Antigua and Barbuda – sheltered gateway to the Caribbean
Antigua and Barbuda nestle in the north-eastern arc of the Caribbean islands on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, offering a warm, wonderful holiday climate that varies little from perfect.
At 108 square miles and 54 miles in circumference, Antigua is the largest of the English-speaking Leeward Islands. Although there are settlements on the island dating back to 2400 BC, Antigua was another of Christopher Columbus’ accidental “discoveries” in 1493. It remained virtually uninhabited until 1632 when some English settlers took possession and the rest, as they say, is history.
Over one third of its current population of 83,000 live in the capital, St John in the north west, with its deep harbour that can accommodate large cruise ships. In fact, the coastline of safe harbours and a protective, unbroken wall of coral reef makes a perfect hiding place – just what Admiral Horatio Nelson thought back in 1784 when he sailed to Antigua and established Great Britain’s most important Caribbean base.
While Antigua undulates, rising to Boggy Peak in its south west corner, its sister island Barbuda - 30 miles due north - is a flat coral island of 68 square miles. There is also the island of Redonda, now a nature reserve. Counting both main islands, there are no less than 365 beautiful sandy beaches!
There is a national Carnival celebration in August each year, officially commemorating the abolition of slavery in the British West Indies, but an excuse for music, dancing and general merriment. It includes pageants, shows, contests and festive activities, attracting many visitors from abroad.
It can provide a fantastic holiday and so just contact one of our Antingua experts by filling in your details below.
Add to your e-brochure
