The coronavirus pandemic has put the thought of vacationing on pause for the foreseeable future. We may not be able to leave our homes but we can still dream, right? While you load up your future travel bucket list, we suggest checking out the Caribbean island of Antigua.

Surrounded by 365 white sandy beaches and enhanced by the clear blue water of the Caribbean, Antigua is one of the most popular of the Leeward Islands. Antigua is a small island of 108 square miles; its sister island, Barbuda is 32 miles due north and covers 68 square miles. The twin-island paradise is steep in history and culture, full of Caribbean charm with a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. 

Antigua is a beautiful island with great people. It’ll be hard to find yourself bored with all of the island activities, wonderful views, and oceanside eateries. 

View from Fort Shelley by Nia Adams

With the help of Black Travel Journey, we’ve compiled a 24-hour guide to Antigua for you to have on deck for your trip there!

Antigua

After landing at VC Bird International Airport, you will head to your boarding accommodations. We suggest booking with Majestic Realty Caribbean’s Fort Shelley villa. Fort Shelley is a luxury island escape nestled on a hillside of the beautiful island of Antigua. ​The exclusive island property features two (2) 5-bedroom villas — available for short term rental either together or separately.

​Fort Shelley is perfect for large groups traveling to the Caribbean/West Indies who are looking for a true private-resort experience, all to yourself. Each guest room has a private bathroom and double doors that open to a private balcony.

After a long day of traveling, enjoy local cuisine and welcome cocktails with your hosts at your home away from home.

In the morning,

Take some time to explore the grounds and Fort Shelley’s view or change into your swimwear, head to the infinity pool and soak up some morning sun!

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Once you’re ready for lunch, Dennis Beach Bar Restaurant. The restaurant has an extensive drink menu that’s sure to have you in between yummy decisions. As you eat, you’ll have a view of the beach as well as a clear shot of the island, Montserrat across the ocean.

Lunch at Dennis’s Beach Bar & Restaurant by Nia Adams

Take some time to lay out on the beach to digest Dennis’s amazing food or have another drink before heading to your next activity!

Antigua is also the home of a lush rainforest, and what better way to explore one than… ziplining?! Cater to your inner adrenaline junkie at Antigua Rain Forest Zipline Tours. There are drinks for before and after, snacks, native cats as well as a 12-course zipline track!

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To close out your adventure packed day, head over to the luxurious Sheer Rocks!

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Poised artfully on the edge of a remarkable sunset facing bluff and terraced in a Cliffside, protruding over the rocks of Ffryes Bay, this series of bougainvillea-draped pavilions, four-poster daybeds, and plunge pool delivers a seductive backdrop in creating one of the most beautiful and must-visit dining spots and experiences in Antigua. Sheer Rocks has amazing food, drinks and a wait staff full of natives who will give you historic stories of their homeland. This location is sure to take your breath away as you take in Antigua’s gorgeous sunset.

Ffryes Beach, Saint Mary, Antigua & Barbuda Shot by Nia Adams

If you need any more convincing to visit the amazing Antigua, check out this recap from Black Travel Journey! All photos above shot by Nia Adams.

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