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About Antigua Deliciously slow, Antigua is the ideal destination for chilling out, exploring the many beaches and taking in the wonderful world below sea level. The largest of the English speaking Leeward Islands in the Eastern Caribbean, it’s just 108 square miles with an expansive, winding coastline packed with secluded, white sand beaches. Antigua also has the added bonus of neighbouring Barbuda, a 68 square mile, flat, coral, single-village island just 30 miles to the north. Quiet, with just two per cent of the nation’s population living there, this is a retreat for a few visitors, but many birds, and features the Caribbean’s largest rookery. Climate The island’s climate is tropical and mild with temperatures ranging from 76 degrees Fahrenheit around January and February to 86 degrees Fahrenheit in August and September. Rainfall is heaviest during the hotter months, but the cool trade winds and low humidity make the year-round climate comfortable. Beaches With the claimed 365 beaches, one for every day of the year, there’s plenty of sun, sea and sand on Antigua, with the only problem being how to choose between them. The busy resort beaches are located on the island’s developed north western coast, with Dickenson Bay and Runaway Bay falling into this category. Beaches closest to the capital of St Johns are Fort James, Deep Bay and Galley Bay, which attracts surfers during the winter. There is also a series of four lovely crescent beaches at Hawksbill. Beaches on the south and south west coast are less developed with the quietest Rendezvous Bay and Doigs Beach requiring some rough travel, but worth the effort. Other beaches in the area include Fryes Bay, Darkwood Beach and those around Johnson’s Point. The south east coast is a good option for families with Half Moon Bay, now a National Park, and Long Bay, protected by its reef, both providing ideal outings. Beaches on Barbuda are peaceful and breathtaking with long pink and white shimmering sand on the south western shore stretching out unbroken as far as 10 miles. Beaches are rougher along the Atlantic-facing eastern shore, but worth exploring for some interesting finds. Activities Although slow in pace, there’s still plenty to see and do on Antigua, with diving being towards the top of the list. The coral reefs that once spelt the end for marauding enemy ships now provide a double bonus for divers with a home for marine life and great shipwrecks to explore! The island’s trade winds have made sailing a central part of Antigua’s culture for many years. Boats of all types can be hired on this island and it’s worth a look round Nelson’s Dockyard, which provides a base for every kind of vessel. There’s the chance to explore with hiking and eco tours, and bird watching is particularly rewarding with the two islands’ multitude of species. The Frigate Bird Sanctuary on Barbuda is the largest of its kind in the Caribbean. Golfing, fishing, windsurfing and swimming with dolphins or rays are just some of the other activities available. Nightlife There’s plenty to see and do on the island at night time, starting with a large variety of restaurants to choose from, along with plenty of clubs and bars to keep even the most dedicated of partygoers happy and fulfilled until the early hours. Shopping Antigua has a good mix of shops and boutiques to explore, packed with everything from clothing to hand made gifts. The island’s folk pottery dates back to the 18th century, and Sea View Farm Village, the centre of the industry, is worth a look. Events The island has its own packed calendar of events with highlights including the world famous Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta and Antigua Sailing Week, both in April. From the end of July to the beginning of August, the annual carnival takes over the island in a 10-day festival of costumes, competitions, cultural shows and concerts. Everyone is welcome to join in the fun and marvel at the wonderful sights, sounds and colour this celebration brings.
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