Antigua has an abundance of fabulous restaurants; you’ll be spoilt for choice. There’s a strong French influence and many of the restaurants serve a French fusion style menu, with incredible seafood and delicious salads. It's so easy to eat well here – you can find everything from local delicacies through to delicious Indian, Asian and Italian dishes too. The Yacht scene also means that the local supermarkets are incredibly well stocked, we can’t think of anything you won’t be able to find here!

Traditional Antiguan fare uses an abundance of indigenous produce such as corn, guava, sweet potatoes and chilli, mainly all introduced by the Arawaks. There is also a strong West African influence as the slave trade brought many Africans to work on the Caribbean islands.

Ducana is a must try – its similar in texture to a dumpling, and made from sweet potato, coconut, raisins, spices and pumpkin, formed into little patties and wrapped in banana leaf then boiled. It’s often served with saltfish, another delicacy on the island. Saltfish is preserved fish typically made with white, meaty fish such as cod or mahi mahi.

You simply can’t visit Antigua without sampling the rum. There are two main distilleries on the island – Cavalier and English Harbour. Head down to one of the great cocktail bars in English and Falmouth harbours, or up to Shirley heights to sample a delicious rum punch or rum-based cocktail.

You’ve simply got to make the most of the beaches here. The sea is like bathwater - there’s not even a hint of a harsh chill as you take your first step in. Pigeon beach is one of the best, really low key and situated on the headland in between English and Falmouth harbours. There’s also a great beach restaurant here, Catherine’s Café, renowned on the island for its delicious fare. Choose a table right on the beach and eat with your toes in the sand for the most authentic experience. Head to Galleon beach, where you can swim with Hawksbill turtles; the most unforgettable experience. You can snorkel, kayak and paddleboard here, before settling in on the golden sands to catch some rays.

Sailing lessons and paddle board hire can be found at Antigua Yacht Club in Falmouth Harbour. If you’re looking for something a little more laid back or land-based, yoga, meditation, various exercise classes and even horse riding can be found in English Harbour.

Wander down for an aperitif at Colibri cocktail bar whilst you decide where to head for dinner. We can highly recommend Ti Lo Lo in English Harbour for fabulous food with a French flair accompanied by some delicious wine. 

If you’re looking for music, lively crowds and a good time then head up to Shirley Heights, a restored military gun battery and look out. The lookout offers spectacular views over both harbours, some of the best on the island. Sunsets here are a must, and every Sunday from mid-afternoon onwards you can party until the sun goes down with local bands playing, a big BBQ and great drinks.

The best time to visit Antigua is from mid-December through to the early Spring, when the temperatures are perfect for a bit of winter sun (if you’re escaping from the Northern Hemisphere!). The sea is like bathwater and the reliable trade winds provide sweet relief from the heat. May and June can also be good options, as its just before the main rainy season so the temperatures are a little lower and there’s often slightly fewer tourists around too. That being said, Antigua never feels crowded at all, even in the height of the season.