Sights of Antigua island - what to see. A complete guide to iconic places. Sights of Antigua and Barbuda: personal experience Southwestern and southern coasts

Antigua and Barbuda is West Indian Islands, part of the Lesser Antilles archipelago.

Antigua and Barbuda is a paradise of nature surrounded by mighty mountains, clear waters Atlantic Ocean And Caribbean Sea, endless coral reefs, unforgettable sunrises and sunsets, developed infrastructure and a total of 365 beaches for complete relaxation.

The area of the islands is just over 440 square kilometers, and the local population is almost 87,000 people.

The capital of the state is located on the island of Antigua and is called St. John's.

Most Big city archipelago - St. John's. There is a great beach holiday, delicious food, beautiful nature, a variety of entertainment and a rich excursion program.

The island of Barbuda is no less exotic and a nice place, and recognized as one of the most beautiful on the planet. Created in Barbuda good conditions for divers and snorkelers.

The third island of the archipelago, uninhabited, Redonda, is considered a national park and is preferred by yachtsmen.

There are no direct flights between Belarus and the archipelago.

The most the best option will be - fly to London, and from there - a direct flight to the islands.

Connecting cities could also be Frankfurt am Main or Vienna and New York, Warsaw and Toronto.

In any case, the flight will take almost 30 hours.

Climate of Antigua and Barbuda

A tropical trade wind climate dominates the territory of Antigua and Barbuda.

All year on the islands average temperature air ranges from +26 to +32 degrees, but the intense heat is moderated by winds constantly blowing from the ocean.

The rainy season is usually observed in the period August-September - December. And the period June – November is characterized by tropical hurricanes, stormy winds and heavy rains.

Beach holidays on the islands are most comfortable from the second half of December to the first half of April.

Antigua and Barbuda Hotels

Accommodations in Antigua and Barbuda are small, cozy hotels with approximately 200 rooms. The cost of accommodation is usually all-inclusive. The level of such hotels usually corresponds to the usual 3* - 5* for us. Everywhere you will find high level service, a magnificent view of the ocean from the room, a balcony or terrace with a hammock - also right in the room, and there may also be a swimming pool with a wellness center on the hotel premises.

There are practically no large hotels on the islands.

There are 365 beautiful places in Antigua and Barbuda sandy beaches. All of them belong to the state, and admission to them is free.

Gully Bay is characterized by the presence of nudist beaches.

The entire coastline of the islands provides excellent conditions for divers, snorkelers, surfers and fishermen.

Half Moon Bay is a comfortable place for families with children to relax - the beach is located within the national park.

English Harbor has many historical monuments.

Banks, money, exchange offices

The currency of Antigua and Barbuda is the East Caribbean dollar, equal to 100 cents. There are paper banknotes in denominations of 5,10,20,50,100 local dollars and coins in denominations of 1 local dollar, 1,2,5,10,25,50 cents. The US dollar is also freely circulated throughout the country (the cost of goods is indicated in two currencies - local and American).

Banking hours:

On weekdays – from 8.00 to 13.00 and from 15.00 to 17.00

Some - on Saturdays - from 8.00 to 12.00

Currency exchange can be done in banks, hotels and large stores. The most favorable rate is in St. John's banks.

Pay with any credit cards it is possible almost everywhere, but you should clarify the terms of conversion (if the price is indicated in local dollars, and the card is in American dollars). Travel checks (preferably in US dollars) can also be cashed almost everywhere.

Tips are accepted (if the service charge is not included in the total price) in the amount of 10 - 15% depending on the quality of service, for taxi drivers - 10%, for porters - 0.5 dollars for each suitcase.

Tourist safety

Antigua and Barbuda is practically safe for tourists, but following simple rules will help you avoid any troubles.

It is prohibited to be topless on the beaches.

You should only drink bottled water, and before your trip it would be a good idea to get vaccinated against hepatitis A and polio.

Transport

There are well-established air connections between the islands, but there is no railway service as such.

The movement of passengers to Antigua and Barbuda is carried out by buses and taxis.

Travel by bus is relatively inexpensive, but not all places can be reached by this type of transport. settlements, and some run only on Sundays.

The taxi service operates in a very civilized manner: the cost is calculated according to certain tariffs, which will be indicated on the receipt that you will be given. Taxi drivers have undergone special training and can double as tour guides.

You can also rent a car yourself, with only one amendment - traffic here is on the left.

Entertainment, excursions, attractions

The capital of the archipelago offers to alternate a beach holiday with excursions, of which there are many available - in historical places, to museums, to sights. In Saint John, you can visit the local market, where farmers offer their freshest products, or you can go on a jeep tour, kayaking, or a boardwalk on motor boats. There are golf courses for those interested.

The island of Barbuda is home to mysterious caves and rare species of birds, as well as large fields for golf. Various festivals, carnivals and holidays are regularly held on this island.

You can take a walk along the coast on a pirate ship, fly in a helicopter, or swim with dolphins.

Cuisine and restaurants

All countries in the region have in one way or another left their mark on the culinary traditions of Antigua and Barbuda.

For Europeans, lobsters, shellfish, shrimp and shells prepared in a certain way are exotic and preferred. Unusual dishes include sunfish, flying fish and red snapper.

Be sure to try the lamb and rabbit stew, as well as the local sweet potatoes with coconut and herbs.

Coconut milk is often offered as a drink on the islands.

Shopping and shops

There are shops on the archipelago duty free goods, where you can buy jewelry (even popular emeralds from Colombia), watches and other goods at a good price.

The main souvenirs of the islands are ceramics, jewelry made from shells and corals, and wooden crafts.

Customs

Large sums of money must be declared upon entry, but their quantity is not limited.

You can export amounts within the limits entered in the declaration upon entry.

There are restrictions on the import of cigarettes and alcohol.

It is prohibited to import narcotic substances and weapons to the islands, and to export objects of artistic and historical value.

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/ / Attractions

Sights of Antigua and Barbuda

These wonderful islands Columbus himself put it on the map back in 1793, when he arrived in America for the second time. Country in the West Indies region consists of three islands belonging to the Lesser Antilles. These are Antigua, Barbuda and Redonda. Their total territory is 441 square meters. km. Their coasts are indented by dozens most picturesque bays, where a sea storm cannot reach due to the protection due to reef barriers.

Antigua's shores are probably its main attraction, also due to the remnants of the colonial period. Numerous are remembered windmills. They were previously placed near plantations where sugar cane was grown. The restored Nelson Dockyard, originally built in the late 18th century, also attracts tourists. Hotels of all types are often located on the very ocean shore. The main part of the island’s inhabitants is concentrated here, and is located main city St. John's.

Codrington Lagoon in the western part of the island of Barbuda will attract those interested in speleology and ornithology due to the abundance of caves and large colonies of seabirds.

Remains of monasteries of past centuries. The ruins of the Capuchin, Franciscan and other monasteries, which fell into disrepair as a result of the earthquake, also belong to the important attractions of Antigua. At the same time the whole city

St. John's can be considered as a museum of Antigua, for its streets are witnesses and bearers of its history.

Located in the northwestern part of Antigua Dickenson Bay And Runway Bay became famous because of its beautiful beaches.

From worth attention attractions in the state capital of St. John's need to be mentioned National Museum,fort james And St John's Cathedral, which was built back in 1845.

Falmouth Harbor And English Harbor are located in the south of the island of Antigua; back in the 18th century, the British fleet was based in these harbors.

Island cruise routes.

The island is popular with many yachtsmen due to its abundance of successful sea routes. The starting point can be Nelson's Dockyard, located in English Harbour. From the airport with international flights VC Bird is only half an hour away from this place. From Nelson's Dockyard you can cruise around Antigua's 365 white beaches.

English Harbour, Nelson's Dockyard and Falmows Harbor were among the most advantageous shipping shelters in the region. The great Admiral Nelson made a significant contribution to their existence. Nowadays, nightlife in these areas is in full swing, there is a great variety of restaurants and bars to suit every taste.

Shirley - a hill that has become the most popular place for picnics with barbecues and dancing among both island residents and visitors. Beautiful panorama of English Harbour. Here you can plunge into the atmosphere of a traditional festival in the Caribbean spirit to the accompaniment of reggae and the sounds of noise orchestras.

Pages of the island's history: two millennia ago, the Arawaks settled here, who were subsequently expelled by Caribbean nomads. They made the islands a stronghold and from them they launched raids on neighboring lands. After 1493, the Spaniards seized dominance; in 1632 it passed to the British. Local residents little by little they were replaced by people from the African continent who worked the plantations. The first sugarcane plantation began in 1647 through the efforts of Christopher Codrington, the business flourished, and at the end of the century he was able to lease Barbuda from the government, giving the island for grain crops.

Due to the growth of the economy of Antigua and Barbuda, the government had to secure the territory by building fortifications. With the fall in prices for the main product, sugar cane, the situation changed in the 19th century. In 1834, slavery was abolished, but it only became worse for the former slaves, because they were not given land; it remained concentrated with the landowners. As a result, the church took care of them. Driven out Agriculture Dispossessed islanders came to the outskirts of the capital and turned them into slums.

The territory gained self-government in 1967.

According to information

Antigua

Columbus named the Antigua de Santa Maria church in Seville after the church. The most beautiful island with a picturesque coastline, many bays and rich vegetation, for a long time it became an arena for the struggle of European colonists with aggressive Indian tribes and the forces of nature. Only in the middle of the 17th century did life begin to improve for the settlers, and today the islands of Antigua and Barbuda are one of the largest resort areas in the West Indies. Focused on Antigua great amount modern hotels, nightclubs, casinos, centers aquatic species sports and entertainment complexes.

Barbuda

It lies 42 km north of Antigua. This quiet, pastoral and rustic island, home to just 2% of the country's population, is very rarely visited by tourists - mainly bird watchers and yachtsmen come here. But nevertheless, this small piece of land in the vast expanse of the sea is considered one of the most picturesque islands on the planet, and its eight-kilometer Long Beach is also one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The island's more village-like capital, Codrington was named after the Gloucestershire family that once leased Barbuda british crown for "one fat pig a year." Barbuda, composed almost entirely of limestone rocks, is replete with caves.

Redonda

The tiny and virtually uninhabited volcanic rock known as Redonda lies 56 km southwest of Barbuda. The island is practically not visited by tourists, only yachtsmen are frequent guests of these waters. Currently located in Redonda natural Park.

Reefs

Both Antigua and Barbuda are almost completely surrounded by coral reefs, numerous underwater banks and rocks, and therefore abound in shipwrecks. The southern and eastern coasts of Antigua, and indeed the entire coast of Barbuda, are surrounded by shelf shoals that provide excellent conditions for diving and snorkeling. Most of Antigua's coastline, with its white sand and gentle slope, is protected from the sea by coral reefs, and all are free (at least officially). Main places beach holiday- Dickenson Bay and Runway Bay on east coast, Deep Bay and Hawksbill west of St. John's, as well as Darkwood Beach south of Jolly Harbour. On the east coast, Half Moon Bay is considered the main seaside holiday destination, while in English Harbor there are Galleon Beach and isolated Page Beach. Outlying beaches, including the northern end of Dickenson Bay and Hawksbill Beach, are designated as nudist beaches.

Good snorkeling and diving conditions can be found around Sunken Rock and Cape Shirley, as well as off the south coast of Antigua. Moreover, many dive areas are located very close to the shore, rarely more than a fifteen-minute boat ride. A undersea world The islands are truly magnificent - there are numerous colorful reef inhabitants, including parrotfish, angelfish, wrasse and barracuda, practically safe nurse sharks and you can even meet, if you're lucky, dolphins and sea turtles. The reefs are largely pristine, and although the depths are shallow, there are some good sea canyons and shipwrecks.

Protected West Coast Antigua is great for beginner surfers while being windswept east coast It is famous for its constant winds and is perfect for experienced athletes. Another common type of recreation is sport fishing in the ocean, the main objects of which here are marlin, tuna and king mackerel "wahoo".

Sights of Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda is known for its hundreds of secluded beaches that attract many discerning tourists from all over the world, including the rich and famous. The islands are famous for their coral reefs, numerous shipwrecks, excellent diving and snorkeling conditions, as well as sailing, which has been part of the culture here for centuries. One of the world's main regattas is held in English Harbor.

Tourists who come to this country will not be left indifferent by the abundance of local attractions of the sugar era. Numerous stone mills that were used to process cane now serve as restaurants, shops and even homes.

In terms of attractions, one of the most interesting places in this island state is its capital - the city of St. John's, located on the island of Antigua. There are plenty here interesting monuments colonial architecture, stone and timber buildings, and traditional Caribbean huts. In located here " English Harbor", a base for British ships in the eighteenth century, and today it serves as the best anchorage for modern yachts on the islands.

Main tourist area is the western coast of Antigua, along the wide, long beaches of which a huge number of hotels have been built. There is National parks, as well as the famous rocks called " Devil's Bridge" According to Indian beliefs, spirits live in them. In the southern region of the island, tourism is not so developed, but a huge variety of birds live here, and tourists come here on excursions to watch them.

Although the island of Antigua is quite quiet place, true lovers of peace often turn their attention to Barbuda. Tourism is almost undeveloped here, and there are only a few hotels. But at the same time, Barbuda is famous for the largest bird sanctuary in the Caribbean and a truly peaceful holiday.

There is a place on Earth where there are beaches with white sand, the clearest azure waters of the Caribbean Sea splash, the breeze plays with palm branches and the islanders smile good-naturedly. There is almost always excellent weather, developed infrastructure, plenty of recreational opportunities for every taste and such alluring, such attractive exoticism. This is what Antigua and Barbuda is like. Where is this small state, like heaven? How and what do people live there? What impressions does this paradise leave on tourists?

Geographical position

A state with an unusual and slightly exotic name Antigua and Barbuda on the map can be found in the northeastern region of the Caribbean Sea, where the Lesser Antilles group of islands is located, just 480 kilometers from Puerto Rico. Geographically, it occupies three islands - the largest is Antigua, the slightly smaller Barbuda and the very tiny, plus completely deserted, island of Redonda. You can get there by water and by air. Antigua has both marinas and international Airport. Barbuda also has a small airport and marina for connections with its neighbor Antigua. You can fly from island to island by plane in 20 minutes. By ferry the journey takes one and a half hours. Flight times from the mainland to Antigua vary depending on your departure point. From Moscow it takes almost 16 hours to get there. Please remember that the islands are in a different time zone. Local time differs from Moscow by 8 hours.

History of the state

The indigenous people of Antigua and Barbuda call their country Wadadli, which translates to “our property.” The name is associated with historical events that took place here over more than 5 centuries. Since the 2nd century BC, the Sibonean Indians lived on these islands, mainly engaged in fishing and hunting. Later, the Arawaks, who specialized in agriculture, moved here from the continent. In the 13th century, both were supplanted by the Caribs, a brave and warlike people. In 1493, during another expedition, I came across this paradise Globe. He named the larger island Antigua in honor of Saint Mary, the patron saint of Seville. The little one was named Redonda, which means round. Middle Island received the name Barbuda, that is, beard. Discovered by Columbus the lands became In 1632, the Spaniards were pushed back by the British. On the conquered lands, they organized farms for growing tobacco and coconuts. The black slaves they brought worked on the plantations. Slavery on the islands lasted 200 years and 2 years. The country fought for its independence for a long time and finally, in 1981, achieved it.

Flag of Antigua and Barbuda

The deer was chosen as the country's animal symbol, and national symbols are the coat of arms, anthem and flag. Antigua and Barbuda has a flag unlike any other in the world. It is a rectangular panel depicting the rising sun, symbolizing the beginning of a new free life, as well as the sand of the beaches - the national heritage of the country. The black background is the skin color of the indigenous population, because it is mainly represented by the descendants of former slaves. The blue and white stripes are the waves of the sea and are also the colors of hope and purity. The red color on the flag signifies the energy of the people, and the V-shaped design symbolizes victory.

Coat of arms

The coat of arms of the country of Antigua and Barbuda was created in 1966 by Gordon Christopher. His drawing is very complex, but numerous details provide almost complete information about this state. The picture of the coat of arms is a shield supported by two deer - animal symbols. At the top of the shield there is a pineapple and some types of plants that predominate on the islands. On the shield are the same as on the flag, the sun shining on a black background and the white and blue stripes of the sea. At the bottom of the shield is a sugar factory. All this is crowned with a ribbon with the inscription “Through the efforts of everyone, the common goal is accomplished.” This is the country's motto. This is such a wonderful coat of arms.

Capital

The state of Antigua and Barbuda, whose capital is St. John's, is very small in population. There are just under 87 thousand people here, with 31 thousand of them concentrated in the capital. It is located on the island of Antigua. There is an international airport at a distance of almost 8 km from the city, but, unfortunately, there is no connection with Russia. Russian tourists can get to the island from America, Canada, Germany and England. You can only get to the city by taxi or by renting a car right here at the airport. All you need is rights and money. But you can travel around the city by bus. They ply almost the entire territory of the island, except for its northern part and Dickenson Bay. Tickets are very inexpensive, although on weekends the number of buses is sharply reduced.

The city has a well-developed tourism business, many hotels have been built, there are wonderful beaches, shops, restaurants, nightclubs and casinos.

Islands

Antigua is big island countries. Its area is 281 square km. The climate of the island is very favorable. The temperature in winter does not fall below +25 degrees, and in summer it is between 30-33 degrees. It rains only from September to November. They are usually very powerful, but short-lived. Sometimes the island experiences strong hurricanes. The relief of Antigua is flat. Only in the southwest are there hills, the highest of which is Boggy Hill, recently renamed Obama Hill. Its height is 402 meters. Forests and animal world They are poorly preserved, but there are many exotic birds here, and the coastal waters abound with amazingly beautiful marine life.

Barbuda is 48 kilometers away. This island is so flat that even with small waves it is difficult to see from a mile away. Its area is only 161 square km, and the only town - Codrington - looks like a village. Less than one and a half thousand people live on the island, there are almost no asphalt roads, but the beaches are as good as those on Antigua, only more deserted. The nature on this island is much better preserved. There are several caves worth visiting here. Schools of frigates are also of interest.

Antigua and Barbuda - the photo demonstrates this perfectly - is composed mainly of coral reefs, forming multiple amazingly beautiful bays and lagoons. The disadvantage of these places is the lack of fresh water. It is taken from wells or sea water is desalinated.

Redonta is a small volcanic islet 40 km from the central island of Antigua. Its area is about 1.6 square km. There are no people here, only animals and birds, which is especially appreciated by lovers of nature and secluded recreation.

Medicine

Antigua and Barbuda strives to become world class in the quality of health care and education. There are medical schools in the country, where qualified medical personnel are trained, and a medical university; construction of a modern hospital is underway, which will be equipped with modern instruments and equipment. Currently, there are 10 excellent hospitals on the islands, where they can provide almost any medical service. For the convenience of tourists, hotels employ doctors who speak English. However, it is highly undesirable to get sick while on vacation in this country, since many medical institutions require a contribution of $4,000 before providing treatment.

Currency

Antigua and Barbuda has its own currency - East Caribbean dollars, issued by the Eastern Caribbean Bank. Banknotes exist in denominations from 1 to 100 dollars. All banknotes feature the Queen of Great Britain. 1 dollar equals 100 cents. Antigua and Barbuda coins are minted from aluminum and copper-nickel alloys. They differ in diameter and weight. On one side of the coins the denomination is indicated, and on the other there is an image of Queen Elizabeth II or a sailing ship

In addition to the national currency, you can pay in the country with credit cards and American dollars, the import of which is allowed in unlimited quantities. Change is always given in local currency.

According to the unwritten law, when paying for the services of a porter, taxi driver, maids and waiters, you are supposed to leave a tip, so some change in your pocket can always come in handy.

As part of the investment program, the laws of Antigua and Barbuda allow it to be issued to everyone who can make investments in the country’s economy under one of the three provided programs.

Investments are made in the amount of 400 thousand US dollars.
A charitable amount of at least 200 thousand US dollars is contributed to the state economic fund.
An amount of one and a half million US dollars is contributed to one’s own or to any existing business in the country at this stage.

In addition, those wishing to become citizens of Antigua and Barbuda are required to pay a special fee for each adult family member and each child over 18 years of age for 50 thousand dollars, and for children under 18 years of age for 25 thousand.

The second fee is called the Due Diligence Fee. It provides for different amounts, depending on age and status in the family.

Citizenship gives you the right to enter many countries without a visa.

Holidays and festivals

Antigua and Barbuda are very fond of cricket. It even hosted 8 matches during the World Championship in this sport. The islanders are also big fans of football, diving, surfing and sailing. Almost every month there is some kind of sports tournament or holiday in the country. In January, the Grand Regatta and volleyball and cricket tournaments start, in February the second regatta and dog and horse shows, in March Easter celebrations, in April the traditional Yacht Week, a boating tournament, in May fishing and tennis competitions, in June badminton competitions and bodybuilding. But the most significant and vibrant is the carnival dedicated to the independence of the country of Antigua and Barbuda. The capital blooms with hundreds of colors during Carnival week. There are various musical performances, a masquerade, a fair, and at the end the selection of the queen.

Hotel business

Tourism is the main source of income in Antigua and Barbuda. Therefore, everything that concerns tourism business, quite well developed. Antigua and Barbuda offers its guests a variety of modern hotels, designed for different budgets and operating according to the BB system, 365 delightful beaches with the purest white sand and clear water, a lot of excursions, amazing cuisine, the fun and excitement of discos and the romance of remote quiet corners. Reviews from tourists overwhelmingly confirm the high level of service at relatively low prices. Those who have ever visited Antigua or Barbuda will forever leave in their hearts memories of this wonderful country and a delightful vacation.

Sights and excursions

Every country has its own attractions. Antigua and Barbuda boasts St John's Cathedral and English Harbor, which has the most... big number historical monuments of the country. The main one is Nelson's Dockyard, associated with the name of the famous Nelson. Now it's set up there National Park. The Clarence House mansion and the old cemetery are of interest. The Dawes Hill Center is popular with tourists and hosts theatrical performances. Another attraction is Fort Berkeley, which once protected the entrance to the harbor and was subsequently destroyed. It is currently being restored. In Barbuda, in addition to natural beauty, you can admire the Martello Tower, considered the country's historical value, and the remains of the once large Willie Bob estate. The caves of the island with huge petroglyphs of ancient Indians are preserved in the Indian Cave. And in Derby Cave there is a huge underground lake.

Tourists will not be bored. They are offered safaris to the far corners of the islands, swimming with dolphins in Marina Bay, sailing on a catamaran, flying over active volcano by helicopter, cruise on a real pirate ship with a stop in a quiet, remote bay and much more.

Antigua and Barbuda is considered relatively prosperous country in terms of crime. However, pickpocketing still happens here. Therefore in places large cluster people need to be careful. It is also not recommended to walk alone in remote corners of the islands and at night.

No visa is required to enter the country, and a tax of 20 US dollars is paid upon departure.

The islands have a huge number of beaches. There are special places for nudists. It is possible, but not accepted, to be topless on public beaches. And in the city and even in some hotels, wearing swimsuits is not welcome. In public places, it is advisable for women to wear dresses, and for men to wear trousers and shirts.

You can photograph indigenous people, but only if they agree to it.

Everything can be imported into the country except drugs and weapons, and items of national interest are prohibited from being exported.

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