The state of Antigua and Barbuda can be described in words, but epithets are unlikely to convey the colorful play of shades of this gem in the treasury of the Lesser Caribbean Islands, its colorful originality and delightful landscapes. The friendly region, inhabited thousands of years ago by the militant Arawaks, today welcomes guests from all over the world all year round. The desire to spend a vacation on the Caribbean coast is quite understandable - the unique combination of pristine nature with mega-fashionable conditions gives a truly heavenly vacation.
The capital of Antigua and Barbuda
The main city of the West Indian state, St. John's, thrives on the island of Antigua. The population is just over 30 thousand people, which is almost half of all residents of the independent country. The capital was founded in 1632, when the land came into full possession of the British. Although hurricanes have repeatedly dominated the territory of the town over the centuries, some of the unique buildings have been preserved, and today excursions to architectural monuments - St. John's Cathedral, Fort James, Court House, the colonial Court House, Redcliffe Quay, etc. - are especially popular among tourists .
The compact location of the main attractions eliminates the need for guests to waste time on the road. Buses run regularly (except weekends). If you have the appropriate documents, it is easy to rent a car, remembering to drive on the left. The cost of a taxi trip is fixed; many of the drivers can easily act as a guide. To have a snack and relax, just stop at any restaurant: there is always a choice of exotic and European cuisine, local beer and rum, soft drinks with fruit ice.
Islands belonging to Antigua and Barbuda
Geographically, the state, whose total area is 440 km², occupies three islands: Antigua - the largest and most populated, secluded, sparsely populated Barbuda and the uninhabited little Redonda. Each of them is wonderful in its own way, therefore, when planning a vacation in a former English colony, it is advisable to visit each one.
Antigua
Isle Antigua famous for its gorgeous beaches, the number of which corresponds to the number of days in a year. The territory of 280 km² is almost entirely flat, only in the southwestern part there is slight hilliness. The tropical eden is washed by the Caribbean Sea, adjacent to Saint Kitts and Nevis to the west, Guadeloupe to the south, and Anguilla to the north-west.
Holidays in Antigua are very diverse: after sunbathing and diving, you can switch to golf, look out at the marvelous coastal panorama from a helicopter window, go fishing in the open sea, walk through a colorful colorful bazaar, look into boutiques with world brands, take part in an adventure jeep safari . A vibrant ethno-party, profitable gambling in the casino and an excellent gourmet dinner will be a bright end to a busy day.
Sights: the bird kingdom - Codrington Lagoon, Marina Bay, a favorite with dolphins, Nelson's Dockyard National Park, Devil's Bridge, famous throughout the Caribbean, Fort James, State History Museum, the grand cathedral of the 19th century, Nick Mali Gallery, Long Street carnival street.
Barbuda
Isle Barbuda does not pretend to be a noisy resort center - a flourishing region with an area of just over 160 km² was created by nature itself for a romantic, secluded holiday. However, in the only city of Codrington it is easy to get the whole range of entertainment; uninhabited lands, completely covered with rich vegetation, are chosen by connoisseurs of untouched nature. Reclining on a golden-pink beach in the openwork shade of carved palm trees, diving into picturesque depths, the bliss of gentle waves, eco-excursions deep into the island, stylized pirate holidays, bike and car rides, short cruises on catamarans and yachts, cozy picnics under the night Caribbean sky - everyone is here finds something he likes.
Sights: a lagoon reserve - the patrimony of narrow-winged frigates, the 350-year-old Codrington House castle, dilapidated by an earthquake, Government House, an art cafe owned by the writer Frank Clare, Martello Tower, Gravenor Bay, Coco Point Lodge airport.
Redonda
Redonda Island is uninhabited and small, but this tiny piece of land has its own history. Due to the steep slopes, it is difficult to calculate the area accurately - according to various estimates, it varies from 1.6 to 2.5 km². Translated, Redonda means “rounded”, this is how the omnipresent Columbus characterized the next discovery. Indeed, from a distance from a certain angle, the miniature Caribbean island has a spherical shape rising above the sea, but in fact, and this is clearly visible from above, it more closely resembles the imprint of a giant sole. The territory that formally belongs to Antigua and Barbuda is also a virtual state. The struggle for the ephemeral throne has long been a reason for jokes, since more than a dozen rulers with their own coats of arms, flags, anthems lay claim to the role of monarch.
The mysterious island is favored by extreme yachtsmen, reckless adventurers, and scientists who occasionally arrive to carry out research measurements. Ordinary tourists are content with a half-hour helicopter excursion.
Visa regime in Antigua and Barbuda
For citizens of Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Belarus, to the great joy of potential travelers, a visa is not needed to visit the wonder country. All you need is a passport valid for at least six months from the date of arrival, return travel documents, plus a voucher for tour services.
The aura of Antigua and Barbuda is like a passionately soulful southern song floating over the Caribbean Atlantic. And its echoes will forever remain in the soul of those who personally experienced the fantastic magnetism of the three islands.
