Jurisdiction Guide

December to April offers cooler weather and less rain, which is great for exploring and beach trips. Hurricane season runs June to November, and some places on Barbuda may close during that time.

US dollars are accepted almost everywhere, but the local currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar. Most locals speak English, so getting around is easy. Local buses are cheap but run on flexible schedules. SIM cards can be bought at the airport or in St. John's, just bring your ID. Tipping 10-15 percent in restaurants is expected unless service charge is included.

People greet with a friendly 'good morning' or 'good afternoon' before starting any conversation. Beachwear is fine on the sand, but cover up in towns or shops. Sundays are often reserved for church and family, so some businesses may be closed or have shorter hours. Dress modestly if visiting churches or attending community events.

Petty theft can happen in tourist areas or on beaches, so keep belongings close. Driving is on the left side, and local drivers may take risks on small roads. Hurricanes can disrupt travel and power from June to November. Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue are present, so use repellent, especially after rain.

Visit Betty's Hope, an old sugar plantation with quiet grounds for wandering and local history. On Barbuda, the Frigate Bird Sanctuary is a peaceful boat trip and great for spotting wildlife. Half Moon Bay offers fewer crowds and calm swimming on the right day.

Most EU, UK, US, and Canadian passport holders can enter without a visa for up to 30 or 90 days. Long-term stays require applying for residence or the Antigua Nomad Digital Residence visa, which gives up to two years if you work remotely. Visa requirements can change quickly, so double-check before traveling.

No trains here, and buses mostly run around Antigua connecting villages and St. John's. Taxis are everywhere but agree on a fare first. Renting a car is popular for exploring, but roads have potholes and little signage. Domestic flights connect the two islands since ferry service is irregular.

Try fungee and pepperpot, a national dish of cornmeal and spicy stew. Fresh fish and lobster are common, especially closer to Barbuda. Local rum punches are strong, and Wadadli beer is a popular choice. Restaurants usually serve Caribbean and West Indian food, with vegetarian options in bigger towns. Street food is tasty but check that it's cooked fresh.

Antigua is pricier than Barbuda, especially near big resorts and the harbor. Budget travelers can get by on $40–60 USD a day with simple guesthouses and street eats. Mid-range hotels start around $120 USD nightly, with meals from $10 at local places. A basic taxi ride in St. John's is about $14–20 USD.