Yello’s Bite-sized Guide to the Caribbean: Antigua
by Karen Rollins Apr 5, 2021
Yello knows the Caribbean! We are based in 20 countries across the region, and each one of them is quintessentially Caribbean, while also offering visitors a one-of-a-kind cultural experience.
Our British, French and Dutch colonial past can be seen in our food, art, fashion, music, and languages but, as a region, we are also slowly developing our own unique Caribbean identity based on our distinct geography, values, and experiences.
It’s time to appreciate our shared Caribbean culture and find out more about the islands in our region – let’s go to Antigua.
Independence Day: 1 November 1981
Capital: St John’s
Background: Antigua and Barbuda was colonised by the British in 1632. The two main islands are separated by 63km. Various smaller islands within the territory include Great Bird, Green, Guiana, Long Island, and Redonda.
Getting around: Antigua has an area of 108 square miles (280 square km). It is mostly flat, which makes it easy to get around. The highest point in the west is Mount Obama which is 405 metres. Barbuda is 62 square miles (161 square km) in area.
Must-see place of interest: Nelson’s Dockyard was built in the early 1800s by the British navy. Today the dockyard is home to several historical sites as well as art galleries, gift shops and restaurants.
Beaches: Antigua is known for having 365 beaches – one for every day of the year. One of the best is Dickenson Bay on the north-west coast which has a range of water-based facilities, calm waters, and white sand.
Must-do annual event: Antigua Sailing Week in April is one of the most prestigious regattas in the Caribbean. The week-long event was launched in 1968 and now attracts sailors and spectators from across the globe.
Quirky fact: Antigua was explored by Christopher Columbus in 1493 and named after the Church of Santa María La Antigua (Church of St Mary the ancient) in Valladolid, Spain.
Motto: ‘Each endeavouring, all achieving.’
Covid-19 restrictions are in place for travellers to Antigua – visit the official Antigua tourism website for up-to-date travel information.
Sources: Visit Antigua and Barbuda, Britannica, and Lonely Planet.