Antigua and Barbuda

The twin island nations of Antigua and Barbuda are in the Leeward Islands of the Eastern Caribbean Sea and part of the Lesser Antilles archipelago.

Antigua and Barbuda also include several smaller uninhabited islands.  The islands are famous for beautiful pink and white sand beaches and luxurious resorts. Barbuda is the quieter and less developed of the two, and includes a bird sanctuary. The islands are perfect beach getaway destinations for relaxing, beachcombing, snorkelling, scuba diving, fishing, golf, horse riding, and a host of other activities. 

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR ANIGUA & BARBUDA
Area: Worldwide exc. USA / Canada *
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The islands were once part of the British Empire and the British influence is still evident in much of the culture and language.  The capital, St John’s, and English Harbour are some of the most popular sightseeing spots on Antigua.  The Fort at English Harbour still exhibits canons that were used by Admiral Horatio Nelson.  Currency is the East Caribbean Dollar.

Express ferry services run between Antigua and Barbuda, which take about 90 minutes, or there are slower ways to travel by boat or yacht charter.  Air services are also available for an island hop. 

The famous and reliable trade winds that have attracted sailors to these waters over the centuries still attract sailors today. Antigua Sailing Week is a famous and well attended event, held annually at the end of April.  It normally includes a host of beach parties, steel bands, calypso, reggae and soca music (think ‘Feelin’ Hot, Hot, Hot’).  If you desire peace and solitude you may want to avoid this time, and also the period around Antigua Carnival, which takes place at the end of July.  Check for an updated schedule of events to either avoid or experience regular activities that attract a lot of visitors.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Useful travel advice from the Foreign & Commonweath Office for travel to Antigua and Barbuda. Click Here

Pay a visit to the website of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office for the latest travel advice for Antigua and Barbuda, as part of their ‘Know Before You Go’ campaign.  Their advice includes many important topics and issues, including:

• Contact information for British nationals needing emergency assistance
• Hurricane season (runs from June to November)
• Driving and car hire
• Airport departure tax (applies to visitors over age 12)
• It is an offence to wear camouflage clothing (this includes children)
• Some homosexual behaviour is illegal
• Passports (should be valid for at least six months) and visas

According to the FCO most visits to the islands are free of serious problems but be aware that there have been some worrying incidents of violent crime in recent years.  It is important not to let down your guard and ensure that your accommodation is well protected.  The same applies to those staying on yachts.  Avoid isolated places after dark, including beaches. 

Remember to take preventative measures against those annoying mosquitoes as their bites carry diseases such as Dengue Fever.

It is very important to have comprehensive travel insurance when visiting the islands.  Check for updated information at your time of travel, but be aware that you may be required to pay a deposit towards emergency medical treatment at certain facilities other than the general hospital.  Check that your insurance includes medical evacuation by air ambulance and medical repatriation, and that it covers all your planned activities.

Tourism website: http://www.antigua-barbuda.org/

Disclaimer: While we have tried to ensure this information is correct we do not accept responsibility for any inaccuracy.

* Inclusion on this guide does not guarantee travel insurance is available in this country at any given time. Travel Insurance is not available in countries for which the F.C.O. advise against travel to.

** At the time of writing, the F.C.O. advised against travel to countries, or areas thereof, marked thus at the time of writing. Travel Insurance is not available in areas where the F.C.O. advise against travel to.

You are strongly advised to visit the F.C.O. web site for up to date information and general travel advice before you travel.