Antigua and Barbuda is a twin-island territory between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean in the Americas. The country comprises two major islands and islets including York Islands, Guinea, Long, Maiden, Great Bird, Green, and Redonda in the far south.

Its capital is St. John’s, a port city located on the island of Antigua. The two primary islands Antigua and Barbuda are a few nautical miles apart from each other. 

Antigua is Spanish for “Ancient”, while Barbuda means “Bearded”. It is best known as the“Land of 365 Beaches”. It’s easy to see why. Antigua and Barbuda boast hundreds of beach resorts.

It’s no surprise that tourism is the primary economic driver of the country. It represents more than 50 percent of its Gross Domestic Product.

Rent Vs. Taxi

Taxis are available widely with standardized rates. Taxi drivers also work as tour guides and prefer US Dollars as payment. However, if you want to hire a car, you can do it in advance or upon arrival. Hire rates are for the day and there is no mileage. Roads are in good condition, exploring the country by car is safe. However, cars drive on the left here, so it may be unusual if you come from the USA. 

It was once a part of the British Empire. This fact is still reflected in the government and culture here. English serves as the official language. However, most locals use the Antiguan Creole language. One might suspect a Barbudan and Antiguan ancestry by the slight difference in accent.

The culture of Antigua and Barbuda is a mixture of West African and British cultures. Also, American pop culture and fashion had a significant influence there. Cricket is a national sport in Antigua. Also, football, surfing, and boat racing are very popular and attract both locals and tourists to watch or participate.

There are a lot of popular festivals held in Antigua and Barbuda. They are one of the major tourist attractions in the country.  Most of them have a deep history. For example, the National Carnival, held in August, commemorates the abolition of slavery.

Two main ingredients of Antiguan cuisine are sweet potatoes and corn. They are the basis of most dishes, including Dukuna and fungi, the most popular food in Antigua and Barbuda.

If you’re looking for the best beaches on earth, look no further than Antigua and Barbuda. You’ll enjoy peaceful ocean scenery, stunning sea views, and fresh salt air. If, however, you don’t love the beach you’re at, you have 364 other chances to get it right.

Currency

The official currency is East Carribean Dollar. The approximate exchange rate is EC$2, 7 to US$1. You can exchange Pounds Sterling and US Dollars at banks, hotels and major shops. All major credit cards are accepted. ATMs are available throughout the islands. 

Electricity

In Antigua and Barbuda, they use electric plugs and sockets of types A and B, so you don’t need an adapter if you come from the USA. However, the standard voltage is 230V.

July 13, 2016 12:00 am Published by Neha Rizal 1 Comment