Antigua Resorts | Blog posts that relate to resorts for the island. All inclusive – Family – Boutique – Luxury read more >>
Hammock Cove sits on Antigua’s northeast coast. It is an adults-only retreat that focuses on luxury and peace.
This all-inclusive resort provides a quiet atmosphere, personal help, and amazing food. It is a great spot for travelers who want a calm getaway. Below, we look at the rooms, food, service, and things to do that make Hammock Cove worth a visit.
Antigua, a gem within the Caribbean’s azure waters, stands as a premier destination for those seeking a blend of adventure, relaxation, and luxury unparalleled in the region. This article aims to guide you through the opulent escapes Antigua offers, from its world-class luxury resorts to indulging in budget-friendly lavishness.
| Key Takeaways | |
|---|---|
| Luxury Resorts Highlight | Sandals Dickenson Bay for unparalleled beachfront luxury |
| Top Visualization Insight | Island’s popularity among luxury-seeking travelers |
| Accommodation Preference Insight | Diverse preferences catered to by resorts like Nonsuch Bay Resort |
| Activity Highlight for an Unforgettable Vacation | Water-based tours as in The Top 5 Water-Based Tours in Antigua and Barbuda |
| Budget Luxury Insight | Affordable luxury attainable as detailed in The Best Budget All-Inclusives in Antigua |
Antigua’s luxury resorts are more than mere accommodations; they are sanctuaries that offer the ultimate in privacy, service, and beauty. Among these, Sandals Dickenson Bay stands out for its mesmerizing beachfront setting and lavish amenities designed for the most discerning travelers.
The popularity of Antigua among luxury-seeking travelers is on the rise, as shown in the visualization above. Resorts play a vital role in this upward trend, with their commitment to excellence in hospitality ensuring every guest’s stay is nothing short of spectacular.
Visitors to Antigua have varied accommodation preferences, from those seeking the exclusivity of boutique hotels to families looking for all-inclusive experiences. This diversity is embraced by properties such as Nonsuch Bay Resort, which caters to a wide array of tastes and requirements.
As seen in the pie chart above, the distribution of accommodation types preferred by visitors highlights the importance of offering versatile options to meet the individual needs of each traveler.
The luxury of a vacation in Antigua extends beyond the confines of resorts into the myriad activities available throughout the island. For an unforgettable experience, the water-based tours listed in The Top 5 Water-Based Tours in Antigua and Barbuda offer guests exclusive adventures, from snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to private boat tours at sunset, ensuring every day is as thrilling as it is indulgent.
Luxury in Antigua is not solely the domain of the affluent. As outlined in The Best Budget All-Inclusives in Antigua, there are numerous options for enjoying the island’s opulence without overspending, making a luxury vacation accessible to a broader audience.
The demand for luxurious stays in Antigua shows a significant rising trend, symbolizing a bright future for the island’s hospitality sector. This trend signifies not only the growing appeal of Antigua as a luxury destination but also the island’s capability to adapt and evolve to meet the soaring expectations of its guests.
Antigua masterfully blends the untouched beauty of the Caribbean with the essence of luxury, making it an unparalleled escape for those in pursuit of tranquility and indulgence. As we reflect on the various facets that contribute to Antigua’s luxurious appeal, it’s evident that the island offers a sanctuary where every detail is tailored to create an exceptional experience.
We invite all readers to explore more about luxury resorts and accommodations in Antigua through our blog for a comprehensive guide that will help plan your next exquisite getaway.
In fostering a community of lavish vacation enthusiasts, we encourage you to share your experiences or plans about staying in one of Antigua’s luxury resorts. Together, let’s celebrate the opulence and serenity that only Antigua can offer.
It is unfair to compare Luxury across islands places and budgets.
Luxury is a very easily used word (especially online) and we become somewhat immune to it. Luxury is also very subjective so we took a risk using it for the title of this sample resorts guide. Nevertheless consider the following reports as Luxury for Antigua.
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Antigua is a popular destination for couples looking for the perfect honeymoon location.
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.
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.
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 £$^%& ???
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…
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.
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
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
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.
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 !
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…
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 !
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.
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.
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.
Looking for a great holiday but can’t be bothered with the fuss of traveling to different restaurants to eat or other places for activities? Or maybe you would really love a fun holiday but you’re also on a budget? Don’t worry – there are a number of budget friendly options for those looking to stay all inclusive. These hotels are situated on some of the best beaches on the island, but for a price that won’t break the bank either. Here are the resorts:
The Verandah Resort is geared up for families who also appreciate space, luxury and tranquility. Its architecture combines elegance with modern design, creating an inviting ambiance for guests to unwind and relax. Surrounded by lush gardens and offering typical sun-kissed turquoise views, this resort provides an enchanting escape.
The accommodations are to a high specification. The suites and villas are beautifully appointed, offering a perfect balance of comfort and style. Each private veranda provides stunning vistas, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Whether situated by the beach or nestled in the gardens, these accommodations offer a peaceful retreat.
The resort offers a range of amenities to cater to guests’ needs. Multiple pools invite relaxation and refreshment under the warm sun. For those seeking adventure, various water sports activities (all inclusive) are available, including snorkeling and kayaking. Dining experiences at the resort’s restaurants are delightful, offering a diverse culinary journey. The spa provides a tranquil sanctuary, where skilled therapists offer rejuvenating treatments. You are allowed to escape the kids sometimes.
The Royalton Antigua combines adult resort amenities and also children’s – learn more on their official webpage.
UPDATE: Sadly this resort will be lost in time as it is being demolished, at least in part. And so we chose to keep it here for those who remember it fondly. In its place will be Royalton Chic which is a particular kind of resort visit here for the Adults Only Playscape – their words not mine!
Located on the sweeping white sands of Dickenson Bay, Halcyon Cove is a great option for those looking for nightlife and fun activities without having to stray too far from their hotel. This all-inclusive resort shares the beach with a number of other properties, such as Sandals, while still retaining a quaint charm and reasonable price. You can choose one of the several restaurants on the property, such as the Arawak Restaurant or the Carib Beach Bar. For a more scenic location there is the Warri Pier, which stretches out into the ocean and gives you a beautiful view of the sea life below. If you still feel like venturing outside the resort, there are a number of restaurants and bars just a walk down the beach, including Coconut Grove, Ana’s on the Beach, and Putters Bar and Grill. There are four tennis courts if you want to work up a sweat, and a number of motorized and non-motorized water sports which include hobie cats, water skiing, and even scuba diving, although it should be noted that watersports occur an additional charge. Located just a few minutes’ drive from the capital St. John’s, Halcyon Cove is a great all-inclusive base for anyone visiting Antigua.
Update: Things are looking good for the resort with a reopening and renovation in 2022/23. The resort is owned and managed now by Elite Island Resorts who will get the most out of this place. I really hope they keep the price point manageable for introducing a wider audience to Antigua. Find Antigua deals now >>
Located on the self proclaimed “best beach by the mile” Jolly Beach Resort boasts of being the best selection in your choice of affordable all inclusives on the Island. Visitors can expect a two mile stretch of wide, white sandy beach with plenty of space to stretch out. There is also a gym for those who can’t miss their workout. For those looking for a more relaxed vacation, you can visit the spa at the Palms Wellness Centre. Hungry? Try any one of four different restaurants on site, from the relaxed open – air atmosphere of Lydia’s to the classically styled Italian restaurant Bocciolo. If you get bored you can explore the wider Jolly Harbour area that offers lots to do and see. You can dine in any one of the nearby restaurants such as Melini’s or Akropolis, or you can belt out your favorite tunes at the Underdog Bar and Restaurant. There’s also a nearby shopping center and supermarket if you want to pick up a gift or souvenir. Jolly Beach Resort is definitely a great choice for all those looking to holiday on a budget. Check our nightlife review in the area.
Grand Pineapple Antigua Resort is located on the extreme eastern end of the island on the beautiful Long Bay. One of the best beaches on the island, Long Bay offers unique opportunities for off the beach snorkeling and marine life. This picturesque hotel is relatively secluded from the hustle and bustle, but there is a lot to do on site, including having a swim in any one of the two available pools, playing tennis on any one of the four tennis courts, or working out in the air conditioned gym. If you prefer to be in the clear blue water, then there’s a range of non-motorized motor sports available including windsurfing, kayaking, and the previously mentioned snorkeling. Choose from at least three different restaurants and three different bars for food and drink, or make the trek up the hill to the Outhouse, which offers panoramic views of the island.
Update: This resort is currently closed whilst an extensive renovation takes place. Word has it that the resort will get a much anticipated larger swimming pool.
Hawksbill lies on one of the most scenic beaches of Antigua, Hawksbill Beach. This nearly undisturbed paradise sits on 37 acres of manicured gardens and lush greenery. With four beaches to choose from (including one that’s clothing optional) you’ll never get tired of the scenery. Dining ranges from the international and local buffet style restaurant Tamarind Tree to the Italian flavored Il Vigento Su Mare. There are also a number of watersports to choose from, although these incur an additional fee. If you still feel active, then you can get your inner tennis pro on with a game of tennis. Accommodation ranges from a semi-detached bungalow to The Great House, a completed detached family dwelling styled with typical Caribbean flavor.
With a variety of accommodation types available Nonsuch bay offers an excellent ‘beach hotel experience’ in their secluded bay on the eastern side of Antigua. Antigua is small enough that it doesn’t really matter what side of the island you are on.
We are pleased to be able to offer some fantastic properties for your consideration, please ask us and we will personalize your search for you with our island contacts given your requirements. Vacation Rentals in Antigua.
Visit The Antigua Villa Rentals section by clicking here >>
Take action and set up a week or two on our lovely island in a villa of your choice.
Carib journal again made mention of the Caribbean regions major business influencer that is China. I have to agree though they didn’t mention Antigua. But if you were around at Carnival the Chinese float would not have gone amiss since it was quite odd (I thought). They are you see building the new airport and at any business hotel you will find the business men are staying. The investment will not be for free and I bet it increases trade links and cooperation between the various island states and China. Not maybe a bad thing especially if they can reduce the bloody import taxes, this does few people any good at all.
Especially massive is the Baha Mar a very large resort in the Bahamas with Chinese involvement.
If you don’t pay the bill then its ok I guess.
But this is the question someone will have to answer and someone will actually have to pay, even if its paying for the oil ! I am jesting about the proposed ice rink that will form part of a resort upgrade along with climbing wall as ‘off the wall’ attractions not normally found in the tropics.
Antigua Prime Minister Dr Baldwin Spencer and Sandals Chairman Gordon Stewart have agreed to an expansion and re branding of Grand Pineapple Resort in long bay. The resort will become another in a recent line others being in Grenada and another beaches resort in Barbados.
Why might you look at Antigua for an all inclusive holiday? It does seem to be a speciality of the resorts on the island which also includes upscale resorts like the Royalton.
Thomas Cook have a service to Antigua and the prices look very good. The caveat is that it sits only from November to April (in season) currently so its not an option for Antigua Carnival. You might not consider Manchester the ideal airport but Aberdeen is also on offer.
Take a look at the flight link below – pretty good no? And share this site as well to your friends for lots good tips especially if you go flight only as we are experts at helping you find a place suitable for your party. Oh yes the link Thomas Cook Flights Antigua
I will try and find out more but this is great news for those of us who live more in the north. Even for me it’s not much more of a drive to the airport in Manchester compared to ‘London’ gatwick 😉 this may also drive the other airlines to drop prices a bit. I feel a cheeky week in the planning! And speaking of planning here you can book your airport parking and stay the night before or after your trip to Antigua from Manchester.
Manchester Airport Parking and Hotel
Holiday Extras provide you with parking + hotels and other services designed to ease the trip to Antigua.
If you are still struggling to find the best flight to Antigua then Skyscanner can help.
Here is the skyscanner convenient link for SKYSCANNER ANTIGUA
My future wife and I began looking for a honeymoon destination in early 2012, our wedding was booked for November 2012. My wife is a seasoned traveller while I had never even flown before! As Cheryl had been to quite a few places, even in the Caribbean I was on the look out for somewhere very special but would at the same time feel ‘safe’ for me. One day searching on line we came across the Verandah Spar resort in St Phillips Antigua, it looked stunning!
Trip advisor had many glowing reports so we made further enquiries. The Verandah staff were really helpful, answering all our questions and really putting themselves out to make sure our special trip was just that. The flight from London Gatwick with BA was a very long one on the 777 aircraft, not a great deal to see but sea LOL, that was the worst part on the way out really. Arriving over Antigua I and many other passengers eagerly looked out to catch our first glimpse of the promised paradise island! What we saw was a lush green island with very character filled bays surrounded by a most beautiful blue sea! Here is my video of our flight and arrival!
Once we landed on the runway and stepped off, the warmth hit us all, and the informality of being disembarked onto the runway was very novel after the military precision of Gatwick! However, not realising it and eager to catch holiday snaps I took a photo of our 777 aircraft and was politely told not to do so by a security guard, so watch out for that! Customs and immigration was no worse than Gatwick, in fact its air-conditioned and did not take too long at all! The staff were efficient but welcoming and we were soon outside waiting for our taxi. Now, the roads might be a little bit of a surprise to EU guests LOL lets just say they are fast and cheerful, just hold on, ha-ha but in reality we never came to nay harm. Arrival at the Verandah was wonderful, we were met by very friendly reception staff and handed our first rum punch! OH wow! Soon we were on a golf cart heading for our little cottage style accommodation and taking in the sights and sounds as we went. We had arrived around 17:00 local time so the sun was already getting low in the sky as we checked out our room and then made our way onto the balcony overlooking the little bay directly towards the setting sun. Here is a compilation of what we saw:
The warmth and sounds was nothing like I have ever encountered, so relaxing so very beautiful! The sounds of the tree frogs and cicadas and the gentle lapping of the sea together with a stunning sun set made our honeymoon perfect and this was only our first night! Once we had gotten over the amazement of it all we headed off to meet the ‘management night’ and to get our first taste of Antiguan hospitality, now dark the charming clean pathways were lit with subtle lamps, but I had a little torch with me all the same. We were stunned to hear the sounds of a steel band wafting on the breeze as we neared the main pool and location of the Sea Breeze restaurant! How amazing to arrive in the Caribbean to a real steel band, just perfect and a memory never to be forgotten. The next few days saw us exploring our little slice of paradise and saw me setting about capturing on video as much of the local wildlife as I could. Here is my video:
We loved to natural history of this place, helped of course by the fact that the Verandah is located on a nature reserve! Diverse, amazing and colourful, we were treated to small lizards, humming birds and the tiny, tiny tree frogs that have a very loud voice at night 🙂 Of course, the sea and water sports are very much a part of a holiday in Antigua and what really made it for us was the complementary water sports equipment offered by the Verandah! As a non swimmer, I never felt pushed or unsafe and they really took care of me.
To my amazement this holiday would see me not only paddling off in my own Kayak, but also sailing a Hobby cat and even snorkelling! All under the watchful eye and guiding hand of my very proficient swimmer wife 🙂 We also headed over to Long Bay beach which is just down a little road from the resort, not as sheltered as our two bays but very beautiful all the same.
We took a trip to St Johns and then joined the Eco Boat tour! Another amazing experience as we were spirited along the azure blue sea to Hells gate, Bird Island and many other interesting locations! Lunch on the boat accompanied by more rum punch!
Here is my video featuring my snorkelling first time experiences including some views of Hells Gate!
Back at the Verandah we spent our days being looked after and gently exploring more of the resort, even taking a trip to the close by Devils Bridge to see a very precarious stone causeway that is pounded by the sea, a blow hole and much more. Highly recommended this location. All too soon it was time to think about heading home and so we spent our last day at this friendly resort being very spoiled until it was time to make our way to the airport! It was raining quite hard! But we were quite safe in the airport, passport control was very easy going and we eventually boarded a rather delayed BA 777 flight for home, that had come from another island! This was the only real down point of the honeymoon for us! We had specifically booked a night flight in the hope of catching up on some sleep.
This was not to happen due to a truly dreadful screaming baby for 75% of the trip! Very late on the BA staff ushered it and its highly stressed out mother to
the back of the plane and we all breathed a sigh of relief. Not being a seasoned traveller the sense of taking what had to be only a few weeks old baby on such a trip with just one parent seemed madness to me but I guess you can’t plan for such things. Well, we loved it so much that we are heading back in 2013 for an early 2nd honeymoon 🙂 we really can’t wait and plan to visit a few more recommended locations this time. I’ll be putting up my experiences on my YouTube channel so please feel free to browse in and see how we got on this time.
http://www.youtube.com/user/mikesndbs
We are flying with Virgin this time and taking two of our dear friends with us! The Verandah has a facebook page if you want to have a look at the resort
https://www.facebook.com/VerandahResort?fref=ts
Hope this encourages others to give Antigua a chance, you really won’t regret it.
All the best from Mike of Mike’s Movies.
it’s been a rewarding but protracted period of commute, career, and maybe family commitments and you deserve a break for a week or two. Let me walk you through a destination where you and yours will be treated as royalty. That destination is ‘the Ridge’ Sugar Ridge in Antigua.
Turn off from your high-touch world as much or as little as you like. With omnipresent Wi-Fi, you won’t be limited by location, pool, restaurant, room, gym etc. Catch up on your reading or use your laptop or tablet while relaxing in the infinity pool on top of the hill at the renowned Carmichael’s restaurant. Just Instagram that view and watch the followers flock in!
Carmichael’s you should absolutely reserve, and anticipate the experience. Often serving Antigua’s most important dignitaries and famous, with Caribbean fusion dishes created by the head chef. Carmichael’s position on the ridge was chosen for the views which are simply unparalleled, out across to the uninhabited Redonda and to St Kitts and Nevis.
Carmichael’s is not the only restaurant at Sugar Ridge, the Sugar Club bar and restaurant is tastefully contemporary in design – let’s describe it as Caribbean informal chic.
Throughout the resort rests generous and comfortable ergonomic designer furniture. Poolside and throughout the Sugar Club you will find your own style of lounging- as the locals say ‘limin’.
Villas are also available to accommodate larger parties and families, but let’s get back to YOU. Rooms (lower with plunge pools) with clever spaces are 4 to a building; Apple device docks and designer fixtures will accommodate you and your family in style and comfort. I felt the room more like a suite than a room because it is more than a single room with a dining area and balcony and my own entrance and private path. Whisking me around the ridge are the resort’s green electric buggies.
Dare I say the whole resort smells great! I have no idea how they do that – it’s aromatherapytastic.
A full week of relaxation also involves some activity for the body and mind ensuring that you return to self. Try some yoga or Pilates in the fitness studio or elect to hit the iron with their state-of-the-art machinery and free weights.
If, like me, you like running on the beach (Antigua is known for its beaches) within minutes you can be barefoot on some of Antigua’s best.
Other Antigua activities include a new clay pigeon shooting range, ziplining or simply hike a part of Antigua’s nature on one of the many trails. Visit the charming Antiguan interior with its sugar mills and historic dockyards once manned by Nelson himself. Antigua of course has water-sports galore, jet-skis and hobbie cats to scuba diving. Not your thing? Charter a boat for a day (crew or no crew) sail. On Sunday don’t miss the Shirley Heights BBQ attraction where Steel Band meets views atop Nelsons Dockyard and English Harbour.
One of Antigua’s most popular tours is the getting married in Antigua tour ! And Sugar Ridge has your most special day covered. Brides are treated to in house makeup with the specially trained Aveda makeup artist using ONLY their range of high end AVEDA makeup products. Sugar Ridge is arguably one of the best spots to say ‘I do’ in the world.
The Aveda Concept Spa, the only one in Antigua is part of Sugar Ridge Club.
A full range of massages and treatments is available, for example; the hot stone massage a personal favourite. Look your best for Carmichael’s with a stop at the hair salon and beauty parlour.
So there you have it – your next holiday planned. The sorting out is also easy; flights to Antigua are easy to find and represent great value with both Virgin Atlantic and British Airways competing for this route from Gatwick. Decide on the room basis you would like from ‘All Inclusive’ to ‘Bed and Breakfast’ and pick your dates – luxury at Sugar Ridge is 12 hours away door to door.
Calvin Crane is passionate about resorts and relaxing in style in the Caribbean.
3/9/2013 © copyright calvin crane all rights reserved.
We struggled to find a good video that shows Sugar Ridge and opted for something related but a little different..
https://vimeo.com/13933930
So I have my green card (wrist strap) which gives me entitlement to an all inclusive day here like I was a guest.
It must be good for some reason as I keep coming back up here.
I just questioned my first drink diet coke ! I guess I want to maximise my attempted windsurfing – I will let you know how it goes.
