Antigua
There are not many holiday destinations where they can boast 365 beaches, one for every day of the year. That’s the marketing line Antigua has used for years to highlight just what of an island paradise it really is. You can see why its so popular with the British, having a perfect mix of hideaway and character.
Having travelled to Antigua for our own holiday, it really can only be seen to be believed. Different to Barbados in the sense that most of the hotels can be found in their own coves (and very nice they are too, some all-inclusive, some with amazing spas and others fulfilling those who love boutique hotels), with the exception of English Harbour.
If you’re around at the right time, a visit to Shirley Heights is a must (and very easy if you’re staying at The Inn, its just a walk up the road if you’re feeling energetic). It has the most amazing views over the beautiful English Harbour and out to sea.
Essential Information
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Antigua is a destination where you can go to all year round, although you may want to avoid hurricane season from late August through to October.
FLIGHT TIME
Around 8 hours on the direct flight
TIME ZONE
GMT/BST -4
CURRENCY
Eastern Caribbean Dollar
IDEAL FOR
Beach lovers, and those who love yachts and cricket (maybe not always in that order!).
HOW TO GET THERE
There are direct flights from London, both Heathrow and Gatwick most days of the week (although can be less during the summer).
LANGUAGE
English
IDEAL TO COMBINE WITH
Antigua is a hub for across the Caribbean – so maybe try St Kitts & Nevis, Anguilla, Turks and Caicos, British Virgin Islands or maybe Barbados.
Our Favourite Hotels in Antigua
Carlisle Bay
The beautiful sweeping beach and backdrop of gently rolling hills make Carlisle Bay the perfect haven for your Caribbean holiday. The all-suite resort is popular with families but a wonderful spa, as well as adult-only dining areas and accommodation, ensures that couples are exceptionally well looked after too. A unique sense of understated luxury and style creates an ambience that is as tranquil as the waters lapping at the shore.
Blue Waters
It won’t take you long to discover why this charming resort remains such a favourite amongst Caribtours clients and our staff. Set in 17 acres of gardens on a secluded cove, at blue waters you’ll find yourself instantly relaxing into the resort’s elegant, Caribbean ambience. The emphasis here is on friendly service and traditional West Indian hospitality, so whether you’re one of the resort’s many repeat guests or a first-time visitor, you’ll find that a warm welcome awaits you at Blue Waters.
THE INN AT ENGLISH HARBOUR
Full of old-fashioned charm and set on a tranquil sandy cove, this stylish boutique hotel boasts one of the most picturesque locations in Antigua. With breathtaking views of historic English harbour, a wonderfully soothing ambience and superb service provided by general manager, Fabio Giorgi and his team, this is a very special place where you can’t help but just relax and take life easy.
GALLEY BAY
With a beautiful beachfront setting and authentic Caribbean accommodation, this adult-only resort has one of the highest repeat guest rates amongst our clients and is especially popular with honeymooners.
HERMITAGE BAY
Set on a stunning beach on the west coast of the island, tranquil hermitage bay is where you come to experience the unique peace and wellbeing of the Caribbean lifestyle. With stylish, contemporary suites, a wonderful beachfront restaurant and the most attentive of staff, this is a resort for romantically-minded couples and for those who just want to unwind and take things easy.
CALL US
We would be delighted to talk about your holiday arrangements over the phone. You can contact us between 8am and 10pm every day (outside of office hours may not be immediate).
01442 879787
SEND A MESSAGE
If you wish to send us your requirements by email using the link below, we’ll get back to you. Outside of office hours, we’ll reply to you as soon as we can.
VISIT US
Our office is open 9:30am to 5pm Monday to Saturday (excluding Bank Holidays). If you wish to make an appointment, please either call or send a message, although it’s not compulsory.
