General
General Antigua Articles. Harder to categorise blog posts related to the island of Antigua in the Caribbean.
Antigua Family Attractions
Planning a trip to Antigua with your family and need something that you feel that everyone in the family can enjoy while being safe? Finding these attraction is not always easy. Here are five Antigua family attractions that everyone can enjoy.
Nelson’s Dockyard
Nelson’s Dockyard – Nelson’s Dockyard is one of the most popular Antigua family attractions. Located on the southern end of the island, Nelson’s Dockyard boasts of being the only continuously working Georgian Dockyard in the world. It was initially built in 1725 as a base for the British Navy to guard against neighbouring colonial powers, particularly the French. It gained it’s name from the famous naval commander Lord Horatio Nelson, who was stationed in Antigua for various periods from 1784-1787.
After the decline in the threat from invasion, the dockyard slowly declined and eventually became abandoned. Efforts to restore the area began in 1950’s, and is now the centre of a vibrant yachting and sailing industry. Much of the history has been preserved, and the Dockyard now includes a small museum featuring local historical and archeological artefacts, as well as gift shops, hotels, and stores.
Museum of Antigua and Barbuda
Museum of Antigua and Barbuda – Located in the heart of St. John’s on Long Street, the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda has a long and storied history. Originally built in 1747 as a court house on the site of the first city market, the building survived several major earthquakes before being converted to a museum in 1985. The museum features a number of artefacts such as a life sized replica of an Arawak house and the bat of Viv Richards, one of Wisden’s Top 5 cricketers in the 20th century. In addition, the museum also hosts a reference library and a computer database holding thousands of records.
Stingray City
Stingray City – Stingray City is one of the top Antigua family attractions. Located just outside of Seatons on the eastern end of the island, your journey starts off at the Stingray City base, a lush garden paradise with a number of wildlife including lovebirds, parakeets, parrots, and even iguanas. After a short briefing the real journey begins as you board the boat to take you to a naturally shallow area in the middle of the ocean.
These clear waters are home to the friendly Southern Caribbean stingrays, which are completely safe once you follow the guidelines set out by your guides. Feel free to hold, pet, and even feed these lovely creatures as they whiz by you. There is also a coral reef where you can snorkel and observe a wide range of other marine wildlife.
Wadadli Nature Park
Wadadli Nature Park is one of the only true nature parks on the island. Located at Lyons Estate in the centre of the island, your guided tour will take you around the park to see some of the animals which are familiar on a local and regional level. These include the playful green monkeys, iguanas, parrots, peacocks, and the majestic fallow deer, which is Antigua and Barbuda’s national animal. In addition there is also a petting zoo with familiar animals such as goats, sheep, turtles and cows, which are always a hit with the young children.
Along the trail are a number of different trees and plants which are signposted and form part of the Nature Park’s arboretum.
The Donkey Sanctuary
The Donkey Sanctuary – The Antigua and Barbuda Humane Society provides a home and a safe place for donkeys in Antigua and Barbuda. Due to the number of stray and abandoned donkeys, and the issues that donkeys can have both on the environment and road traffic, this sanctuary was set up with the intention to reduce the stray population and provide care for these once popular beasts of burden. Visitors have the opportunity to feed and pet these gentle creatures, who all love the interaction with people. Each of the donkeys having a short bio and history written up for visitors to learn more about them. Donations are encouraged, and you can adopt a donkey for only $25.
So…
Where do you take your family when you’re in Antigua? Do you have any other Antigua family attractions that you enjoy visiting while here? What’s your favourite local family attractions? Share your secrets below!
Robert Dinero Talks About Investing in Antigua
I love the curating comment – it’s how I see BA growing too. Tending to a personal project and touching on it daily.
Online opinion on the subject can be found easily:
The Guardian response
New York Times
Calvin Ayre.com
ANTIGUA HOLIDAY 2016 DAY 7
Spending the day in the Halcyon Rex
It’s day 7 of Antigua Holiday. I had been driving quite a lot this vacation and wanted to chill out and enjoy the Halcyon Cove experience. Fenton the resorts activity manager was around now and it was good/funny to see him around entertaining the guests with aqua aerobics, beach cricket and volleyball. He went and found us the volleyball and at request put up the net across the pool and we had a fun game before lunchtime with some Canadian folks. Yes aqua aerobics had not been skipped either so we were burning calories too. Today was to be a mega burning day. Aqua aerobics does that great thing getting the oxygen back into the body after the alcohol of the night before seems to drain it all away. Alcohol has no good effects apart from the reason why we do it. We were all enjoying very early cocktails I like my rum runners but hadn’t had any lately and couldn’t recall why I think the last may have been in key largo.
It was a Saturday, my most recent one. Today was going to be about enjoying the sun as well and my shuffle and reading a bit too. With that mix of morning activity lunchtime came and it was over to the outdoors lunch area.
Sunset Cruise Antigua Style
I have been on a couple of Sunset Cruises in my time and of course the actual style of cruise can vary greatly depending on the target customer. This particular cruise couldn’t be labelled a booze cruise though the all inclusive bar exists there is a clientele of respect mostly because it’s Antigua and not Mallorca. So you will be safe booking this tour at any age as it did attract a wide range. If you are looking for a booze cruise then you may well struggle in Antigua.
Private sunset Cruise Antigua ?
This is not a private sunset cruise please note for that check out this private sunset cruise by miramar.
Getting to the cruise from Dickenson Bay couldn’t be easier – it actually departs the sandy shores – you will wade out as the waves go out (if you’re smart) to keep your crotch dry ! The ladder descends the catamaran to the beach and it easy to get on and of course the staff are there and helpful. I think this cruise appeals for people especially from Sandals and the Halcyon Cove and the other Dickenson Bay Accommodation options. It leaves from just in front of Sneaky Pete’s at 4:30 pm I believe but check at time of booking. You will have time to settle on the cat and get your boat brief in the calm waters. At no point was this tour or this cruise rough. There was a slight normal light bobbing but it didn’t seem to make anyone feel sea sick.
We got a boat briefing and set off around past the north west corner. You could hang out on the webbing area at the front but you mustn’t jump into it. Strangely some people must be doing that in the past £$^%& ???
A life on the ocean wave – or a sunset cruise.
For me I had been brought down to earth (in a good way) by Sanchia. You see I have been used to going on quite a few boats in the Caribbean but for her it was a first and she was really looking forward to this I saw in her eyes the way I used to look at the Caribbean (I guess my only cure will be abstinence), and she really enjoyed it so much it made me feel so good too.
Because sometimes you forget.
We actually had some really quality talk in part aided by the freedom the ocean gives the mind I believe. We did tuck into a couple of rum punches a speciality on Antigua you should really try them. Part of the joys of a tour is people watching – where are they from ? What are they doing? did they get married in Antigua ? One such couple looked to have been married a while but the key thing that struck me was that his hat appeared glued to his head. There was the trade wind blowing its normal amount and you might make a grab for the hat blowing into the bushes but here how dare he allow his hat to blow into the sea. I think for a moment I was more bothered than he ! It did the dirty deed but he was lucky and it blew in my direction so I was able to trap it for him. After that I turned my attention to his go pro selfie stick I made some small talk but got the impression they weren’t that kind of people (the extroverted talker kind). At some point during my daydream Sanchia had stopped chatting and I asked her if she wanted another drink. I was on a bit of a mission this trip to make me so sick of the rum punch that I could last until the next trip…
Typical Antigua Sunset
I estimate that the initial line out we were a couple of hundred meters out from the shore and we cruised up towards Blue Waters resort we turned at some point there and headed back down the length of Dickenson Bay. It was a lovely evening in terms of the temperature too one could really enjoy the sounds of the twin hulls slicing through the water and the birds from the shore. Antigua is a green and verdant island. When the conditions allowed the sails did come down as right they should. The crew were all happy and good fun and they all got into the whole getting the sail up. Beyond Dickenson Bay is Runaway Bay and then Fort James beach. All are worth of further exploration if you are staying longer. After Fort James that was there to protect one half of the entrance to St Johns. It was a magical time everyone was enjoying the ride and view. St Johns had some cruise ships still in dock they were readying to leave. Onwards we sailed closer again to the shore where there were some funny out crops of rock and resorts and beaches.
Oh yes the crew brought us out some food which was very nice finger food and well appreciated by all. A good variety of fruit cooked meats etc…but no johnny cakes 🙁 I love that Antiguan speciality)
It was getting to what we thought would be the best part of the cruise, the sun set. The boat steadied and set us up for the green flash…
Yet again no green flash for me or at least not convincing – I think some people convince themselves. But still a great sunset.
Antigua Sunset
Another day in paradise over awaiting the fun of the Antigua night and the rest of the cruise. At this point we were quite merry and happy to film our own evidence of such fun. We started back from our holding point towards St Johns again and the return. Well that could have been it the end of a vey enjoyable tour indeed but it was far from over. This is something Antigua does to you with alarming frequency – it gives you an out of the blue experience you didn’t expect and that you enjoy. It started as the cruise ships started to depart were we going to make it in front of them the race began….in the distance we could make out cruise ships that had already passed by like aeroplanes waiting to land in the distance these cruise ships held the sky’s orange to the sea, leaving the ones come right in front of us. We all took pictures of the magnificent beast and we could hear the cheering too of the passengers on the ship and see their flashes going off on their cameras as they took pictures of the cute catamaran below…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Ariog0RrKA
You can book this exact same sunset cruise here it is called a lovers rock cruise but it is the same one. Click on the link below to be taken to the expedia website and direct to this sunset cruise.
Did you notice the very weird speedboat water craft at the end of the video?
[editors note: This is the glass bottom boat in Antigua]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fGJg2ncgtVY
Booze Cruise Antigua ?
The crew cranked the music up a notch, as we were ALL in a much more animated state it’s still not a booze cruise trust me 🙂 I don’t know maybe that’s what they go by now the music was party style and some dancing begun down below – a conga ? You must simply try one of these cruises and if your in Antigua I recommend this one. Details after the article.
If you want to check out a video for an Antigua Booze Cruise then this is a good one, it was slightly different to ours this one was the wadadli cats booze cruise.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3U4cZg98fM
72 hours to Antigua
I had 72 hours to reconcile the fact that I was heading to Antigua, with my partner, on Sunday morning. Sure, we had discussed this being a possibility as he needed to return to the island and nurture relationships for his evolving website, which was launched 2.5 years before while he was living there.
ANTIGUA HOLIDAY 2016 – DAY 6
We had a bottle of sparkling wine ‘Antigua champagne’ given to us you see I had had a big bitch about the resort! – I keep coming back so they do a lot right but still I was very annoyed they had not got the phone fixed in the room and I bitched when we needed the phone most. I had to leave Sanchia at her worst when she was ill to go get a doctor because they had let the phone sit..on top was the non existing wifi and leaving the room door open all day prior after cleaning! I was so happy to find we hadn’t lost anything or at least we didn’t find anything was missing. So we had the Champagne and I had the following vision to be realised…
We didn’t do valentines day 2016 because I am THIS romantic normally !
In short the morning was going to be one on my favourite beach Darkwood Beach. We set off on the 30 -40 minute drive through St Johns.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G8eFlNQuTS0
I decided to stop at Dennis beach bar and restaurant first to get a bathroom stop and show San FFryes beach. I also got interest from Dennis himself for doing some aerial filming another visit. Ffryes was quite rough and also quite busy.
The above shot was taken with the Sony HX60V again we can see here how well the zoom works. This is the best sub 200 USD camera for all round ease and purpose out there IMO.
A rare good shot of the author – well done Sanchia !
A morning at Darkwood Beach
We finally arrived to find Darkwood quite busy but still very much spacious. All went well and Marlon negotiated loungers and umbrella this is from the ideal restaurant at the far end coming from JH direction. There was an asian family arrived shortly after from a cruise ship. This is way nicer than turners (which seems too contrived for cruise shippers) and I also prefer this beach to Ffryes and Valley Church beach. I wanted to get the champagne shot early but pressing is that horrid job first world problematic sunscreen application. It’s a bit easier for me these days since San is around. As a young man I have approached the nearest pretty girl but can spare this cheesy cumbersome tactic these days. I will allow you a moment to cringe. We both couldn’t resist the water and I don’t think to this stage I had yet been fully into the sea. My back was being cooperative and all in all the day was set up nicely.
After a quick dip in the exciting surf – yes El Nino was providing much fun in the waves.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCtNold1qOc
I got the shot I came for it felt a bit embarrassing setting it up but in the end it was way worth it and even had someone else come by to take their own photo of the bottle and glasses ! Would love to find that -its probably lost buried in social media somewhere. My version is the photo at the top of the page. We also tried a couple of selfies..then it was onto plain enjoyment and what a great morning it was too. Families were certainly enjoying the sea and both of us wished we could have had ours there. 5 kids at full price airfares is pretty limiting 🙁
The Asian americans were having an especially good time. The kids loved the waves but I am sorry to report that one of them lost their sunglasses as the surf smashed her over…I write this as a warning to you if you get fortunate. We had some time to enjoy reading too and catching up with self. I eagerly confess that I spent most of the time in the sea it was such fun.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ejAI9xb6bpM
Such a good morning that it was I regret somewhat that we had to leave in order to be good for the sunset cruise that we had booked. All good things must come to an end…
Antigua Sunset Cruise
See the fun we had in the Sunset Cruise post (under construction) – here is a teaser image
What an epic day we had ! I guess just having 7 days makes you cram it all in. Be careful to make sure you don’t do too much of that !
Dinner outside to a steel drum band
We simply don’t have much of a market for air con in the UK.
There are various signals that remind me I am in a happy place I dare say that exists for you too. Audio signals for example in the form of things that I don’t hear at home. Just open the door of your resort and listen to the cacophony of animal life – the specific sounds of the Caribbean immediately put me in a better place. Strangely similar the hum of air conditioning units also do the same thing. There is a historic importance as I always chose warm destinations backpacking many times earlier in my lucky life AND crucially these sounds DO NOT exist back home. We simply don’t have much of a market for air con in the UK. The other sound is that of a good Steel Band unit. I am not sure if I have heard a bad one yet ? It’s an immediate de – stressor and indicator that you are in a place of bliss and relaxation. It’s family friendly and easy to dance to. Strangely I didn’t dance that evening but many of course did it was sweet to see older couples enjoying life. That’s something many young people fail to be able to do. It was always easy to forget that we were going home in a couple of days and the contract we accept is to do just that. Thankfully as I said you forget quite quickly as there is life happening right now and you simply don’t want to miss it.
In it’s arrogance and indifference to the rest of the world it may simply be laziness the twin island country of Antigua and Barbuda has kept hold of a charm that I have seen only glimpses of in other islands. Westernisation has changed Barbados to the degree that it feels very different to Antigua.
I think I was saying I enjoyed the steel band. It was time though to scratch the fear of missing out (FMO) and head up the beach for some nightlife. It was Friday night after all.
Down the beach nightlife at the Coconut Grove
It’s always nice to walk by Sandals, I really don’t think that I would want to stay in the cheaper rooms there they are set well back and high up in the main block (I assume they are the cheaper ones). There are a controlled amount of beach vendors but the best thing about walking up Dickinson Bay at Sandals is that they always have something cool on show I don’t mean like a show inside the grounds, but flames and small designer tents or something for the romantics to hang out by the beach and be waited on; it must be great I will give them that one. On days where the beach ‘has wind’ there are these shielded loungers that allow you to be on the beach shot blast free. Though from my position on my towel on the sand I am imagining the best exfoliation I ever had in years is taking place for free. If its innovation and related to the beach or the first world beach problems in general I imagine there is some guy working for them somewhere designing a fix. If you want to take a look at Sandals Antigua in more depth take a look here.
Such places exude the very best conversation I also find its simply inspiring walking down a beach with light clothing on. It’s no wonder the Antiguan’s live long and wrinkle free. I am told black don’t crack !
Well Ana’s has failed to hit home – there were people having a nice dinner in the ibiza-esque style decor and so we didn’t even stop for a beer.
If there is an art form practised very well in Antigua then it is that of the barman and no better is the example than the resident barman Jermain at Coconut Grove. Jermain and I had a couple of topics of interest that of dancehall music and quads aka drones. Coconut Grove is frequented by some regulars too and the restaurant is recommended by many. We had a fun change of scenery and I introduced Sanchia to Guinness again just in case she forgot from the nights before at Putters bar. Of course we tried the rum punch never two the same on the island ! It was a fun time of course and in parting J gifted us a couple of beers. Of note there was this older guy who really needed to sleep or eat and was being chatted up by a woman whom I did not see as her back was to me but I just was thinking oh my you may end up being disappointed but then again what do I know ! As we were leaving a big bowl of pasta arrived.
ANTIGUA HOLIDAY 2016 – DAY 5
It was already Thursday day 5 of our Antigua Holiday…our week was moving along.
You really shouldn’t miss St Johns and a fishing tour had fallen into my hands through the luck of happenstance so the morning happened to be free. It was time to journey in and visit the easy capital. There are not many capitals in this world that offer free parking and a relaxed atmosphere yet keep their vibrancy. I have seen many in the caribbean and I can’t think of better sized ones. Not too small not too large. Let me be picky for a moment they could use some more buildings that are as beautiful as St John’s Cathedral.
Easily Book Antigua Car Rental in Seconds
Tap or click here to get the app loaded…
Car Rental App
Watch the video to see how quick and easy it is to book your car or jeep rental online.
Simply select the car you want
Select if you want insurance
Select the duration
Select the pickup place and when
Pay a deposit through the safety and convenience of paypal.
Works on Mobile and Desktop.
Antigua Tours – A guide on what to pick for your personal taste
Where to start if you have never visited Antigua and want to get the most out of your trip ?
ANTIGUA HOLIDAY 2016 – DAY 4
A closer look at Shirley Heights and English Harbour
I was very happy to get to work with my jobby and new toy my 30x optical zoom camera from sony during the whole trip. Today promised an amazing opportunity to test the zoom magnification out from Shirley Heights lookout. Indeed I wonder what magnification they had back then telescopes history for spotting attacking ships?
Here is what you can do with a tripod mounted 30x optical zoom…
Questions about Antigua
“Hello,
Thanks for our review of the Halcyon in Antigua. I am going there in a few weeks. I was hoping you could help me with some questions I have:
1) Do you have information on day excursions offered at the hotel? Could you email price listing to [email protected] if possible
2) How was the chair situation on the beach? Did you have to get up crazy early to reserve one?
3) Dinner – how strict are they on men wearing pants? Could you get away with a collared shirt and nice shorts?
4) Any specific room that seemed nicer over the other?
Many thanks for your time. Jen”
Hi Jen !
To answer your questions…
1.
The hotel will offer you every excursion that exists on the island. They may give you the advice you need concerning your own fit for that and in that case or get advanced simply by asking us here ! Resort prices may be slightly higher than if you found it yourself on the net and booked directly. We can arrange tours and might be able to give you an amazing price so try us out !
2.
I was so put off by the beach chair situation that we didn’t spend a single morning on the beach. I would put that question directly to the resort. However I would not let it bother you normally you will find a free chair its just if the hotel is full it could be an issue. Poolside we found just about enough apart from one morning there was no space.
PEOPLE STOP RESERVING LOUNGERS ! PLEASE.
3.
They are polite and not strict on enforcing this code – just be smart and they will let you relax.
4.
Having stayed in many I think just one without stairs might be nicer but the rooms are very similar inside just locations make them slightly different. I really don’t think I would pay to upgrade as none are poorly located TBH.
ANTIGUA HOLIDAY 2016 – DAY 3
It’s Day 3 of our Antigua Holiday. We rolled out and into our chase rental car a Toyota which was almost awesome other than the disgustingly coloured interior which was a light tan colour offset by walnut plastic effect – I don’t want to be Asiaphobic but one of those guys must have had a hand in it.
I was going to show Sanchia Antigua; a place dear to my heart almost in its touristic entirety.
Tip: Use this as a sample DIY day tour of Antigua.
A Rainy Stadium
So turning left out of the Halcyon Rex we came to Jabberwock beach and an interesting set of coastal villages. The beache(s) are ideal for kite surfing and windsurfing or enjoying a romantic evening as they are undeveloped and short and untended.
We then go past some possibly military base like towards the airport this is perhaps the least touristic part of Antigua IMO but it is part or the circuit as Antigua could be viewed as a circle. Further on you reach the curious American University of Antigua where (AUA) medical students work towards becoming doctors. It’s a curious building looking quite like a palace or something official.
Beyond the new Antigua airport we continue to an even more impressive building. For January the weather was being a bit rainy season’ish and this prevented San from seeing the Sir Viv Richards Cricket Stadium in all its glory, we decided it wasn’t worth stopping and headed towards Parham the original port and capital of Antigua but a long time ago – it barely feels the size of a fishing village but it is the tonic if you have been in touristic areas for a while and want to see a real part of Antigua. It isn’t generally on the tour map which makes it even more cute. Back in the car and off to see and learn a bit about the sugar cane which shaped Antigua during darker times. The skies were dry and getting lighter such is Antigua if it rains it is never for long but I think el nino is making the dry season wetter than normal.
Betty’s Hope
We found the turn off and arrived at Betty’s hope. This was a sugar cane plantation station and has been partly restored. Out of season you may find the visitor centre closed inside you should need around 30 minutes and perhaps prefer more to read up on the sugar cane and how England saw an opportunity to farm it using slaves from Africa. Some of the more harsh graphics depict ships and how they would organise slaves to fit in cramped conditions visually. The centre moves on through time and also goes into how sugar is used or the molasses to make rum and why the sugar trade started to decline through external global changes. There is a fantastic scale model of the plantation. The cost is 2ec per person which is very much worth it.
One of the mills has been restored but the sails are not left on as it is costly to have manpower there running it. I do wish that something could be made more of this place for example the Betty’s Hope water park. I feel Antigua could make great use of a water park and around this general area would be perfect leaving the historic sites untouched.
Sanchia had her first scary toilet situation arise and so we headed out to Long Beach next to find one that looked in a better state ! At some point along we saw some of the wild donkeys that roam Antigua – they ran away but Sanchia was a willing photographer.
Long Beach and the Grand Pineapple Resort
We parked up in Long Beach after a drive of about 20 minutes more and met a nice girl working there but we were not going to stay long enough for beach toys. Mama pasta was closed but the bar right by the parking provided clean toilets and beer. We had some chat going with female shop attendants at what needs to be described as a row of colourful shops and they won in the end as they spotted something San didn’t have – a hat! We left learning that they were unhappy taxi drivers didn’t bring tourists to Long Beach they take them to places where the drivers get kick backs for bringing in the business.
They are luckier than most as they have a somewhat captive market from the resort right next door the Grand Pineapple and there are others very close by.
I think this part of Antigua is a great place to explore as a hike I want to do that one day. We had to be careful of Sanchia becoming ill again so she stayed out of the sun much more but the signs were good that she was getting to grips with Antigua. In the summer months it gets even hotter. I walked up the beach and checked the resort out a little it seemed quite busy and nice from the beach perspective. I think it must be a decent value option. We had recharged the batteries a bit and it was time to move on with the day trip..
Indian Town Point and Devils Bridge
This is an area of natural beauty and must make for an attractive hike from the local resorts. Otherwise you approach through a hard sandy chalky road to where the peninsula opens out and you can spot where the bridge is. A natural formation of rock has been worn away. Apparently the are was a settlement for native amerindians. We advise you to take great care around the bridge and absolutely you must not swim here as the waves crashing against the rocks will almost certainly kill you. If you are tempted please comment at the end of the article as I would like to ask you how you got this far in life already ! You can see some of the touristic articles for sale as some locals set up a stall.
Sanchia was taking the most amazing panoramic pictures which required a little editing and reducing in size and this spot gave us a great one.. they are of course distorted but fun ways of looking at a landscape.
I always have to cross the bridge and take great care, I couldn’t resist jumping up and down at the thinnest point though to test the safety for the coming year.
I made it across safely of course and we headed now south west to a cool out of the way beach called Half Moon Bay, passing some nice picturesque spots one of which was a church. We stopped at the church and got some great photos of it and read a few of the gravestones in the cemetery which was interesting and almost tearful. we walked up the road to the previous bend where an ocean view might be possible on passing by car we had to go back to it on foot to investigate. There were no paths of course but it was a quiet road. The picture was not as great as it had promised and we started back toward the church and the car. Out of the road ahead came a massive big Lorry round the corner and we looked the other way to see the truck had room to use the other side of the road. Sods law told us we didn’t as cars were coming the truck honked the horn and we held our all inclusive tummies in as our heels protruded over the edge of the road facing the centre of the road giving all the wonder traffic as much space as we could. There was not a good ending from leaping off the road as it was a drop too far to be an option. I placed my arm in front of San in some kind of duty of care though it was obvious to her as well she should not step into the road. We looked at each other and time stood still for me as the truck thundered in front of our noses and as quickly as they had all arrived the quiet road returned to serenity. We discussed the event on returning to the car. Next stop Half Moon Bay.
Half Moon Bay
It isn’t far past the church but take it slow to get this view for a moment..
Wind down into Half Moon Bay for the next stop a destination with a few hours needed normally.
We had decided not to risk the heat with Sanchia too much and enjoyed a conversation with local sellers who had a stall where sand was used to make objects that were more unique and Antiguan. We all agreed that shirts made in China with Antigua written on them were not desirable and San supported them in buying a sandy fridge magnet. He had a cool name like stingray or something you might normally remember.
Local artisanal things for sale
We bought beers and sat on the beach Sanchia and I learned of the resort that now remains derelict on the right hand shore as the hurricane messed it up. You get more waves here than normal and it is a fun beach. As on many of the beaches there was an abundance of seaweed and this beach is natural. There are no real facilities for women to go to the toilet here apart from in the sea. There is ample parking. I suggest coming back here on a Sunday then driving and finishing the evening at the roadhouse bar sometime where you get the very best of Antiguan live music.
Continue round and south into Falmouth via Willoughby Bay and the lookout points as we did for some really good views. Sanchia was really becoming the panoramic queen.
In Falmouth Harbour we found nice toilets and coffee at the Skullduggery Cafe where you can marvel at the super yachts parked up as the crew go about their daily chores. One was abseiling down the side cleaning windows. Tarpon swim round the edges of the dock too it’s just a really pleasant spot.
Instead of pushing on towards Jolly Harbour via Fig Tree Drive we decided to head home as we were getting tired – you might adjust your island tour accordingly but to go the fig tree drive route in the daylight is a treat. We got back to the resort and rested up enjoying the evening meal. It was a big day in all and many attractions crossed off the list. English Harbour Jolly Harbour and more to come…stay tuned and please share this day of the trip thank you.
ANTIGUA HOLIDAY 2016 – DAY 2
We awoke at stupid O’Clock in Antigua and not tired after a good sleep in the resort after our Shirley Heights evening. Onto one of the things that had always delighted me like a daisy in spring was breakfast in the Halcyon Rex. A full buffet style is what you get and the bacon is american style in case you are wondering. If you don’t know what that means then look forward to that one day !
We had planned to stay and enjoy the resort today or at least the morning part and we found a spot by the pool. The resort was quite a lot busier than I had remembered it and it wasn’t managing to keep us in the comfort we would like in terms of comfortable sun loungers. They were the plastic with nylon fabric inners but those had long since had way too many big buts and boobs in them stretching them so that they now offered less support and so you can feel the plastic frame. I elected with my bad back to lie on the grass.
Erol was an old acquaintance from previous visits and I was pleased to see him always a funny bubbly character was taking the aqua aerobics in the resort for the start of the week before another guy Fenton would return. With my bad back this was a great opportunity for some low impact exercise that I have had to stick to for some months now. I did manage to get San to join me. It was a fun and hard as you wanted to make it exercise that was quite enjoyable and clean.
That morning we also went for a stroll the length of Dickenson Bay past Sandals Antigua Buccaneers and Coconut Grove and Ana’s on the beach to name a few. There are stalls of local vendors at random points never too many though and its a great place and beach to stroll along.
We were not yet used to the sun but took our time as in Antigua style and it was all starting to feel very nice the week was going to be great.
We got back and went to the buffet lunch at the Carib Bar which is outside, had a glass of wine and enjoyed the hamburger and curried chicken, and various other good things I could cram on mine. We were feeling the midday heat and decided to head back to the room and get some sun free a/c. Sanchia had noted that she had a racing pulse and brushed it aside like it happens a lot. So I thought no more of it at that point but I shall take note of this in future.
It was apparent that San was not 100% very quickly and her symptoms became rapidly worsening. I checked on the option if needed to get a doctor and was informed the call out charge alone was $200 US !!! As our phone was not working in the room I got a little angry again and ranted slightly at reception as it was a pain to have to converse manually at the desk each time when I simply wanted to ring. Now leaving San in the room to check about the doctor the importance of the phone irritated me as I had already mentioned it. Tour companies etc will also get through to you via the phone. They need to be working.
Sorry Sanchia let’s give it 15 minutes before we call the doctor I said. Sanchia stabilised and it didn’t look so grave and we held off on the exorbitant doctor. It turned out we think that it was Heat Stroke. We wrote off the afternoon and evening but we were glad that she was recovering from her horrid symptoms that were mostly dizziness and pulse related.
We did start to think that we should be cautious and not book any scuba diving however well we felt mostly for myself I developed a cold the day before leaving and it was still present.
Antigua Holiday 2016 – Day 1
A light dusting of snow greeted us stupid o’clock but we had managed to become child free for a weeks all inclusive in Antigua – we were up early to catch our 10:20 am flight from gatwick to Antigua. Everything went to plan apart from a delay of around 45 minutes waiting to get de iced on the tarmac. Most unusual to be delayed when on a BA flight in my experience.
Landing in the NEW Antigua airport was a treat. I confess I have been here before and wanted to intro my travel partner the joys of Shirley Heights on a Sunday (TODAY – starting actually right now…) I needed to complete my car rental formalities and had exceptional service from Chase rental cars. We were in the resort 17 minutes later and contemplating if it would still be worth it as the sun was going to be already set in Shirley Heights. I was glad that we both went in the end and got to enjoy the vibe, 20 ECD (EC for short Eastern Caribbean Dollars) for entry apparently the sun already going down didn’t get a discount. The music was of course including Bob but also more modern contemporary live covers from the likes of Amy Whinehouse. We enjoyed the lights over English Harbour and had a dance or three. This summed up the days events driving home was defensive in sight of Antiguan’s driving gets more and more sketch as the sun goes down and its really hard to see stuff we take for granted so its concentration time for the 40 minute ride home to the north west from the south east. Diagonally cutting the island interestingly the left half of that cut contains most of the touristic stuff.
Some pics – sorry for the quality …
A Guide to Renting a Car in Antigua
Coming to vacation in Antigua? Want to see the 365 beaches or any one of the attractions that are around? Then of course you’ll need to get around the island.
Read more: A Guide to Renting a Car in AntiguaThe question is: should you rent a car? Take a taxi? Or a bus? Relying on “official” handbook information often provides little help or assistance for the average driver coming to Antigua for the first time. Here’s everything you need to know about driving in Antigua:
Road conditions and hazards
Generally speaking, driving in Antigua may present a bit of a challenge for the inexperienced driver who isn’t used to Caribbean road conditions. While many of the main roads and highways are relatively comfortable, the conditions on a few of the main roads and lesser roads may be a bit more difficult. Be on the lookout for potholes which may cause damage to the car and/or tire. Also be on the lookout for Antiguan livestock which sometimes roam the streets, such as donkeys and horses. Expect the odd cat or dog to run across the road in urban areas.
Road signage
While there have been recent efforts to put up road signs and directions on some of the main intersections, there are still many roads which have no signage. Most car rental companies provide maps – so get familiar with them, and always keep one handy to get an idea of where you’re going. If you do get lost, don’t be afraid to stop and ask locals questions.
Should I Rent a Car in Antigua? Yes.
The short answer is a resounding YES- Have a look at Best Antigua as one of the best car rental companies – https://bestantigua.com/car-rental
Or ask us to find you a quote from all the car rental providers with this quick form:
There are a few main factors that will make a difference as to whether or not you should rent a car:
- How long you will be staying in Antigua – In general, the longer you rent a car, the cheaper your rental will be. Most car rentals start at roughly $50 US per day, not including 15% tax and a $20 US temporary driver’s license. There are usually discounts for 3-6 days rental, and then even lower prices for week-long rentals. Ask us who we recommend or fill out this quick form and let us send them all the details saving you from doing it.
- Where you are staying – the availability of transportation to and from the main accommodation areas differs around the island. In general, the bus system is most efficient for those on the southwest and south of the island – areas such as Ffryes, Jolly Harbour, English Harbour and Falmouth have relatively good coverage and beaches and attractions in this area can be accessed via bus. On the other hand, attractions and beaches on the east and north of the island, such as Long Bay/Grand Pineapple, Nonsuch Bay, Harmony Hall, Blue Waters, etc have far less frequent bus service and often have little bus service going all the way out to those exact locations. If you stay at one of these hotels and plan to travel often, then it may make more sense (financially) to rent a car rather than a taxi, which may cost up to $45 US return. For more information on taxi fares, visit this TAXI RATES ANTIGUA page.
Things to remember when considering car rental in Antigua
- There is a mandatory $20 US fee for a temporary license.
- Don’t forget insurance! Usually $12 US per day for 3rd party coverage. Most won’t tell you but you still have a liability to cover on average $2500 on the car which is a bit of a scam considering the value of the car.
- The local insurance often doesn’t cover tires – so if you have a flat you will either have to take it to be repaired later or pay for it when you get back to the car rental agency.
- Driving is on the LEFT, similar to the UK but opposite to the US.
- Best rates and deals can be found online with international car rental agencies. Most do not require a deposit in advance and money is only paid when you’re picking up your car. However, service is not as good as local companies who pride themselves in supporting your needs – breakdown and you need to be certain you are getting some help. A big international rental company is not as service-orientated.
- A 15% sales tax in the form of ABST is added to car rentals. When renting a car, check to ensure that the ABST has been included in the price.
- Most car rental agencies will deliver their car to you, while several hotels have rental agencies right at their desk.
- Bus prices usually range from around $2.75 – $5 EC, which is about $1-$2 US, although prices may be slightly higher for evening buses and if you request a bus driver to go beyond the normal bus route
- There are NO fixed time/schedule for buses, which leave usually only when full or ready to go.
Further reading on Driving in Antigua can be found here – >