Indulge Spa offers luxurious treehouse pavilions with an extensive range of soothing treatments. To maintain this peaceful atmosphere, the hotel only welcomes children 16 years of age and older. A Green Globe Certified resort, Galley Bay offers a number of eco-friendly on-property initiatives, including a reverse osmosis water purification plant, the use of recycled paper products, and energy-efficient lighting throughout the resort. The resort has a special on-site garden, which uses the delicious home grown fruits, vegetables and herbs for a unique farm-to-table restaurant dining experience. This boutique hotel’s 98 guest rooms are set amid 40 acres of tropical gardens, providing the utmost privacy, and are mostly situated along the beach providing ocean views and direct beach access. The distinctive Gauguin-style Cottages, tucked away in the gardens, have lagoon and garden views and concealed individual

plunge pools. The beachfront rooms, which are all located directly on the sand, include the Superior and Deluxe rooms, and the Premium Suites. Galley Bay was awarded one of the “Top 25 Caribbean Resorts” by Condé Nast Traveler and among the “Top 10 Best Resorts for Romance in the Caribbean” by the readers of TripAdvisor.com. With three open-air beachfront restaurants and two welcoming lounges, it’s not necessary to leave Galley Bay. At the Gauguin Restaurant, tables are placed underneath individual palapas, for the utmost in romance. Ismay’s Restaurant, named after the longestserving member of staff, is the property’s fine dining restaurant for all special occasions. Live entertainment, cocktail parties and Caribbean barbecues fill the tropical evenings, plus weekly movie nights set up on the sand under the stars. The non-motorised complimentary watersports are available with instruction, including Hobie Cat sailing, snorkelling, paddle boarding, kayaking and more. Relax by the dramatic cascading waterfall and freeform swimming pool surrounded by palm trees and hammocks. There are jogging trails, bicycles, and tennis courts for the more energetic. The resort also offers off-site excursions such as zip-lining, deep-sea fishing, swimming with stingrays, catamaran cruises and more. Visitors to Galley Bay continue to return year after year to enjoy its unique Caribbean location and timeless relaxed ambience.

ANTIGUA HOTElS

St. James’s Club & Villas Tucked away on a private 100-acre peninsula on the south-east coast of Antigua, the St. James’s Club & Villas maintains a casual, club-like ambience with a long-standing reputation for exceptional service. This exclusive hideaway caters to couples, families and singles with a variety of accommodation, amenities and activities. Here, guests can retreat from the world or enjoy a wide choice of island and water-based activities. There are two magnificent white sand beaches Breezy Coco Beach on the Atlantic side and calm Mamora Bay. There are six pools – three are adultsonly, and all but one have views of the ocean. For those looking for more than sun-worship, there are six newly surfaced tennis courts, and a brand new expanded fitness centre with yoga deck. St. James’s Club provides complimentary nonmotorised watersports such as kayaking, paddle boarding, windsurfing, Hobie Cat sailing, snorkelling and more. There is an on-site Dive Shop featuring an instructor with over 18 years experience. The resort also has an 18-slip marina and its own power catamaran available for booking by guests. Families appreciate the award-winning Kidz Club for children ages 4-11. The experienced staff coordinate a schedule of different activities throughout the day to ensure that children of all ages are entertained. Kids can dine at the Club while parents enjoy a private dinner alone. Babysitting can be arranged for an additional fee. There is a beachside Teen Pavilion featuring games such as table tennis and billiards.

The hillside Tranquility Body & Soul Spa features unique treatments using locally-sourced products. The focal point of the spa is an open-air treatment pavilion overlooking Mamora Bay, perfect for breezy massages. Four distinct restaurants offer a range of casual and fine dining options. The Docksider has views of Mamora Bay and specialises in island-inspired dishes and freshly caught seafood. Thursday is Caribbean Night, with a buffet of regional specialities, plus steel band music and other entertainment. Piccolo Mondo is the resort’s Italian fine dining restaurant with a Caribbean twist. There are four bars and lounges with late night music and dancing at the Jacaranda Lounge. There are 247 guest rooms, suites and villas. The Royal Suites are the resort’s newest and most luxurious category, perfect for couples, honeymooners, and anyone seeking a romantic getaway. Placed into the coveted TripAdvisor 2015 “Hall of Fame” for receiving a Certificate of Excellence for five consecutive years, the St. James’s Club & Villas has one of the highest repeat guest rates in the Caribbean. Come and see why!

ANTIGUA HOTElS

the Verandah resort & Spa Nestled along Antigua’s pristine north east coast, The Verandah Resort & Spa encompasses 30 beachfront acres bordered by well-known Devil’s Bridge National Park with its dramatic landmark rock arch. The property has secluded hiking trails. A short boat ride away are the unique uninhabited nature sanctuaries of Green Island and Bird Island where the swimming is superb. This unique property is an ideal vacation spot for family getaways or romantic escapes, and has been certified by Green Globe as an eco-friendly resort. There are 180 charming Caribbean cottage suites in groups of two, featuring delightful island architecture and décor. There are three scenic categories - hillside, waterview and waterfront. Two-bedroom villas are perfect for larger families and groups. The Verandah features two white sand beaches, with distinct characteristics. The calm watersports beach is perfect for families with smaller children and is home to the Watersports Shack with trained staff available for guests who can enjoy kayaking, snorkelling, windsurfing, paddle boarding and Hobie Cat sailing. The Rasta Beach is more relaxed with the Rasta Bar and the Wadadli Snack Shack with a beach volleyball area. The Verandah has two tennis courts, with a tennis pro on-hand for lessons, a games pavilion offering table tennis, billiards and shuffleboard, and an 18-hole miniature golf course. There is a fully equipped fitness centre with daily classes for morning stretching, yoga, Pilates, circuit training and more. The resort’s impressive free-form pool is the island’s largest. There is also an adults-only pool in the tropical landscaping with free WiFi. Children enjoy supervised activities at the resort’s Kidz Club, featuring a playground and splash pool. Babysitting services are available for an extra charge. The expansive Tranquility Body & Soul Spa is an ideal hideaway for pampering and restorative treatments. There is a choice of three restaurants for casual and gourmet dining. The Seabreeze offers a family style buffet; tasty Caribbean dishes are available at the a la carte Buccaneer; Nicole’s is the resort’s elegant fine dining option. There are three bars - the Rasta Beach Bar, the Beach Bar & Grille overlooking the watersports beach, and the main Pool Bar with island-inspired murals. Nightly entertainment is held here, and includes performances from local bands, dancers, fire eaters and more.

ANTIGUA HOTElS

COCOS HOTEL

Valley Church Thirty private Caribbean cottages form COCOS Hotel on the west coast of the Island, an area noted for beautiful beaches and spectacular views particularly at sunset. All cottages have king-size four-poster beds, hammocks, outdoor showers, private balconies and air-conditioning. The casual restaurant offers fabulous views, particularly at sunset. COCOS is a perfect location for small, romantic weddings. Valley Church, PO Box 2024 Tel: (268) 462-9700 Fax: (268) 462-9707 Reservations: (268) 460-2626 Email: reservations@cocoshotel.com www.cocoshotel.com

COPPER & LUMBER STORE Nelson’s Dockyard Located in Nelson’s Dockyard, this is one of the finest examples of Georgian architecture in the Caribbean. There are 14 suites or studios. The Georgian theme extends to their décor and all rooms are named after one of Admiral Horatio Nelson’s ships. Meals are served in the restaurants or central courtyard. The dockside lawn is the setting for the popular Seafood Friday, served alfresco with delightful and tasty dishes. Tel: (268) 460-1058/460-1159/60 Fax: (268) 460-1529 Email: clhotel@candw.ag www.copperandlumberhotel.com CURTAIN BLUFF

Old Road Situated on a dramatic seaside bluff on Antigua’s southern shore, this 72 room resort is legendary. Its well-deserved reputation is due in part to its breathtaking setting, but also to its peerless service. An oceanfront spa enhances the first-class leisure amenities, which include tennis, watersports, scuba-diving, squash and fitness facilities. PO Box 288, St. John’s Tel: (268) 462-8400/1/2 Fax: (268) 462-8409 Email: curtainbluff@curtainbluff.com

Photo: courtesy COCOS Hotel – Alfred Saerchinger

DUTCHMAN’S BAY COTTAGES

Dutchman’s Bay Experience a little piece of paradise at Dutchman’s Bay Cottages. Located on Antigua’s north-east coast, these 7 Caribbean-style cottages lie right on the beach with the gentle trade winds blowing over the clear turquoise waters. Each charming cottage is self-contained with a fully-equipped kitchen, veranda and attractive furnishings. Make tranquil Dutchman’s Bay Cottages your ‘home away from home’ and enjoy all that Antigua has to offer. Tel: (268) 464-0207 www.dutchmansbay.com

GALLEY BAY RESORT & SPA Five Islands This intimate, adult-only Caribbean getaway enjoys an ambience of subtle elegance and privacy. Come pamper yourselves at this relaxing all-inclusive haven. Tel: (800) 345-0356 or (268) 462-0302 www.galleybayresort.com GRAND PINEAPPLE® BEACH RESORT ANTIGUA Long Bay This classically laid-back Caribbean resort invites its guests to take a deep breath and simply relax. It’s located on the edge of a stunning beach and features 180 rooms, many of them with ocean views. Enjoy unlimited meals, cocktails, land and watersports as well as some of the best snorkelling on the island. Welcome to the easy slice of paradise... all at incredible value. Tel: (268) 463-2006 Fax: (268) 463-2452 PO Box 2000, Long Bay, St. John’s www.grandpineapple.com

ANTIGUA HOTElS

Jumby Bay a rosewood resort Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resort is an inclusive luxury retreat set on its own enchanting 300-acre private island two miles off the coast of Antigua. Accessible only by boat, the resort offers upscale visitors a relaxed and authentic Caribbean escape with superb whitesand beaches and lush tropical environs. There are no crowds, cars or commerce – just four and a half miles of palm-studded shoreline and a network of bicycle paths winding through a lush tropical landscape. This ultra-deluxe hideaway has 40 gracious suites, the open-air Verandah Restaurant, the bistro-style Pool Grille and the elegant Estate House with its Italianinspired cuisine served in a restored 230-year-old plantation manor. There are multi-million dollar estate homes in a variety of styles, some with direct beach access and private pools with the use of private golf carts and full access to Jumby Bay’s many amenities including first-class tennis courts and Sense, A Rosewood Spa. For active visitors the resort offers watersports, hiking and biking trails, a fitness centre, croquet lawn, putting green, daily complimentary children’s programme and an oceanfront infinity pool. In 2014 Rosewood Jumby Bay ranked among the world’s best resorts on Travel + Leisure’s ‘Top 500’, Condé Nast Traveler’s ‘Gold List’ and received the prestigious AAA Five-Diamond Award. The resort was also awarded ‘Top 25 Hotels in the Caribbean’ on TripAdvisor’s ‘Travelers’ Choice’ and was among U.S. News & World Report’s ‘Best Hotels in the Caribbean’. Call 888.ROSEWOOD. www.jumbybayresort.com

ANTIGUA HOTElS

HERMITAGE BAY Hermitage Bay A unique concept in Antigua, Hermitage Bay is in total harmony with its surroundings. Individual suites provide understated luxury and private plunge pools. With its oceanside restaurant and bar, refreshing infinity-edge pool, charming hillside spa and the emphasis on impeccable service, Hermitage Bay offers a wonderful experience. P.O. Box 60, St. John’s Tel: (268) 562-5500 Fax: (268) 562-5505 Email: info@hermitagebay.com www.hermitagebay.com JOLLY BEACH RESORT & SPA

Jolly Beach A versatile resort for everyone offering both all-inclusive and room-only plans. Located on the south-west coast of Antigua, this 464-room property sits on Antigua’s best beach by a mile. Amenities include two pools, five restaurants, bars, nightly entertainment, watersports, Jolly Teenz and Kidz Clubs, Palms Wellness Centre, Spa, Gym and Salon, complimentary WiFi in designated areas, as well as conference facilities. The resort is just 7 miles from St. John’s and approximately 20 minutes from the airport. P.O. Box W2009, St. Mary’s Tel: (268) 462-0061 Fax: (268) 562-2302 Email: info@jollybeachresort.com

ANTIGUA HOTElS

Sugar ridge Hotel Sugar Ridge has a spectacular elevated position and emerges from the hillside ablaze with colourful indigenous plants and sugar cane. It has panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and neighbouring islands, and is only 25 minutes’ drive away from St. John’s. Many of Antigua’s most beautiful beaches are on the doorstep and quickly accessible by the hotel’s complimentary shuttle service. There are 60 bedrooms grouped in blocks of four rooms to an intimate building, each with stunning views. The ground floor rooms have private plunge pools and the upper floors have large verandas. All are designed in colonial, contemporary style with four poster muslin-draped beds. Sugar Ridge has two restaurants. There is open air fine dining at Carmichael’s atop the hill, plus the informal Sugar Club. The restaurants, with indoor/outdoor dining, overlook the resort’s two swimming pools. Sugar Ridge has around 6,000 square feet of spa and gymnasium facilities. The Spa is the only Aveda Concept Spa in the Eastern Caribbean with a full

collection of treatments featuring the latest holistic therapies, hair salon and treatment rooms. The fully air-conditioned gym has around 30 pieces of Cybex equipment including 13 for cardiovascular health. Enjoy the exciting and unique Sugar Ridge experience. Sugar Ridge, PO Box 153 Jolly Habour, Antigua Tel: (268) 562-7700 Fax: (268) 562-7701 Toll Free USA 1 866 591 4881 Email: hotel@sugarridgeantigua.com Reservations: (268) 562-7700 Email: reservations@sugarridgeantigua.com

ANTIGUA HOTElS

JUMBY BAY, A ROSEWOOD RESORT Long Island Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resort is a luxury retreat set on its own 300-acre private island two miles off the coast of Antigua. Accessible only by boat, the ultra-luxe resort offers upscale travellers a relaxed and authentic Caribbean escape with superb white sand beaches, lush tropical environs, Sense, A Rosewood Spa® and world-class culinary experiences. Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resort has ranked among the world’s best resorts on Travel + Leisure’s ‘Top 500’ and Condé Nast Traveler’s ‘Gold List’, and received the prestigious AAA Five-Diamond Award. Tel: (268) 462-6000 Fax: (268) 462-6020 Email: jumbybay@rosewoodhotels.com KEYONNA BEACH HOTEL Johnson’s Point This couples only all-inclusive boutique hotel is on the south west side of the island, noted for its beautiful beaches and spectacular sunsets. The islands of Nevis, Redonda and Montserrat are visible on the horizon. All rooms have king-size four-poster beds, air-conditioning and free WiFi, with verandas overlooking the sea. The beach restaurant facilitates open-air dining with an a la carte menu. Tel: (268) 562-8880 P.O. Box 2024, Valley Church, Email: info@keyonnabeach.com www.keyonnabeach.com LE JARDIN CREOLE ‘the Secret Garden’

Hodges Bay A unique setting for an intimate garden inn with holiday cottages and rooms exotically called ‘PalmFrangipani Cottage’, ‘Palm Cottage’, ‘Coco Cottage’, ‘Banana Cottage’, ‘Frangipani Room’ and ‘Flamboyant Treehouse Room’. Located on the north coast, near Dickenson Bay, Jabberwock Beach, Kitesurf Antigua, Cedar Valley Golf Course and The American University of Antigua. Close to St. John’s and the airport. This cottage inn reflects traditional Caribbean architecture and outdoor living. “Come and feel at home” and meet your welcoming hosts, Peter and Kathy. Tel: (268) 464-7576/561-1835 Email: lejardincreole@candw.ag www.lejardincreole.com

SANDALS® GRANDE ANTIGUA RESORT & SPA

Dickenson Bay Located on Dickenson Bay, considered among the best of Antigua’s 365 beaches, Sandals Grande Antigua has been voted the ‘World’s Most Romantic Resort’ year after year. At this Luxury Included® Resort you’ll find two worlds of romance—the intimate and charming Caribbean Village nestled in tropical gardens beside the sea, and the magnificent six-star, all-suite Mediterranean Village with its epic architecture and the largest pool in the Eastern Caribbean. For a uniquely exotic experience, choose a Mediterranean Butler Villa Suite or a garden Rondoval Suite-in-the-Round, both with private pool and Sandals’ Butler Elite Service. Tel: (268) 462-0267/484-0100 Fax: (268) 462-4135/484-0213 PO Box 147, St. John’s www.sandals.com

ANTIGUA HOTElS

CoCoS Hotel COCOS is a delightful all-inclusive hotel, set between two beaches overlooking the Caribbean sea. It is a tranquil, boutique hotel with 30 individual rustic wooden cottages constructed by local craftsmen. They form a unique Caribbean village on the west coast of the island, situated amidst beautiful tropical landscaping with each cottage having maximum privacy. COCOS is located on an ocean bluff with panoramic views overlooking the Caribbean sea, and a pool overlooking the beach. The cottages have spacious airy rooms with king-size four-poster beds, hammocks, outdoor showers, private balconies and air-conditioning. It is the ideal location to get away from intrusive television. Tropical pampering at the Serenity Cottage provides treatments designed to relax body and soul. There is an intimate, casual restaurant set on a cliff offering a wide selection of delicous meals with local produce, as well as an a la carte menu of local dishes and a good selection of wines. The restaurant has spectacular views particularly at sunset, and live music is played regularly to create a romantic ambiance with daily rum specials.

COCOS specialises in small, intimate, romantic weddings with experienced staff to organise everything for the bridal group and a dedicated wedding coordinator. Valley Church, PO Box 2024 Tel: (268) 462-9700 Fax: (268) 462-9707 Reservations: (268) 460-2626 Email: reservations@cocoshotel.com www.cocoshotel.com

ANTIGUA HOTElS

SOUTH POINT

Falmouth Harbour Inspired by its exclusive waterfront location, South Point recently opened as Antigua’s newest boutique hotel. Overlooking Falmouth Harbour, its spacious and stylish open-plan suites enjoy front row views of some of the world’s most impressive superyachts. Facilities include a state-of-the-art fitness centre and swimming pool, as well as a Lounge Bar where great food, cool music and first-class service attract a cosmopolitan crowd enjoying the sophisticated but relaxing vibe. The waterfront restaurant’s signature small plate menu showcases authentic flavours inspired by the best of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and Asian cuisine. There is also a Sushi Bar. Tel: (268) 562-9600/464-0407 Email: reservations@southpointfalmouth.com www.southpointfalmouth.com

Photo: Chilling at Sheer Rocks

SIBONEY BEACH CLUB

Dickenson Bay An intimate all-suite hotel for those seeking an alternative to the all-inclusive resort. The outstanding host and his staff welcome you to the 12 well-appointed one bedroom suites, each with separate living areas and mini-kitchens, set along the white sands of Dickenson Bay with a lush tropical garden and freshwater pool. The renowned Coconut Grove Restaurant is just steps away. A ‘wellness program’ featuring vegan and vegetarian meals, holistic therapies plus a library is also available. Free WIFI. Toll Free: 800-533-0234 Tel: (268) 462-0806 Fax: (268) 462-3356 Email: info@siboneybeachclub.com

ST. JAMES’S CLUB & VILLAS

Mamora Bay This breathtaking 100-acre resort on the south eastern shores of Antigua has lush tropical landscaping and two pristine white sand beaches. There are limitless activities for everyone to enjoy and four restaurants to suit all tastes. St. James’s Club is the perfect place for singles, couples and families alike. Tel: (800) 345-0356 or (268) 460-5000 www.stjamesclubantigua.com

SUGAR RIDGE St. Mary’s With a spectacular hillside setting, Sugar Ridge gives a new and exciting dimension to the hospitality business. It is furnished to a high contemporary standard throughout. Facilities include 60 luxury bedrooms with verandas and plunge pools, Carmichael’s fine dining restaurant, The Sugar Club restaurant and bar, Aveda Concept Spa, Cybex gymnasium and Shopping Village. Sugar Ridge is a few minutes from the Marina at Jolly Harbour. Tel: (268) 562-7700 Fax: (268) 562-7701 Email: hotel@sugarridgeantigua.com www.sugarridgeantigua.com 44

ANTIGUA HOTElS

Keyonna Beach Hotel This is a small all-inclusive boutique hotel directly on the beautiful beach at Johnsonâ€™s Point on the south west side of the island. The hotel has a great view of the neighbouring islands of Nevis, Redonda and Montserrat with spectacular sunsets. The surrounding waters are protected by an encircling reef providing tranquil aquamarine waters for swimmers. The rooms are cosy, with traditional Caribbean kingsize four-poster beds, air conditioning and WiFi. All have verandas with views stretching to the horizon.

The peaceful atmosphere is maintained as this is a couples only hotel where visitors can escape from the bustle of life. The beach restaurant provides a multi-tiered, wooden terrace which facilitates open-air dining beneath a canopy of seagrape trees, and a satisfying menu. Guests can take full advantage of the Caribbean Bali beach beds - a perfect way to take a nap in paradise. www.keyonnabeach.com

ANTIGUA HOTElS

THE VERANDAH RESORT & SPA Dian Bay This eco-friendly resort is the perfect setting for relaxation, indulgence and family fun. Whether you simply want to unwind or are looking for outdoor adventures, The Verandah is the ideal place for both. Tel: (800) 345-0356 or (268) 562-6845 www.verandahresortandspa.com TRADE WINDS HOTEL Dickenson Bay This attractive 50-room hotel invites guests to relax in beautiful surroundings and enjoy fine cuisine, friendly service and fantastic ocean views. It is located on a hillside overlooking Dickenson Bay and offers the tranquility and seclusion that appeals to the business traveller as well as to the holidaymaker. In addition to the swimming pool and panoramic sundeck, the Bay House restaurant attracts locals and visitors alike with its eclectic all-day menus. The business centre and multimedia events/conference facilities are perfect for meetings, weddings and private parties. Tel: (268) 462-1223 Fax: (268) 462-5007 Email: info@twhantigua.com www.twhantigua.com TRANQUILITY BAY ANTIGUA

Jolly Beach This all-suite resort is beautifully located along Jolly Beach. All suites include full kitchen, private balcony, and king-size beds. Choose from spacious onebedroom suites that include private sitting areas, or family style two-bedroom units with dining rooms and oversized living areas, plus complimentary in-room Wi-Fi. Swimming pools, watersports, tennis courts, five restaurants and bars, gym, spa and kid’s club are some of the amenities to be enjoyed. Guests also benefit from preferred tee-time agreements at both golf clubs on the island. PO Box JH94, Jolly Harbour Tel: (268) 562-5183/85 Fax: (268) 562-5184 Email: reservations@tranquilitybayantigua.com www.tranquilitybayantigua.com

Photo: courtesy The Inn at English Harbour

THE INN AT ENGLISH HARBOUR

English Harbour Find historic charm and modern comforts at The Inn at English Harbour. Located in one of the most magnificent bays of the Caribbean. Guest rooms feature A/C, flat screen cable TVs, free Wi-Fi access, iPod docking stations and designer toiletries. A boutique and spa now enhance the general facilities. The fine dining Terrace Restaurant is highlyacclaimed, whilst the more casual Reef Restaurant offers the company of warm blue waters, balmy island nights and cooling trade winds. PO Box 187, St. John’s Tel: (268) 460-1014 Fax: (268) 460-1603 Email: theinn@candw.ag www.theinn.ag HOTELS IN DOWNTOWN ST. JOHNS The two hotels in downtown St. John’s are ideal for the business traveller or those wanting to be close to the varied amenities of our capital.

CITY VIEW HOTEL Newgate Street Tel: (268) 562-0259/60 Email: reservations@cityviewantigua.com www.cityviewantigua.com

HERITAGE HOTEL Heritage Quay Tel: (268) 462-1247/8 Fax: (268) 462-1179 Email: heritagehotel@candw.ag

ANTIGUA HOTElS

Buccaneer Beach Club Buccaneer Beach Club is located directly on famous Dickenson Bay Beach. The property is designed in a colourful Caribbean style setting in a tropical garden with views of the freeform swimming pool or the tranquil turquoise bay. The 16 pool-side one-bedroom villas and 2 beach front twobedroom cottages have every facility for the vacationer or business traveller. The villas are equipped with a kitchenette while the cottages have full kitchens. All have flat screen cable TVs, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi internet, safes and pull-out beds in the living room. The villas sleep a family of four while the cottages comfortably accommodate four adults and two children. Daily housemaid service plus a laundry room and 24 hours security are included. All the fashionable bars and restaurants of Dickenson Bay are close by, and leisure amenities are available including watersports, tennis, horseriding and mountain biking. Helpful staff members are at your service for reservations and suggestions and speak English, French, Italian and Spanish. www.buccaneerbeach.com

ANTIGUA HOTElS

Jolly Beach resort & Spa A mile-long white sand beach, two swimming pools and five restaurants head an impressive list of facilities at Jolly Beach Resort & Spa. The six all-inclusive room categories, from Supersaver to Beachfront Cottages, suit every need, every guest and every budget. All rooms are air-conditioned with patios or balconies facing the ocean. The five restaurants offer a wide choice of dining options from Italian and Indian to burgers and catch-of-the-day. Refreshments are served by award-winning bartenders at five bars including the Splash Swim-Up Pool Bar. The non-motorised watersports include Hobie Cats, windsurfers, kayaks and paddle boats along with windsurfing and sailing lessons. Recreational facilities include four floodlit tennis courts, two basketball courts, Jolly Kidz and Teenz Clubs, a games room and a gym. Evening entertainment puts the spotlight on live bands, cultural shows, local dancers, fire-eaters and karaoke. The Palms Wellness Centre offers a full range of massage treatments and therapies, as well as a beauty salon and fitness center.

The all-inclusive experience includes all meals, snacks and afternoon tea, house brand beverages, nonmotorised watersports, free Wi-Fi in lobby and courtyard, activities including the Jolly Kidz and Teenz Clubs, nightly entertainment and all taxes and service charges. (Spa and beauty salon services are not included.) Jolly Beach Resort & Spa is located on one of Antiguaâ€™s best beaches on the islandâ€™s Caribbean west coast. It is approximately 15 miles from V.C. Bird International Airport. www.jollybeachresort.com

Photo: courtesy Hermitage Bay

ANTIGUA FOR THE PERFECT WEddING The ‘Romance Capital of the Caribbean’ Antigua and Barbuda are a match made in heaven for honeymooners or couples wanting to tie the knot. All the ingredients for romance are here and getting married is a breeze, an island breeze that is! With no residency requirements, you can be exchanging your vows on a beautiful palm-fringed beach within the hour … ntigua has beautiful white sand beaches and activities galore; Barbuda is a back-to-nature island, blessed with miles of secluded pink sand beaches. Take your choice for a perfect wedding venue.

Ceremony locations range from sun-kissed beaches to lush tropical gardens. Most people choose to get married in their hotel grounds or on the beach or in the gardens of their rental villa.

Obviously Antigua and Barbuda are also ideal honeymoon destinations. Indeed, thanks to the halcyon climate, idyllic beaches and exclusive hotels, our twin island nation is likely to provide such a good beginning to married life that you will want to return for your anniversary to keep the romantic momentum alive!

Whatever your choice, you can have anything from champagne and canapés round the pool to a romantic wedding breakfast on the sands. You can even get married in an island church provided you allow additional time and fulfill certain church formalities, which include permission from the individual church authority. Some ask that the couple attend pre-nuptial consultations. Allow some extra time if planning a church ceremony. Wedding planners are readily available to assist with everything from the legal formalities to the champagne and flowers. Group packages can be arranged so that family and friends can join you in this (hopefully!) once-in-a-lifetime event.

Fresh, Fun and Romantic wedding photography by Joseph and Janet Jones of ‘Antigua Brides’. View their beautiful wedding photos at www.antiguabrides.com Email: info@antiguabrides.com Tel: (268) 462-7317/774-7317

THE LEGAL PROCEDURE

THE DOCUMENTATION REQUIRED

It is easy to get married in Antigua and here is some information to prepare you for your island style wedding.

Please ensure you bring the following documentation with you to Antigua and Barbuda:-

The legal procedure starts at the Ministry of Legal Affairs on Queen Elizabeth Highway in St. John’s. You must take both passports and a copy of your divorce papers, if relevant. There will be a friendly interview, then your licence will be issued. The cost is EC$405.00 (US$150.00).

•฀฀฀ Valid฀passports฀as฀proof฀of฀citizenship

The next step is a visit to the Registrar General’s office which is also on Queen Elizabeth Highway. The fee is EC$100.00 (US$40.00) and please note that this is only for registering at the Court House. An official marriage certificate costs EC$25.00 (US$10.00).

•฀฀฀ Original฀divorce฀decree฀or,฀in฀the฀case฀of฀a widow or widower, the original marriage and death certificate •฀฀฀ If฀there฀has฀been฀a฀name฀change฀provide฀ affidavits in cases where you are known by another name •฀฀฀ Both฀parties฀must฀be฀over฀15.฀If฀under฀18฀฀ ฀ written authorisation from parents or guardians is required.

If the wedding is performed outside the Court House, there is a Marriage Officer fee of EC$270.00 (US$100.00).

NB: All documents presented should be original or certified original by the issuing departments or offices.

The location is left solely up to you, although most people choose to get married in their hotel or villa grounds and, of course, on the beach.

The Ministry of Legal Affairs Tel: (268) 462-0017 is open Monday to Thursday from 8am to 4:30pm and on Fridays from 8am to 3pm. The Registrar General’s office Tel: (268) 462-0609 is open Monday to Thursday 8:30am to 4:30pm and Friday 8:30am to 3pm.

Your marriage must be soleminsed in the presence of two or more witnesses - just ask some fellow hotel guests to do this for you.

Relax & Unwind AT ANTIGUA’S SPAS

Photos: courtesy Galley Bay Resort & Spa

Many of Antigua’s finest beach hotels offer first-class spas. The rejuvenating body and beauty treatments are perfectly enhanced by the island’s healthy climate, relaxing ambience and serene sea views. In addition to traditional treatments like soothing mud wraps and deep-tissue massages, several spas offer ancient techniques like reflexology and Reiki. Some specialise in Caribbean-inspired treatments using local ingredients such as coffee, seasalt and calciumrich seaweed, whilst others prefer to pamper you with the luxury products of international companies like Elemis, Aveda, Natura Bissé and Dorissima Colour Rituals.

The following is an outline of the various facilities offered at these special spas. Be sure to call for availability. •฀฀The฀only฀Aveda฀Concept฀Spa฀in฀the฀Eastern฀฀ ฀ Caribbean is located at Sugar Ridge. This stateof-the-art facility offers a complete range of treatments, a first-class hair salon, a Cybex gym, cabanas, two swimming pools and a studio for aerobics, yoga and Pilates. Tel: (268) 562-7700 •฀฀The฀Spa฀at฀Curtain฀Bluff฀is฀distinguished฀by฀its฀฀ ฀ intimacy, seclusion and panoramic waterside setting. The five treatment rooms look out over the sea and after a treatment you can relax in the Jacuzzi on the edge of the cliff and enjoy the views out towards distant Montserrat. Tel: (268) 462-8400

Of course, these treats are not just for women. Couples massages are particularly popular with honeymooners and men can unwind with anything from sports massages to fitness facials. In some cases there are even mini-treatments specially adapted for children.

•฀฀The฀Spa฀at฀Blue฀Waters฀has฀a฀beautiful฀waterside฀฀ location. It offers Elemis Signature spa treatments in three treatment rooms. This elegant full-service salon also features a nail area, a hairdressing service, a spa café and an infinity pool, as well as yoga sessions on the deck. Tel: (268) 462-0290

Many spas also come with excellent fitness facilities, and some even have dedicated instructors offering anything from Yoga to Pilates classes. Afterwards you can head for their serene relaxation areas, some of them featuring pools or jacuzzis, and chill-out with a chamomile tea before returning to the real world!

•฀฀The฀ultra-stylish฀Blue฀Spa฀at฀Carlisle฀Bay฀offers฀฀ ฀ Natura Bissé facials and a full range of beauty and body treatments. There are six treatment rooms here (including one for couples and a wet room), as well as a sauna, gym, juice bar, and hair and beauty salon. Tel: (268) 484-0000

ANTIGUA SPAS

•฀฀The฀Indulge฀Spa฀at฀Galley฀Bay฀is฀a฀rustic฀multi level hideaway overlooking a tranquil bird sanctuary lagoon. The treatments are given in open-air single or double pods draped with sheer white curtains. After the treatment take time to relax in the spa pool. Tel: (268) 462-0302 •฀฀The฀intimate฀yet฀unique฀Indonesian-style฀Garden฀฀ Spa at Hermitage Bay specialises in Dorissima Colour Rituals. The treatment suite is bathed in gentle coloured lights, while aromatherapy and soft music combine to provide the ultimate spa experience. Tel: (268) 562-5500 •฀฀Sense,฀A฀Rosewood฀Spa® at Jumby Bay is an elegant, open-air sanctuary offering a wide range of luxurious natural treatments. Calcium-rich algae is used in masks, coconut shea butter is used in massages and you can even enjoy a hot shell pedicure. Tel: (268) 462-6000 •฀฀The฀Palms฀Wellness฀Centre฀at฀Jolly฀Beach฀Resort฀฀ has four treatment rooms offering anything from stone therapy and soothing wraps to deep tissue massages on the beautiful beach. The facilities also include a full-service beauty salon and a fitness centre. Tel: (268) 462-0061 •฀฀Tranquility฀Body฀&฀Soul฀Spas฀are฀located฀at฀both฀฀ the St. James’s Club and The Verandah. You can choose from a long list of spa packages or individual treatments in serene surroundings with furnishings beautifully made with natural elements such as rattan and sea grass. Tel: (268) 460-5000 •฀฀The฀Red฀Lane® Spa at Sandals Grande Antigua is where classic European health and beauty rituals are reinterpreted with Caribbean flair. Signature ฀ treatments฀include฀Red฀Lane฀Bamboo฀Polish, ฀ Caribbean฀Sea฀Mud฀Wrap฀and฀Scents฀of฀Love฀฀฀ Couples Massage. Tel: (268) 462-0267 •฀The฀Powder฀Room฀Spa,฀located฀in฀the฀Gunpowder฀฀ House, Nelson’s Dockyard offers historical elegance in a tranquil atmosphere. Relax with a preliminary infusion and consultation. The finest of ingredients are available in the Fresh Food Concept Spa. Treatments include facials, scrubs and a variety of massage techniques. This is the only spa in English Harbour where you can also enjoy lunch, an infinity pool and a full range of spa treatments. Tel: (268) 788-0149/460-1027

Relax and unwind!

Di ck en so nB ay

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●

HALCYON BY REX RESORTS ■ SANDALS GRANDE ■

Sottovento LE JARDIN CREOLE ■ Crosbies ● Le Bistro ANTIGUA VILLAGE ■ TRADE WINDS HOTEL Ana’s on the beach ● AUA ● ■● Bay House SIBONEY ■ ● Xtreme Coconut Grove● Cedar Valley Golf Course BUCCANEER BEACH CLUB ■ Ocean Grand Beach Villas ■ Royal Palm Court Studio 79 Nightclub ● ANCHORAGE The Larder Big Banana ● ● ● INN

◆

MAP OF ANTIGUA

BLUE WATERS

Bay Gardens

◆

Runaway Bay

●1st

Cinema

● Epicurean

Beach Limerez ●

● Carib World Travel ● Woods Pharmacy ● Ticchio ● Anjo Insurance

Fort James

Russell’s ●

GRAND ROYAL ANTIGUAN ■

The Athletic Club ◆

ECAB ● Village Walk V.C. BIRD Cafe Bella INTERNATIONAL ● Wood’s Centre AIRPORT

Choice

Caribbean Alliance

AM ROAD

OLD PARH

ST. JOHN’S● King’s Casino ● KFC

GALLEY BAY ■

Piggots

Island Provisions

FACT ORY Potters ROA D Village Sir Vivian Richard’s Stadium Townhouse Megastore

ABI Insurance

HAWKSBILL BY REX RESORTS

■

Five Islands Harbour HERMITAGE ■ BAY

Golden Grove

Elvies Pottery

Ebenezer Jennings Jolly Harbour Golf Course

TRANQUILTY BAY ■ Bolans JOLLY BEACH RESORT ■ The Crows Nest ● JOLLY HARBOUR ■ ● Mayday RESORT & MARINA ◆ SALTY DOGS ■ ● SUGAR RIDGE Sheer Rocks ● COCOS HOTEL ■

All Saints

Fryers Point

Tamarind Hills ❒ Valley Church

Darkwood Beach Jacqui O’s

Turners Beach

Y LE

U MO

A SH

Johnsons Point

■ SOUTH COAST HORIZONS

Cades Bay

Tyrells Church

Liberta E RIV ◆ Footsteps Hiking D E RE ◆Rainforest Canopy Tour GT

●

KEYONNA BEACH HOTEL ■

St. Mary’s Church

Old Road

CURTAIN BLUFF ■ ■ Boxer Shack ● CARLISLE BAY

Carlisle Bay 54

Swetes

N AI NT

Rendezvous Bay

BARBUdA

BARBUDA ■ BELLE HOTEL

Frigate Bird Sanctuary

BY BAY

● La Bussola ● Garden Grill D-Boat

●

LIGHTHOUSE BAY RESORT ■

JUM

Jabberwock Beach Dutchman’s Bay

■

●

Cecilia’s

The Caves

CODRINGTON

Low Bay

Long Island

Two Foot Bay

Palmetto Point

Maiden Island

COCO POINT LODGE ■ Spanish Point

North Sound

RE SO

Guiana Island

Crump Island

Pelican Island

Parham

AN D LO P NG INE BA APP Y H LE OT BEA EL CH

St. George’s Church

St. Peter’s Church

Stingray City

◆

St. Stephen’s Church

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■

Devil’s Bridge

■

The Peninsula

THE VERANDAH

Willikies Seatons

Glanvilles Betty’s Hope

Nonsuch Bay Harmony Hall

Green Island

●■

Potworks Dam ■ MILL REEF CLUB

Newfield Donkey Sanctuary

■

Bethesda

● Crab

llo Baughb y y

Ha lf Ba Moo y n

CATAMARAN HO TE

Freetown

Hole Liquors

Falmouth DIVE CARIB ES UIT N Harbour ◆ S s r N I uo ’S ER pa ANTIGUA Liq AL WD m S ole

YACHT CLUB b H IR O oo ■ Cra DM NP er R SOUTHPOINT ■ ● ■ A& GU owd

●Cloggy’s

Nelson’s Dockyard ■

●

COPPER & LUMBER STORE

■ ST. JAMES’S CLUB

■ THE INN

● Shirley Heights

Lookout Restaurant

English Harbour

Exploring Antigua is not all about white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters! Rent a car or hire a taxi and discover the unique attractions of our island? From scenic drives through rainforests to colourful markets and historic plantations there really is something for everyone ... DEVIL’S BRIDGE

PARHAM

Situated at Indian Town close to The Verandah and Grand Pineapple Beach Resorts, this is a spectacular natural bridge at the head of Indian Creek with blow-holes and spouting฀surf.฀Legend฀says฀that฀if฀you฀throw฀two฀eggs฀ into the water to boil, the devil (who is said to be down there) would keep one and return the other! Devil’s Bridge is certainly an exciting and unexpected sight.

This quaint little historic town was the earliest British settlement in Antigua. A road connects the sleepy town with the main road traversing the island. Parham is notable for its spectacular church, St. Peter’s, which was฀described฀as฀“the฀inest฀church฀in฀the฀British฀West฀ Indies”. It was built in the 1840s after the original wooden church had been burnt down. It is a beautiful and unusual octagonal shape designed by a famous architect of the time,฀Thomas฀Weekes.฀The฀church฀indicates฀the฀long-ago฀ importance of Parham.

MUSEUM OF ANTIGUA & BARBUDA

Antigua’s Donkey Sanctuary The Antigua and Barbuda Humane Society provides shelter for over 150 donkeys at its Bethseda sanctuary. Here the neglected roaming donkeys find a safe haven and receive food, water, shelter, medical care and love. The Humane Society offers an ‘Adopt a Donkey’ programme providing visitors with a photo and an adoption certiicate.฀฀We฀encourage฀you฀to฀visit฀Antigua’s฀ Donkey Sanctuary, and experience for yourself that there is more to a donkey than you thought! Admission free. Donations are greatly appreciated. Help save Antigua’s gentle donkeys! Tel: (268) 461-4957 Email: abhumane@candw.ag www.antiguaanimals.com

The oldest building in St. John’s, the Georgian style stone Courthouse of 1750, has been the home of The Museum since 1986. Today the Museum interprets the rich history of both islands through interactive displays, and newly installed exhibits. Discover the history of the Arawaks and Caribs, our earliest settlers. Follow the stories of the pioneers of the first towns, sugar and slavery, emancipation, and post-emancipation Antigua. In the courtyard฀display฀is฀-฀“Bessie”฀-฀the฀1917฀Simplex฀WW1฀ Armour฀Locomotive,฀the฀only฀one฀in฀the฀world,฀once฀used฀ to haul sugarcane. Open Mon - Fri 8:30am to 4pm. Sat 10am to 2pm. Entry fee: EC$8.00/US$3.00.

PUBLIC MARKET St. John’s market provides an extensive covered outlet for the abundance of Caribbean fruit and vegetables. Upstairs are delightful small boutique-style shops specialising in local items to appeal to visitors. The market is easily identified by the imposing sculpture of V.C. Bird, the Founder of the Nation, at the intersection of all roads leading to the market at the edge of St. John’s.

Antigua FORTS OF ANTIGUA

DOW’S HILL INTERPRETATION CENTRE

Built by the British to guard against invasion during the 18th century, Antigua’s forts are located around the island’s indented coastline. Fort James ‘protects’ St. John’s Harbour, with charming local restaurants nestled at the฀base,฀notably฀BeachLimerZ.฀Fort฀Barrington฀overlooks฀ Deep฀Bay.฀Fort฀Berkeley฀is฀at฀Nelson’s฀Dockyard.฀Walk฀ up to see these immense fortifications, sometimes with original cannons. There are spectacular views of neighbouring islands.

Built among the ruins in the Nelson’s Dockyard National Park, the Centre provides a historic overview of Antigua’s past. ‘Reflections of the Sun’, a multi-media presentation, is a ‘journey through the dreamy corridors of six periods of the island’s history’.

ST. JOHN’S CATHEDRAL This imposing building, visible from all around St. John’s, was originally constructed in 1683, replaced in 1745 and completely rebuilt of stone in 1843 after an earthquake. The interior is completely cased in pitch-pine and there are interesting memorial stones. Restoration continues.

SUGAR MILLS These are dotted around the landscape, mostly in ruins but some with the solid outside structure still intact. By 1705 most of Antigua was planted with sugarcane and 170 mills for crushing cane were built. At that time, each factory could produce 55 tons of sugar a year. Nowadays there are a few carefully restored mills often incorporated into more modern developments such as at Harmony Hall, Galley Bay and Mill Reef, giving a unique feature to each property.

BETTY’S HOPE Betty’s Hope Estate was granted to Christopher Codrington in 1674, and remained in the family for over 250 years. The ruins are located in the centre of Antigua and evoke the atmosphere of times past. Betty’s Hope had a labour force trained as craftsmen. There are twin sugar mill towers and one has been restored. An Interpretation Centre guides you through the history and life of the estate. Open Mon-Sat 9am-3pm. Entrance US$2.00

SHIRLEY HEIGHTS After visiting Nelson’s Dockyard, ramble around the extensive fortifications, barracks and powder magazines of฀Shirley฀Heights.฀As฀Mrs.฀Lanaghan฀said฀in฀1844฀while฀ visiting the area, “Really, this marching and countermarching beneath a tropical sun is no slight matter...” So฀relax฀with฀a฀couple฀of฀drinks฀at฀The฀Lookout฀and฀ contemplate the panoramic views. This is the famous venue for the Shirley Heights late Sunday afternoon “party” which continue well into the spectacular sunsets with steel band, flowing drinks and very fast food.

FIG TREE DRIVE The best drive in Antigua! Fig is the Antiguan name for bananas, but the road is lined with tropical fruit trees guavas, mangoes, oranges and coconuts. Fig Tree Drive is the major road branching off the main north/south highway, opposite the pink Catholic Church outside Liberta,฀north฀of฀Falmouth.฀This฀area฀of฀green฀rainforest฀ is something like the Garden of Eden. Go slowly until you descend to Old Road, passing Carlisle Bay and into the Curtain Bluff area, glimpsing the pineapple farm.

SATURDAY FOOD STALLS Every Saturday small food stalls are dotted along the roadsides with cooked local foods. The Antigua ladies present an array of hot dishes in handy containers - all hygienically prepared. This may be your only chance to taste Antiguan dishes such as conch water, goat water (delicious stews), blood pudding, salt fish and ducana and charcoal grilled chicken and ribs. Plus freshly made local drinks with ginger, passionfruit and coconut water.

NElSON’S dOCKYARd

Photo: courtesy Admirals Inn

English Harbour, with its world-famous Dockyard named after Admiral Horatio Nelson, is Antigua’s most prized historic possession. It’s not only a monument to the past but also a focus of activity and a year-round home for yachts. n the Dockyard are all the facilities which make it such a haven for yachts and the floating palaces of the famous. For the landlubber there is the pleasure of the past gained from exploring the lovely old buildings, many now housing restaurants and shops. Admiral’s Inn is a legend and no visit to the Dockyard is complete without lunch on the terrace of this graceful old building.

English Harbour was originally established to provide the British Royal Navy with a dockyard where they could keep their ships in good repair for maintaining their ascendancy in the Caribbean against other European powers. Christopher Columbus himself didn’t even stop in Antigua, content to see it at a distance and name it after the church of Santa Maria de Antigua in Spain. Antigua was never conquered by any other European power, in good part due to the Dockyard where the British ships could be careened and overhauled, safe from hurricanes. It was also an ideal port to keep the fleet in troubled times since the enclosed harbour of Freeman’s Bay is almost invisible from the sea. The narrow entrance was protected by Fort Berkeley, completed in 1744, and built on a narrow spit of land jutting out from the entrance of English Harbour. The ruins give a panoramic view and are just a short walk along the peninsula. During sieges, a strong chain and timber boom were drawn across the narrow entrance to English Harbour from Fort Berkeley to the other side. The first reference to English Harbour’s

advantages is found in 1671 when the Governor of the฀Leeward฀Islands฀wrote฀to฀the฀Council฀for฀Foreign฀ Plantations฀in฀London.฀ It was realised that it would be easier to refit ships in Antigua than sending them to the ‘northern colonies’.฀Wharves,฀powder฀magazines,฀cisterns฀and฀ storehouses were constructed. A fortress was built on Monk’s Hill, romantic ruins which can still be reached by฀an฀energetic฀walk฀from฀the฀village฀of฀Liberta.฀ To ensure the invincibility of Antigua, the great fortifications of Shirley Heights commenced, named after General Shirley who arrived in 1781 as Governor. All the construction was in solid local stone and brick imported as ballast for the ships from England. The development took place over a period of many years. The communication between Britain and her colonies was slow. The death rate of English sailors and engineers was high due to unaccustomed heat, excessive rum and primitive conditions, not to mention malaria and yellow fever (these diseases have now long since been eradicated). England’s most famous historic hero, Admiral Horatio Nelson, spent formative years here. He arrived at age 26 in command of the frigate Boreas. He was Senior Captain฀and฀Second-in-Command฀of฀the฀Leeward฀ Islands Station whose headquarters were in English Harbour. By the time he left for England and greater glory in 1787, he had married a widow from Nevis, Frances Nisbet. Continued on page 61 ...

ENGLISH HARBOUR

10YR OLD

AWARDED 96 OF 100 POINTS AND RATED AS EXCEPTIONAL by WineEnthusiast Magazine in 2009

FEATURED IN THE BROADWAY PLAY ‘GOD OF CARNAGE’ IN 2009 GOLD MEDAL 2010 AT THE INT’L REVIEW OF SPIRITS by The Beverage Testing Institute scoring 93 out of 100 points

1981 VINTAGE ENGLISH HARBOUR

AWARDED 96 OF 100 POINTS AND RATED AS EXCEPTIONAL by Wine Enthusiast Magazine in 2009

GOLD AWARD WINNER 2010 RUM MASTER COMPETITION in the Design and Packaging category

PLATINUM MEDAL 2010 AT THE INT’L REVIEW OF SPIRITS by The Beverage Testing Institute scoring 98 out of 100 points

MASTER AWARD – 2013 RUM MASTERS COMPETITION

ENGLISH HARBOUR

5 YR OLD

NAMED AS ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST REMARKABLE RUMS IN 2006 BY FORBES MAGAZINE.

(N.B. English Harbour 5yr was the youngest rum on the list; all the other rums were aged at least 8 years or longer.

GOLD MEDAL AND RATED AS EXCEPTIONAL AT THE INT’L REVIEW OF SPIRITS

by The Beverage Testing Institute scoring 92 & 91 points in 2005 & 2010 respectively

GOLD AWARD WINNER 2010 & 2013 RUM MASTER COMPETITION in the Aged Rums 5-7yr category

GOLD MEDAL – BEST RUM

at the 2011 New York World Spirits Competition

Photo: Joseph Jones Photography

An imposing Victorian style building in the Dockyard itself was once erroneously known as the Admiral’s House, but Nelson never lived ashore while in Antigua. This is now the Dockyard Museum and is a cool and pleasant building with many interesting artifacts from bygone years. It is open daily from 9am to 5pm. Clarence House, on the hillside opposite, was named after฀Prince฀William฀Henry,฀the฀Duke฀of฀Clarence,฀when฀ he was in command of the Pegasus in 1787. The Commissioner of the Dockyard spent time here and Princess Margaret honeymooned at Clarence House. The National Parks Authority (NPA) is very active in keeping Antigua aware of its background and heritage. In 2003, the old stone seawall, built between 1815 and 1830, was restored and yacht facilities added.

As well as all the fascinating historical aspects of Nelson’s Dockyard, there are also some unique shops, restaurants and bars to be found in the area. The Galley Boutique offers a wide range of exclusive items specifically chosen for island living, whilst worthwhile restaurants include the famous฀Admiral’s฀Inn,฀the฀historic฀Copper฀&฀Lumber฀Store฀ and Hamilton’s which is charmingly housed on the first floor of the old Officer’s Quarters. If you’re in the mood for Italian cuisine just venture across the water to Ristorante Paparazzi on Antigua Slipway, but on Sunday afternoons you have to look no further than Shirley Heights. This legendary party venue offers a barbecue, steelband, calypso and reggae music, as well as spectacular views of the sunset over Nelson’s Dockyard.

The old Dockyard’s history has thus been extended for modern usage as a yacht marina and so the romance of this maritime historic landmark continues. The ‘Step Back in Time’ programme gives visitors a taste of this era when on special days they are greeted and guided around the Dockyard by Antiguan’s in period costume. There are also fascinating multimedia presentations of the island’s past up at the Dow’s Hill Interpretation Centre.

Photo: The Dockyard Museum courtesy Cheryl Carter

Beautiful BARBUDA

Beautiful Barbuda, Antigua’s little sister island, rises low on the sea, 27 miles north of Antigua. This coral-fringed island is renowned for its tranquility, crystalline waters, vast deserted pink sand beach, unique bird sanctuary - and abundance of delicious lobster!

GETTING TO BARBUDA •฀Barbuda Express ferry departs daily from the bottom฀of฀Long฀Street,฀St.฀John’s.฀Check-in฀฀ 8:30am. Returning approximately at 5pm. Licensed฀by฀the฀Antigua฀&฀Barbuda฀Marine฀฀ Safety Authority and US Coastguard. Drinks can be bought on board during the 90-minute trip. Day tours available. Tel: (268) 560-7989/764-2291 T Email: info@barbudaexpress.com •฀Tropical Adventures offer a ‘Barbuda by Sea’ tour that includes a 90-minute trip on the Excellence power catamaran, lunch and Frigate Bird Sanctuary tour. Tel: (268) 480-1225 T www.tropicalad.com •฀ABM ABM AIR/SVG AIR - fly daily to Barbuda; two flights a day - 8am and 4pm fr from the V.C. Bird International Airport. It is just a V short 18 minute flight. Tel: (268) 562-7183 T

฀ ฀

arbuda is easily accessible from Antigua with the ‘Barbuda Express’ ferry or a ‘Tropical Adventures’ tour by fast powered catamaran. A day trip with Tropical Adventures is a unique experience which you will remember forever - and one which can be accompanied by a great whale to the delight of the passengers. The island can also be reached in less than 20 minutes from V. C. Bird International Airport. The deserted pristine beach, famous for its pink sand, presents an amazing vista which seems to stretch forever. Accommodation ranges from the luxurious฀Coco฀Point฀Lodge฀(open฀from฀November฀ to฀April),฀to฀Lighthouse฀Bay฀Resort฀in฀Low฀Bay,฀and฀ simple guest houses and small hotels located around the island’s capital, Codrington, named after a longago owner of the entire island. Formed from coralline limestone, Barbuda is 62 square-miles in size, and flatter than Antigua with a maximum altitude of 40 metres and an average elevation of 4 metres above sea level. A central feature฀is฀the฀famous฀Codrington฀Lagoon฀National฀ Park, which is a unique component of Barbuda’s ecosystem and of national, economic and cultural importance. The lagoon supports one of the world’s largest colonies of frigate birds (Fregata magnificens), which flourish happily even though they have become a prized฀tourist฀attraction.฀With฀a฀wingspan฀of฀up฀to฀ nearly 3 metres, the male frigate birds are particularly spectacular during the mating season, when they blow up a scarlet throat sac the size of a balloon in

order to attract a female mate. The young fluffy chicks are clearly visible to visitors and are not perturbed by them. The ever-open beaks are stuffed with delicious local fish by their swooping parents. With฀other฀species฀such฀as฀the฀West฀Indian฀whistling฀ duck, the brown pelican, tropical mockingbirds, warblers, snipes, ibis, herons, kingfishers, oystercatchers and cormorants also in abundance, the Park is considered a bird watchers’ paradise. Authorised bird watching trips can be organised through the Park’s office. (Contact tel: 268-4600217 or email at nationalparksbarbuda@gmail.com). Indigenous animals include wild boar, red-footed tortoises and a variety of sea turtles, plus the elusive fallow deer which is emblematic on the nation’s coat-of-arms. Offshore there is an abundance of charted shipwrecks (as many as 73) and coral reefs for scuba diving and snorkelling in water as clear as glass. Deep-sea fishing or fly-fishing excursions can be arranged. Natural sites include Spanish Point, Indian Cave and Darby’s Cave. Foot trails, treks and camping trips are available for the adventurous. A trip to the historically important ruins of the Codrington estate, Highland House, is interesting, as is the Martello tower and fort on the island’s south coast. This imposing fortress was originally used for defence and as a vantage point from which to spot valuable shipwrecks on the outlying reefs.

Photo: courtesy Martha Watkins-Gilkes

WHERE TO STAY There are three hotels in Barbuda, as well as a variety of cottages and guest houses:Coco Point Lodge T: (268) 462-3816 www.cocopoint.com Lighthouse Bay Resort T: (268) 562-1481 www.lighthousebayresort.com Barbuda Belle T: (268) 783-4779 www.barbudabelle.com North Beach Cottage T: (268) 721-3317 www.barbudanorthbeach.com Palm Tree Guest House T: (268) 784-4331 Island Chalet T: (268) 460-0065 Bus Stop Guest House T: (268) 721-2796 The Carriage House T: (268) 771-4510/720-2544/772-1894

With฀most฀of฀the฀population฀(just฀1,500฀people)฀ living in Codrington itself, visitors can dine in a selection of local restaurants. These include the famous Green Door Tavern established in 1947, Uncle Roddy’s Beach Bar and Grill, CJ’s Diner or The Outback Restaurant & Bar; culinary possibilities including the local seafood, with lobster as a speciality, or possibly venison and wild boar in season. Barbuda’s Caribana cultural festival is celebrated annually between May and June and is a colourful, fun event. Horse racing takes place twice monthly and is a very popular local pastime. There are currently three hotels on the island, the Coco฀Point฀Lodge,฀the฀Lighthouse฀Bay฀Resort฀ and Barbuda Belle. A wide variety of cottages and guest houses are also available in various locations around Codrington or on the beach. The unique natural beauty and peaceful way of life makes a visit to Barbuda the memorable trip of a lifetime - and beckons fortunate visitors to return. See www.visitantiguabarbuda.com or contact your nearest Antigua & Barbuda Tourist Office see page 2.

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ACTION & AdVENTURE In Antigua there’s nothing better than soaking up the sun and rum punch! However, the island has a great deal more to offer, memorable and exciting adventures available on both land and at sea. Over the next few pages we highlight some of the best ways of experiencing the natural attractions.

ISLAND SAFARI - DISCOVERY TOUR

DISCOVER BARBUDA & ANTIGUA THE EXCELLENCE WAY

Discover Antigua’s rich history on the Island Safari Discovery tour. You go off-road through the lush and rugged area of Body Pond on the way to Nelson’s Dockyard, Shirley’s Heights and Block House Lookout. Explore and have lunch at Betty’s Hope plantation before a photo stop at stunning Devil’s Bridge. A relaxing swim at Long Bay is a cooling finale after such an interesting and exciting tour.

The elegant Excellence is Antigua’s premier 5 star power catamaran. Come aboard this exciting vessel for a cruise like no other. Choose between two exciting trips:-

ISLAND SAFARI SUV GOLD

CIRCUMNAVIGATION - explore the amazing coastline

This unique tour offers the best of Antigua in airconditioned comfort aboard the SUV Gold luxury vehicle. This extensive sightseeing tour lasts six hours and visits all the major sites of interest to visitors, accompanied by a knowledgeable tour guide who entertains and enlightens guests on Antigua’s past and present. Lunch on the west coast and refreshments are included with opportunities for off-road viewing and beach relaxation in maximum cool comfort.

DISCOVER BARBUDA - The ‘Barbuda by Sea’ tour with Tropical Adventures includes a 90-minute trip to the island on the Excellence power catamaran, with lunch, and a tour of the Frigate Bird Sanctuary. of Antigua with this round-the-island journey. Stop at Green Island for snorkelling and lunch, and then experience a unique view of Nelson’s Dockyard and English Harbour from the sea.

ISLAND SAFARI-ECO KAYAK Enjoy the best of both worlds! After your Island Safari expedition and a Caribbean-style lunch it’s time to explore by kayak the wonders of the North Sound National Park. Visit beautiful Great Bird Island for snorkelling over live reefs and relaxation time on the beach.

ANTIGUA’S SPORTS COMPLEXES

ANTIGUA ATHLETIC CLUB near V.C. Bird International Airport is a 3,800 sq.ft. health club offering a gym, 25m pool and exercise classes. Tel: 460-2582

To book any of these exciting tours please contact TROPICAL ADVENTURES Tel: (268) 480-1225 Email: tropad@candw.ag www.tropicalad.com

JOLLY HARBOUR SPORTS CENTRE has 4 floodlit tennis courts, swimming pool, squash court, basketball court and a Sports Bar with TVs. Tel: 462-3085 ext. 642.

THE TEMO SPORTS COMPLEX at Falmouth Harbour near Antigua Yacht Club. Floodlit synthetic grass tennis courts and 2 squash courts. Tel: 460-1781/463-6376

ACTION & AdVENTURE

SWIM WITH STINGRAYS! STINGRAY CITY

Tel: (268) 562-7297 A short boat ride takes you to Stingray City, where you can pet and feed Southern Stingrays in their natural environment. You will learn all about these amazing creatures from your experienced guides and snorkel on colourful coral reef. The calm, clear, shallow water makes this easy and fun for everybody! Stingray City received a ‘Certificate of Excellence 2015’ from TripAdvisor.

KAYAK TOURS Tel: (268) 562-7297 Embark on a fantastic kayak and snorkelling expedition to experience the magic and beauty of Antigua’s tropical ecosystem. Your adventure includes kayaks, mysterious mangroves, coral reefs, tropical fish, uninhabited islands, white sand beaches, banana bread, and rum and fruit punch during a 2½ hour unforgettable tour. Wear your swimsuit, and bring a towel and your camera.

ACTION & AdVENTURE

ANTIGUA ATHLETIC CLUB & VITALITY CAFÉ Coolidge, near V.C. Bird International Airport Tel: (268) 562-7285 Email: antiguaathleticclub1@gmail.com Antigua’s premier fitness facility has two Maplewood exercise classrooms and a spacious 3800 sq.ft. airconditioned gym with state of the art equipment. Daily classes include spinning, yoga and Pilates. Enjoy the 25 metre swimming pool, spacious changing rooms, showers and lockers which are available for all visitors. A day pass for only US$20 gives access to all facilities. The Vitality Café serves delicious meals and healthy shakes and smoothies. The Athletic Club is only five minutes walk from the airport.

INDIGO DIVERS Jolly Harbour Tel: (268) 562-3483 Email: info@indigo-divers www.indigo-divers.com Indigo Divers is owned and managed by a group of PADI Scuba Diving professionals with years of international experience. They love diving and have a common goal - to provide visitors with a world-class, safe and enjoyable experience whilst exploring the wonders of the underwater realm. They pick up from Jolly Harbour and surrounding hotels, and dive the sheltered west and south coasts, including Cades Reef. The reef offers great dive opportunities for the novice and for the experienced diver. Most dive sites are about 20-minutes away. PADI courses, special packages and night dives are all available.

KITE SURF ANTIGUA Jabberwock Beach Tel: (268) 720-5483 www.kitesufantigua.com Kitesurfing combines the freedom of windsurfing or sailing with the exhilaration of wakeboarding and other freestyle boards sports. There are different levels of kite surfing from beginning to advanced and Antigua offers conditions for all these on the beautiful Jabberwock Beach.

Photo: courtesy Andre Phillip instagram:@andrephillip

ACTION & AdVENTURE

GOlF IN ANTIGUA Antigua has two 18-hole courses, one on the west coast and a championship course located just north of St. Johnâ€™s. CEDAR VALLEY GOLF CLUB Cedar Valley Golf Club is an 18-hole championship course located just 3-miles from St. Johnâ€™s. This par 70, 6,157 yard course lies amidst mature tropical trees, the distant views of the Caribbean Sea contributing to player satisfaction. It accommodates golfers of all skills, resident professionals and a 300-yard driving range also available. General facilities include a clubhouse lounge and a pro shop selling golf equipment and logo items. Tel: (268) 462-0161 Email: cedarvalleyg@candw.ag www.cedarvalleygolf.ag

JOLLY HARBOUR GOLF CLUB Jolly Harbour Golf Club is an established par 71, 5,587-yard 18-hole golf course lying adjacent to the Jolly Harbour Marina. Designed by leading golf course architect Karl Litton of Florida and set in lush tropical parkland, easterly breezes cool the fairways sculpted into the green, hilly landscape. The clubhouse has showers and a locker room. Tel: (268) 562-6951 Email: golf@jollyharbourantigua.com

Photo: Cedar Valley Golf Club

ANTIGUA BARBUdA OPEN GOlF CHAMPIONSHIP 2016 Cedar Valley Golf Club, Antigua 26 - 28 February 2016 100 golfers anticipated from the Caribbean, USA, UK, Europe and Scandinavia. Championship, Men, Women, Seniors and Super-seniors events. Further information and entry forms available from Avery Jonas, Tournament Director Tel: (268) 464-5061 Email: averydjonas@gmail.com

ACTION & AdVENTURE

WINDSURF ANTIGUA Tel: (268) 461-9463 / 773-9463 Email: windsurfingantigua@hotmail.com www.windsurfantigua.net Two locations, Dickenson Bay and Jabberwock Beach, both on the north coast of the island. Windsurfing for all; beginners, intermediate and advanced shredders. Equipment rigged and ready on the beach. Island wide delivery available to your villa, boat or hotel. Call for daily wind check, rental or lesson. ‘Bend de knees feel the breeze’.

TREK TOURS Photo: Kelsang Drime

SALTY DOG’S RENTALS Jolly Harbour - Redcliffe Quay Tel: (268) 562-8444 Email: saltydogsrentals@gmail.com www.saltydogsrentals.com You can easily explore Antigua in a Caribbean-renowned Mini Moke Jumby Buggy from Salty Dog’s Rentals. Enjoy a ‘no frills but lots of thrills’ open-air motoring experience exploring ‘island style’. You can also discover Antigua on two wheels with Salty Dog’s rugged, reliable, stable and professionally maintained 50cc and 125 BWS Yamaha scooters. Also available to explore the calm, pristine waters of Jolly Beach are the latest craze (SUP) stand-up paddle boards available for rent.

Tel: (268) 774-8735/771-9508 www.trektoursantigua.com Hiking with Trek Tours gives you meaningful connections with our tropical paradise, observing details that typical tourists miss, and enjoying spontaneous encounters along the way. Take a guided hike to the historic ruins of Forts George, Barrington and Berkeley, and also the rainforest paths which lead to Signal Hill and Mount Obama. Tours include complimentary water and are scheduled daily at 8am and 12 noon, catering to varying fitness levels. The tours are: Sugar Apple (easy), Mango (medium), Tamarind (challenging), Stinking Toe (mountain slayer!). Their popular ‘Sunset Trek’ is offered on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 5pm. Their guides provide excellent customer service and offer life enrichment through nature.

ACTION & AdVENTURE

FLY CHL (Caribbean Helicopters) Fort Road, St. John’s Tel: (268) 562-8687/460-5900 Email: reservations@caribbeanhelicopters.com www.flychl.com Soar over Antigua’s historic sites, turquoise waters and spectacular beaches or experience the impact of Montserrat’s active volcano first-hand. Enjoy Antigua from both air and land in the new ‘Heaven and Earth’ tour, a must for the island’s first timers. Or for those wanting to go off the beaten path, the truly unforgettable ‘Barbuda Experience’ is the tour for you. Custom charters are also available to most Caribbean islands aboard helicopters or executive style twin-engine airplanes.

EMERALD ISLE TOURS (Montserrat) - by Jenny Photo: courtesy FLY CHL

DEEP SEA FISHING Nightwing Charters Tel: (268) 464-4665 Overdraft Tel: (268) 720-4954/463-3112 Experience the excitement of fishing for marlin, tuna, kingfish, wahoo, barracuda and even shark in the Atlantic fishing grounds of Antigua. Two deep sea fishing charter companies – ‘Overdraft’ and ‘Nightwing Charters’ aim to have you and your family ‘hooked’ by the end of your trip.

FOOTSTEPS HIKING Tel: (268) 460-1234 / 773-2345 Email: info@hikingantigua.com www.hikingantigua.com Go hiking with Footsteps Hiking and discover the hidden secrets of the rainforest. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through mountain trails to Signal Hill where you will enjoy a 360 degree view of the island. Hiking tours start from Fig Tree Studio Art Gallery and take 2 ½ hours. Don’t worry that this is a major marathon, but rather a leisurely walk for you to experience beautiful nature. Custom tours to Rendezvous Bay are also available. Water and fresh lemonade are provided.

Tel: (268) 461-9361/722-8188/9092 Email: jennytours@hotmail.com www.jennytours.webs.com Jenny Tours offers day tour services to Montserrat via ferry and plane from Antigua. The package includes ferry/air return fares, a guided tour and lunch. Other interesting activities which can be arranged include hiking, birdwatching and a boat tour to Plymouth to see the devastated capital, truly an astonishing sight. Jenny Tours can also arrange short or long term stayover visits at hotels, villas, guest houses or apartments. Tours available Wednesday, Friday and Sundays. Check-in 7:30am at Brysons Pier, Heritage Quay.

MONTSERRAT ADVENTURE A visit to the neighbouring island of Montserrat will give you memories to last a lifetime. It is accessible either by a 15-minute flight with Caribbean Helicopters or a 2-hour ferry ride from St. John’s. Jenny Day Tours organises great expeditions. Now famous for its volcanic activities, Montserrat presents a landscape almost beyond imagination. You’ll get a glimpse of all that remains of Plymouth, the island’s once beautiful historic capital, now destroyed by the volcano. The few remaining Montserratians have shown their stalwart spirit by organising a number of unique festivals and events during the year. The Montserrat National Trust is also very active. Before the volcano, Montserrat was known as ‘the other Emerald Isle’ because it was so green and it still celebrates St. Patrick’s Festival (mid-March). The adventurous traveller can enjoy nine worldclass hiking trails. You might spot one of the 34 species of birds that inhabit the island. You can also explore Montserrat’s aquatic life by hiring a boat or kayak. Little Bay in the north offers safe anchorage for yachts. While in Antigua try to find time for the experience of a lifetime by visiting Montserrat. Visit www.visitmontserrat.com

Antigua’s Offshore Islands

Photo: Hellsgate Island courtesy Rachel Dornellas

Antigua is blessed with many offshore islands, often referred to as ‘the last refuge’ for local and globally significant wildlife. Of course, they can only be reached by boat, but as the seas are generally calm and the distances short they are accessible by small vessels, as well as by larger yachts - provided you can navigate between the coral reefs! Most of the day-trip cruise boats tie up close to the main islands. These are located in Antigua’s North Sound, an idyllic marine park off Antigua’s north-east coast and renowned for its sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and relaxed Robinson Crusoe-like atmosphere. Great Bird island is particularly popular, although during the week one can often have the entire island to oneself. You may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the harmless and endangered small Antigua Racer snake to be found nowhere else in the world. A ferry service operates to Bird Island from Shell Beach Marina (call Ocean Adventures for times (268) 464-7576/561-1835). Nearby Guiana Island also has a wide sandy beach. Green Island further along the coast is particularly attractive and close to Harmony Hall for extra special lunches. Another smaller island which is accessible is Prickly Pear off the Hodges Bay area on the north coast. Day trips are available by Miguel’s Holiday Adventure - see www.pricklypearisland.com But most of the tiny islands which dot the sea are really just islets, home only to the seabirds which wheel and call overhead. These islets are not just rocks in the ocean, but are often covered in attractive green foliage. Another particularly interesting island is Rabbit Island, home to breeding colonies of the Caribbean Brown Pelicans which are the only diving pelicans in the world.

They raise their young in twiggy nests, clearly visible for anyone who is passing. Some have the good fortune to see the tiny babies with large beaks open, growing to become awkward juveniles, eventually flying off until the next season. Do not disturb them and view from a distance. At Hell’s Gate Island there is an incredible coral/ limestone bridge, formed by the elements over millennia. It is really a heavenly gate, but is perhaps named for the wild Atlantic sea visible through the archway. It is not recommended to stroll across the bridge because it is very fragile - we neither want to destroy this or ourselves! Some 25-miles away is Antigua’s ‘third’ possession, the remote and interesting island of Redonda where phosphate was once mined and guano collected for fertiliser. Nowadays it’s uninhabited and access is very limited. Only the most intrepid can go there and scramble up the sides to the flatter top where there are ruins of those earlier activities. Redonda was once home to rare goats, but now only the Frigate Birds wheel about overhead. One larger island close to the north shore is Long Island, the exclusive home of the rich and famous who appreciate the privacy Antigua accords such visitors. The exclusive Jumby Bay resort is here and even more luxurious after extensive refurbishments. Our unique offshore islands are usually pristine as everyone recognises the vital importance of leaving no trace of themselves behind. Visitors and Antiguans alike appreciate these wonderful offshore islands which retain the unique charm that has prevailed for so long and which will continue for future generations. We wish to thank the Antigua Environmental Awareness Group for their contribution to this article.

Sail Away for the day Don’t miss the chance of a day trip at sea. Antigua’s catamarans and yachts offer a variety of different excursions, with swimming, lunch and an endless supply of drinks usually involved! And look out for the chance to snorkel off Cades Reef.

Photo: courtesy Eli Fuller of Adventure Antigua Tel: 726-6355

JOY SAILING TOURS Tel: 736-6953 Welcome aboard the classic Bristol 41.1ft. sailing yacht, aptly named JOY. Whether you are looking for a day of relaxed cruising or a more active experience taking the helm and trimming the sails, JOY lives up to her name. Ideal for groups of up to four, JOY offers memorable trips ranging from day sailing to extensive cruises of the Caribbean.

WADADLI CATS

Tel: 462-4792 One of the longest established sailing companies in Antigua, the Wadadli Cats fleet of catamarans includes the 66ft. ‘Spirit of Antigua’. This state-of-the-art vessel offers fast and exhilarating sailing speeds, as well as three different cruises. Choose between Bird Island, Cades Reef and the Circumnavigation of Antigua, the latter including lunch at Green Island.

MYSTIC II SAILING CATAMARAN Tel: 480-1225 This 72ft. sailing catamaran will whisk you away with the island breezes for an unforgettable day in the sun. Enjoy a memorable day on your own ‘private island’ at Bird Island, or sail across to Cades Reef for some great snorkelling. You’re also invited to sail along the coast as the sun goes down, the open bar and finger foods enhancing this romantic experience. ONDECK Falmouth Harbour Tel: (268) 562-6696 Email: pa@ondecksailing.com www: ondecksailing.com If you want to go sailing you need to go Ondeck! All their trips are tailored to suit your needs, from fun racing for novices to laid-back cruising whilst sipping a glass of bubbly and sampling great local food. Ondeck also teaches sailing with short and longer residential courses available, and there’s even the opportunity to take part in any of the Caribbean Regattas.

EXCELLENCE POWER CATAMARAN

Tel: 480-1225 The 82ft. Excellence power catamaran offers tours to our sister island of Barbuda. The 6-hour trip includes swimming, beachcombing and a visit to the world’s largest frigate bird colony. Or why not take a Circumnavigation Cruise right around Antigua? You’ll sail past sites like Devil’s Bridge, the Pillars of Hercules and Bird Island, snorkelling and lunch also included.

SAIlAWAY

WAdAdlI CATS

Choose from 3 cruises ...

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Sail

wadadlicats.com or 268.462.4792

CIRCUMNAVIGATION OF ANTIGUA There’s no better boat than the ‘Spirit of Antigua’ for this 60-mile trip. Your day includes exciting open ocean sailing along the north coast, as well as snorkelling and lunch at Green Island. In the afternoon you take a leisurely sail past English Harbour before returning to your departure point.

CAdES REEF CRUISE Cruise along the calm leeward coast past Pelican Island to Antigua’s most impressive barrier reef. Anchor in shallow waters at this snorkellers’ paradise stretching for an amazing two miles.

BIRd ISlANd CRUISE Sail the tranquil waters of the north-east coast to Bird Island, one of Antigua’s most famous National Parks. Enjoy a tour of the island and a mouthwatering lunch before swimming in the calm protected bay. This cruise is a particularly good choice for children and beginner snorkellers. Private day and sunset cruises can also be arranged for anniversaries, birthdays, weddings and corporate events.

www.wadadlicats.com Call: (268) 462 4792 Email: wadadlicats@candw.ag

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circumnavigation I cades reef I bird island

A PIECE OF PARAdISE

hy not really make yourself at home in Antigua? Purchasing or renting a second home on the island is becoming increasingly popular and there is a wide choice of villas, apartments and real estate options available. Many visitors to Antigua fall in love with the island and dream of having a second home in the sun. A second home is also a first-class investment opportunity with many homes rented out either short or long term. Whether you’re buying Antiguan real estate for rental, residential, retirement or investment purposes, you’ll be joining an ever-increasing band of expatriates who find the idea too good to ignore. Antigua offers visitors an enviable lifestyle of sun, sea and sand. The economy is driven primarily by tourism, and our 100,000 permanent residents are an interesting mix of peoples from all over the world and other Caribbean islands. Another added incentive for many purchasers is that Antigua passports may be obtained through the new Citizenship Investment Programme (CIP) introduced on qualified properties.

Photo: courtesy the Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority

Photo: courtesy Sugar Ridge

Today most property buyers are internet savvy and arrive on the island having already narrowed their choices down to certain property types. In advance of your arrival it’s recommended you contact a professional estate agent (a member of ABRA, the Antigua Barbuda Association of Realtors) as they will provide you with the most up-to-date market conditions and generally have access to all property listings. A wealth of real estate options is on offer in Antigua. Many overseas visitors settle in the areas of English Harbour, Jolly Harbour, Brown’s Bay, Hodges Bay, Crosbies, Paradise View or Cedar Valley. Location is vital and will have a great impact on your own enjoyment, as well as on the resale value. Apartments, condos, villas and pre-owned homes and villas are all readily available. Some are tucked away in gated communities or hotel developments and you can take advantage of common amenities like swimming pools, tennis courts, shops and watersports. If you prefer to purchase a piece of land and build your own home there are many island-based contractors who will be delighted to help with the design and construction. Antigua has excellent architects, builders and contractors who generally handle all building systems, but are especially adept at concrete blocks and wood construction. Materials, windows, doors, cabinets, fixtures and furnishings are readily available, or can be imported specifically for your project. continued on page 80

Sugar Ridge Antigua’s ‘sweet spot’, Sugar Ridge is a boutique hotel with luxury homes. It is located on a lush hillside with stunning views over the Caribbean Sea. The exceptional leisure facilities include an Aveda Concept spa, Cybex gym, fitness studio, 3 pools, sundecks and chill-out areas, and some of the best beaches in Antigua are close by. There are two restaurants - Carmichael’s hilltop fine dining venue, and the fashionable Sugar Club – both of which enjoy top reputations for excellence, while the bar is the place to ‘lime’ at the weekends. The hotel has been open since 2009, so the focus is now upon building homes. By building spec homes all the uncertainty is taken away. You can acquire a skillfully finished house with all the facilities and fun of Antigua’s hippest hotel right on-site, a concept that is proving very popular with buyers. The standard homes are of classic Caribbean design with wood shingle roofs, copper gutters, travertine tiles and beautiful finishes throughout. The glass sliding pocket doors maximise the views and sense of space, and the high ceilings and louvered windows take advantage of the cooling breezes. Infinity pools, perfect for enjoying a cocktail while the sun goes down, are standard finishing touches.

Sugar Ridge continues the process of designing more homes for construction and sale. The standard homes are popular for their design, quality and value, and are available in different price brackets. And you can still build your own dream home on any of the other available plots. Investors will be interested to know that full villa management is available through the hotel rental pool, and that Sugar Ridge is zoned in the Citizenship by Investment Programme. www.sugarridgehomes.com

Prices from US$950,000 www.sugarridgeantigua.com

info@sugarridgeantigua.com

+1 (268) 562 7727

Luxury Homes Boutique Hotel Carmichael’s Restaurant Sugar Club Aveda Concept Spa

REAl ESTATE continued from page 76 Of course you don’t actually have to buy to enjoy all the benefits of a private hideaway in Antigua. The island has always had luxury villas available for rental, many of them featuring their own pools and surprisingly cost effective for families or groups of friends. While you, your family and friends enjoy all the amenities of home, the helpful staff take away all the domestic responsibilities and leave you free to relax.

OCEAN GRAND BEACH VILLAS Ocean Grand Beach Villas are set to become the number one privately gated residential address in Antigua, with a unique location on a peninsula overlooking Dickenson Bay and the tranquil Caribbean Sea, adjacent to Sandals Resorts. Exclusive amenities will include ocean front villa living, 24-hour security, a fully-serviced marina, an on-site swimming pool and pavilion, on-site management and concierge services, maid service, local sports including golf, tennis, and water-skiing. Owners can purchase one of only 52 secluded beachfront condominiums, which can be used or rented out in various combinations, with the option of a private serviced dock in the adjacent marina. All the condos will be finished to very high standards, including a full turnkey package with a modern-transitional furniture and décor package including bedding, linens and all kitchen necessities.

Photo: courtesy Caribrep

THE PENINSULA The Peninsula is located in the North Sound on the Atlantic coast of Antigua. It’s a truly breathtaking setting, the three headlands that make up The Peninsula surrounded by the shallow, navigable waters of Belfast Bay. The stunning harbour is an excellent breeding ground for tropical fish and turtles, whilst small, uninhabited islands with white sandy beaches and coral reefs are easily accessible by boat. The Peninsula is for people who appreciate peace, tranquility and privacy. A small number of quality land plots are available for the construction of waterfront homes. Each plot is approximately oneacre in size, the land sloping towards the inlets within the bay and affording privacy, cooling breezes and picture postcard views.

Preconstruction pricing is US$400,000. Owners will also be eligible to apply for an Antigua passport through the Citizenship Investment Programme. Ocean Grand Beach Villas and The Peninsula are registered under the Citizenship by Investment Programme. Contact don@wardassociates.com

The Peninsula

REAl ESTATE

INSURE YOUR PROPERTY Antigua’s insurance business has developed to meet the increased demand for purchasing real estate. A variety of dependable and well-established insurance companies are located here, giving you peace of mind when it comes to buying property on the island. The Caribbean Alliance Insurance Company Ltd. offers reliable insurance coverage for every need from its prestigious head office in St. John’s. Rated A-(Excellent) at A.M. Best (the independent rating agency based in the US). Caribbean Alliance is one of only three companies in the whole of the Caribbean to have achieved that financial strength rating. With over 20 years’ experience, Caribbean Alliance Insurance offers high service standards, and prides itself on its ability to pay claims promptly and efficiently. Its agents offer a professional service

combined with expert knowledge. The company’s strong reputation fuels its business growth. Antigua is home to Anjo Insurances, agents for Massy United Insurance. Established in Antigua for over 86 years, Anjo has been providing excellent customer service and fair claims settlement for decades. The company has a well-deserved reputation for dealing quickly and efficiently with insurance matters. As agents for Massy United Insurance, their A.M. Best international rating of A-Excellent reaffirms the company’s financial strength. Anjo has three branches conveniently spread across the island at Woods Centre, Jolly Harbour and Falmouth Harbour. Based on Redcliffe Street in St. John’s, ABI Insurance Company Limited offers a full range of insurance products including buildings, contents, public liability and contractors all risks. The company is committed to offering its policy-holders security against financial loss and providing all claimants with a prompt and efficient settlement. Specialist coverage that is not offered on the local market is sourced by ABI Insurance on the international market through its highly rated brokers. The aim of ABI Insurance is to provide superior services at affordable prices.

SHOP FOR YOUR VILLA Antigua has a number of excellent stores able to provide most of the goods required for your new villa, condominium or apartment. While you may be thinking of importing many of the necessary items, you should certainly explore the outlets in Antigua where the products are readily available. An added advantage is immediate recourse to the store if anything goes wrong. An exceptional store close to St. John’s is the Townhouse Megastore. This extensive super store and showroom has a great selection of name brand furniture, appliances, electronic equipment, tools and household items with a good range of spare parts. Good prices, fast delivery service and spacious parking facilities are available. The Furniture Gallery on the airport road and Gigi on Factory Road are also well worth perusing for international furniture brands. However, if you want something different, head either to El Caribe Bazar overlooking Perry Bay or The Gazebo on Friar’s Hill Road. Both these emporiums sell furniture and household items sourced from all around the world. Also on this busy road are two excellent secondhand stores where you may find excellent and unusual household goods – The Stock Exchange and The Exchange. Quality household linens are available at The Linen Shop in Heritage Quay.

REAl ESTATE

SEA VIEW HEIGHTS LTD. Real estate agency, Sea View Heights, is Antiguabased, specialising in rentals and sales of exclusive villas located in such stunning locations as Galley Bay Heights, The Peninsula, English Harbour, Emerald Cove and Nonsuch Bay. They arrange luxury villa holidays and ensure a relaxing vacation enhanced by fun-filled activities. They also offer professional real estate services to guide you in the purchase, or the construction of a villa in Antigua. Their partner, the Antigua-based construction company New System Ltd., has been building customised villas in Antigua for the past 20 years. Contact Katia Fattarelli on (268) 462-6266 www.antiguaholidayvillas.com www.windwardantigua.com

STUDIOS & APARTMENTS There is a wide range of attractive studios and apartments available in areas of Antigua including Tranquility Bay on Jolly Beach; on Dickenson Bay there is Antigua Village, Buccaneer Beach Club, and Siboney Beach Club. Dickenson Bay ranks amongst the island’s best beaches and is a particularly suitable choice for selfcatering vacations. It’s an easy drive to supermarkets such as 1st Choice on the Anchorage Road, as well as the impressive Epicurean on the Friar’s Hill Road. Nearby at Wood’s Centre you’ll find usual facilities such as banks, the well-stocked Wood’s Pharmacy with expert pharmacists and a state-of-the art dental clinic. Dr.Sengupta and Associates. There are a number of doctors’ offices, and the Bel Lab medical laboratory which is particularly useful for urgent medical laboratory testing.

TIMESHARE Timeshare is also available and has its own associate benefits. Not only can you take advantage of thousands of different exchange destinations and a guaranteed high standard of accommodation, but also tremendous savings on vacation costs. The ability to rent, sell or keep a timeshare property as part of your estate gives the owner the benefits associated with a vacation home whilst still enjoying world-wide vacations each year.

Photo: courtesy Sea View Heights

REAl ESTATE

Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Expand your investment horizons, while securing your future and the future of your family. Why choose Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship? Mobility • With an Antigua and Barbuda passport, a citizen has visa free travel to over 130 countries, including the UK, Canada and the countries of the Schengen area. Dual citizenship is permitted, allowing for exibility. Lifestyle • Year-round warm weather, white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, Antigua and Barbuda is a worldclass destination with direct daily ights from the United Kingdom, United States and Canada. • Politically and economically stable with a low crime rate, Antigua and Barbuda benefits from a fixed exchange rate with the US dollar (1 US$ = 2.7 EC$). English is the official language. Greater Economic Freedom • No taxes levied on worldwide income, no inheritance tax or capital gains tax. Direct Route to Citizenship • Applicants can become citizens within 90 – 120 days. In addition, families including spouse, dependent children under the age of 25 years, parents and grandparents over 65 years may qualify for citizenship through the submission of one simultaneous application. Investment Options Antigua and Barbuda offers three main investment options to acquire citizenship through its programme which requires an applicant to make a contribution to the country in exchange for Antigua and Barbuda citizenship.

The options are as follows: National Development Fund (NDF) Option • The NDF option is based on a non-refundable contribution of US$250,000 to the National Development Fund or an approved charity. The NDF contribution is currently being offered at USD$200,000 for a limited time. Real Estate Investment Option • An applicant is required to make a minimum investment of US$400,000 in a pre-approved real estate development for a period of five years. Business Investment Option • An individual can make an investment of at least US$1,500,000 in an approved business to qualify for citizenship or make a joint business investment in an approved business where each investor applicant contributes a minimum of US$400,000.00 each, totaling a minimum amount of US$5,000,000 to the joint investment. Island Living Investment Services Ltd. (ILIS) is a leading authorized service provider for The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Programme. With unrivaled experience in preparing and filing successful citizenship applications, clients are assured of efficient, personal service. Island Living (ILIS) provides services in all aspects of the citizenship application process including real estate, investment facilitation and concierge services. For more information, please visit http://www.ilis.ag

REAl ESTATE

THE LEGALITIES OF PURCHASING A PIECE OF PARADISE When purchasing real estate in Antigua you’ll need to retain the services of a lawyer. Legal costs range from 1% to 2% depending upon the purchase price. You’ll also need to apply for a Non-Citizen’s Licence which is generally 5% of the purchase price and can take up to four months to be processed. In addition to this, a payment of 2.5% government transfer fee is required.

REAl ESTATE

MARINA RESIDENCES IN JOLLY HARBOUR Orange Limited, developer of Pearnâ€™s Point at the northern area of Jolly Harbour, presents Marina Residences. This is the new luxury condominium development, also in the popular Jolly Harbour area, adjacent to the commercial centre, the golf course and within walking distance of one of the most unique beaches in Antigua. Marina Residences offers 26 two-bedroom suites and 6 one-bedroom suites, ranging from 1,798 to 1,148 square feet in living space. Each suite is designed with a wrap-around terrace positioned to the west, ideal for long summer evenings and Antiguan sunsets. An infinity pool sits above the boardwalk offering stunning views of the marina. There is convenient on-site parking and private entrances to each condominium. Marina Residences has been designed to offer spacious accommodation in luxurious, contemporary environments with up-to-date technology. The mix of natural stone and wood and the latest hurricane-

proof construction technology re ects the sustainable and eco-friendly character of the development. The exterior design of the contemporary Caribbean-styled residences is practical, yet elegant. Only high quality building materials are used - slate roof tiles, durable natural roofing material and stainless steel handrails. The modern stonework design around the columns and along the boardwalk enhances the nautical motif. Each suite will be elegantly furnished to create a warm Caribbean and modern ambiance. Special attention will be given to creating light, airy and spacious living areas. Marina Residences has been approved under the Citizen by Investment Programme (CIP) and offers outstanding investment opportunities. Visit www.marina-residences-antigua.com Email: info@orangelimited.com

REAl ESTATE

CARIBREP VILLAS ANTIGUA ‘There’s no place like home’ - the mantra of travellers over the years and particularly true in today’s cost conscious times. Indeed villa holidays can often be the most affordable way to vacation nowadays, especially if travelling with the family.

Antigua’s Villa Rental Company since 1982

The Caribbean’s off-season begins in mid-April and runs through to mid-December, rental prices dropping by as much as 50% and some villas offering serious discounts - stay for 7 nights but only pay for 5, for example, or an optional maid and cook included in the rates.

Palm Villa

Our luxury villas are located all around the island and are either delightfully secluded or conveniently close to resorts and amenities. Their sizes and prices also vary and we pride ourselves on finding somewhere to suit your needs. TEL: (268) 463 2070 / 725 5507 FAX: (268) 560 1824 Email: info@caribrepvillas.com www.caribrepvillas.com LINDSAY HILL, PO BOX W212, ST. JOHN’S, ANTIGUA

It you still prefer to travel in the high season, many villa companies are maintaining the same rates as last year, and for even bigger savings, you can book two weeks in the winter and take advantage of a complimentary stay for 5 nights in the summer.

Barbara Japal and Caribrep Villas have been renting some of Antigua’s best villas since 1982. www.caribrepvillas.com

he main duty-free shopping areas in St. John’s are Redcliffe Quay and Heritage Quay. The boutiques, jewellers, craft shops and adjacent market are complemented by quaint cafés and bars.

Modern Heritage Quay extends along a wide boulevard leading from the cruise ship pier. The area is enlivened with a casino and clocktower, leading out towards St. Mary’s Street. Heritage Quay offers a wide variety of duty-free shops and boutiques catering for every taste, from designer clothing and jewellery to local arts and crafts. Nearby are bars and restaurants.

Photo: courtesy Sterlings

SUPER SHOPPING

The boardwalk along the waterfront leads into the beautifully restored buildings and courtyards of Redcliffe Quay and adjoining Redcliffe Street, both built with old bricks which came as ballast in sailing ships long ago. There is a cruise ship pier leading into Redcliffe Quay where there are delightful shops in the shade of ancient trees, as well as a number of restaurants and bars. You can buy your starter in one restaurant, your main course in another and your dessert in yet a third! Relax in the friendly wine bar at Redcliffe Quay or visit the ice cream parlour to keep cool. Between the two Quays and abutting Redcliffe Street and Thames Street is the colourful two-storey Vendors’ Mall with its myriad souvenirs including T-shirts, hats, shirts, wraps and pareos. On the outskirts of St. John’s along the Friars Hill Road leading north, is the shopping area of Woods Mall. There is a wide range of shops including the excellent Woods Pharmacy, banks, post office, LIME (Cable & Wireless) office and a travel agency - Carib World Travel. Along the Friars Hill Road is the Village Walk Mall which has a number of shops including a first class liquor store, Quin Farara and the Café Bella which is the perfect place for after-shopping refreshments. Further along is the Royal Palm Mall which has a number of outlets including a beauty salon and The Larder restaurant serving excellent food with the best sushi on island. The enormous Epicurean supermarket is set back from Friars Hill Road. A number of major companies have built new offices in this vicinity. Not far away on the Anchorage Road is the well-stocked 1st Choice supermarket. For last-minute gifts, perfume, jewellery and musical memories of Antigua there are also an excellent range of shops at the brand new V.C. Bird International Airport. To take advantage of the duty-free prices at Heritage and Redcliffe Quays, remember to take your passport and travel documents with you.

HERITAGE QUAY

St. John’s Street Map

Abbott’s Jewellery & Perfumery Baobab Cameras Plus Cattleya Colombian Emeralds Jeweler's Warehouse Kings Casino Land Lipstick Longchamp Shades Shouls Duty Free Liquor & Perfumery Sterlings Tabaco Negro Tropic Wear World of Watches

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SHOPPING

ABBOTT’S JEWELLERY & PERFUMERY Heritage Quay Tel: 462-3107/8 Abbott’s Jewellery & Perfumery in duty-free Heritage Quay is the authorised retailer for Rolex, and carries renowned Swiss-made timepieces by Omega, Breitling, TAG Heuer, Raymond Weil, Gucci, Tissot, Carl F. Bucherer, Longines, Rado and Frederique Constant. Also available are timepieces by Seiko, Hugo Boss, Lacoste, Tommy Hilfiger and Timex. Abbott’s has stunning Jewellery collections by David Yurman, John Hardy, Le Vian, Marco Bicego, Tacori, Chimento, Rebecca, Breuning and Chamilia as well as coloured gems, diamonds and pearls. The adjoining Fragrance Boutique carries the latest selection of fragrances and gift sets. There’s something for every occasion such as Cross Pens, Lladro figurines, Swarovski crystal ornaments and jewellery, fine glasswork pieces by Nachtmann, dazzling crystal by Mikasa and a variety of delightful pieces from the Nursery Rhyme collection by Aynsley.

BAOBAB Heritage Quay – upstairs Tel: 562-8305 Baobab Company is a unique T-Shirt and ready-towear clothing collection born in the Indian Ocean in 1995. The brand’s casual yet highly graphic style beautifully conveys the soul and culture of the islands. Much emphasis is placed upon ethnic patterns and textures that are always creatively presented.

TABACO NEGRO SHADES Heritage Quay, St. John’s Tel: 562-5662 Shades offers a wide range of designer sunglasses at great duty-free prices. Shop in spacious comfort with the best and latest selection of sunglasses available in Antigua: Maui Jim, Rayban, Oakley, Prada, Gucci, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Juicy Couture, Michael Kors, Coach and D & G.

9494

45 Heritage Quay Tel: 562-5866 E: admin@tabaco-negro.com www.tabaco-negro.com This wonderful oasis of aromas is a must for cigar lovers. The only authorised dealer for fine Cuban cigars in Antigua, its wide range includes Cohiba, Hoya de Monterrey and Romeo & Juliet. Whether you enjoy the occasional interlude with your favourite avour or whether you are a serious connoisseur, the knowledgeable staff will help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

SHOPPING

STERLINGS-WORLD OF WATCHES

JEWELER’S WAREHOUSE

Heritage Quay Tel: 562-7080 For the latest styles in trendy watches, plus a distinctly personal shopping experience, a visit to Antigua’s only watch boutique is a must. A great selection is available including Michael Kors, Citizen, Shinola, Hamilton, G-shock, Fossil, Swiss Army, Emporio Armani, Guess, Ice and Luminox.

Heritage Quay Tel: 462-2343 Email: 26097@dfch.com Antigua’s duty-free value leader, Jeweler’s Warehouse offers affordable prices, certified appraisals and amazing deals on it’s jewellery with savings up to 50% off. They stock a large selection of freshwater pearls and designer watches, as well as gold or silver jewellery set in precious and semiprecious gemstones such as diamonds, tanzanite and topaz.

CATTLEYA CLOTHING BOUTIQUE Heritage Quay Tel: 462-8191 Email: lipstickantigua@hotmail.com If you’re looking for glamorous, stylish and sophisticated resort wear, Cattleya Boutique offers a wide selection of day and evening attire suitable for every occasion. Quality brands include Frank Lyman, Cut Loose, Flax, Analili, Eva Varro and Comfy. Located next door to Longchamp, Cattleya Boutique offers great customer service and a special experience.

LIPSTICK Heritage Quay Tel: 562-1130/33 Fax: 562-1131 Email: lipstickantigua@hotmail.com This elegant beauty boutique offers the widest selection of luxury fragrances, skin care and cosmetics on the island. The gracious, expert staff can guide you through the wide range of products. Showing lines of Chanel, Christian Dior, Calvin Klein, Givenchy, Yves St. Laurent, Estée Lauder and many more.

WOODS PHARMACY Woods Mall Tel: 462-9288/7 This excellent pharmacy has a first class range of pharmaceutical products and is well located with convenient parking. This cool, spacious and efficient pharmacy offers a wide range of necessities and luxuries with good customer service and reasonable prices. Open Monday-Saturday 8am-9pm, Sunday 8am-6pm.

EXOTIC ANTIGUA Redcliffe Quay Tel: 562-1288 Email: exoticantigua@gmail.com Wrap yourself in lush tropical clothing! Exotic Antigua specialises in jewellery, bags, hats and linen clothing for both men and women at affordable prices. No visit to Antigua is complete without calling in at Exotic Antigua voted the number one shop in the Caribbean!

SHOPPING

CAMERAS PLUS Heritage Quay Tel: 562-4738/462-3619 Cameras Plus specialises in cameras and accessories to ensure your Antigua vacation is picture perfect! With brands such as Nikon, Canon, Sony, Panasonic, Olympus, GoPro, GoPole, ISAW sports cameras and Casio, your every need will be satisfied. Also available is a wide range of batteries, chargers and memory cards, as well as an extensive selection of binoculars, spotting scopes, sunglasses, tripods, readers and camera bags.

THE MAP AND BOOK SHOP Redcliffe Street, St. John’s Tel: 462-3993 Over 22 years of unique service and experience. Maps; prints and charts; tourist guides; books on tropical fish, birds, owers, cookery and history of the Caribbean; academic books; vocational books for health, nursing and hospitality training; bibles of all kinds; religious books for adults and children; greeting cards for all occasions. What they don’t have in stock they will order for you. So come and share in the ‘2 for 1’ experience of The Map and Book Shop.

LAND #108 Heritage Quay Tel: 462-0746 A unique store specialising in leather goods for over 20 years - operated by the owner Debra Merchant. Land’s finest 100% leather products are on show permanently at Land’s Miami showroom with three new collections each year. Visit Land in Antigua for travel goods, handbags, briefcases, belts, wallets and fine shoes.

British American Mall Redcliffe Street, St. John’s Antigua, W.I.

giving over 22 years of

SHOPPING

SILVER CHELLES Redcliffe Quay Tel: 789-2662 Email: info@SilverChelles.com www.SilverChelles.com Silver Chelles is a beautiful jewellery boutique. Specialising in polished seashells set in sterling silver, all jewellery is handcrafted and unique with a wide variety of pendants, bracelets, rings and earrings. You will also find an elegant selection of seashell-adorned evening bags, small gifts, fashion jewellery and specimen shells. Silver Chelles is a boutique not to be missed.

STERLINGS Heritage Quay Tel: 562-5662 Sterlings is a jewellery store with a difference - the exclusive retailer for Pandora and sells watches by Fendi, Michele, Michael Kors and Swatch. The varied collection includes silver, gold and stainless-steel jewellery from top designers. Marah Lago, Michael Kors, Links of London, Roberto Coin, Alex & Ani. One of a kind amber pieces are available plus the perfect diamond from Hearts on Fire, the world’s most perfect cut diamonds.

TROPIC WEAR #17 Heritage Quay Tel: 462-6251 This boutique offers duty-free shopping for men and women’s Levis and Dockers clothing. Tropic Wear stocks the famous 501 original button y jeans and skinny, straight, de-stressed and bootcut styles. Also available is the full line of Levi’s men’s underwear and accessories including wallets, caps and belts. The essential dress shirt, t-shirt and polo are also available.

SHOPPING

&UDE+ROH /LTXRUV

CRAB HOLE LIQUORS Cobbs Cross, Falmouth Nelsons Dockyard, English Harbour Tel: 460-1212 Stop in at one of three outlets in the area for a great selection of fine wines and spirits. Crab Hole Liquors is also a handy convenience store providing you with all the essentials from groceries to phone cards.

TICCHIO - ITALIAN FOOD AND WINE

Retailer, Wholesaler, Agents, Distributors, Dealers in Fine Wines, Spirits, Cigars, Cigarettes, Juices, Sodas, Party Favours, Groceries, Lottery Agent, Phone Card Distributor and lots more. Cobbs Cross, Falmouth, Tel: (268) 460-1212 Fax: (268) 460-8930 VHF 68 Nelson’s Dockyard, English Harbour, Tel: (268) 462-9082 E-mail: crabholeliquors@candw.ag

Woods Centre, Friars Hill Road Tel: 562-8673 Ticchio Italian Food and Wine - a new concept store includes a store and restaurant. The store sells a wide range of deli products from Italy, from pasta to ham to extra virgin olive oil. Special products arrive weekly from Italy by air including gluten free pasta, confectionary and much more... In the wine area, Ticchio has created a cellar with wines from all over Italy.

COCO SHOP Redcliffe Quay Tel: 562-8656 www.cocoshopantigua.com This charming boutique, established in 1949, specialises in unique island-style gifts and clothing all made by local seamstresses and artisans, using colorful batiks and Liberty of London fabrics. Chic items include: cosmetic and toiletry cases, purses, iPad covers, quilted placemats, napkins, bottle bags, beach bags, stuffed animals and their famous rag rugs. Take home a legendary piece of Antigua.

GOLDSMITTY Redcliffe Quay Tel: 462-4601 www.goldsmitty.com Since 1981 Goldsmitty has offered unique jewellery in gold and silver. Owner and designer Hans Smit uses the finest gemstones collected on trips to worldwide exotic locations. Hans realised many longtime clients and firsttime visitors want authentic, indigenous momentos. Therefore for Goldsmitty’s 30th Anniversary, Hans created ‘Caribbean Corner’. Each unique design is made with rare local conch pearls, or beautiful blue larimar, or amber containing insects, both from the Dominican Republic. In 2011, Hans discovered our own ‘piece of the rock’ - 30 million-year-old petrified coral, officially trademarked as ‘Antiguanite’. The great variety of stones are cut and polished in various shapes, set in gold and silver. Choose stones and designs to be specially made for collection before you depart.

SHOUL’S DUTY FREE LIQUOR AND PERFUMERY

COLOMBIAN EMERALDS INTERNATIONAL (CEI)

#60 Heritage Quay Tel: 462-2606 This enticing one-stop store offers a wide assortment of liquor, perfumes, confectionary, tobacco products and accessories. Choose from the extensive range of international liquors and spirits, or take a little bit of Antigua back to family and friends with a bottle of Cavalier or English Harbour Rum. Explore the fragrance department and take advantage of the duty-free prices on world-renowned brands like Guerlain, Cartier, Estée Lauder, Bvlgari, Hérmes, Hugo Boss, Calvin Klein, Juicy Couture, Paco Rabanne and Prada. The courteous, professional staff are waiting to serve you.

Heritage Quay; Sandals Grande Resort & Spa; St. James’s Club; The Verandah; V.C. Bird International Airport Tel: 462-3462 Email: 25093dfch.com www.ColombianEmeralds.com With over 40 years experience and five convenient island locations, Colombian Emeralds International is an excellent choice for all your fine jewellery, watches and accessories. CEI is a division of the Dufry Group and the largest duty-free retailer of Colombian emeralds in the world, offering global customer service, complimentary certified appraisals, insurance and even instant credit.

HOMEGROWN ANTIGUA by Edna Fortescue

Photo: Joseph Jones Photograhy

SHOPPING

Visitors to Antigua look for locally-made souvenirs to take home. Even residents prefer to take gifts that relect Antigua for friends overseas. You will be pleasantly surprised at what is available. Antiguan rums - some of the world’s best - are produced by Antigua Distillery and much appreciated as they are not readily available outside Antigua. English Harbour Light Rum and English Harbour Five Year Old Rum make attractive presents. I always take plastic bottles of Cavalier as they are light and easy to pack, cannot break and are available at most Antiguan supermarkets. There is also a miniature collection which is handy for gifts. Antigua Distillery also produces Bay Rum which is used as a cool, restorative aftershave lotion or rubbing compound. While in Antigua enjoy Oasis purified water in attractive packaging, also produced by Antigua Distillery.

These make excellent presents and the series consists of ‘Caribbean Cocktails’, dedicated to me (!), ‘Caribbean Cookery’, ‘Caribbean Herbs & Spices’ and ‘The Top 20 Places in Antigua’.

I always take a few bottles of Antiguan hot sauce, readily available throughout Antigua and much appreciated overseas. In local supermarkets you find products like guava jelly, pineapple jam and stewed tamarind. A great honey is Paige Honey, produced by Alphonso in attractive handy bottles. At St. John’s fruit and vegetable market is a shopping mall which sells handicrafts including coconut oil soap. Pure coconut oil is the latest health craze internationally. Locally grown coconut oil is readily available in Antigua. It turns into a butter-like consistency when cold but runs smoothly and sweetly when warm.

Close to the airport - and with a pretty shop in Redcliffe Quay - is The Antigua Pottery, which makes a unique range of items from small figurines and dishes to exotic table lamps. An attractive local product comes from the Antigua Candle Factory located at Jolly Harbour Marina. The factory produces Mr. Shooz soy wax and anti- mosquito citronella candles in attractive glass jars.

Look for delightful little books by Antiguan designer, Gilly Gobinet, long known for her colourful prints.

Pack your suitcase with homegrown Antiguan gifts!

At the entrance to Nelson’s Dockyard Antiguan ladies sell unique jewellery made from seeds from the wild tamarind and mimosa trees growing in Antigua. The seeds are boiled, dried in the sun and then strung with a needle to make original works of art. Look out for Vanessa’s stylish hand-painted tee shirts with fine designs especially incorporating owers, birds and tropical fishes.

Established over 50 years ago, is the Coco Shop, originally created by Amos Morrill with island inspired shirts, dresses, purses, and still with the tropical ambiance at the picturesque Redcliffe Quay outlet.

Dining Out Photo: Sheer Rocks

Antigua’s restaurants suit all tastes and pockets. There’s anything from gourmet venues showcasing French haute cuisine to casual beachfront eateries specialising in the island’s freshly-caught seafood. Treat yourselves and sample as many as possible! LE BISTRO FRENCH RESTAURANT Hodges Bay Tel: 462-3881 Recommended by Gourmet Magazine, this charming and long-established restaurant delivers a heartfelt welcome combined with a real sense of occasion. The French haute cuisine is enhanced by a superb range of vintage wines and champagnes, the service reliably polished yet distinctly personal. Chef/owner Patrick Gauducheau is in the ‘Who’s Who of Chefs’ and is featured on Discovery Channel’s ‘Great Chefs of the World’. Reservations are recommended.

CURTAIN BLUFF HOTEL RESTAURANTS The Tamarind Tree & The Sea Grape Old Road Village Tel: 462-8400 A great meal isn’t all about gourmet cuisine. Dine in Curtain Bluff’s two restaurants and the varied international menus are enhanced by beautiful surroundings and the very best service. The Tamarind Tree specialises in Continental cuisine infused with Caribbean avours. It looks out on a tree-canopied terrace that’s simply perfect for cocktails and after-dinner dancing. The Sea Grape sits right on the sands, this intimate venue open four evenings a week and offering an Italian menu with an Antiguan twist. Call for reservations.

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BAY HOUSE RESTAURANT & BAR Trade Winds Hotel Tel: 462-1223 One of Antigua’s ‘top-tables’, the Bay House offers fine dining at affordable prices. Open daily and continuously between 7am and 11pm, you are not tied to conventional meal times here. Get your day off to a great start with the Antiguan breakfast, or enjoy the spectacular views over Dickenson Bay as you treat yourself to something from the deck menu. Selected local produce inspires the à la carte dinner menu served from 6pm, the excellent wine list featuring new world wines and classics from around the world. Daily Happy Hour and tapas 5pm to 7pm.

SHEER ROCKS Cocobay Resort, St. Mary’s Tel: 464-5283 / 562-4510 With its unique waterfront setting, spectacular views and sunsets, Sheer Rocks is one of Antigua’s most acclaimed restaurants. Open daily for tapas lunch and six days a week for a la carte dinner, the Mediterraneaninspired menus are created with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced, seasonal produce. Spend your day sampling tapas, sipping cocktails, lounging on a daybed and taking a dip in the infinity plunge pool. From sunset the restaurant transforms into a romantic and stylish retreat for dinner. Reservations recommended. “Antigua’s must visit Restaurant” - Caribbean Journal. # 3 Restaurant in the Caribbean Region - 2014 Traveller’s Choice Award, Tripadvisor.

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COCONUT GROVE RESTAURANT & BEACH BAR Dickenson Bay Tel: 462-1538 Dine right on the waterfront at the Coconut Grove Restaurant & Beach Bar on Dickenson Bay. This is surely one of the most romantic restaurants in the entire Caribbean and specialises in the freshest seafood with a Caribbean avour. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, it is also the perfect place for watching the sun go down join them for ‘Happy Hour’ from 4pm to 7pm.

CLOGGY’S AYC Marina, Falmouth Harbour Tel: 460-6910 Located in Falmouth Harbour at the AYC Marina, Cloggy’s unique Mediterranean-in uenced cuisine is accompanied by beautiful views of yachts at anchor. The stylish, nautical vibe is enhanced by menus that include a large selection of grilled seafood, grilled meats and fresh lobster. Popular weekend events include relaxing Sunday brunches, and sundowner specials on lazy Saturday afternoons. Reservations are recommended. Tuesday to Saturday: Lunch 11:30am to 4:30pm. Dinner 6pm to 10pm. Sunday: Brunch 11am to 4:30pm with afterwards bar only. Closed Mondays.

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SUGAR CLUB Sugar Ridge, St. Mary’s Tel: 562-7700 Sugar Club is the social epicenter of Sugar Ridge. The indoor/outdoor restaurant and bar overlook the resort’s two swimming pools and are informal but smart. High ceilings and large open shutters provide a contemporary atmosphere cooled by Caribbean breezes. A great menu includes Tapas and Sushi. Open every day from 7am to 10pm. There is live entertainment most nights so that Sugar Club is ‘the place to be’ - only 5 minutes drive from Jolly Harbour Marina. Sugar Club offers some of the best party nights in Antigua.

CARMICHAEL’S Sugar Ridge, St. Mary’s Tel: 562-7700 Carmichael’s is quite literally above all at Sugar Ridge, commanding stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, neighbouring islands and Jolly Harbour Marina. Carmichael’s is Sugar Ridge’s open air fine dining

restaurant. The service is highly professional but the ambience is relaxing. The chic décor, wooden oors and shutters and contemporary furnishing create the atmosphere. Carmichael’s is considered one of Antigua’s finest restaurants. The international menu re ects fresh produce from Antigua’s local markets with an excellent wine list. Complimentary shuttle from Jolly Harbour Marina. Phone for reservations.

CECILIA’S HIGH POINT CAFÉ Dutchman’s Bay Tel: 562-7070 Email: cecilias@highpointantigua.com Cecilia’s offers waterfront dining in a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. You can look forward to an enticing menu, fresh seafood, pleasant music, attentive and friendly service, a comfortable setting and a view you will always remember. Cecilia’s High Point Café is five minutes from the airport and available for private functions.

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BIG BANANA PIZZA’S IN PARADISE

ADMIRAL’S INN PILLARS RESTAURANT

Redcliffe Quay Tel: 480-6985 www.bigbanana-antigua.com ‘Pizzas’, as it is affectionately known by locals has established itself over the last 30 years as a legendary casual dining rendezvous and hot spot. It is not only rightly recognised for serving some of the best pizzas in the Caribbean, but it is also renowned for its great food featuring international favourites and local specialities. The fun atmosphere and historic setting attract both locals and visitors, and over the years an impressive list of celebrities too. Located in downtown St. John’s in the old rum warehouse at Redcliffe Quay, a visit to Big Banana Pizzas in Paradise is a must for visitors to Antigua. Open Monday to Saturday from 11am until late. Eat in, takeaway or delivery.

Nelson’s Dockyard Tel: 460-1027 Email: reservations@admiralsinnantigua.com When visiting Nelson’s Dockyard don’t miss Pillars Restaurant with its outdoor waterfront terrace with 18th century pillars and lush gardens. The stunning setting, overlooking the historic harbour, is the perfect spot to lounge while enjoying cocktails. Lunch in the cool breeze or dine watching the moonrise over Shirley Heights. Popular dishes include tuna tartare, beef duo and catch of the day. Wednesday is Caribbean night and Saturday offers special menus.

LA BUSSOLA RESTAURANT Dutchman’s Bay Tel: 462-8433/785-5436 Email: labussolantigua@hotmail.com La Bussola is an authentic beachfront Italian restaurant recently relocated to Dutchman’s Bay which is handy for the airport. It is right on the beach with a beautiful garden and a panoramic view of Jumby Bay. It is perfect for romantic dinners. Open since 2007, La Bussola has been providing quality homemade Italian cuisine and delicious wood-oven cooked pizzas. The wine selection is one of the most extensive on the island. Ideal for large events. Buon Appetito! Open Monday to Saturday, lunch from midday to 3pm, dinner from 6.30 pm to 10 pm.

BIG BANANA 17° 61° VC Bird International Airport Tel: 480-6979 www.bigbanana-antigua.com Now re-located in the new terminal at V.C. Bird International, Big Banana 17º61º has been providing Caribbean travellers with tasty and wholesome dishes for over 18 years. Brought right up-to-date in its new home, Big Banana offers a superb selection of local and international dishes (including its legendary hot dogs and signature Big Banana Pizzas), as well as new avours and inspirations from around the world. Stop by for breakfast, lunch or dinner and your favourite beverage.

THE LARDER Royal Palm Place, Friars Hill Road Tel: 562-7880/480-6940 Email: info@thelarderantigua.com The Larder is a unique gourmet deli-café popular with locals and visitors in search of great food and service. Renowned as Antigua’s best sushi bar and deli-café, The Larder also offers an upscale takeaway and catering service. The bar provides an excellent selection of fresh juices, premium spirits and fine wines. New features include a ‘Build Your Own Salad’ bar, Gelateria and genuine Napolitano style thin-crust pizzas, baked-to-order in a woodstone oven. Breakfast 7am to 11am. Deli-café, sushi bar, salad bar, gelateria, pizzas 11am to 9:30pm Monday to Saturday.

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BOOM RESTAURANT AT GUNPOWDER SUITES Nelson’s Dockyard Tel: 460-1027 Email: reservations@admiralsinnantigua.com Experience Boom’s stunning vistas of Nelson’s Dockyard from its outdoor terraces and infinity-edged pool and the remodeled 18th century Gunpowder Art Gallery. Come for lunch, spectacular sundowners and Thursday night Supper Club. Spend the day lounging on daybeds, enjoy a massage at the Powder Room Spa, dip in the pool, sip cocktails and sample dishes such as moules mariniere and steak aioli sandwich.

ANA’S ON THE BEACH RESTAURANT & ART GALLERY Dickenson Bay Tel: 562-8562 Email: info@anas.ag www.anas.ag The hot pink doors at Ana’s are a beacon of style, culture, glamour and a gourmand’s delight. A team of excellent chefs, whose experience spans the Caribbean, Italy, Spain, and the UK, has created the exciting Mediterranean menu. The Infinity Bar at the water’s edge, offers signature cocktails from awardwinning bartenders, and the on-demand “Anapasti” menu. A hub for regional and international artists, Ana’s has an eclectic selection of art, and the tastefully designed surroundings add to the ambience of this charming restaurant. Open daily 11:00am to 12:00am.

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HARMONY HALL RESTAURANT Brownâ€™s Bay Tel: 460-4120 Email: harmony.antigua@gmail.com www.harmonyhallantigua.com Enjoying a get-away-from-it-all setting near Half Moon Bay, Harmony Hall has long ranked amongst Antiguaâ€™s most delightful dining experiences. Set around a restored 200-year-old plantation house, it offers excellent cuisine enhanced by breathtaking sea views from its terraces. There is also a fine art gallery, as well as luxury accommodation available for rental. An ideal getaway. Open every day for lunch. Open Wednesdays to Saturdays for dinner. Closed during the summer season. Reservations are recommended.

BOXER SHACK Old Road Tel: 562-8442 / 723-5143 The Boxer Shack is a delightful restaurant overlooking the sea on the south-west coast with steps leading down to the beach. Enjoy prime steaks, lobster, seafood, curries and salads, with a fully-stocked bar including ales, cider and a selection of fine aged rums. Open for lunch and dinner Wednesday to Saturday plus traditional Sunday roast lunch. Sunbeds available. Ideal for weddings and private parties. A one bedroom detached villa is available for rent.

Boxer SHACK

Villa Available

BEACH BAR & RESTAURANT

From fresh seafood and lobster to curries and prime steaks, our food is as memorable as our sea views. Join us on Sunday for a traditional roast as well as our regular menu. Open for lunch and dinner Wednesday to Saturday and lunch only Sunday. Sunbeds available on beach. BOXER SHACK by Carlisle Bay, Old Road T:562-8442/723-5143 E:theboxershack@gmail.com

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GARDEN GRILL Dutchman’s Bay Tel: 464-0207 Instagram: @gardengrillanu Farm fresh - everyday. The Garden Grill is dedicated to avour, sustainability and nutrition with local eggs, and vegetables, herbs and fruit locally sourced whenever possible. Dine in the attractive garden setting and look out for the tasty unusual items on the menu. Sunday brunches are very popular and you can cool off with a dip in the Garden Grill pool! Lunch: Tuesday-Saturday Dinner: Friday Brunch: Sunday 9am-1pm

SHIRLEY HEIGHTS LOOKOUT Shirley Heights, English Harbour Tel: 728-0636 Enjoy lunch or dinner in a magnificently-restored 18th century building or dine outside in the courtyard with its spectacular views of Nelson’s Dockyard, English and Falmouth Harbours. Local lobster and fresh fish are daily specials as are spectacular sunsets. The Sunday barbecue party, now in its 33rd year, is indeed an Antiguan institution which National Geographic Traveler endorsed many years ago and heralded as ‘The Place to be on Sunday’. Come to Shirley Heights Lookout for your private parties, your wedding, or just come for an intimate drink…and panoramic view. 2014 Winners of a Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor. Closed on public holidays. Please call for summer schedule.

Farm Fresh Favourites everyday! Open-air breezy garden seting with pool. Lunch: Tuesday-Saturday, Dinner: Friday, Brunch: Sunday 9am-1pm Dutchman’s Bay, Tel: (268) 464-0207 www.facebook.com/gardengrillanu Instagram:@gardengrillanu

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SOTTOVENTO Ocean Point, Hodges Bay Tel: 562-8378/8330 â€˜Sottovento on the Beachâ€™ is an alfresco beachfront restaurant located just a few steps from the sea. The menu is an Italian medley with Mediterranean in uences, the dishes simple, but well created. The emphasis upon local products, particularly fish, seafood, vegetables and freshly-picked salads always ensure a seasonal avour. Cocktails, fresh fruit juices and a good selection of wines and beers are readily available at the bar. This romantic venue may also be accessed by boat, with dock mooring available for guests. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

TICCHIO - ITALIAN FOOD AND WINE Woods Centre, Friars Hill Road Tel: 562-8673 Ticchio Italian Food and Wine is a new concept store that includes both a store and a restaurant. These have been designed to recreate the atmosphere and the products of Italy, rich in avours and fragrances. The restaurant offers genuine Italian cuisine (Parmigiana, Carbonara etc.) as well as salads and sandwiches. In addition to the classic menu, the Ticchio chef suggests a variety of dishes with clams, mussels and fish. Ticchio is an ideal stopover for refreshment in Woods Centre which houses a number of shops, banks and medical facilities.

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salads soups sandwiches breakfast e daily specials sweet stuff lif coffees teas smoothies juices y jo our reputation is built on the best grounds

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Cafe Be a

villagewalk center friar’s hill road lo antigua ve the tel: 462-3552

CAFÉ BELLA VillageWalk Center, Friars Hill Rd Tel: (268) 46BELLA (462-3552) This is the perfect place to relax and meet friends in air-conditioned comfort, with a tasty menu of breakfast air and lunch specials. The decadent deserts are all made fresh in-house every day. All your favourite coffees are available, Espresso, Cappuccino, Latte, Bellaccino plus fruit smoothies and a wonderful selection of refreshing teas. Make Café Bella your second office as free WIFI is available.

Photo: courtesy Sheer Rocks

MAYDAY

BEACHLIMERZ

Jolly Harbour Marina Tel: 717-2498 Located in the heart of Jolly Harbour Marina, Mayday is proud to offer a wide range of culinary options. Soups, salads, pasta, steaks feature on the menu – with their signature Hungarian goulash. Desserts include classic lime pie or an original Viennese Kaiserschmarrn. Stop in for coffee of choice or a home-made lemonade. You will be welcome to surf the internet on free WiFi. Open 11 am – 10 pm. (opening hours vary in the off season)

Fort James Beach Tel: 562-8574 Email: info@beachlimerz.com “Where Food & Drink Make Waves”. Just steps from the water on the historic Fort James Beach, BeachLimerZ celebrates Antiguan and Caribbean culture with great food, ambience and music. The menu offers the best of traditional Antiguan cuisine, street-foods and unique specialities. Music and live entertainment is a priority. In 2015, BeachLimerZ was recognized as a ‘Top Performing Restaurant’ and was awarded the Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence. Open daily from 11am until...

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HARBOUR VIEW BAR AND CAFÉ Redcliffe Quay, St. John’s Tel: 462-2972 Email: exoticantigua@gmail.com The Harbour View Bar & Café brings a new dimension to St. John’s Harbour. It is the only waterfront bar and café downtown with a splendid bay view. Its elevated position allows guests to spend time relaxing in the lounge area enjoying the cooling trade breezes. Primarily open for breakfast and lunch, Harbour View serves fresh salads, sandwiches and paninis. Enjoy exotic cocktails and refreshing smoothies.

Chippy Antigua

CHIPPY ANTIGUA THE CROW’S NEST RESTAURANT AND PUB Jolly Harbour Sports Centre, Marina side Tel: 562-2637 Email: crowsnest2014antigua@gmail.com www.crowsnest-antigua.com A popular open-air restaurant overlooking the Jolly Harbour Marina. Enjoy the view, the ambience and The Crow’s Nest signature international and local cuisine using only the finest products. Check out Facebook at the Crow’s Nest Antigua. Open daily from 7:30am to midnight.

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Dickenson Bay, Runaway Road Tel: 724-1166 / 734-8945 Email: chippyantigua@msn.com The only place to be on Wednesday and Friday evenings! This is an authentic traditional English fish and chip van, run by Dave and Jane, featuring fish and chips, fresh lobster bites, scampi (shrimp), meat pies and gravy and sausages. All served with chips. Dynamic Indian curries and a new original sensation Caribbean Poutine plus other unique dishes! Casual outdoor dining atmosphere or take-away. Open 4pm to 9pm Wednesday and Friday. Available for special occasions, call for details.

AMERICAN UNIVERSITY OF ANTIGUA (AUA) College of Medicine or more than ten years, AUA has been a proud member of the Antiguan community. The University’s modern, impressive campus is located near the airport, adjacent to Jabberwock Road on the north side of the island.

With a diverse student body, an experienced faculty, and a two-semester a year curriculum, AUA provides students with an exceptional medical education. AUA is one of the few international medical schools to be approved by the New York State Education Department and the Florida Department of Education, recognised by the Medical Board of California, and accredited by the Caribbean Accreditation Authority for Medicine and Other Health Professions.

tennis and basketball courts, and a soccer and cricket field. AUA’s cricket pitch is approved by the International Cricket Association for practice matches. Beautiful white sand beaches are a few steps from campus.

AUA’s campus is one of the most technologically advanced in the Caribbean. Students have access to early hands-on clinical training at the on-campus Center for Simulated Learning, which contains some of the latest medical simulators. These simulators are so advanced that U.S. physicians use them.

After two years on campus, students finish their medical education at affiliated hospitals throughout the U.S. and Canada. Alumni have secured residencies at the Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, Rhode Island Hospital-Brown University, Yale-New Haven Hospital, DartmouthHitchcock Medical Center, University of Toronto, and other prestigious universities.

The campus also includes a 24/7, 800-seat library, lecture breakout rooms, research labs, a fitness center,

For more information about AUA please visit: www.auamed.org

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ANTIGUA NIGHTlIFE

Photo: courtesy Sheer Rocks

Antiguans know how to party and the fun continues long after you leave our famous beaches. Many of our hotels offer live entertainment after dinner, while our island restaurants, bars, nightclubs and casinos often stay open until the small hours. This is particularly true in the winter months between December and April when our visitors are celebrating their escape from the freezing weather back home. The temperatures certainly heat up when the sun goes down! •฀DICKENSON BAY Dickenson Bay is the number one hotspot on Antigua’s north coast, particularly on Friday nights. Putters and Coconut Grove are casual, island-style bars popular with both visitors and locals alike. Nearby, Ana’s on the beach is a chic beachfront venue offering anything from mellow mood music as the sun sets to the latest tunes for dancing on the sands. You can boogie the night away to the latest in R&B and hip-hop at the airconditioned Studio 79 Nightclub in nearby Runaway Bay.

•฀ST JOHN’S King’s Casino still ranks as the number one nightspot in our capital. The Yard in St. Mary’s Street is also very popular on ‘Thirsty Thursdays’, but if you’re feeling mellow make for the quaint C&C Wine Bar in Redcliffe Quay where Cutie and Claudine will welcome you with a glass of South African wine. Prefer to take in a movie? Deluxe Cinemas on the High Street have now been joined by the impressive Caribbean Cinemas complex just outside town. And for a party scene with a distinctly Caribbean avour head for BeachLimerz overlooking Fort James Beach on the weekends.

•฀JOLLY HARBOUR AREA

This is where it’s all happening on the west coast of Antigua. The Sugar Club at Sugar Ridge is a great place for tapas, sushi and live entertainment, or why not enjoy a rum cocktail overlooking the marina at the Crow’s Nest or Westpoint. Expect quite a few yachties to drop anchor here too.

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•฀ENGLISH HARBOUR AREA

Jam-packed with boats in the winter, English Harbour’s bars are always over owing with sailors determined to make the most of their shore leave. The Mad Mongoose in Falmouth is traditionally one of the most popular venues with yachties, and the nearby Scullduggery Café is much loved for its chocolate martinis! Cloggy’s and South Point offer a more sophisticated ambience combined with views of the yachts at anchor in Falmouth Harbour. Don’t miss out on Abracadabra just outside Nelson’s Dockyard - this might be an elegant Italian restaurant early in the evening, but stick around and watch it transform into a pulsating outdoor nightclub later. Of course everyone heads for Shirley Heights on Sundays. The island’s ‘biggest and best party’ has been taking place here for many years. The evening begins as the sun sets and the steelband music fills the air. It ends at a fast pace with live reggae, soca and calypso music.

•฀CASINO

If you enjoy a utter, Antigua’s Vegas-style King’s Casino in St. John’s offers 16 different table games including roulette, blackjack and poker, with over 250 slot machines. There is live music on Friday and Saturday nights, karaoke on Sundays, and bingo on Thursday nights. Plus there is a sports bar, live sports betting, and horse racing simulcasting. King’s also operates a casino inside the Jolly Beach Hotel.

GLOBAL BANK OF COMMERCE ANTIGUA … A Caribbean Home, A Global Market By Brian Stuart-Young, Chairman & CEO Antigua and Barbuda represents a crossroad for financial services within the Caribbean, with a 33-year-old financial centre and a broad cross-section of financial service providers. There are eight domestic commercial banks and twelve international financial institutions. Antigua enjoys a growing reputation as a trusted Caribbean destination for tourism and international financial services. The government elected is vigorously pursuing programmes to enhance and strengthen these two sectors as key pillars of the economy. While Antigua’s international financial centre is still relatively small, its politically stable and sovereign jurisdiction attracts clients seeking personal attention for their wealth management portfolios. Antigua is an up-market destination for the discriminating visitor and investor seeking world-class banking services. Referred to as the “grandfather” of international banking, Global Bank of Commerce is a Caribbean owned and operated institution with a solid track record of financial services to its Caribbean and international clients for more than 30 years. It focuses on technology-driven financial services which provide secure internet banking, multi-channel electronic payment systems and wealth management portfolios. Clients access a full range of account options including multi-currency deposits, foreign exchange, certificates of deposit and other competitive interest-bearing accounts and investment services. Clients also benefit from the Bank’s affiliate,

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Global Processing Centre, an internationally-certified card processing centre and payment platform which provides card-based and mobile facilities for international payroll programmes, employee benefits and remittance services. International businesses requiring banking facilities to support e-commerce find it convenient and advantageous to transfer their e-business to Antigua. Antigua and Barbuda is an attractive vacation destination and ideal for a second home. The current legislation allows approved investors to take part in the Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP). This provides for citizenship and an Antigua and Barbuda passport to be granted on the basis of persons and families who satisfy a high standard of due diligence requirements and qualify in respect of making personal investments in Antigua and Barbuda. There is also an option to obtain residency rather than citizenship. The Government has designed a sound investment process, and will ensure that it meets international standards to attract applicants who will enhance the reputation and economy of the jurisdiction. The combination of well-regulated financial services, an excellent communications infrastructure, strong professional resources and possible qualification for citizenship makes Antigua and Barbuda a positive environment and an attractive location to develop international business and property investment. www.globalbankofcommerce.com

ArtisticAntigua The purity of light and colour in Antigua combines with its intrinsic tranquillity to inspire a whole host of Caribbean artists. There are some excellent galleries and studios on the island representing a wide range of art, crafts and media ...

ART GALLERIES ADMIRALS INN & GUNPOWDER ART GALLERIES Nelson’s Dockyard Tel: 460-1027 Admirals Inn has two art galleries, one in the lobby and the other at Gunpowder Suites in the 18th century building. In Admirals Inn Kate Spencer has a changing exhibition of her original oil paintings of Caribbean life. At Gunpowder Suites, the Antigua Pride Exhibit features dramatic 1960s black and white photos by Margo Davis. Special shows featuring local artists.

HARMONY HALL GALLERY Brown’s Bay Tel: 460-4120 Email: harmony@candw.ag www.harmonyhallantigua.com This spectacularly set gallery hosts a wide variety of high-quality Caribbean arts and crafts. Every first Sunday (December to April) is an opening of the work of a special artist.

RHYTHM OF BLUE GALLERY Dockyard Drive, English Harbour Tel: 770-788 Email: arawakart@yahoo.com Inspired by the Caribbean Sea, Nancy Nicholson uses local clay to produce her distinctive blue pottery. The Gallery displays Nancy’s pottery and her sculptures, paintings and hand-crafted silver jewellery. Original works by other ocean-inspired Caribbean artists are also on display. Open November to May and by appointment at the Pottery Studio from June to October. Jan Farara

THE BEST OF ANTIGUAN ART AND CRAFT www.antiguanartists.com This useful website is an online directory of professional artists (painters, potters, photographers etc) living and working in Antigua, listing websites, email addresses, telephone numbers, an image of each artist’s work and a brief description of media, styles and inspiration. Visitors to their work places are welcome following a telephone appointment; a map indicates their respective locations.

TAINO’S ART GALLERY Jolly Harbour Tel: 562-5852/773-3544 Luis Jarvis at Taino’s has been long-established at Jolly Harbour, and you will find his work stacked inside and out of the Gallery together with collections from many other Antiguan artists. Sometimes he has a work in progress, with vibrant Caribbean colour. Look at his unique shell light fixtures – an unusual souvenir from Antigua.

THINGS LOCAL GALLERY Officers’ Quarters, Nelson’s Dockyard Tel: 562-5386/461-7595/770-5780/726-7465 Owner Carl Henry is Antigua’s foremost wood carver. Using Antiguan mahogany and wood from trees naturally felled, his boats, fish and warri boards are much sought-after.

ZEMI ARTS & CRAFTS Redcliffe Quay, St. John’s Tel: 562-7662 www.zemiartgallery.com A unique display of indigenous and local art a world away from mass-produced souvenirs. The contemporary art and design collection includes originals, limited editions and reproductions by Stephen Murphy, as well as other local artists.

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Artistic Antigua Edison Liburd Gilly Gobinet

DRAGONFLY STUDIO Cobbs Cross Tel: 460-1417/720-4342 Email: ktfsh@candw.ag www.katiesfineart.com Katie Shears-McConnachie uses prisma-colour pencils and acrylic for her detailed originals and prints. Also an illustrator of children’s books available at Lord Jim’s Locker, Antigua Yacht Club Marina.

BUCKLEYS STUDIO Buckleys Village Tel: 764-8803 Email: janfarara9@gmail.com www.janfarara.com From abstracts to impressionist seascapes, Jan Farara paints large acrylics on canvas and carries out many commissions. Paintings, prints and cards are on sale at the studio.

ART STUDIOS ART GALLERY Fitches Creek (near the airport) Tel: 464-6084 Email: gillygobinet@me.com www.gillygobinet.com See Gilly Gobinet’s beautiful original paintings in acrylic and watercolor of Caribbean ora and fauna, marine art, nudes and pet portraits. She has also written and illustrated a series of very attractive small format ‘Cool Caribbean’ books – her ‘Cool Caribbean Cookery Book’ won her the 2008 ‘Best Illustrated Cook Book in the World’ award for Antigua. Open Mon-Fri 9-1 and by appointment – commissions welcome. Katie Shears-McConnachie

Sallie Harker

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FIG TREE STUDIO ART GALLERY Uniquely located in the heart of the rainforest Tel: 460-1234/773-4321 Email: sallieharker@me.com Sallie Harker’s gallery features her oil and water colours capturing the romance of the Caribbean. Also featured are traditional Caribbean crafts such as calabash carving and banana leaf pictures by Caribbean artists Ezikiel Jno Baptiste and Nzimbu Browne.

Artistic Antigua Nancy Nicholson

Jennifer Meranto

EDISON LIBURD Best of Books, Lower St. Mary’s Street, St. John’s Tel: 562-3198/723-6513 Email: edisonartsgallery@gmail.com www.facebook.com/edisonartsgallery Edison Liburd is an Antiguan artist whose love of nature, music and people is re ected in his expressive mannerism style. With formal training in the United States, Edison’s uninhibited uidity and sense of freedom perfectly captures the vibrant energy and varied moods of Caribbean life. Each piece is originally hand done and available in a variety of shapes and sizes.

SHEM ALEXANDER YELLOWBOAT STUDIO Turtle Bay Tel: 764-8035 Email: merantoj@candw.ag www.yellowboat.com Jennifer Meranto’s hand-tinted photos of Antigua and the Caribbean are increasingly popular, as are her oneoff shots capturing the essence of island life. Jennifer also sells art made from reclaimed materials found on Antigua’s shoreline, the proceeds from her ‘Vintage Beach Collection’ going towards cleaning up the island’s beaches. Visitors welcome at her studio by appointment.

Tel: 782-1384 Email: shem.92@hotmail.com Shem Alexander is an emerging young visual artist who works in oils and acrylics on textured surfaces. He is recognised for his innovative and unique paintings on the West Indian Turpentine Tree bark. He also paints portraits and figures inspired by the traditional Antiguan way of life.

POTTERY STUDIOS

NICHOLAS HADEED

CEDARS POTTERY

Tel: 464-9836 Email: hnh@candw.ag Nicholas Hadeed is an Antiguan abstract artist specialising in acrylics. His work is not only strongly in uenced by the Impressionists, but also by the heat, light and vibrant colours of the Caribbean. Nick came to painting late in life, his degree in Civil Engineering having led him to a successful career in the construction industry. Today though all his energies go into his paintings, his passion creating distinctive art characterised by bright hues and either intense movement or serene stillness.

Buckley’s Road Tel: 460-5293 Email: potteryc@candw.ag Imogen Margrie and Michael Hunt produce original pieces in urban ware and porcelain clay. Michael’s sculptures in stone and wood are much sought-after.

ELVIE’S POTTERY Seaview Farm Tel: 463-1888 Hyacinth Hillhouse continues in the tradition begun by her grandmother and mother of making coalpots and other items from local clay – a pleasure to behold.

THE POTTERY JANE SEAGULL Tel: 734-8945 www.janeseagull.com Jane has an eclectic and, at times quirky, approach to art. Whilst acrylic, oil and watercolour is the standard palette, her papier maché creations are ‘off the wall’ fun!

Coolidge Tel: 562-1264 The Pottery Shop, Redcliffe Quay Tel: 462-5503 Email: Sarahfuller51@gmail.com The longest-established pottery in Antigua is where Sarah Fuller produces her unique mobiles and sconces, together with bowls, plates and lamps finished in highly attractive glazes.

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antigua database GEOGRAPHY Strategically located in the heart of the Caribbean, Antigua is 108 square-miles, Barbuda (27 miles north) is 62 square-miles plus the tiny uninhabited rock of Redonda (20 miles to the north-west). There are about 80,000 people in Antigua, 1,500 in Barbuda and only seagulls on Redonda. From Antigua you can see Guadeloupe, Montserrat, Nevis and St. Kitts.

CLIMATE

EMBASSIES/CONSULAR OFFICES Antigua entertains representatives from the following foreign governments:-

Temperatures range from an average low of 73°F (23°C) in the winter to about 85° (30°C) in the summer. The trade winds blow fairly constantly except in September. The average rainfall is only about 45 inches so there is constant care not to waste water. The rainy season is September, October and November but there are usually only short showers.

F British High Commission In Barbados

F U.S. Hon. Consular Office

463-6531

CLOTHING

F Hon. Consulate of Germany

462-3174 464-3174

Antigua retains a semblance of formality and swimsuits are limited to beaches. There is a nude beach beyond Hawksbill but this is not generally frequented by the residents of Antigua! Casual clothes are the unwritten rule for dining and trips to town.

LANGUAGE Although English is the only language ever adopted in the island, you may wonder what Antiguans are saying when they chat in their lilting accents. Everybody sooner or later acquires a few idiomatic phrases such as “No big ting” or “Antigua me come from”.

ELECTRICITY Antigua has a definite current quirk. Most hotels operate on 110 volts, 60 cycles (the same as in the US and Canada). However, some have 220 volts and some homes even have a bit of both. Check before plugging in appliances.

CALCULATING COST Since there is such diversity of hotels it is best to check with the Antigua Hotels & Tourist Association, Newgate Street, St. John’s, Tel: 462-0374/3703/4928 if you wish to budget exactly. There is 10% service charge (which saves the bother of tipping for everything) and a 12.5% ABS Tax. Rates are cheaper throughout Antigua outside the ‘season’ from December to April 16. Many hotels offer special packages for golfers, tennis players, gamblers, honeymooners - check with your travel agent.

CURRENCY The unit of currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC$), issued by the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) and pegged to the US$ at an official rate of EC$2.70 to US$1.00. The ECCB quotes daily rates for the Canadian $, the Euro and £ Sterling and other international currencies.

POST OFFICE The Main Post Office is centrally located at the foot of Long Street in St. John’s and is open Monday to Thursday from 8.15am to 4pm. On Fridays it is open until 3pm.

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Post Offices are located at the Woods Centre, Dockyard, at the old terminal at the airport and in Codrington, Barbuda. Fedex - the agent in Antigua is Unlimited Services Plus located on Redcliffe Street, St. John’s Tel: 562-7587

1 246 430 7800

Hon. Consular Office c/o Grant Thornton

561-5046

F Hon. Consulate of Norway c/o Frances Trading

462-0858

F Hon. Consulate of the Netherlands c/o Gomez Insurance

481-1850

F Venezuelan Embassy

462-1574

F Embassy of the People’s Republic of China

462-1125

F Hon. Consulate of Denmark c/o AWH Holdings Ltd

480-3075

F Consulate of Austria

463-8698

GROCERY SHOPPING Antigua now has a range of excellent spacious airconditioned well-stocked supermarkets including a wide variety of imported goods. These are located in the north of the island close to St. John’s. The long-established Epicurean has grown into a supersupermarket just off Friars Hill Road. There is also an Epicurean at Jolly Harbour. A splendid supermarket, 1st Choice is located on the Anchorage Road close to Dickenson Bay.

EMERGENCIES We hope you have a safe and enjoyable vacation in Antigua and Barbuda. However, it is comforting to know that if you run into problems help is not far away. Most hotels are serviced by a 24 hour ‘Duty Doctor’ and in an emergency the reception desk staff will contact their doctor. Mount St. John’s Hospital is situated just off Queen Elizabeth Highway Tel. 484-2700; the Adelin Clinic is on Fort Road Tel. 462-0866; there is also the Hanna Thomas Hospital in Barbuda Tel: 460-0076. The Police Headquarters is on American Road Tel. 462-0125. There is also a station on Newgate Street in St John’s. The emergency helpline is 911

Weekly transatlantic sailings & inter-island services United Kingdom (Portsmouth)

Belgium (Antwerp)

France (Le Havre)

T: +44 1489 873500 E: info@geestline.com

www.geestline.com

Direct sailings to: l Antigua (St Johnâ€™s) l Barbados (Bridgetown) l Dominica (Roseau) l Dominican

Republic (Manzanillo) l Grenada (St.Georgeâ€™s) l Martinique (Fort de France) l St. Kitts (Basseterre) l St. Lucia (Castries / Vieux Fort) l St. Vincent (Kingstown) l Trinidad (Port of Spain) l Puerto Rico (San Juan) 119

Cruise Tourism A

ntigua continues to welcome some of the lar largest and most beautiful cruise ships in the world. Our unique little sister island Barbuda is also opening its shores to smaller, exclusive cruise ships which do not need the infrastructure Antigua can provide. Barbuda has been able to welcome a total of twelve cruise ships from various cruise lines to include Windstar Cruises, Club Med and Ponant Cruises. The winter season will also see more cruise ships calling at beautiful Barbuda. Cruise tourism is a major component of our economy and every effort is made to enhance the islands’ facilities and to attract more prestigious ships to our twin-island state strategically located in the heart of the Caribbean. The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has contracted the well-established engineering firm, CH2m Hill, to assess the lengthening of the present Heritage Quay pier to accommodate the Mega Quantum class cruise ships. This venture is jointly organised by The Antigua & Barbuda Cruise Tourism Association (ABCTA), in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, The Antigua Pier Group, The Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority and The St. John’s Development Corporation. 2014

to Antigua

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2016

2015

The Guide

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to Antigua

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THE ANTIGUAN is the definitive tourist guide to Antigua and Barbuda. This pocket-sized handbook enjoys the distinction of being the first comprehensive guide to the twin-island nation, and since 1990 has been an important marketing tool for the Ministry of Tourism. Now available on-line, on-island and from Antigua and Barbuda tourist offices around the world, it not only encourages new visitors to the islands’ shores, but keeps them well informed whilst they are here.

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Nathan Dundas, long time President of the ABCTA, spearheads the continued drive for Antigua and Barbuda to welcome cruise ship visitors, and for our country to benefit from this dynamic, developing industry.

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A Warm Welcome to Antigu a

Welco arm AW

Meanwhile the Antiguan tour operators understand that visitors may want more than our 365 beautiful beaches, and they are continually developing adventurous activities to suit every taste. It is hoped that a cruise ship visit of one day will inspire visitors to take a longer vacation in our twin-island nation of vibrant Antigua and our Robinson Crusoe island of Barbuda.

THE ANTIGUAN

ANTIGUAN

THE

The Guide

The Government’s plan to undertake a major enhancement of Antigua’s capital city of St. John’s is on track. The sweeping of the harbour for the Cruise Port has been completed. This has received the approval and commendation of the major cruise lines. Antigua’s presence and visibility will continue to be highlighted at important cruise ship conventions such as the European Seatrade Cruise Convention and The Florida Caribbean Cruise Association Convention which are held annually.

To advertise in the 2017 edition contact

& Barbud

FT CARIBBEAN, PO Box 2686, St. John’s, Antigua, West Indies Tel: (268) 462-3292 Fax: (268) 462-3292 Email: ftcarib@apuainet.ag www.theantiguan.com

The Antiguan

Published on Oct 24, 2015

The Antiguan 2016

The Definitive Tourist Guide to Antigua & Barbuda

The Antiguan 2016

Published on Oct 24, 2015

The Definitive Tourist Guide to Antigua & Barbuda

theantiguan

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