Antigua
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Situated in the sun-drenched Caribbean, Antigua is a gorgeous hideaway with spectacular beaches, inspiring coral reefs, and a laid-back atmosphere that separates this cruise destination from the hustle and bustle of many other Caribbean ports of call. The largest of the British Leeward Islands, Antigua is a land rich in history and culture, and sure to delight anyone who ventures onto its welcoming shores.

Once a British colony, Antigua has gained independence and is now part of the nations of Antigua and Barbuda. Its vibrant capital, St. John's, still possesses many reminders of its linkages to the United Kingdom, especially in a tour of its unique architecture, agricultural institutions, and artistic culture.

The transformation from an economically challenged land of sugar plantations to a popular cruise destination has been gradual. This is beneficial in many ways to those visiting Antigua, for you won't find tremendous over-development and miles and miles of high-rise hotels dotting the coastal landscape. Instead, you will be treated to ample dining, shopping, and local activities, albeit at a scale that invites you to soak in the natural beauty of the area, which there is certainly no lack of.

The capital city of St. John's is ideally located on the beautiful northeast coast of the island. From there, you can branch out in all directions to explore this fascinating island. Just south of town are the beautiful beaches of Darkwood, Driftwood, and Johnson's Point. Marvel at the inspiring Boggy Peak as it rises from just beyond the crashing waves.

Southeast of the capital is the beautiful Nelson's Dockyard National Park, located at Pigeon Point. Calm waters and pristine white-sandy beaches await you at this southern terminus of the island.

For the water sports enthusiasts among you, be sure to take along your scuba and snorkeling gear. Antigua is well known for its wonderful diving spots, including the reefs at Half Moon Bay, and the snorkeling haven of Long Bay, northeast of St. John's.

Geography
Antigua and Barbuda are located at the southern end of the Leeward islands. This state includes Redonda an uninhabited rock. The total area is 171 sq. miles (442 sq. km). The main island of Antigua has no forests, mountains or rivers. There are a few springs and prolonged droughts are experienced from time to time. Barbuda, a coral island, lies 25 miles north of Antigua. It is a game reserve, flat and well wooded. The capital, St. John's, is located on mainland Antigua.

History
Antigua was first sighted by the Spaniards but was later colonized by the British who established tobacco plantations. Later in the century sugar cane proved to be a more profitable crop and the first large sugar estate was established by Sir Christopher Codrington in 1674. He leased Barbuda to grow provisions for his plantations with slaves imported from Africa. The slaves were emancipated in 1834 but economic opportunities for these free laborers were limited by a lack of surplus farming land, no access to credit and an economy built on agriculture rather than manufacturing. After many years of hardship and struggles Antigua and Barbuda gained its independence in November1981.

Economy
Antigua and Barbuda's economy is now based on services, principally tourism and offshore banking. Hotels and restaurants contribute about a quarter of GDP and employ about one-third of the workforce. Agriculture is mainly directed to the domestic market while manufacturing comprises enclave type assembly for export, with major products being bedding, handicraft and electronic components. Tourism is the leading foreign exchange earner but financial services (offshore banking) and information based industries including Internet gaming have emerged as complimentary industries. The principal exports are chemicals, food products, live animals, miscellaneous manufactured goods and petroleum products.

People & Culture
Most inhabitants of this country are of African descent, although a minority of English, Portuguese, Lebanese and Syrian descendants are still active in business and commerce. The language spoken is English and most people are Anglican with small groups of other Protestant sects and Roman Catholics. Carnival, which is held late July/August highlights the cultural aspects of the country which includes a unique brand of soca (soul calypso) made internationally popular by an Antiguan band named Burning Flames.