Antigua,is comprised of three islands. Antigua is the larger of the
two main islands, the island dependencies of Redonda, an uninhabited rocky islet
and Barbuda, a coral island formerly known as Dulcina. Antigua is about 13 miles
across with a coastline peppered with numerous coves and bays, many with
beautiful white-sand beaches. The south-west corner is quite hilly, rising to
402 meters at Boggy Peak, the island's highest point.
The isaland was explored by Christopher Columbus in 1493 and named for the
Church of Santa Maria de la Antigua in Seville. Antigua was colonized by Britain
in 1632; Barbuda was first colonized in 1678. The country joined the West Indies
Federation in 1958. With the break-up of the federation, it became one of the
West Indies Associated States in 1967. Full independence was granted Nov. 1,
1981.
Antigua, is known for its beaches and its sailing history. This large (108
square miles) island was home to the British fleet during colonial times when
Lord Horiatio Nelson headquartered here. Sailing activities still centre around
English Harbour in the southeast of the island, where one of the world's
foremost sailing events is held. Powdery beaches - 366 of them - are public, and
range from deserted to lively. Finding the right one for you is part of the fun.
The north-western area is where you'll find most of the beaches, nightlife,
shopping, water sports facilities and restaurants and is where most of the
resorts and hotels are scattered. The reefs around Antigua provide wonderful
snorkelling and diving spots. Because of its size and rich history there is much
to do an see on Antigua aside from sunning on the beach.
The Island offers unparalleled water sports, with miles of reef and protected
coves. Annual rainfall is under 30 inches (12 cm), while gentle trade winds keep
temperatures at an average of 78 to 85– F (25 to 29– C).
Special annual events include Sailing Week, Carnival, and Tennis Week.
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