Reservations: 800.858.4618
Reservations: 800.858.4618
An important strategic port and valuable commercial colony since the 1600s, Antigua was known as the “Gateway to the Caribbean” due to its geographic position that offered control over the major sailing routes to and from the region’s rich island colonies. This breathtaking island measures 108 sq. miles and is circled by 95 miles of indented coastline and beaches.
The largest of the English-speaking Leeward Islands, Antigua is renowned for its 365 white-sand beaches and impressive maritime history. Its rich culture, fine restaurants and local nightlife offer an array of activities and sightseeing possibilities. History lovers can explore Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in picturesque English Harbor, its Georgian-style naval buildings date back to the 18th century. The marina also hosts popular sailing and yachting events. The island’s pristine beaches and beautiful coral reefs are the perfect setting for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing and paddle boarding. An interior rainforest attracts hikers and zip liners, while other land-based activities include yoga, golf, tennis, cricket and more.
The island also hosts many international events such as sailing regattas and cricket matches and not least, the ever colorful annual carnival. On top of this, of course, the food, rum, music and hospitality in Antigua are legendary.
| Appropriate attire | Elegantly casual. Beach attire is fine at the beach but not in town, shops, or restaurants. Some restaurants require collared shirts and trousers for men, and dresses for women in the evening. |
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| Banks & banking hours | St. John's has branches of ECAB, First Caribbean Bank, Global Bank, RBTT, and others. Hours: Mon–Thu 8:00 am – 1:00 pm; Fri 8:00 am – 4:00 pm. Reception can exchange money in limited amounts. |
| Credit cards | Visa, MasterCard, and Discover Card accepted. A credit card is required upon arrival for authorization. |
| Currency | The Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC$) is fixed to the US dollar. Recent rate: US $1.00 = EC $2.70. US currency and major credit cards are accepted everywhere. |
| Departure taxes | Departure tax is included in your airfare. Service fees are included in your nightly rate. |
| Electricity | 110V AC, 60 cycles — same as the USA. Wall outlets are US-compatible. UK and European appliances require converters and plug adaptors. |
| Gratuities | A service charge is included in your bill. Additional gratuity for outstanding service is welcome via the tip box at Reception upon departure. |
| Insurance | Adequate travel insurance is strongly advised, including cover for any sporting activities where applicable. |
| Medical facilities | General practitioners, specialists, a hospital, and a private clinic are available on the island. No vaccinations required unless arriving from an endemic area. Recompression chambers are accessible by air ambulance at nearby Saba and St. Thomas. Guests with specific conditions should bring a sufficient supply of personal medication. |
| Passport requirements | A valid passport is required. Recommend a validity date at least six months beyond your departure date. Check country-specific requirements. US passport info: US Dept. of State; UK passport info: HM Passport Office. |
| Personal safety | Antigua is relatively crime-free. Take normal precautions: don't leave valuables in rental cars or on the beach; use your room safe for valuables and travel documents; keep doors and windows locked when away or at night. |
| Shopping hours | Mon–Sat: 8:00 am – noon and 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm. Most shops are closed on Sundays. |
| Time zone | Atlantic Standard Time (AST) — one hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time, same as Eastern Daylight Time. AST is four hours behind GMT. |
