Antigua Island

Antigua Island

Located right in the middle of the Leeward Islands in Eastern Caribbean's Lesser Antilles region, Antigua Island is every traveler's tropical island dream. With a land surface area easily encompassing 108 square miles, this large island comprising the other half of the island nation, Antigua and Barbuda, boasts an interestingly complex coastline of harbors, volcanoes, and 365 beaches ringed by coral reefs teeming with marine life.

You won't have trouble finding anything to do on Antigua Island. St. John's, the capital, offers a curious line up of quaint shops and charming handicraft stores where you can shop to your heart's desire.

On the other hand, the English Harbor in the southeastern coast offers a fantastic Maritime history right up to the time when the legendary Admiral Horatio Nelson of the British Royal Navy utilized the harbor as a base for his fleet. Today, a piece of that history comes alive every late April during Sailing Week when a flotilla of racing boats, sailboats, and yachts converge in the bay for one of the most awaited Maritime events in the world.

And if that isn't enough, hiking, horseback riding, trekking, and many land-based sports such as tennis and cricket are also plentiful. The friendly atmosphere and exciting vibe throughout endear Antigua Island to many of its visitors just as you will, too.

But before you pack your bags and leave on the next plane ride to Antigua Island, read through the following important travel information first:

Currency

Antigua Island uses Eastern Caribbean dollar although the US dollar, credit cards, and traveler's checks are widely accepted. Be sure to verify information on the island's exchange rate before you leave for your trip.

Passport Requirements

Starting December 31, 2006, all travelers, including US citizens, going to and from the Caribbean, Central and South America and Bermuda are required to have a valid PASSPORT. Alternatively, you can also bring any travel document that establishes your identity and nationality, such as a driver's license, as entry or re-entry requirements to the US.

Time Zone

Antigua Island follows the Atlantic Standard Time, which is just an hour ahead of the Eastern Time Zone and the same as Eastern Daylight Time. GMT -4.

Language

The official language of Antigua Island is English. It is one of the largest English-speaking islands in the Caribbean.

Attire

You can go around on Antigua Island in informal but conservative attire. If you are going to the town, shops, or restaurants, casual attire is acceptable although some hotels and restaurants stipulate a jacket and tie for men and dresses for women in the evening. Beach attire should only be worn when you are at the beach.

Banks

Antigua Island has a fair number of banks, including Antigua and Barbuda Development Bank, Antigua and Barbuda Investment, Bank Antigua Commercial Bank, Bank of Antigua, Caribbean Corporation Bank, etc.

For more travel information to Antigua Island, you can check the US Department of Tourism's website on Antigua and Barbuda.