Staying in Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda is one of the smallest countries in the Caribbean, comprising the main islands of Antigua and Barbuda along with dozens of smaller islets. For frequent-flyer hotel travelers, this archipelago offers a distinct blend of urban convenience and secluded island charm. The country features a tropical savanna climate, with the majority of the population residing in the Central Plain stretching from the capital, St. John's, to English Harbour. While St. John's serves as the primary hub, the single settlement of Codrington on Barbuda provides a quieter alternative. Accommodation strategies here differ from larger destinations. Travelers often base themselves in St. John's for business or cultural exploration, or opt for resorts in the southwest where pockets of tropical monsoon climate exist. The country is bounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Caribbean Sea to the west, sharing maritime borders with Anguilla, Saint Barthélemy, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Montserrat, and Guadeloupe. Despite its small size of 440 km², the nation retains large swathes of undeveloped land and natural parks, such as Codrington Lagoon. Visitors should note that the country has faced environmental issues due to climate change, which may affect certain coastal areas. Historically settled by Hunter-gatherers and later colonized by the British in 1632, the islands offer a rich heritage dating back to independence in 1981. For hotel stays, the focus is generally on leveraging the central infrastructure between St. John's and English Harbour, with limited but distinct options on the sister island of Barbuda.