Information

Practical Information on Antigua

Capital:
St John's - 442 sq km - 77500 h

Language:
English is the official language.

Formalities:
Valid passport and return ticket required. The length of stay, without other formality, is limited to 42 days. In addition, a residence permit must be sought.

Religions:
There are over 100 churches on the island of Antigua. Different religions are practiced: Anglican (majority), Catholic, Adventist and Methodist.

Antigua Currency:
The currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD).
Everything is paid or calculated in U.S. dollars on the basis of 1 USD = 2.72 XCD. (1£ = 4.38 XCD approx.)
At the bank the rate is better so it is advisable to change money in the bank rather than paying in USD. But beware, upon return, the XCD that you have remaining are not taken by the bank at the airport. Credit cards Visa and Mastercard are accepted.
Some shops prefer cash or travelers checks.
Banks are open from 8 am to 13 pm and 15 pm to 17 pm Monday through Thursday. 8 am to 12 pm and 15 pm to 17 pm Friday. Some local branches of the Bank of Antigua open Saturday morning.

Local travel in Antigua:
By air: Links with other Caribbean islands, including Martinique, Guadeloupe, St. Barthelemy and St. Lucia, are provided by local companies regularly. There is also possibility of a small plane charteriser 5 to 9 seats from Carib Aviation. For the island of Barbuda, a 15-minute flight is 45 USD (approx. 32?).

By bus: On Independence Avenue, East Bus Station serves the north and east of Antigua. Opposite the market of St. John's, West Bus Station serves the villages of South Harbour Français.

By car: This is the best way to visit the island. Rental offices are located at the airport and St. John.  They drive on the left, on roads not very large and often in poor condition.  Take comprehensive insurance is strongly advised. The tourist office publishes a map of the island that indicates the gas stations. Do not hesitate to carry a map because you can get lost easily. On the island of Barbuda, it is possible to rent jeeps and ... horses.

By boat: There is something for everyone. Day trips can be arranged to the surrounding islands (Bird Island, Prickly Pear Island) and Barbuda. Also out on the coral reef in glass bottom boats in Dickinson Bay and mini-cruise cocktail. For fishing enthusiasts, Falmouth Harbour, it is possible to embark on some big game fishing.

Health:
No vaccines mandatory. The sanitary conditions are good.

Electricity:
As in the United States, 110 V is de rigueur in most parts of the island and in hotels. Transformer and adapter needed.