Top 10 Things To Do on Antigua: Part II
Tropical destination abounds in land and sea attractions
By Kasia Kneblewski

In last month’s issue of the CaribbeanWay newsletter, we named activities 10 through 6 of Antigua’s Top 10 Things to Do. And the countdown continues to number 1...

5. Delve into the jungle on the Fig Tree Drive. This gorgeous scenic drive through the rain forest is akin to a journey through the Garden of Eden as the road is lined with tropical fruit trees. Though you may be looking for figs, you’ll see many more bananas, as "fig" is actually the Antiguan word for banana; also on the roadside are mango, orange, guava, coconut and pineapple plants. Be sure to bring your camera to record the charm of tranquil villages, old churches and sugar mills.



4. Snorkel to your heart’s content. It’s difficult to name the best snorkeling spot as the entire island is a snorkeler’s dream; almost all of the 365 beaches open onto clear, calm waters where you will find a rich and easily accessible coral hosting abundance of marine life including vibrantly-colored tropical fish, gentle manta rays and magnificent sea anemones. There are also many prime scuba diving spots featuring coral canyons, wall drops and sea caves where you can visit with turtles and barracuda.

3. Explore island history at English Harbour. English Harbour is Antigua’s most visited attraction and for good reason – once a naval base, you’ll now find most of the island’s historic sites here, including forts, old-fashioned buildings and museums. Nelson’s Dockyard is a favorite especially for yachtsmen, and is the hub of activity during the annual Antigua Race Week, a world-class yacht racing event which takes place each spring.

2. Feast your eyes on the view from Shirley Heights. This impressive fortification was used by the British in the 1800s as a lookout for French and Dutch ships and commands a spectacular view of English Harbour, Montserrat and Guadeloupe. Residents and visitors alike congregate here for a party every Sunday, complete with BBQ and lively steel band music.

1. Whoop it up at Carnival. If you’re on Antigua during the end of July, you’re in luck – the island’s huge annual festival runs for a week, ending on the first Tuesday in August. Rejoice in the calypso music, steel bands, masquerades, parades and food; though most carnival activities take place in St. Johns, you’ll feel excitement in the air all over the island. It’s a spectacular way to take in the culture and style of Antigua. For more information on Antigua Carnival, click here.

Explore all that Antigua has to offer from the comfort of a luxurious villa rental.

Sariel
This 5 Br villa is ideally located on popular English Harbour; enjoy great views of Falmouth Harbour while relaxing in the hot tub.

Belle Vue
High on a hill in Turtle Bay, this 5 Br villa features panoramic vistas from its large poolside terrace.



AN ISLAND BY ANY OTHER NAME...

Coming up with inventive names must not have been easy for Columbus, who had the task of naming scores of islands throughout his voyages. When he arrived at Antigua, his inspiration came from the church of Santa María la Antigua, in Seville.

For more information on villas in Antigua, please contact us at:

Call 1-877-953-7400 or E-mail
 
 
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