Antigua is one of the caribbeans most well known and popular holiday destinations. Admiral Horatio Nelson sailed to Antigua in 1784 to establish Great Britains most important Caribbean base. Today the islands fantastic weather, beaches and clear seas have made it one of the worlds best tourist spots. Tourism has brought construction of many Villas in Antigua and Apartments in Antigua, most are rented out to holiday makers year round.
St Johns is the capital and the largest city in Antigua. One of its major attractions is its Cathedral, built in 1683 it has since been repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt. St John has a recently completed a dock for cruise ships, the area around the dock has been build into a center for shopping and dining. There is a Museum located in the colonial court house and displays Arawak and Colonial artifacts recoved from archaeological digs. There is also a life-size replica of an Arawak house and models of sugar plantations.
In English Harbour Visitors to the island can see Nelson’s Dockyard. Abandoned in 1889, Nelson’s Dockyard was not restored until 1961. Today visitors can see a conglomeration of old stone warehouses, workshops. restaurants, souvenir shops and a museum. Most Cruises will offer excursions to the Dockyard, where yachts are seen moored year round.
Sea View Farm Village sits between the Capital of Antigua, St. Johns and Potworks Dam, the islands largest lake. The village is known for its pottery, which has been a tradition and a trade in the area since the 18th century. The Pottery can be purchased from stores in the village, and around the island.
Clarence House is the country residence of the Governor-general. It was origionally built by English stonemasons in the late 1700s to act as the living quarters for Prince William Henry. When the Governor-general is not in residence the house is open to the public.
Shirley Heights is a well known view from the island. It is located within the National Parks and overlooks the English Harbour. Entertainment is available on Sundays and includes a Barbeque and Rum punch and is known as the best party on the island, being a weekly tradition for over 25 years. The area is an old fortification and is named after the General who was Governor when the fort was constructed.
Located in St Johns, The Harmony Hall Art Gallery is the center of Antiguas Arts community and has been opening exhibitions since 1987. Hermony Hall is built around a suger mill tower, which has been converted into a bar, with fantastic views.
Fort James is a spectacular heritage site and still holds a full complement of cannons in place. One of the forts major attractions is the views of the surrounding harbour. Shopping, restaurants and a casino are also close by, all are part of the latest developments in St Johns.
On the north-eastern point of Antigua there is a remote wild area known as Indian Town Point. The reason it is called Indian point is unknown as there have never been an indian presence in the area. Indian Point is now a national park, and its history holds many fasinating stories and tales.
