Where is Antigua and Barbuda?
Antigua (pronounced An-tee’ga) and Barbuda is a twin-island nation located in the middle of the Leeward Islands in the Eastern Caribbean. Neighbours are Montserrat and Guadeloupe to the south, and to the north and west are Nevis, St. Kitts, St. Barts, and St. Maarten.
What is Antigua and Barbuda all about?
Half Moon Bay beach Photo courtesy caribbeanhotels.com
This is the land of 365 beaches in respect to its many pristine and beautiful beaches surrounding the island, and all of them are open to the public. A special mention has to go to Half Moon Bay which is a crescent shaped beach (hence the name) with its extra special fine pink and breathtaking scenery. This is just the beginning though.
English Harbour Photo courtesy aircanadavacations.com
Antigua and Barbuda is also known for its English Harbour, it’s most evocative and historic district. The warm islands steady winds, complex coastline of safe harbours and a protective unbroken wall of coral reef made it the perfect place for Admiral Horatio Nelson to establish Great Britain’s most important Caribbean base during the Napoleonic wars. Today it is best known for Nelson’s Dockyard National Park complete with restaurants, museums and most significantly a yacht haven which hosts the world’s premier yachting event every year.
When did Antigua and Barbuda gain independence?
The islands became an independent state within the Commonwealth Realm system on November 1, 1981, with Elizabeth II as the first Queen of Antigua and Barbuda.
Who are Antiguans?
Antiguans are genuine, hard-working friendly people that make excellent rum punches. Most people of this country are of African descent, although a minority of English, Portuguese, Lebanese and Syrian descendants are still active in business and commerce. English is the official language with the majority having Christian faith.
Why is Antigua so special?
Other than having a beach for every day of the year, Antigua is the sunniest and largest of the Leeward Islands. It is regarded as the “gateway to the Caribbean” because of its location and natural harbours.
Famous Antiguans:
Former West Indian cricketer Sir Vivian Richards
West Indian cricketer Curtly Ambrose
Forder prime minister Sir Vere Cornwall Bird
Singer Shermain Jeremy
