Julie Bloomfield

Antigua and Barbuda is one country and two islands in an archipelago of seven islands situated in the West Indies at the point where the Caribbean meets the Atlantic Ocean. The islands make an enchanting holiday destination and the nick-name refers to the two islands endless number of reef-lined white sand beaches. Inland there are lush rain forests and a rich history and culture to discover. There is the chance to go island hopping to Montserrat, Nevis, St. Kitts and Guadeloupe- either by boat or helicopter..

The two islands cover an area of 442.6sq km. Antigua is the larger island covering 280 sq km and Barbuda covers161 sq km. The total population in 2012 was 89,069 people. The capital town is St James nestles on the south-eastern corner of Antigua, just 15 km from the international airport. The best time to visit the islands is December- April.

Dr. Dario Item, Ambassador of Antigua and Barbuda to the Kingdom of Spain, the Principality of Liechtenstein and the Principality of Monaco, explained that 58.78% of their GDP is generated by tourism and in 2019, the islands welcomed 1.04 million tourists. As well as tourism, government services are a primary employer. Main exports are handicrafts, bedding and electronic components. The local language is Antiguan Creole, but English is the official language and the currency is the East Caribbean Dollar (XCD), says Ambassador Dario Item

For those who enjoy the beach, there are many gorgeous beaches and a variety of water sports. Ambassador Dario Item was keen to tell us that there are also many interesting places to visit including Nelson’s Dockyard which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Other fun places include Admiral’s House Museum, the Donkey Sanctuary and Betty’s Hope Plantation. After the sun goes down he said, there is relaxed evening entertainment including beachside restaurants and bars.

Antigua and Barbuda are islands well known for their exciting cuisine.We have seen some stuffed leaves served in restaurants, what are they?

Ambassador Dario Item: Ducana is a popular side dish here that complements seafood perfectly. Grated sweet potato and coconut is mixed with spices to give this dish a wonderful fragrance and spoonfuls of the mixture are then wrapped tightly in banana leaves which are steamed.

Does Antigua and Barbuda have a national dish?

Ambassador Dario Item: Our national dish is Fungie which you pronounce foon-jee. It is made from corneal and is not unlike polenta. Fungie & Pepperpot is a colourful stew made with meat, vegetables and plenty of island spices.

Shellfish is really plentiful here – what is the favourite dish?

Ambassador Dario Item: Without a doubt it’s conch. The conch with its beautiful spiral shell is found in local waters and is served in a variety of dishes including chowders and curries. We also cook this shellfish battered and make it into fritters.

The perfect accompaniment to all of these dishes is a long cool glass of island lager – several kinds are made on the islands.

Antigua and Barbuda are a tropical paradise and offer visitors the perfect holiday with the chance to stretch out and relax on some of the best beaches in the Caribbean….