Planning a trip to Antigua? This Antigua Travel & Logistics Glossary covers everything from flights and transportation to currency, visas, and local customs—helping you navigate the island like a pro.
✈️ Arrival & Entry Requirements
1. V.C. Bird International Airport (ANU)
- Location: 8km northeast of St. John’s
- Airlines: American Airlines, British Airways, JetBlue, Caribbean Airlines
- Tip: Pre-book private transfers to avoid long taxi lines
2. Visa Requirements
- Visa-Free: Most visitors (USA, Canada, UK, EU) get 30-90 days
- Required Documents: Passport (6+ months validity), return ticket, proof of accommodation
3. Customs Regulations
- Duty-Free Allowance: 1L alcohol, 200 cigarettes
- Prohibited Items: Fruits, plants, and firearms
🚗 Getting Around Antigua
4. Car Rentals
- Best For: Explorers (roads are narrow but well-marked)
- Requirements: Local permit ($20 USD), valid driver’s license
- Top Companies: Hertz, Avis, local providers like PJs
5. Taxis
- Fare System: Fixed rates (e.g., airport to St. John’s = $15 USD)
- Tip: Agree on price before riding—no meters
6. Public Buses
- Cost: 3XCD(≈ 3 XC D ( ≈ 1 USD) per ride
- Routes: Cover major areas (but not all beaches)
7. Ferries to Barbuda
- Operator: Barbuda Express
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Cost: ~$100 USD round-trip
🏨 Accommodation Tips
8. All-Inclusive Resorts
- Top Picks: Sandals Grande Antigua, Cocobay Resort
- Best For: Honeymooners, hassle-free stays
9. Boutique Hotels
- Top Picks: The Inn at English Harbour, Blue Waters
- Best For: Luxury with local charm
10. Villas & Airbnb
- Best Areas: Jolly Harbour, Dickenson Bay
- Tip: Book early for peak season (Dec-Apr)
💰 Money & Costs
11. Currency
- Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD): 2.70XCD= 2.70 XC D = 1 USD
- USD Acceptance: Widely accepted (but expect change in XCD)
12. ATMs & Cards
- ATMs: Available in St. John’s and resorts (ScotiaBank, RBTT)
- Credit Cards: Visa/Mastercard accepted; Amex less common
13. Tipping Etiquette
- Restaurants: 10-15% (check if service charge is included)
- Taxis: Round up fare
- Housekeeping: $2-5 USD/day
📱 Connectivity & Tech
14. SIM Cards
- Providers: Flow, Digicel
- Cost: ~$20 USD for 1GB data
- Tip: Buy at airport kiosks
15. Wi-Fi Availability
- Resorts: Usually free
- Cafés: Most offer Wi-Fi with purchase
⚕️ Health & Safety
16. Vaccinations
- Recommended: Routine vaccines + Hepatitis A
- COVID-19: Check latest entry rules
17. Hospitals & Clinics
- Main Hospital: Mount St. John’s Medical Centre (St. John’s)
- Pharmacies: Woods Medical Centre (open late)
18. Safety Tips
- General: Safe for tourists, but avoid isolated areas at night
- Water: Tap water is safe to drink
🌦️ Weather & Packing
19. Best Time to Visit
- Peak Season (Dec-Apr): Sunny, low humidity
- Low Season (May-Nov): Fewer crowds, occasional rain
20. Packing Essentials
- Must-Pack: Reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, lightweight clothing
- Leave Behind: Heavy jackets (average temp: 80°F/27°C)
