Reconnect with Nature and Creativity in Antigua and Barbuda

Join me and discover the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation in Antigua. Get ready to fall in love with this tropical paradise… I know I did!

With daily direct flights from the UK and many European cities, this tropical paradise is an easy destination to reach. But it's not just the convenience that makes Antigua so appealing—it's also famous for its stunning white sand beaches. In fact, there are 350 beaches to choose from. That’s almost one for each day of the year!

So if you're looking for a getaway from the cold and dreary winter weather, look no further than Antigua!

And let me tell you, Antigua isn't just a place to soak up the sun—it's also a great place to reconnect and find inspiration.

I had the pleasure of visiting Antigua at the end of November, just before the start of the summer season. This turned out to be a great choice as I was able to avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful and welcoming environment, while making the most of an authentic Caribbean experience.

So whether you're a creative professional looking for inspiration or just looking for a relaxing break, Antigua has something to offer.

As a voice talent on the go, at first I was concerned about the island's lack of suitable recording studios, but with a little bit of planning, I was able to make the most of my 10-day trip. I made myself available for auditions but not for live recordings, and I packed the right equipment for recording on the go, writing, filming, and training. 

Before you kick off, be prepared to:

• Digital Detox: Disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature in Antigua. With a limited phone signal, I used this opportunity to switch off and rejuvenate.

After my ten-day digital detox, I noticed a boost in my productivity and energy levels upon returning to work. Absolutely priceless!

• Cricket Choirs: Embrace the sound of nature in Antigua, including the cricket choirs that sing all night long! As a sound-healer I cannot express how much I loved these natural sound baths! (However, if you plan on recording anything, plan accordingly and ensure it is during the quieter hours of the day).

• Best Sunsets Ever: Witness the magic of the sun setting right in front of you every day. It's a sight you won't want to miss.

• Bumpy Roads: Antigua is a beautiful island, but the roads can be very bumpy. Be prepared to get a flat tire or two during your self-drives… you’ll see that this is very normal.

• Mosquitoes: While Antigua is a tropical paradise, it has some downsides, such as mosquitoes and tiny flies buzzing around a lot of the time (especially at night!). 

To avoid them, use mosquito repellent and ensure your bed has a mosquito net. And don't forget to spray consistently, especially during dawn and sunset.

Bonus tip: Be prepared for open windows—many places in Antigua have no glass on their windows, only a net. Enjoy the refreshing breeze and the sense of freedom that comes with it!

Where to Stay in Antigua

If you’re like me, then you appreciate authenticity. I was looking for a genuine retreat away from the crowded tourist hotspots but still in a convenient location, and I found my dream accommodation in the little village of Urlings.

Just a short 10-minute drive from the famous Jolly Harbour, this area offers some of the most beautiful beaches on the island, including Turner Beach and Darkwood Beach, which are just a short walk away.

I booked an apartment at the top of the hill with Airbnb, surrounded by lush rainforest and panoramic ocean views. The serenity and tranquility of “Sugar Moon” went beyond my expectations.

Silvia, the host, and her lovely children Usama and Lele were the icing on the cake. Their warm welcome, thoughtful treats, and helpful tips made me feel right at home. 

How to Get Around Paradise Island

The best way to get around this tropical paradise is by renting a car. But not just any car—you'll want a sturdy 4x4 or Jeep to navigate the bumpy roads. Oh, and make sure you have comprehensive insurance, including coverage for flat tires, just to be safe!

With your own wheels, you'll have the freedom to discover this island's hidden gems and create your own adventure. 

So go on and hit the road!

Get Ready to Fall in Love

I found in Antigua the perfect destination to recharge and re-balance, experiencing the ultimate mix of adventure and relaxation with just the right amount of "me-time." 

Thanks to the difference in time zones I was up very early from the first morning, so I took the chance set new habits and make super early starts a part of my daily routine.

Picture this: Rise with the sun at 4:30 AM and start your day with a yoga and meditation session, followed by a delicious breakfast of tropical fruits from the rainforest, all while taking in the stunning sunrise from your terrace. By 7 o’clock you’re full of energy, ready to start exploring the island.

This was my perfect first morning that set my new habit of early starts; my body, mind and spirit were saying “Thank you Nina”, and I had never felt so good before!

With Urlings as my base, I had easy access to all of Antigua's top destinations.

Although my favorite spots were in the South, I'll share with you the highlights of my trip in no particular order. 

Feel free to pair up destinations if you're on a shorter stay and want to see everything, or divide your trips into North and South destinations for easy organization.

Now take note of what I believe you should not miss!

Top Can't-Miss Things in Antigua and Barbuda

Despite being a fairly small island, Antigua offers plenty of things to do and see. If you visit, you can explore stunning beaches, historical landmarks, and take scenic drives. 

Here are some of the top things you have to do during your stay:

Fig Tree Drive

You're in for a treat with this scenic drive through the rainforest that you'll want to do more than once. The experience of crossing the rainforest and taking in its sights and sounds is simply amazing. 

Along the way, you'll come across Elaine's fruit stall, run by an inhabitant of the rainforest and her 94-year-old mother. They collect fresh fruit daily and make delicious, freshly squeezed juice you won't want to miss. 

If you follow the little road next to their allotment, you'll discover a lovely trek in the rainforest that you can easily do alone, with plenty of spots to meditate and take notes. 

And after Elaine's stall, be sure to stop by the nearby art gallery showcasing the work of local artists—the art is truly beautiful.

Sunset at Darkwood Beach or Crabbe Hills

I absolutely loved relaxing on the beach and watching the sunset in the surroundings of my accommodation at Sugar Moon. Darkwood and Crabbe Hills are great places to do this but are only two of the many amazing spots for sunset lovers like me!

Saint Garusis Beach

Another fantastic spot for sunset and for a relaxing day by the shore. Enjoy crystal clear waters and white sand on this picturesque beach surrounded by a hill.

Galleon Beach

Galleon Beach is a great spot for snorkelers, where you can spot tropical fish and sea turtles in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. 

While the beach itself is beautiful with its white sand, the rocky seabed might not be ideal for children or those who prefer a soft sandy sunbed. But once you start swimming, you'll be amazed by the beautiful creatures you'll encounter. 

Don't forget to have lunch at the typical laid-back bar and restaurant on the beach. One important tip is to check the wind conditions before you go, as during windy days, it may not be possible to swim across the riff to spot sea turtles.

Half Moon Bay

Visit this gem on a non-windy day for a wild and spectacular experience in a world-renowned national park. Imagine yourself in the Pirates of the Caribbean while watching the sea crash against the shore. I absolutely loved this place and I was captured by its wild atmosphere which inspired me to write the lyrics of a new song right on the spot.

Shirley Heights

A bit too touristy for my taste, but definitely worth the expericence. In Shirley Heights you can catch a stunning sunset overlooking the bay while enjoying local food, BBQ, and live music. As I said, this is a popular tourist spot, so arrive early to secure parking and enjoy the view before the crowds arrive!

English Harbour and Nelson's Dockyard

Antigua was an important port in the 18th century, and English Harbour at the southern end of the island was a significant naval base back then. 

Today, it is a busy boating center where you can visit Nelson's Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that the British Royal Navy once used for ship repairs. The area is now a charming British village set against a beautiful Caribbean landscape, with restored colonial buildings, museums, shops, and cafes where you can learn about the island's history, including British colonization and the slave trade. 

While in the area, our car broke down (oh yes, you’ll see lots of cars breaking down due to the bumpy roads, and we were no exception), but we were saved by a friendly family who runs a sailing boat charter company called "Streamline Yacht Charter." We enjoyed waiting for a new car at La Brasserie d'Antigua, where we had the best Tarte Tatin of our lives.

Jolly Harbour

Take a short drive up and down the hill to enjoy exclusive villas and stunning scenery. During this drive I couldn’t help reflecting on the contrasts of the island, with local villages just ten minutes away based on an agricultural economy.

St John’s and Dickinson Bay

St. John's is a lively and busy capital city, full of energetic streets, markets selling fresh fruits and fish, and a bustling atmosphere quite different from the peaceful and picturesque landscapes on the island. 

While walking around the city, I enjoyed exploring the local areas where local people go. However, the main street is quite touristy, with high-end shops, cafes, and a port hosting yachts and cruises.

I would recommend visiting St. John's as it offers a unique experience, but one day is enough. On the same day, we also visited the famous Dickinson Bay, which is a beautiful place but quite crowded with tourists and in my opinion not as authentic as other parts of Antigua. 

When you get there, I would love to hear your thoughts on it!

Aperitif at Sheer Rocks

Sheer Rocks is a trendy spot to have a drink or a meal. It's a popular place with a sophisticated yet casual atmosphere. I had a delicious cocktail there, but be aware that prices are generally high in Antigua.

An Island that You’re Heart Will Never Leave

If you have the chance to visit any one of these places, you’ll know exactly what I mean when I say it was truly something special.

The island is full of vibrant colors and contrasting landscapes that showcase the best of Caribbean culture and scenery. 

As a musician, I was captivated by the rhythms of the island, while as a writer, I was inspired by the breathtaking landscapes. As a sound healer, I felt grateful for the chance to immerse myself in the natural sounds of the island and connect with the Earth. 

This experience had a restorative and rejuvenating effect on my mind, body, and soul, and I look forward to returning to this magical place.