If you’re looking for variety on a Caribbean island, Antigua is the place for you. Also called Antigua and Barbuda, this charming island cluster is full of surprises.
The colorful port entrance immediately charms and ingratiates you. This travel writer was welcomed by jovial boat operators dancing and posing atop their boat for the camera. The barracks style buildings remind you of a bygone era when Antigua was first established. The skyline is defined by the St. John’s Cathedral and its Baroque towers. A historic site is Nelson’s Dockyard, an original maritime hub located in the English Harbor. It also serves as a yachting hub now.
Touring around the island, the wilderness leaves a strong impression. A distinguishing feature from other Leeward Islands is the absence of forests, mountains, rivers and springs. There’s a rustic beauty and a vast expanse of sea.
Swimming with the stingrays is a specific excursion to enjoy in Antigua and is a major part of the island’s tourism business. Sailing out to the stingrays is a breathtaking way to appreciate Antigua’s beauty. The stunning water and horizon is relaxing and intoxicating as a pontoon boat ferries you to the stingray area. Guides give directions on how to interact with the stingrays and pose for pictures. The experience is both communal and thrilling. You’ll feel like a kid again engaging with the sea creatures, until the end of the excursion, which includes a drink of rum, of course! What is more Caribbean than that? Other popular activities include deep sea fishing, golfing, snorkeling and sea kayaking.
Driving around the terrain of banana and sugarcane crops, you’ll also see the whimsical art of Antiguans. For example, a fence made out of car parts is both quirky and creative. Murals and graffiti decorate the neighborhoods and landscape. The homes are as eclectic and vibrant as the people.
There’s a large mangrove ecosystem comprising much of the terrain. Acres of wilderness make it seem astounding that the Cricket World Cup was held in Antigua in 2007. Another impressive detail is that there are 365 beaches; one for every day of the year.
The sister island, Barbuda, has its own unique features – and it reportedly houses Princess Diana’s favorite Caribbean beach. Also called “the coral island,” Barbuda boasts a beach with pink sand, which is created by the combination of crushed coral blending with sand. Bird watchers should know that Barbuda is also home to the largest nesting Frigate bird colony in the western hemisphere.
As for the cultural highlights, a stroll through the city center exposes you to the friendly townspeople and their daily lives. People gather at the spice and craft market or shop at the fruit vendors. The street scene is stimulating as you watch the activities of the locals. From school children in uniforms to men in rasta turbans, the array is both welcoming and diverse. Gazing at the architecture of St. John’s Cathedral is a must. Poised on a steep street, it’s a stunning visual. Heritage Quay Shopping is the district for finding local crafts, duty-free shops and souvenirs.
Trying the cuisine is also recommended. West Indian, French and West African influences offer an infusion of flavors. Some specialties to try are the Dukuna dumpling, chicken stew, and vegetables cooked in a spicy Creole sauce. Luxuriate in the resorts while immersing in the culture.
