Life in Antigua Barbuda

Places to Visit
This 108 square mile island paradise, best known for its 365
beaches, has so much to see beyond the white sand and
sparkling water. If you have been for your daily swim and
had your beach nap why not rent a car or taxi and explore
an old fort, visit a village and learn from locals, or just gaze
out at a beautiful vista from a good vantage point.
ST. JOHN’S AREA
ARTS & CRAFTS MARKET (next to the fruit and
vegetable market and near to the West Bus Terminal) –
A delightful, colourful gathering of local artists actively
working in their small shops producing 100 percent
Antiguan products. Some items are actually made on
the spot for you to see – natural vegetable based soaps;
artwork done with fish scales and sea shells; leather
craft such as shoes, belts and bags, as well as straw hats
and items made of other natural fabrics. Open Monday
to Saturday.
CENOTAPH – Situated at the top of High Street, the
war memorial to Antiguans who died serving in World
War I was unveiled in 1919. Remembrance Day is
celebrated annually with a service for those who gave
their lives during World Wars I and II.
FORT JAMES – is named after King James II, who
reigned during the years the fort was being built. Work
started in 1706 at the entrance to St John’s Harbour. Most
of the buildings seen today date back to 1739. By 1773,
thirty-six guns were mounted in place with barracks for
about 75 men. In the 19th century, a gun was fired at
sunrise, sunset and to salute visiting warships.
GOVERNMENT HOUSE – is the office of the
Governor General of Antigua & Barbuda. Owing to its
continual alterations and additions, this house has an
unconventional architectural history. It originally
started out as two wooden buildings side-by-side.
Today, it possesses three fine interiors dating from
1800, with an imposing façade with a two-storey
colonnade. Restoration is ongoing and not yet reopened
to the general public.
12