Antigua~Barbuda: More Than Just The Beaches
Slowly, ever so slowly, our housebound days are coming to an end. If it's true, what travel writers say is that it's not the destination that matters but the journey, then the COVID-19 pandemic is one journey that we all want to be over. Nothing looks better right now than a destination holiday. As of June 1st, 2020, Antigua & Barbuda is open for business. Whether you want to book now or in 2021, things are inching closer to normal on this twin-island nation. June is Romance Month, and there's nothing more romantic than exploring the islands' stunning array of beaches, all of which vary in topography, ambiance, and charm. Why not celebrate romance in July, or November, or even in early 2021?
Antigua is situated in the Caribbean east, southeast of St. Kitts and north of Guadeloupe and Dominica. It is a picturesque island that people dream
of visiting when they fantasize about a Caribbean getaway. Antigua is categorized by its beautiful ocean views and turquoise blue water. Most people don't realize that there is a lot more to this island than just the beaches. There are beautiful places like Dickenson Bay, Galley Bay, and Valley Church. These are just the right places to enjoy sunbathing, water sports with the family, swimming, and snorkeling fun, but there is so much more to do.
Betty's Hope Sugar Plantation was the first and the most abundant sugar plantation on the island of Antigua. It stands as a reminder of the role that Antigua played in the British Colonial Era. It was a plantation that helped Britain generate considerable wealth in the Caribbean.
Established in 1674, it was named for the daughter of one of the former owners. The comprehensive visitor's center and museum educate tourists on the daily lives of slaves on this plantation. It also offers a way to step back into the past and understand Antigua's rich history.
St. John is the capital of Antigua and is the center of island life on Saturday mornings. St. John's Saturday Morning Market draws in vendors from all over the island and provides a beautiful place for tourists to spend time. This market is a lovely reflection of Antigua. You can get in touch with the locals, their incredible culture, and their fun way of life.
Nelson's Dockyard, located in English Harbor, served the British Naval Fleet during the Napoleonic Wars (1803-1815). It also served as the headquarters for Admiral Horatio Lord Nelson from 1784-1787. The area is filled with shops, restaurants, cafes, shops, and even a museum where you can spend a fantastic day in Antigua.
Shirley Heights is a great hike that you can take from the Dockyard. Shirley Heights is just under 500 feet above sea level, and the summit of this hike allows for views of Guadeloupe island and the active volcanic island of Montserrat, both located just to the south. It is also a prime spot for a great Sunday night party at the Shirley Heights Lookout Bar and Restaurant. For more nightlife fun head to Falmouth and English Harbors.
With a wide selection of markets, shops, and restaurants to tour while in Antigua, this island filled with rich colonial history offers plenty of activities away from the beach.
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