ANTIGUA

Why go to Antigua? If a beach for every day of the year isn't enough to entice you to visit Antigua, the temperate climate and wealth of natural attractions might just be! You really can choose the style of vacation that suites you best; but step out of your comfort zone for a few hours if you are feeling up to it. Antigua features posh restaurants, large shopping facilities, and sprawling resort hotels. Everything you want out of your vacation is at your fingertips on this island. Beach dwelling, sailing, hiking, and pampering can all be done in Antigua. Shopping in Antigua is duty free, and while some might argue that shopping is not a top priority on the island, savvy shoppers can easily come away with inexpensive designer goods, gems, and artwork. The truly adventurous traveler will want to sample Antigua's local delicacies. Black pineapple and breadfruit make for great snacks; while pepperpot, which is a beef and vegetable stew that is a little spicier than what you may be used to, and salted codfish are main course mainstays. Don't forget to whet your palate with ginger beer or an Antiguan Smile, a rum based concoction featuring crème de banana and pineapple juice.