A little more
Antigua and Barbuda.
A lot less roaming.

Travelling to Antigua and Barbuda: what to know before you go

Antigua and Barbuda is a two-island nation in the eastern Caribbean, with a coastline of sheltered bays and white beaches and a long naval and sailing history. Antigua is the livelier main island; Barbuda, to the north, is flat, sparsely populated and wilder. It suits beach lovers, sailors and anyone interested in Georgian-era history.

Where to go

• Nelson's Dockyard. A restored Georgian naval dockyard at English Harbour, used by the Royal Navy from the 18th century and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Shirley Heights. A restored military lookout above English Harbour with one of the best views on the island, over the dockyard and Falmouth Harbour.
• Half Moon Bay. A wide crescent of pale sand on the Atlantic side of the island, protected in part by a reef.
• St John's. The capital, with brightly painted waterfront shops, a busy Saturday market and St John's Cathedral, whose twin towers have long been a landmark above the town.

Best time to visit

The dry season from December to April brings steady trade winds, low humidity and the most visitors. Antigua Sailing Week, usually held in late April or early May, fills English Harbour with racing yachts.

Staying online in Antigua and Barbuda

Mobile coverage with 4G is good across most of Antigua, including the main beaches and English Harbour. Barbuda has coverage around Codrington but it is thinner elsewhere on the island and out on the lagoon. Wi-Fi is standard in hotels and common in restaurants and marinas. Install an eSIM before you fly and switch it on when you land so you have maps and messaging from the airport.