General Antigua Articles. Harder to categorise blog posts related to the island of Antigua in the Caribbean.
Boasting of “The Best Beach By a Mile” the Jolly Harbour area (includes Jolly Beach Resort) represents one of the most popular and frequented tourist areas on the island.
I wanted to share some links and words on travel to Antigua to help those of you who are thinking “is Antigua a good place to travel with a baby?”
I’ve just returned from a blissful two weeks in Antigua with my partner and one year old baby, and feel duty bound to impart all the knowledge I learnt about travelling with a baby. Because let’s face it there is next to no information on the internet that is helpful or truthful for that matter. The aim of this piece is to save you the weeks of worry I endured myself about the so- called difficulties of travelling with a baby. As they say if you I knew what I know now, I’d have been a bit more relaxed about things beforehand.
Here is a link to more info on the same Travel to Antigua with a Baby
So to begin, we booked a two week all inclusive holiday with the Halcyon Cove by Rex Resorts hotel in Dickenson Bay, Antigua (more on this later). Our flight was with Virgin Atlantic at 9.35am departing from London Gatwick. I’ve flown with Virgin before, but never with children and had heard that they are one of the better airlines when it comes to carrying children. Although I have nothing to compare it to, I would say they were OK, nothing spectacular. In fact trying to get through to their customer services on the phone was extremely frustrating. I resorted to emailing them instead and when I didn’t receive a response 4 days later, I spent a painful fifteen minutes listening to faltering muzac before my call was answered. I had questions about ordering a sky cot and their online check in system, as my baby wasn’t included on the booking online as she didn’t have a seat. The gentlemen I spoke to didn’t seem sure about anything and kept having to put me on hold whilst he checked with a colleague. A few days later I had another question and again waited an extensive amount of time before getting through to a nice young lady who informed me that we couldn’t even use the online check in system. As we had a baby the check in desk rep would need to check her passport and allocate seats this way. Also it turns out that we couldn’t choose our own seats online as they automatically put babies at the bulkhead anyway.
During my research on how I was going to feed my little one during the travelling time including the eight hour flight and getting the food through security etc, I discovered a great tip, that I worked out for myself. Even the women I had questioned before I went hadn’t told me about this. As you know you cannot take more than 100mls of any liquids, etc through security these days, but they do allow you take as much milk, baby food etc as you need for your journey, they just make you open fifty percent of what you have and taste it, which seems pretty pointless to me! But anyway, I began to think well I need to take more then, because you can only keep milk that’s been open for two hours and the same goes for the food! But fear not, you can actually call and reserve your baby’s own brand of milk from Boot’s airside, so no need to carry it with you; you can collect it before getting on the plane. You can also buy various brands of baby food, which they don’t reserve, but have plenty of. I did make sure that I had my little one’s training cup of water with me though and one pouch for her breakfast, as we had to be at the airport at 6.30am. I took both through security and did ensure I tasted both in front of them.` Also on another note, the airlines allow you to keep your pushchair with you right up until you board the board plane, which also has to be fully collapsible.
When actually on the plane the cabin crew will give you an extendable contraption that you attach to your own seat belt to ensure your little one is secure during take-off and landing, turbulence etc. But actually I kept her attached to me most of the time, that way she couldn’t crawl off anywhere and when she and I slept it ensured she didn’t fall off me. We never got offered the elusive sky cot that I’d booked, but the shelf it was to be fitted to, didn’t look very secure to me, and in hindsight I probably wouldn’t have used it. On a practical note that baby changing facilities are difficult to say the least. Not every toilet has the pull down try to put your baby on, which probably is fine for a younger immobile baby, but being a year old and very mobile I struggled to keep one hand to hold her down and the other to change her with, which left me extremely flustered! All Virgin need to do is put a little plastic rail on the edge and a belt across the chest and it would be a lot safer and easier! Now back to my earlier point about Virgin being child/baby friendly, maybe they are, but they didn’t do anything different or outstanding for us. They didn’t provide any food or milk, but curiously I think they may do for upper class passengers as right before we landed coming back to the UK a member of the crew came up to us with some baby food and baby juice and asked me if I wanted it to take home. I accepted it, but it would have been a lot nicer of her has she offered it while actually flying.
One of the more annoying things the Virgin crew did was on the way to Antigua. It is mandatory to complete a landing card to give to their immigration officials with your passport. It basically tells them where you are staying for how long, whether you are bringing food into the country etc, etc. The Virgin crew stated to all passengers that family groups with the same surname need only complete one form. So as my partner and baby have the same name, that’s what we did and then a separate one for me. However, when we reached the immigration hall, we were met by a terse woman who told us in no uncertain terms that we needed one each, and sent us to back of the line! The hall had no air conditioning and we ended up hold passing our daughter back and forth between us for two hours in the end. At the hotel, the rep told us that they normally allow families with baby’s and young children to go to the front of the queue, no such luck for us!
TIP : Don’t be shy when arriving with a baby let them know or they are happy to leave you. Don’t do the British polite thing.
On a positive note, once we were in the country officially our bags were there and we easily found the stand for our transfer who drove us the 20 minutes to our wonder hotel in Dickenson Bay.
To say we were tired and very hot when we arrived would be an understatement, although the baby miraculously was very calm and collected and took the whole flight and immigration queue in her stride!
The Halcyon Cove by Rex Resorts hotel staff greeted us in a very friendly and professional manner, handing us a fruit cocktail and a most welcome cold flannel each. Then they upgraded us from the garden view room we had booked to a pool view room with fridge and kettle (for the baby’s bottle and by request). Result! The room was fully air conditioned/en suite shower/bath with a huge king size bed and a Mama’s and Papa’s travel cot for the baby.
As mentioned before during my research into what I should take in terms of food, milk and nappies for our little one, there was next to no information and what I did manage to glean from some forums that popped up on google was that the supermarkets in Antigua were few and far between and what they did have sometimes were obscure brands and extremely limited. Actually this is the exact opposite of what I found to be true. I did take two weeks’ worth of nappies and savoury food and her powdered milk, but didn’t feel I could take any ‘puddings’. Which I could have, because when I split all of her supplies over our three suitcases ( I was worried about the food pouches exploding or a suitcase getting lost), each suitcase weighed only 13kgs with all our clothes etc too! Virgin are actually a lot more generous in their baggage allowance than a lot of the charter airlines, so not only did we have 23kg’s each to put in the hold, the baby was allocated her own 23kg bag, hand luggage and pushchair free of charge also.
So back to the supermarkets – In Dickenson bay there is quite a large First Choice Supermarket, five minutes in a taxi, or 30 minutes walking in very hot temperatures which sells many brands of nappies, including Pampers and Huggies. Albeit they are a little more expensive than the UK if you get desperate. They don’t sell swim nappies though, but plenty of wipes, all brands you get in the UK also. In term of food, the main brand they stock in Gerber, which is made by Nestle, so a perfectly good brand. They also sell all different types of powdered milks including some lactose or soy free ones too.
There wasn’t an awful lot to say when actually in Antigua – depending on where you stay water could be a risk for example if you rent a Jolly Harbour unit. Most restaurants accommodate babies well. Resorts sometimes have kids clubs but not much for toddlers. The beach is the best thing we found endless hours of fun for one and all.
For most visitors to Antigua one of the prime attractions is the sea: with beautiful water that ranges from aqua blue to crystal clear with a wide range of unique and interesting marine wildlife, it’s something not to be missed! There are lots of water based tours available, but of course we don’t want you combing through dozens of options hoping and praying that you pick the right one. Here are our top 5 picks for water based tours for Antigua and Barbuda
If you need cheap places to stay Antigua for the carnival read on. Billed as “The Caribbean’s greatest summer festival” Antigua and Barbuda’s Carnival is one of the twin island state’s biggest events, often attracting thousands of visitors both regionally and internationally to join in the celebrations. The official carnival celebrations take place from July 25-August 4 with a number of competitions and shows including music, pageantry and mas. Most of the events take place in the capital, St. John’s, at the historic Antigua Recreation Grounds (ARG). Of course, if you’re visiting for carnival, this means that you need a place to stay! The question is where is the best place to stay if you don’t know Antigua but want to take part? Here are 5 recommendations for the best place to stay if you’re visiting for Antigua’s Carnival.
Heritage Hotel
Located in downtown St. John’s, Heritage Hotel is a great place to stay if seeing and hearing the hustle and bustle of the city is an attraction rather than a deterrent. The Heritage Hotel is on the main tourist area in St. John’s, located within the Heritage Quay shopping plaza. An easy 10-15 minute walk will take you straight to the ARG and carnival city where most of the action takes place. The hotel sits right on the waterfront overlooking the harbor where cruise ships come in, and has a scenic boardwalk on which to explore the area.
Joe Mikes Hotel, Restaurant and Casino
Joe Mikes, a small family run hotel, is in the heart of St. John’s, and therefore the heart of carnival. This unassuming building is located on Nevis Street and is therefore close to all of the amenities that St. John’s has to offer. There’s a restaurant downstairs for those who don’t want to go too far for meals, although there are also dozens of choices just steps down the street. Unlike most other accommodation, Joe Mikes Hotel is fully incorporated with carnival. They host the weekly Jam Corner events, where both established and up and coming artistes showcase their songs in the lead up to carnival. They also participate in the t-shirt mas and J’ouvert events, allowing patrons to party in a fun filled and safe atmosphere on the streets of St. John’s. There’s also a casino downstairs if you are looking for a few hours for other entertainment.
ELS Guest House
Located in Radio Range on the outskirts of St. John’s, ELS is a great place to stay that’s not too far from the action that takes place mainly in St. John’s but not too close to be disturbed by most of the noise or commotion. This four story guesthouse features one and two bedroom suites, each with their own private balconies. Each room is air conditioned, and has internet and cable TV, along with a microwave or stove. If you don’t feel like preparing anything yourself, there’s also a small restaurant on the top floor to cater for your gastronomic needs, as well as a games room to have some fun. The roof top is also designed as an open air relaxation area where you can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding area and St. John’s.
Jolly Beach Resort
One of the largest resorts on the island, Jolly Beach Resort features one of the best beaches in Antigua with a two mile stretch of beautiful white sand. Although located in the quiet village of Bolans, it’s no more than a 15 minute drive to St. John’s, and public bus transportation is easily available just outside the resort. With specials just for carnival time and their own t shirt mas group, this is one hotel that definitely caters for those looking to vacation with a carnival twist. Enjoy the amenities of a shopping center, numerous restaurants and bars and a supermarket without the hustle and bustle of town. You can choose an all-inclusive package or self-cater at one of your numerous restaurant options. Jolly Beach Resort definitely offers the best of both worlds.
Paige Pond Country Inn
If you’re in need of a place to relax during or after the carnival action, then Paige Pond Country Inn may be the place for you. Located in the tranquil village of Buckleys, this self-catering accommodation is the perfect place to “detox” after a hard day (or night) of carnival partying. Expect ensuite accommodation and other perks such as Wi-Fi internet for uploading those pictures as well as cable tv. Since you are located along a bus route there’s easy access to town, but you’re also only a 20 minute drive away if you’re driving. It’s the perfect getaway for the carnival parties.
Another great option is the Anchorage Hotel – not on the beach and so representing a cheaper way to stay. Check that hotel out it’s well located to get you into St Johns fast.
A friend has told me that underdog is getting to be a place to be for a fun evening and night in Jolly Harbour.
He said
Any visitor to Antigua and Barbuda might hear local music on the airwaves that they may not be familiar with. And while much of the music may sound similar to regular pop music for those visitors from Western countries such as the United States or the United Kingdom, in reality there is a rich culture and heritage behind these forms of music that separates them from these types of music. Let’s take an in depth look at some of the local and regional genres of music played in Antigua and Barbuda.
Antigua and Barbuda is famous not only for sun, sea and sand, but also for parties! And there’s no time of the year where there are more parties held than during the Carnival season. Every first Monday and Tuesday of August, the Antigua and Barbuda celebrates the historical emancipation with a show of partying and revelry that pales in comparison to any other time of the year. However, much of the action takes place long before the official carnival holiday: the Carnival “fete” season is a long held tradition of parties that take place weeks before the official celebrations.
Here are some of the hottest parties for Carnival 2015:
Caribbean Snow Storm (White Fete)
One of the biggest themed parties of the year, The Caribbean Snow Storm, locally known as White Fete, is on the must attend list of almost everyone in Antigua and Barbuda. This party, usually held on the first Saturday of July, encourages patrons to go all out in finding the most elegant and spectacular white outfits. This event is also all inclusive, meaning that you don’t have to worry about paying for drinks because it’s included in the price that you pay. You could also upgrade to VIP status which includes added perks such as food and secured parking. Check out the White Fete facebook page for more info on this event.
Blue Jeans
Blue jeans is another all-inclusive event, usually held on the second weekend of July. In contrast to White fete, Blue Jeans is a far more relaxed event, where patrons are encouraged to wear denim-related outfits. Expect a fun and relaxed vibe with a number of top local artists to provide the entertainment all night long.
Red Eye
This concert invites a number of local and regional artists on the soca scene to perform at the Antigua Recreation Grounds, otherwise known as “Carnival City”.
You can purchase your general admission tickets which include entry or upgrade to VIP which includes complimentary drinks, improved décor and other added perks. This year the lineup includes international soca superstars such as Kes, Skinny Fabolous, and Farmer Nappy. Visit their facebook page for more information on the lineup and ticket locations.
Tshirt mas
T shirt mas is one of the official events of Antigua’s Carnival and is also one of the most well attended. Thousands of revelers join a number of private bands, such as Myst or Insane Mas to “jump” (party) on the streets of St. John’s. Each reveler is presented with t-shirts for their band, along with other goodies such as free drinks, bandanas, drinking mugs, and other cool merchandise. Patrons of each band are usually separated from the rest of the crowd and the other bands so that they can enjoy a once in a lifetime party experience! Since t shirt mas is usually on the official opening day of the carnival activities you can be assured of starting off carnival with a bang!
Bring Bottle and Come (BBAC)
This bi-annual fete is the house party to end all house parties. This party has a unique method of paying for entry: you can choose to either pay a regular entrance fee OR you can bring a bottle of drink from a pre-approved list of drinks as your entry fee! BBAC is held at an actual house, allowing patrons to feel a particular type of intimacy that other larger parties and venues can’t match. This party is usually held on the last Friday of July, just before the Carnival Monday and Tuesday.
We Come to Fete (WCF)
The official carnival “warm down” party, WCF is held on the first weekend after Carnival celebrations have climaxed. This party allows feters one last chance to recapture the carnival vibes that had them partying until sunup.
Of course, this isn’t meant to be an exhaustive list of carnival activities. For more information on all the events for this carnival, visit the official Carnival 2015 website or you can also follow other local entertainment websites and Facebook pages such as Two Six Eight Entertainment or Fete Tracker for the latest up to date news and reviews.
It’s getting closer to the ANTIGUA CARNIVAL 2015 and the countdown from today is (go here to find out !)
So what better way to get in the carnival spirit than takea look at the songs that will form an integral part of the big bashment.
Melo – Searching
Here is the link to find out more about the models that all had very exciting roles like jumping out of a plane to get to Antigua…etc… You can discuss this here on the google profile page –
https://plus.google.com/103427789477892984698/posts/bZAHo8DUokM
If you’re looking for something to do after you’ve finished the regular beach and day attractions, there’s no need to worry: Antigua has a wide variety of nightlife that will cater to your night time cabin fever needs! Local nightlife ranges from relaxed to raucous, so there’s something for everyone if you want to get out and about.
Here are some of the most popular nightlife spots in Antigua and Barbuda:
1. Abracadabra – Popularly known as “Abras”, Abracadabra is well known for its eclectic mix of locals, expats, and visiting yachtsmen and women. Located in English Harbour just before the world famous Nelson’s Dockyard, this restaurant and bar transforms into a nightclub on weekends. Music ranges from local soca, dancehall, and reggae, to urban hip hop and rap, to EDM and dance, so no matter what your musical tastes you’ll be sure to find something to suit you. Enjoy the covered main dancefloor or enjoy the music in the courtyard or on the second dancefloor at the rear.
2. Club Bliss/Studio 79 – Located Runaway Bay, this upscale entertainment complex (formerly known as Rush) has been entertaining Antiguans for years. Mainly catering to locals, but with an audience that also includes visitors and local university students, this club is definitely the place to be on weekends, especially for Friday club nights. Downstairs is the main bar with several pool tables and other games. Upstairs is the main club area for dancing the night away. If you feel like treating yourself, you can upgrade to VIP and enjoy waitress and table service. Check out their facebook page for up to date information on specials and events.
3. Mad Mongoose – Also located in English Harbour, Mad Mongoose is a lively bar located at the beginning of the Dockyard Drive strip. Like Abracadabra, this bar is also popular with yachtsmen, locals, and visitors alike. The small dancefloor is host to live bands Fridays and Tuesdays while the entertainment area to the back has a number of pool tables and tv’s showing a wide range of sports channels. You could also grab a bite to eat and hang out on the wooden benches at the entrance, which gives you a great view of the harbor and surrounding area. Mad Mongoose has daily specials ranging from Two for One Tequila Thursdays and Saturday Buddy nights, so make sure to ask what’s on when you get there!
4. DBoat – Dboat is a one of a kind and innovative approach to partying in the Caribbean. Anchored on the north coast of the island, Dboat is an old oil tanker that was converted into a multipurpose entertainment venue. During the day Dboat is family oriented, with a water park featuring slides, a diving platform and trampolines, as well as a restaurant and day tours to surrounding islands in the North Sound marine park. At night the strobe lights come on and the deck is prepped for weekend club nights and events.
5. Beach Limerz – Located at the historic Fort James beach, Beach Limerz is a new addition to the local nightlife scene.
This rustic restaurant features a number of specials including daily happy hours and a wide range of tasty local dishes, like their “Johnny Burger”. There are also a wide range of events, such as their Thursday Karaoke nights that attract a large and enthusiastic crowd, as well as their Friday party nights and live bands on Sunday. If you need to catch a break from the fun, there’s also a patio on the beach with chairs and benches to eat, drink, or party the rest of the night away.
The new slogan for Antigua and Barbuda that “The beach is just the beginning” is apt in more ways that one. Although we are renowned for our 365 beaches, you will be bored simply staying at home or in your hotel room when the sun goes down! Thankfully, there is a wide range of activities to indulge in while you’re here that take place every day. Here’s a short weekly schedule that will allow you to take advantage of what Antigua has to offer.
Friday
Pork and Wine Lime at Captain’s Quarters – This event takes place on Fridays at the Captain’s Quarters restaurant at the Catamaran Hotel, located at Falmouth Harbour. This outing (aka “lime” in local speak) allows people to mingle, talk, and have fun in a relaxed setting. The cost is only $35, and you’re allowed a choice of two meats, with pork being the specialty, as well as a glass of wine.
DJ Nights at Abracadabras – If you’re in more of a party mood you can always head down to Abracadabras, a restaurant and bar that transforms itself into a nightclub on weekends. You’ll meet an eclectic mix of locals, yachties, and expats steps away from the historic Nelson’s Dockyard area.
Saturday
5 AM Hikers – If you were too full after your pork and wine to stay out late, why not work off the extra calories? The 5 AM hikers meet every Saturday for their weekly trek through various scenic points around the island. This is good for even the most casual of walkers or for the hardcore off road runner.Check out their facebook page for more information about meeting places and schedule.
Club Sushi – After some recovery from the early morning hike, head down to Club Sushi in English Harbour for an all you can eat sushi special for only $80 EC.
Sunday
Shirley Heights Barbecue – An institution not to be missed, every visitor should attend the Sunday barbecue at Shirley Heights. Beginning at around 4 pm, enjoy the sounds of local steel pan players as you enjoy local barbecue food at Shirley Heights, a restored 18th century fort overlooking the best view on the island! As the sun sets and the rum begins to have its intended effect, the steel band makes way for a local band for you to dance the rest of the night away to local and international hit songs.
Monday
Chiki’s Hi-Fi Mondays – One of the best Caribbean DJ’s (and the only non-playing person to win a cricket man of the match award) Chiki’s ability to get a party started are world renowned. You can listen to Chiki yourself for no charge at his Hi-Fi Mondays sessions at Life on the Corner, located in English Harbour.
Asher Otto and Itchy Feet at Al Porto’s – Playing recently to sold out crowds in Antigua and St. Maarten, Asher Otto and the Itchy Feet Band are on the rise as a spectacular Caribbean band. Catch them live at Al Porto’s, an Italian themed restaurant located along the scenic docks at Jolly Harbour.
Tuesday
Happy Hour at Touloulou – Head down to Touloulou off Friars Hill Road on Tuesdays for their 5 o’clock happy hour specials where drinks are only $5 EC. Stick around for their after drinks movie and enjoy light bites and other drinks specials.
Two for one pizza at Al Porto’s – On Tuesday it’s back to Al Porto’s for one of the best dinner deals on the island. Every Tuesday is their two for one pizza special, which draws a large crowd every time for their thin crust wood baked pizza. Reservations definitely recommended.
Wednesday
Atlantic View Restaurant – Where in the world could you get two starters, mains and desserts for only $99 EC? Atlantic View Restaurant is part of the Hotel Training School, so every time you eat you give students a great learning experience without breaking the bank.Visit their page on the Antigua and Barbuda Hospitality Institute website for more details and contact information.
Catherine’s Café – Enjoy soothing jazz music from internationally renowned musician Roland Prince and the rest of his trio within the scenic English Harbour area.
Thursday
Bingo at Kings Casino – If you want good fun with a local flair, why not try bingo at Kings Casino? Antigua’s oldest casino, this establishment is located in the heart of downtown St. John’s in Heritage Quay, right on the St. John’s waterfront docks. With a wide range of table games and slots, this casino will be sure to provide you with hours of entertainment.
Kareoke at Beach Limerz – If you need an activity that allows you to become more engaged, look no further than karaoke at Beach Limerz. Located on the historic Fort James beach, this new restaurant has attracted quite a following for its weekly karaoke nights. Whether you’re an accomplished singer or a first timer looking for fun, karaoke at Beach Limerz is the perfect spot to pass the night away.
To get the video in HD – HIGHLY RECOMMENDED click the ‘HD” in the video and watch on vimeo..got fed up with the masses of ads all over my videos on youtube so testing this out.
If you would like to compare the resort prices using TRIVAGO for your stay and book a flight separate this can work out as mentioned in the video alternatively they have good deals from the major travel suppliers on different basis for example all inclusive. TIP – Here you would be crazy not to do that unless you really are a light eater/drinker. All inclusive allows you to control the cost of your stay especially a family and this place is a good way to relax with a family if you are not relying on the kids club – check the latest reviews of this resort to see how well that is going it seems to be in a constant state of flux depending mostly on demand.
Still a highly recommended resort in Antigua.
I missed the chance to visit the Antigua Donkey Sanctuary last time so made that my first stop this time round while on holiday in Antigua. As it was a fascinating area though a rather tough road after you get past the donkey sanctuary I wanted to pop the drone up and get some images and here is the resulting video. I am quite pleased with the editing though the footage was not the best it could be from a critics perspective. I hope you like it. I decided again to feature music from a local musician a Ms Claudette Peters – enjoy.
In just 1 week ended up going through 3 different cars the first a jeep style thing that actually delt with the rough road worse than the later two Toyota cars ! Also this is something I want to ask – has anyone suspected they have had their gas stolen ? in Just 2 days I had emptied the tank and made a north south run and smaller runs…STILL !!! The second car the brakes were going so I took it back and ended up with the same type of car but a manual which was a pain the kind of driving you end up doing in Antigua. Such is life and bad luck and in season it is true that the rental car outlets start to get low on stock.
I decided to stay quite local so that I would just need to run my car to the airport – 1 hour was plenty from Falmouth to get petrol (sorry gas) and it kind of makes you feel how complicated my world in the UK is when its oh so simple in the Caribbean. The other reason is I was busy visiting friends scattered about the island so I felt that I was always in my damn rental car.
I guess the charms had come back in just a week yes just what the doc ordered. The phantom was packed away and I was clocking off from duty today.
So pigeon beach was the best bet for me and didn’t disappoint I elected to go to Bumpkin’s for a drink or two to take on the beach while I tried to get some colour. I met a girl I recognised from a long time ago who worked at sweet T’s this is one of the nice things about Antigua –doesn’t seem to change. You know what you’re getting.
It was time to leave Goat Studio and leave the island until next time.
I went straight through security at ANU and bought my English Harbour 5 year which doesn’t come in a litre bottle annoyingly which is one mans limit. However I am sure many of you go home clanking down the victoria line ! It’s not going to be as smooth as the Mount Gay XO (extra old) that stuff went down TOO damn easy and left me with the feeling that I just flew first class and slept all the way !!! (That was my trip in Barbados last year ). Not that I have ever flown first class.
It was really really nice to see and stay in Falmouth while in season, however I am designed for the Dickenson Bay arrondisment.
I did buy these wonderful magnetic balls that are such fun they are in a big bin and you have a bag and so long as you can close the bag its like 11 USD. So that made a couple of gifts – some suzzie hot sauce and just enough ECD (Eastern Caribbean Dollars) left for the most expensive rum punch on the island.
Me Ga-wan
If you like AntigWWAA then you will like this ! I never realised that Barbuda is shaped like a pig !
I didn’t quite get this right as there was quite some wind and the conditions were not ideal. The gopro did ok here though I was shooting into the sun and you can make out the effect that this caused. But here is Darkwood Beach – so you know what to expect. The internet kind of takes away the adventure doesn’t it !
I started out around 8 am – missed my normal coffee stop but wanted to get ahead as things just take longer here.
I finally got to see Rendezvous Bay and walked the road that seems ok for cars. You need to turn by the horse riding tour place just as you have left liberta on the way to Falmouth. Its not so easy to find and I would recommend other beaches and hikes I think but it was still nice to see someplace new in Antigua. It took maybe 50 mins round trip walk and I didn’t feel the need to spend so long there is a pebbly natural beach. The area is going to generated into a top resort I think eventually.
I was now looking to explore a bit more of the Fig Tree Drive area. The Gallery is only open in season so I had always missed it before…So Michelle explained a bit about the Gallery hosting a Caribbean but international selection of works. Sarah the owner also exhibits and she uses gold leaf in some of the paintings which I remarked.
Please make sure to stop by the Culture Shoppe – a stand selling wonderful tasting saroll I think Elaine told me it was a red coloured flower drink ! The red flowers you can see on the drive up. She will give you all manner of info on the area and its right at the point where some hikes can be made (long since well kept) – but you will need to call her about that. So she can help you hike to the summit of the local mountain/hill too. It’s a shame that even on cruise ship day the taxis zip past here and don’t allow the passengers to stop and get a break. She is often used by them however to supply a toilet break ! She needs a little help to develop. Her entrepreneurial spirit will go on ! Get hold of her on 1-268-460-3949 (Home) or 1-268-783-3343 (Elaines Cell) – or just be forceful and stop by her stall – it’s a place to get starfruit and black pineapple and other in season fruits. Just at her stall is a roadway you can drive the 400m down to where a dam is and the start of hikes – but the trails are not at all maintained and you would need a better map and machete. So this is why you need to call Eileen to arrange a guide but you will be hiking the unknown.
I did take some aerial footage of the area I am yet to review. [editors note I poped the drone up and surveyed above the canopy – very undeveloped green hills all around so a hike to the top may give some disappointed views ???]
As I wound out of the trip you get just past Carlisle bay and to the small but magnificently perched Grace Bay. The Monravians were the only ones to educate the slave children in the ruin you can see to the left so it’s the only slave school for children on the island of Antigua. See the image and video.
The community is lobbying for the government to restore this historical landmark. I found out this because a woman approached me about my flying activity on the corner. I had just gotten some footage but AGAIN realised the camera had not been running! I need a system to force me to remember that. I took to the sky.
I stopped to pick up a local woman who needed a lift despite me telling her I was just about to stop at boxers restaurant. I ended up just having coffee and she was still waiting for a lift so I took her as far as darkwood beach where I chatted to a guy from the cruise ship. They really do bring the people in and the atmosphere it’s a very crucial income but not all Antiguan’s benefit!