Antigua, discovered by Columbus in 1493, was colonized by English planters in the early 1600’s. Antigua is a hilly island with a heavily indented coastline and excellent beaches – they are said to number 375.  Today it and nearby Barbuda are linked together within the British Commonwealth of Nations.

 Admiral Nelson was commander of the fleet here and today English Harbor is a popular attraction with Nelson memorabilia and a small museum in his former home.

 As with most of the islands of the Caribbean, sugar production was formerly the foundation of the economy but is no longer cultivated. Fruits such as papayas, pineapples, and mangos are still grown.

 Antigua with its many beaches offers excellent swimming as well as scuba diving, snorkeling, deep-sea fishing, and sailing.  Golf, tennis, and horseback riding are readily available. 

 Unlike hilly Antigua, Barbuda is a flat coral island.  It too has excellent beaches.  The visitor can make a day trip from Antigua, 32 miles away, or find comfortable accommodations on the island.

 Excellent cuisine, especially seafood, is offered by the many fine restaurants on the islands.

• British Leeward Islands
• Capital: St. John’s
• Population: 76,400
• Area: 108 sq mi
• Official language: English