|
Antigua and Barbuda is filled with beautiful sites, a lively culture, and spirited locals. If it isn't already on your must-see locations, we encourage you to add it to your bucket list. Here are the top 15 things you should know before traveling to Antigua and Barbuda
1. Location
Where is Antigua? Antigua is one of one hundred inhabited islands in the Caribbean Sea. It is sandwiched between the island of Puerto Rico and the South American continent. Its sister island, Barbuda, is just 39 miles (63km) north and can be reached by ferry in 1 hour and 30 minutes.
2. Climate
This tropical paradise has warm temperatures year-round. The average high being 85° F (29°C) and low of 74°(23°C). Antigua's rainy/hurricane season runs from mid-June to November, but the chances of a hurricane increase in mid-August.
3. Languages
Antigua and Barbuda's official language is English. When speaking to a local, you will hear Antiguan Creole. You might notice words similar to other parts of the world due to the former rulers of the island.
For example : "Peckish" which means a little hungry, stems from the previous British rule, and "nyam" which means "to eat" - comes from the people's African ancestry. 4. Population
As of December 2022, Antigua's Population hovers around 100,000 people. This number has been steadily increasing due to immigration from other Caribbean islands and countries. Among the locals you will find other ethnicities like Dominicans (Dominican Republic), Chinese, White Europeans and individuals from the Middle East.
5. Food
Antigua is a melting pot of cultures, and its food reflects that. Even better, you don't have to travel far to have access to it. Food stands are very common and you can find full meals, snacks, fruits, sweets, and treats within walking distance from one another.
While there we recommend you try: The national dishes : Pepperpot and Funjee The seafood : Grilled Lobster, Crab, and Fish The sweets : Rum Cake, Tamarind Stew, and Sugar Cakes The drinks : Wadadli Beer, Soursop Ice Pops, and Ginger Beer 6. Antiguan Holidays
Antiguan locals follow the Christian religion, therefore all major Christian holidays are celebrated. Some national holidays include:
Labour Day : Observed the first Monday of May Independence Day : November 1st V.C. Bird Day : December 9th Carnival Week : First Monday & Tuesday of August- Second Monday & Tuesday of August Sailing Week : Throughout the last week of April to the first week of May 7. Politics
Antigua gained its independence on November 1st, 1981, from the British. Since then, it has become a democratic country with two major and two minor political parties. Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP), United Progressive Party (UPP), Democratic National Alliance (DNA), and
Barbuda People's Movement (BPM). Fun facts: -Antigua does not have an official election day. -The political party in charge decides when to call the next election. -Elections happen every five years, but can be called before then. 8. Religion
Most Antiguans practice Christianity, with a small percentage practicing Rastafarianism. However, immigrants of Syrian and Lebanese descent are Muslim and therefore practice Islam.
Christianity : "the religion that is based on the teachings of Jesus Christ and the belief that he was the son of God" Rastafarianism: "a Jamaican religious movement which worships the former Emperor of Ethiopia, Haile Selassie, and which believes that black people will one day return to Africa." Islam: "the Muslim religion, based on belief in one God and revealed through Muhammad as the Prophet of Allah" (Source: Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary) 9. Carnival
Antigua and Barbuda first celebrated Carnival in August 1957. Carnival marked the end of slavery and has since transformed into a week of festivities. Locals celebrate with musical events, foods, costumes, and shows. You will find an influx of tourists and returning nationals who migrated to other countries during Carnival.
10. Music
The music in Antigua has a large West African influence. The top three genres are Soca, Calypso, and Reggae. A notable instrument of Antiguan music is the steel pan. This instrument is so beloved that are bands and national competitions.
Fun fact : Island Girl by Burning Flames was featured in the American film "Weekend at Bernie's II." 11. Tourist Attractions
Antigua and Barbuda is a small island, but the beautiful sceneries are plenty. It is known for having 365 beaches, one for every day of the year. However, if you are looking for much more - here are the top 6 places to see.
12. Schools / Education
Antigua has a long list of schools spread throughout the island. Public and private schools alike are required to wear a uniform. Kids start attending between the age of 4 & 5 years and will graduate from high school between 16 & 17 years. Then some will pursue a two-year degree or trade school at a local college. Others travel overseas to continue their educational career.
13. Transportation
If you want to explore the island like a local, you are in luck. There are two bus stations conveniently called East Bus Station and West Bus Station. They are located in the center of the island, and you can catch buses to each parish.
How to pay for Antiguan buses: You must pay to get on all national buses. Some bus drivers will ask you to pay before and some after the bus ride. Bus fare is currently $2 EC but can be as much as $3.50 EC for longer distances. There are numerous taxi companies and private car services available on the island. You can find out more about which to select from the taxi stand in front of the Airport or in the hotel you are staying in. 14. Sports
The most popular sport in Antigua is Cricket, followed by football (soccer). Some other sports include netball, tennis, and sailing. If you are a cricket fan, we recommend visiting Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Grounds. If you are a sailing fan, we suggest visiting Antigua during Sailing Week, which is throughout the last week of April to the first week of May.
15. Nature
Don't be surprised if you see dogs, cats, and chickens roaming in the town areas of Antigua. Antiguans have domesticated pets, but they commonly reside outside of the home. In the countryside, you will find your cows, donkeys, and goats traveling freely. If you want a closer interaction with Antiguan wildlife, we recommend:
Stingray City Antigua Donkey Sanctuary Wadadli Animal Nature Park
0 Comments
|
© COPYRIGHT 2025. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.