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 The Caribbean Island Of Antigua & Barbuda

Antigua & Barbuda

Antigua, the largest of the English-speaking Leeward Islands, is about 14 miles long and 11 miles wide, encompassing 108 square miles. Its highest point is Boggy Peak (1319 ft.), located in the southwestern corner of the island. Barbuda, a flat coral island with an area of only 68 square miles, lies approximately 30 miles due north. The nation also includes the tiny (0.6 square mile) uninhabited island of Redonda, now a nature preserve.

The current population for the nation is approximately 68,000 and its capital is St. John's on Antigua. Antigua (pronounced An-tee'ga) and Barbuda are located in the middle of the Leeward Islands in the Eastern Caribbean, roughly 17 degrees north of the equator. To the south are the islands of Montserrat and Guadeloupe, and to the north and west are Nevis, St. Kitts, St. Barts, and St. Martin.

Climate

Temperatures generally range from the mid-seventies in the winter to the mid-eighties in the summer. Annual rainfall averages only 45 inches, making it the sunniest of the Eastern Caribbean Islands, and the northeast trade winds are nearly constant, flagging only in September. Low humidity year-round. 

Antigua_St_Johns -Capitol

History

It would be difficult to overestimate the impact on Antigua's history of the arrival, one fateful day in 1684, of Sir Christopher Codrington. An enterprising man, Codrington had come to Antigua to find out if the island would support the sort of large-scale sugar cultivation that already flourished elsewhere in the Caribbean. His initial efforts proved to be quite successful, and over the next fifty years sugar cultivation on Antigua exploded. By the middle of the 18th century the island was dotted with more than 150 cane-processing windmills--each the focal point of a sizeable plantation.

Today almost 100 of these picturesque stone towers remain, although they now serve as houses, bars, restaurants and shops. At Betty's Hope, Codrington's original sugar estate, visitors can see a fully-restored sugar mill.

Most Antiguans are of African lineage, descendants of slaves brought to the island centuries ago to labor in the sugarcane fields. However, Antigua's history of habitation extends as far back as two and a half millenia before Christ. The first settlements, dating from about 2400 B.C., were those of the Siboney (an Arawak word meaning "stone-people"), peripatetic Meso-Indians whose  beautifully crafted shell and stone tools have been found at dozens of sites around the island. Long after the Siboney had moved on, Antigua was settled by the pastoral, agricultural Arawaks (35-1100 A.D.), who were then displaced by the Caribs--an aggressive people who ranged all over the Caribbean.

The earliest European contact with the island was made by Christopher Columbus during his second Caribbean voyage (1493), who sighted the island in passing and named it after Santa Maria la Antigua, the miracle-working saint of Seville. European settlement, however, didn't occur for over a century, largely because of Antigua's dearth of fresh water and abundance of determined Carib resistance. Finally, in 1632, a group of Englishmen from St. Kitts established a successful settlement, and in 1684, with Codrington's arrival, the island entered the sugar era.

By the end of the eighteenth century Antigua had become an important strategic port as well as a valuable commercial colony. Known as the "gateway to the Caribbean," it was situated in a position that offered control over the major sailing routes to and from the region's rich island colonies. Most of the island's historical sites, from its many ruined fortifications to the impeccably-restored architecture of English Harbour town, are reminders of colonial efforts to ensure its safety from invasion.

Horatio Nelson arrived in 1784 at the head of the Squadron of the Leeward Islands to develop the British naval facilities at English Harbour and to enforce stringent commercial shipping laws. The first of these two tasks resulted in construction of Nelson's Dockyard, one of Antigua's finest physical assets; the second resulted in a rather hostile attitude toward the young captain. Nelson spent almost all of his time in the cramped quarters of his ship, declaring the island to be a "vile place" and a "dreadful hole." Serving under Nelson at the time was the future King William IV, for whom the altogether more pleasant accommodation of Clarence House was built.

It was during William's reign, in 1834, that Britain abolished slavery in the empire. Alone among the British Caribbean colonies, Antigua instituted immediate full emancipation rather than a four-year 'apprenticeship,' or waiting period; today, Antigua's Carnival festivities commemorate the earliest abolition of slavery in the British Caribbean.

Emancipation actually improved the island's economy, but the sugar industry of the British islands was already beginning to wane. Until the development of tourism in the past few decades, Antiguans struggled for prosperity. The rise of a strong labour movement in the 1940s, under the leadership of V.C. Bird, provided the impetus for independence. In 1967, with Barbuda and the tiny island of Redonda as dependencies, Antigua became an associated state of the Commonwealth, and in 1981 it achieved full independent status. V.C. Bird is now deceased; his son, Lester B. Bird, was elected to succeed him as prime minister.
 
Source: http://www.antigua-barbuda.org/aghis01.htm 

 Antigua and Barbuda's flag and Coat of arms

flag of Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda's flag

Antigua and Barbuda's flag was designed by Mr. Reginald Samuel, an art teacher in an Antiguan high school, when Antigua gained "statehood" status (Self-governing) in 1967.
L. Jacobs II , 21 September 1998 and Ivan Sache , 31 January 2000

Acording to L'Album 2000 [pay00] the construction details are stripes in ratio 18:10:18, lenght 69~ [so total ratio 2:3~]. Is this based on some official data?
[smi80] have as civil ensign for Antigua and Barbuda to be the british red ensign, but here the national flag is indicated to be (among other uses) civil ensign too. Is that changed since 1980?
Željko Heimer, 5 January 2001

Meaning of Symbols and Colors: The sun represents the dawning of a new era; red - the energy of the people; blue - hope; black, the African ancestry of the people. The combination of yellow, blue and white represent the sun, sand and sea.
James Dignan , 22 November 1995 

Coat of arms of Antigua and Barbuda

Coat of arms of Antigua and Barbuda

The coat of arms of Antigua and Barbuda was designed in 1966 by Gordon Christopher. It was officially introduced on 16 February, 1967. The symbolism of the arms is more complex than that found on the Flag of Antigua and Barbuda, but many elements are similar.

At the top of the Coat of Arms is a pineapple, a fruit for which the islands are famous. There are several plants found around the shield, all abundant in the country: red hibiscus, sugarcane, and yucca plant. Supporting the shield is a pair of deer representing the wildlife of the islands.

The design on the shield shows the sun, also found on the flag, rising from a blue and white sea. The sun symbolises a new beginning, and the black background represents the African origins of many of the nations's citizens. At the bottom of the shield, in front of the sea, sits a stylised sugar mill. At the bottom is a scroll upon which is written the national motto: "Each endeavouring, all achieving".

 Getting to Antigua and Barbuda

Travelling By Air

Travelling By Air
V.C. Bird International Airport, located on the northeast corner of Antigua, is the point of entry for visitors arriving by air to Antigua & Barbuda. There are both direct flights and connections from North America via San Juan and St. Martin and several weekly flights from Europe. Scheduled and charter service is available to many of the neighboring islands. Flying times: New York--4 hrs.; Miami--3 hrs.; Baltimore--4 hrs.; Toronto--4 hrs.; Puerto Rico--1 hr.; London--8 hrs.; Frankfurt--9 1/4 hrs.; Paris--8 hrs.

Travelling By Sea

Cruise ship ports are located at St. John's Harbour and Heritage Quay, in the heart of the country's capital, and minutes away from Antigua's great beaches and water sports.
Private boaters can enter at St. John's Harbour on the west coast, English Harbour or the St. James' Club in the south, or Crabbs Marina in the northeast.
Bare-boat or crewed chartering is available through: 

BARBUDA EXPRESS

Barbuda  Express

The Barbuda Express is an innovative wave-piercing design giving maximum passenger comfort at high speed and a journey time of 90 minutes in nearly all weather conditions.
It runs 5 days a week between St Johns and Barbuda:
Barbadians can spend a convenient day in St Johns for business &/or shopping with a liberal allowance for personal goods carried on board by hand
Antiguans can visit Barbuda for the day or longer, at reasonable rates, to enjoy the amazing beauty and peace of their sister island
Tourists can economically visit Barbuda with a selection of packages to explore and discover this undeveloped and little-visited island
Freight can be regularly and reliably moved between the islands

Getting Around in Aatigua and Barbuda

Getting Around in Antigua and Barbuda

Taxis

Taxis are available throughout Antigua. Fares between the airport, harbour, and many hotels and destinations are fixed and can be obtained upon arrival. Sample fares from V.C. Bird International Airport to: Nelson's Dockyard--US$21; Shirley Heights--US$21; St. John's--US$7. Taxi drivers are also qualified as tour guides for sightseeing trips. Tour rates can be obtained beforehand through hotels.

Car Rentals

Renting a car is an ideal way to discover more of Antigua while on your vacation. The cost is about US$40-50 per day. In addition to a valid driver's license from your country of residence, or an international driver's license, a permit to drive in Antigua is required. The rental agency can assist you in getting this temporary license, which costs approximately US$20 and is valid for three months. Don't forget that driving here is on the left side of the road! Here is a listing of rental agencies:

More and more people are getting married while on vacation, and it's now easy to do in Antigua and Barbuda. Even cruise ship visitors can now get married. There are three simple steps: Visit the Ministry of Justice located on lower Nevis Street in downtown St. John's with your valid passports, complete the application and pay applicable fees. 

 Marriage in Antigua and Barbuda

MARRIAGE IN ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA

When getting married in Antigua and Barbuda there is a registration fee of US$40 that must be paid at the courthouse in the new government buildings on Queen Elizabeth Highway. The application fee for the special marriage license is US$150, and the Marriage Officer's fee is US$50.You both will need valid passports as proof of citizenship.

If either of you have been previously married, then bring along the original divorce decree or, in the case of a widow or widower, the original marriage and death certificates. Both parties must be over 15, if under 18, written authorization from your parents or guardians is required. It is important that all documents presented are original or certified original by the issuing departments or offices. Ensure that all documents are in your legal name, and provide affidavits in cases where you are known by another name.

Your marriage must also be solemnized or celebrated in the presence of two or more witnesses, apart from the Marriage Officer. (Just ask a guest or two to do this for you). Getting marriage in Antigua requires the permission from the church authorities where you wish to be married. Have your pastor contact the church to establish the requirements. Some churches ask that the couple attend pre-nuptial consultations. Allow some extra time if planning a church ceremony. Contact the Antigua and Barbuda Department of Tourism for a list of churches on the island.

Most of hotels in Antigua and Barbuda offer wedding and honeymoon packages. Check with your travel agent or the Antigua and Barbuda Department of Tourism for more information. The Ministry of Legal Affairs is open Monday to Thursday, 8:30am to 4:30pm and on Fridays from 8:00am to 3:00pm. Flights which arrive into Antigua after 3:00pm will not permit couples to get to the Ministry of Justice in time to apply for the Special Marriage License. In such cases, the couple can arrange for the marriage to take place either the next day after completing the application process, or, on any available day thereafter.

 Antigua and Barbuda Travel Tips

Tipping/Gratuities, Same as in the US; 10-15% depending on the service. Some restaurants & hotels will automatically add a 10% gratuity. If in doubt, just ask. Give porters and bellhops 50 cents per bag, taxi drivers 10-15% of the fare.

Telephones, Calling the U.S. is easy from Antigua and Barbuda. Most hotels offer USA Direct calling service, or they can connect you with a U.S. operator for calling home.

Taxes, Antigua & Barbuda has a US$20.00 airport departure tax, a room tax of 8.5% and service charge of 10% (in lieu of tipping).

Electricity, Part of the island is 110 volts, the remainder is 220 volts. Most hotels have both voltages available.

Appropriate Attire, Informal, but conservative. Beach attire is appropriate for the beach but not town, shops or restaurants. Some hotels and restaurants stipulate jacket and tie for men and dresses for women in the evening.

Customs and Import, The importation and wearing of camouflage clothing is prohibited in Antigua and Barbuda. Visitors should leave such items at home to avoid confiscation.
Time Zone, Atlantic Standard Time, one hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time and the same as Eastern Daylight Time. GMT -4.

Currency/Money, Official currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar which is fixed to the US dollar. Recent exchange rate was US$1.00 = EC$2.65. US currency, traveler’s checks and major credit cards are welcome everywhere.

Banks, Antigua and Barbuda Development Bank, Antigua and Barbuda Investment, Bank Antigua Commercial Bank, Bank of Antigua, Bank of Nova Scotia, Barclays Bank PLC, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, Caribbean Corporation Bank, Royal Bank of Canada, Swiss American National Bank of Antigua. Banking hours are Monday through Thursday from 8:00am to 1:00pm and again from 3:00pm to 5:00pm; Friday from 8:00am to 12:00pm, and 3:00pm to 5:00pm.

Medical Facilities, There are several general practitioners and specialists on the island, a hospital and a private clinic. No vaccinations are required unless the visitor is arriving from an endemic area. Decompression chambers are available by air ambulance at nearby Saba and in St. Thomas. Pharmaceutical services are widely available.

Passports & Immigration
U.S., Canadian and U.K. nationals require proof of citizenship--a valid passport, original or certified birth certificate. U.S. residents and others should contact the nearest tourist office for entry requirements.
Click here for Visa Information. 

Cruise Ship Passengers

Cruise Ship Passengers

Cruise ship passengers who are "in-transit" and stay less than 24 hours are not required to present a visa.

Traveling with Pets
The following guidelines must be followed when importing any animal into Antigua & Barbuda:
An import permit must be obtained from the Chief Veterinary Officer before the importation of all animals. In order to obtain this permit, the intended animal must first be micro-chipped and its blood tested for Rabies Titer at an approved laboratory. The result of such tests must then be forwarded to:
The Acting Chief Veterinary Officer
PO Box 1282, St. Johns, Antigua Tel/Fax: (268) 460-1759
The Kansas State University Rabies Laboratory is an approved Lab that uses the Fluorescent Antibody Virus Neutralization Test (FAVN). The FAVN consists of a of a three-fold serum dilution series and is used to detect rabies virus neutralizing antibody after vaccination, and is required by many rabies free countries in order for dogs and cats to qualify for a reduced QUARANTINE PERIOD.

Specimen Requirement, 1 ml serum without preservatives; spun and separated from the clot.
Microchip identification must be implanted prior to sample draw.
NOTE: A waiting period of at least 114-21 days between rabies vaccination and sample draw is advised.
Processing Time, The test is initiated each week on Monday and Wednesday mornings. Results can be expected in the mail 10 - 14 days after the set-up date. Fax and/or phone results will only be granted upon request. KSU receives packages 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. However, the lab is only open Monday through Friday and samples will not be dated until they reach our lab.
Shipping Information, Serum should be packed in a leak-proof container with absorbent material. This should then be placed inside a container with dry ice or ice packs. An overnight or next day carrier is recommended since regular mail can take up to two weeks.
Cost:
$35.00 by check, money order or credit card made payable to FAVN. Payment must be included at time of submission. A delay in testing may occur if payment is not included. For credit card payment, please contact the lab. 

 Things To Do in Antigua and Barbuda

Boating

Boating
Sailing has been a central part of Antigua's culture for centuries, ever since the British under Horatio Nelson made English Harbour their Caribbean base. Today, the stately Georgian architecture of Nelson's Dockyard hosts a more pleasure-seeking fleet--the international racing boats, recreational yachts, and classic sailboats of Antigua's annual Sailing Week. With such a rich marine tradition, it’s no surprise that boats of all sorts can be hired in Antigua. Most hotels have Sunfish or Sailfish, and a number of companies hire yachts.

Cricket
Antiguans are more than a little devoted to cricket. The island has historically been a very strong contributor to West Indian and international cricket, and the Antigua Recreation Ground is one of the finest places in the Caribbean to take in a local, regional, or international match. Devotees of the game can visit the Antigua and Barbuda Museum for a look at the infamous cricket bat of Vivian Richards, native Antiguan, former captain of the West Indies Cricket Club, and one of the greatest batsmen of all time. Matches can be found almost anywhere on the island, at almost any time.

Tennis
Although more recently established than its sailing counterpart, Antigua's annual Tennis Week draws an impressive field of international competitors to the island in May of each year. Quite a few of the island's hotels have excellent facilities.

Diving and Snorkeling
Antigua & Barbuda has hundreds of wrecks to explore and good shelf diving. Arrange for diving equipment through your hotel or guest house.

Adventure Antigua: Eli's Eco Tour
Local Antiguan, Eli Fuller will show you the "other side" of Antigua. Growing up spending most of his time on the water, Eli wants to make sure that even if you have been to Antigua on 10 other holidays, your day out with him will leave you with a new picture of Antigua. This tour has been spoken about on all of the cruise and travel forums as well as in countless guides and periodicals, This tour shouldn't be missed while on Antigua.

ANTIGUA SAFARI
Around The Island Eco Tour
Discover the Eco-system of Antigua. Come be adventurous and experience the off-shore deserted islands, hidden caves and the amazing scenery of Nelson's Dockyard, not too mention the wild life encounters and perhaps a chance of seeing a dolphin or whale.
Snorkel on colorful reefs or just relax on the beach with our locally made fruit juices or rum punch.

Windsurfing 
Windsurf Antigua is located at Dutchman's Bay - best location, superb climate and ideal wind conditions. They have good equipment and also specialize in teaching beginners.

Hiking and Bird watching
Hiking has not been much developed as an organized activity, although Antigua has many trails and tracks that are well suited to it. Most of the popular hikes lead to one or another of the island's many hilltop fortifications: Fort George sits atop Monk's Hill, and Fort Barrington (captured by the French in 1666) is on the promontory at Deep Bay. The Historical and Archaeological Society frequently arranges group hikes.
Much of the appeal of the natural environment in Antigua and Barbuda is the multitude of bird species to be found there. The Frigate Bird Sanctuary on Barbuda, though accessible only by boat, is the largest bird sanctuary in the Caribbean and contains over 170 species; Long Island and Great Bird Island also offer outstanding opportunities for birdwatcher's. 

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