Monday, September 12, 2011

The Allure of Antigua.



The island paradise of Antigua is situated in the Leeward Islands which is located in northeastern end of the Caribbean. This beautiful atoll is almost 14 miles long and 11 miles wide. Near by at about 30 miles north is Barbuda, a 68 square mile flat, coral island. The nation also includes the very small (0.6 square mile) uninhabited island of Redonda, which is now a nature preserve. The temperatures range from the 80's in the summer to 70's in the winter with very little rainfall and low humidity.  




A visit to St. John, the capital of Antigua is a must! For history buffs be sure to check out the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda, located at the colonial Court house which was built in 1750. At this museum you will be able to view both colonial and Arawak relics that were discovered on archaelogical digs here on these islands. Also on display are a reproductions of sugar plantations and a model of an Arawak house. Be sure to check out the lively farmers market which goes on Friday and Saturday mornings which is located on the southern edge of the city. Stopping by here  you'll mingle with the locales, see folk crafts, and colorful tropical fruits and vegetables. 



There is plenty to do on Antigua. The Caribbean side is great for swimming and snorkeling. The Atlantic side of the island is windy enough for kiteboarding and windsurfing. Feeling like exploring the island while on horseback? Visit Spring Hill Riding  for trail rides and take in the scenic views in the hills and valleys or hoof it to the beaches where you can swim with your horse in the beautiful blue waters.






A great way to spend the day is to go on an Adventure Antigua excursion where you can take a 1/2 day snorkeling and beach tour in the 55 ft catamaran "The Dolphin". If your looking for a more intimate gathering private charters are available. Another tour is the much sought after Eco Your as well as the Circumnav. Any of these tours will sure to be a day well spent full of fun and exploration.




For the ultimate experience visit Antigua Yacht Charters. Here you can relax and let some else do these driving on these fully crewed chartered yachts. You can choose from catamarans, motorboats, as well as luxury motor powered and or sailing super yachts.  










By now your probably wondering where to lay your head as well as feed your belly. One place that has all that and more is the highly rated 5 star hotel Hermitage Bay in St. John. Here at this all inclusive resort is a place you can go to be catered to and nurtured as you should be. The restaurant boasts a daily changing menu which includes their own organically gown vegetables as well as other local ingredients when available and part of the all inclusive package includes a once a week cooking/demonstration show on their outdoor deck.  You can choose from one of 25 individual cottages for your stay..




..and while all of these little oasis's faces the sea the scenes vary from peaceful tropical gardens to panoramas of the bay. Rustic charm and deluxe amenities are what await you here for your sleeping and resting pleasure.


A couple of other's not to miss places to dine include Le Bistro at Hodges bay in St. John's where "Where one of the great chef's of the world"  Patrick Gauducheau will expertly compose a meal fusing authentic french recipes and local Caribbean customs.  I can't think of a better way to end the day by visiting  Australian Homemade Premium Ice Cream and Chocolates located on red cliff Quay in St. John's. Here you will find a dizzying array of delicious ice creams, chocolates, brownies, shakes etc and you can enjoy them while taking in the breathtaking views of St. John's Harbour.





2 comments:

  1. Antigua,the paradise Island.It is very popular among tourist for its natural beauty. If you are first time visitor, I must say you will definitely fall in love with this beautiful island.

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  2. Air Charter in EuropeThis beautiful atoll is almost 14 miles long and 11 miles wide. Near by at about 30 miles north is Barbuda, a 68 square mile flat, coral island.

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