Where is the country of Antigua and Barbuda located? Antigua and Barbuda on the world map: capital, flag, coins, citizenship and attractions of the island state

There is a place on Earth where there are beaches with white sand, the clearest azure waters of the Caribbean Sea splash, the breeze plays with palm branches and the islanders smile good-naturedly. There is almost always excellent weather, developed infrastructure, plenty of recreational opportunities for every taste and such alluring, such attractive exoticism. This is what Antigua and Barbuda is like. Where is this small state that looks like paradise? How and what do people live there? What impressions does this paradise leave on tourists?

Geographical position

The country with the unusual and slightly exotic name Antigua and Barbuda can be found on the map in the northeastern region of the Caribbean Sea, where the Lesser Antilles group of islands is located, just 480 kilometers from Puerto Rico. Geographically, it occupies three islands - the largest Antigua, slightly smaller Barbuda and the very tiny, plus completely deserted, island of Redonda. You can get there by water and by air. Antigua has both marinas and an international airport. Barbuda also has a small airport and marina for connections with its neighbor Antigua. You can fly from island to island by plane in 20 minutes. By ferry the journey takes one and a half hours. Flight times from the mainland to Antigua vary depending on your departure point. From Moscow it takes almost 16 hours to get there. Please remember that the islands are in a different time zone. Local time differs from Moscow by 8 hours.

History of the state

The indigenous people of Antigua and Barbuda call their country Wadadli, which translates to “our property.” The name is associated with historical events that took place here over more than 5 centuries. Since the 2nd century BC, the Sibonean Indians lived on these islands, mainly engaged in fishing and hunting. Later, the Arawaks, who specialized in agriculture, moved here from the continent. In the 13th century, both were supplanted by the Caribs, a brave and warlike people. In 1493, during another expedition, he came across this heavenly corner of the globe. He named the larger island Antigua in honor of Saint Mary, the patron saint of Seville. The little one was named Redonda, which means round. The middle island received the name Barbuda, that is, beard. The lands discovered by Columbus became In 1632, the Spaniards were pushed back by the British. On the conquered lands, they organized farms for growing tobacco and coconuts. The black slaves they brought worked on the plantations. Slavery on the islands lasted 200 years and 2 years. The country fought for its independence for a long time and finally, in 1981, achieved it.

Flag of Antigua and Barbuda

The deer has been chosen as the country's animal symbol, and the national symbols are the coat of arms, anthem and flag. Antigua and Barbuda has a flag unlike any other in the world. It is a rectangular panel depicting the rising sun, symbolizing the beginning of a new free life, as well as the sand of the beaches - the national heritage of the country. The black background is the skin color of the indigenous population, because it is mainly represented by the descendants of former slaves. The blue and white stripes are the waves of the sea and are also the colors of hope and purity. The red color on the flag signifies the energy of the people, and the V-shape of the design symbolizes victory.

Coat of arms

The coat of arms of the country of Antigua and Barbuda was created in 1966 by Gordon Christopher. His drawing is very complex, but numerous details provide almost complete information about this state. The picture of the coat of arms is a shield supported by two deer - animal symbols. At the top of the shield there is a pineapple and some types of plants that predominate on the islands. On the shield are the same as on the flag, the sun shining on a black background and the white and blue stripes of the sea. At the bottom of the shield is a sugar factory. All this is crowned with a ribbon with the inscription “Through the efforts of everyone, the common goal is accomplished.” This is the country's motto. This is such a wonderful coat of arms.

Capital

The state of Antigua and Barbuda, whose capital is St. John's, is very small in population. There are just under 87 thousand people here, with 31 thousand of them concentrated in the capital. It is located on the island of Antigua. There is an international airport at a distance of almost 8 km from the city, but, unfortunately, there is no connection with Russia. Russian tourists can get to the island from America, Canada, Germany and England. You can only get to the city by taxi or by renting a car here at the airport. All you need is rights and money. But you can travel around the city by bus. They ply almost the entire territory of the island, except for its northern part and Dickenson Bay. Tickets are very inexpensive, although on weekends the number of buses is sharply reduced.

The city has a well-developed tourism business, many hotels have been built, there are wonderful beaches, shops, restaurants, nightclubs and casinos.

Islands

Antigua is the country's largest island. Its area is 281 square km. The climate of the island is very favorable. The temperature in winter does not fall below +25 degrees, and in summer it is between 30-33 degrees. It rains only from September to November. They are usually very powerful, but short-lived. Sometimes the island experiences strong hurricanes. The relief of Antigua is flat. Only in the southwest are there hills, the highest of which is Boggy Hill, recently renamed Obama Hill. Its height is 402 meters. The forests and wildlife are poorly preserved, but there are many exotic birds here, and the coastal waters abound with amazingly beautiful marine life.

Barbuda is 48 kilometers away. This island is so flat that even with small waves it is difficult to see from a mile away. Its area is only 161 square km, and the only town - Codrington - looks like a village. Less than one and a half thousand people live on the island, there are almost no asphalt roads, but the beaches are as good as those on Antigua, only more deserted. The nature on this island is much better preserved. There are several caves worth visiting here. Schools of frigates are also of interest.

Antigua and Barbuda - the photo demonstrates this perfectly - is composed mainly of coral reefs, forming multiple amazingly beautiful bays and lagoons. The disadvantage of these places is the lack of fresh water. It is taken from wells or sea water is desalinated.

Redonta is a small volcanic islet 40 km from the central island of Antigua. Its area is about 1.6 square km. There are no people here, only animals and birds, which is especially appreciated by lovers of nature and secluded recreation.

Medicine

Antigua and Barbuda strives to become world class in the quality of health care and education. There are medical schools in the country, where qualified medical personnel are trained, and a medical university; construction of a modern hospital is underway, which will be equipped with modern instruments and equipment. Currently, there are 10 excellent hospitals on the islands, where they can provide almost any medical service. For the convenience of tourists, hotels employ doctors who speak English. However, it is highly undesirable to get sick while on vacation in this country, since many medical institutions require a contribution of $4,000 before providing treatment.

Currency

Antigua and Barbuda has its own currency - East Caribbean dollars, issued by the Eastern Caribbean Bank. Banknotes exist in denominations from 1 to 100 dollars. All banknotes feature the Queen of Great Britain. 1 dollar equals 100 cents. Antigua and Barbuda coins are minted from aluminum and copper-nickel alloys. They differ in diameter and weight. On one side of the coins the denomination is indicated, and on the other there is an image of Queen Elizabeth II or a sailing ship

In addition to the national currency, you can pay in the country with credit cards and American dollars, the import of which is allowed in unlimited quantities. Change is always given in local currency.

According to the unwritten law, when paying for the services of a porter, taxi driver, maids and waiters, you are supposed to leave a tip, so change in your pocket can always come in handy.

As part of the investment program, the laws of Antigua and Barbuda allow it to be issued to everyone who can make investments in the country’s economy under one of the three provided programs.

  1. Investments are made in the amount of 400 thousand US dollars.
  2. A charitable amount of at least 200 thousand US dollars is contributed to the state economic fund.
  3. An amount of one and a half million US dollars is contributed to one’s own or to any existing business in the country at this stage.

In addition, those wishing to become citizens of Antigua and Barbuda are required to pay a special fee for each adult family member and each child over 18 years of age for 50 thousand dollars, and for children under 18 years of age for 25 thousand.

The second fee is called the Due Diligence Fee. It provides for different amounts, depending on age and status in the family.

Citizenship gives you the right to enter many countries without a visa.

Holidays and festivals

Antigua and Barbuda are very fond of cricket. It even hosted 8 matches during the World Championship in this sport. The islanders are also big fans of football, diving, surfing and sailing. Almost every month there is some kind of sports tournament or holiday in the country. In January, the Grand Regatta and volleyball and cricket tournaments start, in February the second regatta and dog and horse shows, in March Easter celebrations, in April the traditional Yacht Week, a boating tournament, in May fishing and tennis competitions, in June badminton competitions and bodybuilding. But the most significant and vibrant is the carnival dedicated to the independence of the country of Antigua and Barbuda. The capital blooms with hundreds of colors during Carnival week. There are various musical performances, a masquerade, a fair, and at the end the selection of the queen.

Hotel business

Tourism is the main source of income in Antigua and Barbuda. Therefore, everything related to the tourism business is quite well developed. Antigua and Barbuda offers its guests a variety of modern hotels, designed for different budgets and operating according to the BB system, 365 delightful beaches with the purest white sand and clear water, a lot of excursions, amazing cuisine, the fun and excitement of discos and the romance of remote quiet corners. Reviews from tourists overwhelmingly confirm the high level of service at relatively low prices. Those who have ever visited Antigua or Barbuda forever leave in their hearts memories of this wonderful country and a delightful vacation.

Sights and excursions

Every country has its own attractions. Antigua and Barbuda boasts St John's Cathedral and English Harbor, which has the largest number of historical monuments in the country. The main one is Nelson's Dockyard, associated with the name of the famous Nelson. Now there is a National Park there. The Clarence House mansion and the old cemetery are of interest. The Dawes Hill Center is popular with tourists and hosts theatrical performances. Another attraction is Fort Berkeley, which once protected the entrance to the harbor and was subsequently destroyed. It is currently being restored. In Barbuda, in addition to natural beauty, you can admire the Martello Tower, considered the country's historical value, and the remains of the once large Willie Bob estate. The caves of the island with huge petroglyphs of ancient Indians are preserved in the Indian Cave. And in Derby Cave there is a huge underground lake.

Tourists will not be bored. They can take safaris to the far corners of the islands, swim with dolphins in Marina Bay, sail on a catamaran, fly over an active volcano in a helicopter, cruise on a real pirate ship with a stop in a quiet remote bay and much more.

Antigua and Barbuda is considered a relatively prosperous country in terms of crime. However, pickpocketing still happens here. Therefore, in places with large crowds of people you need to be careful. It is also not recommended to walk alone in remote corners of the islands and at night.

No visa is required to enter the country, and a tax of 20 US dollars is paid upon departure.

The islands have a huge number of beaches. There are special places for nudists. It is possible, but not accepted, to be topless on public beaches. And in the city and even in some hotels, wearing swimsuits is not welcome. In public places, it is advisable for women to wear dresses, and for men to wear trousers and shirts.

You can photograph indigenous people, but only if they agree to it.

Everything can be imported into the country except drugs and weapons, and items of national interest are prohibited from being exported.

Do you want to unhinderedly enjoy a carefree holiday on the Caribbean islands? Are you planning to expand your business and are looking for a quiet tax haven? Are you looking for an option for heavenly life? Maybe you need to go live in Antigua and Barbuda, as thousands of seekers of a real resort paradise have already done.

Portrait of the country

Located on three islands in the Caribbean: Antigua, Barbuda, Redonda.

  • Area – 442 sq. km.
  • The capital is St. John's.
  • The average annual temperature is +28-30 0C.
  • The hottest months: July, August.
  • The rainiest: October, November.
  • The population is more than 88 thousand people, mostly African Americans.
  • The official language is English.
  • The basis of the economy is tourism.

Features: excellent beaches, developed resort infrastructure, international airport.

In the Global Index of Citizenship by Investment Programs it ranks 3rd in the world. Visa-free regime with 124 countries, including the UK and EU countries.

Geography

Antigua and Barbuda is an island state with an area of ​​more than 400 square meters. km. The territory includes three islands: Antigua, Barbuda and the tiny uninhabited island of Redonda. The main resort life is concentrated in Antigua. Barbuda is a much more secluded and peaceful place.

The islands are located between two bodies of water - the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. The characteristic relief is low forested mountains. The coastline is smooth, with an abundance of convenient bays, which attracts sailing enthusiasts from all over the world. Antigua has many clean and smooth beaches with excellent coverage. There are 365 of them - one for each day of the year.

The climate on the islands is quite dry, with light rains typical from September to November. The average temperature is +28-30 0C, in July it can be hotter, up to +35-36 0C. Thanks to the constant movement of air on the islands, even high temperatures are easily tolerated.

Political and economic structure

Antigua and Barbuda is a former British colony that gained independence in 1981. The head of state is the British monarch, who is represented by an appointed governor-general. By type of government, Antigua and Barbuda is a constitutional parliamentary monarchy. The country is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations, formed by the former colonies and metropolises of Great Britain. Thanks to such a close connection with Foggy Albion, the Antigua and Barbuda passport gives the right to visa-free visits to the UK.

The tone in the economy is set by tourism, income from which forms about 60% of GDP. Every year the country is visited by 800 thousand to 1 million people. Tourist infrastructure is concentrated in Antigua. There are hotels, villas, resort villages, SPA centers, sports clubs, marinas for yachting, centers for diving and other resort entertainment.
The capital of St. John's is in Antigua. Almost a third of the country's population is concentrated in the city.

Antigua and Barbuda is a kind of transport hub for the Caribbean. A modern airport was built on the island, 6 km from the capital, receiving flights from Europe and North America.

Taxation

A tax optimization regime is in effect, which increases the attractiveness of Antigua and Barbuda citizenship. Income from conducting business activities outside the country is not subject to taxes. Capital gains, gifts or inheritances are not subject to taxation.

Main types of taxes in Antigua and Barbuda

TYPE OF TAX CONDITIONS TAX AMOUNT
Personal income tax (paid only on income received within the country) Income up to 36,000 Caribbean dollars (XCD) per year Not taxed
Income from 36,000 to 180,000 XCD per year 10 %
Income over 180,000 XCD per year 25%
Corporate and business tax Paid on income received within the country 25 %
Sales tax 15 %
Property tax Paid only for real estate located on the island of Antigua From 0.1% to 0.5% of the market value of the property

Life in Antigua and Barbuda

In total, about 90 thousand people live in the country. A third of them are concentrated in the capital. Most of the inhabitants are located in Antigua; the island of Barbuda is much less populated.

The majority of the local population is African-American. The official language is English, but in everyday life they use the local dialect. The currency is the Caribbean dollar, which is pegged to the US dollar. Approximate exchange rate: 1 US dollar equals 2.7-2.8 Caribbean dollars.

The large number of tourists has made Antigua a real tourist paradise. There is everything for traditional tropical entertainment, from thoughtful beach holidays to active sports (yachting, surfing, diving, sport fishing). Many of the regular guests then decide to immigrate to Antigua and Barbuda, attracted by the ease of obtaining economic citizenship, the climate, beauty and infrastructure of the islands.

The island has many SPA salons, sports centers, and tennis courts. There is a well-developed public catering network - cafes, restaurants, bars of various price classes. Establishments may be open until the morning. Nightlife lovers visit nightclubs, but there are few of them here.

Notable events:

  • carnival in August;
  • sailing competitions in Dickenson Bay;
  • international regatta;
  • folk festival in Barbuda.

The basis of local cuisine is fruits and vegetables, meat cooked mainly over an open fire, and a lot of seafood. Popular drinks include tropical juices, coconut milk and rum.

Barbuda is a much quieter island than Antigua. There are no investment projects here yet, although the construction of a large hotel complex is planned in the coming years. In the meantime, those who value a relaxing holiday come here.

Communication between the islands is by plane, the daily flight takes about 20 minutes. You can also rent a yacht or boat and travel between the islands. The most popular transport in Antigua is a taxi. There are a few bus routes, but they do not cover the entire island.

Real estate

The rental price depends on the quality and location of the property. Renting a 1-bedroom apartment on the outskirts of the capital will cost $400-500 per month. A two-bedroom beach villa costs at least $2,500, high-end real estate costs $4-5 thousand.
If you are thinking about buying your own villa, then for a good property with several bedrooms, a pool and a pleasant view you will have to pay from $500,000 to $1.5 million.

Antigua resort real estate is located in such a way that the windows always offer views of the ocean, mountains or tropical landscapes. The minimum investment threshold for the Citizenship by Investment program is $400,000. For this money you can purchase apartments with 1-2 bedrooms or an inexpensive suite.

Prices

Life on the islands is quite expensive, since most goods are imported. A cup of coffee costs about $3.5, a movie ticket – $12, dinner in a restaurant for two – $65-75 (without alcohol).

Prices for tobacco products and alcohol are high. A bottle of inexpensive wine is $10, beer is $2.5, a pack of cigarettes is $10-12.

A local bus ride costs $3, a monthly pass starts at $80.

The general standard of living of the population is quite high, the average monthly salary is $2800-3000. With the development of tourism, prices for food and services also rise.

The supply of the islands is excellent. The products in the stores are fresh, many agricultural products are locally produced (meat, fish, seafood).

The subscription fee for unlimited Internet is about $30 per month.

Citizenship of Antigua and Barbuda

In 2012, the Citizenship by Investment program was approved, which began operating in 2013.

What are the benefits of an Antigua and Barbuda passport?

  • Possibility of visa-free visits to 124 countries, including Great Britain, Western European countries, Canada, Singapore, Hong Kong. A visa is required to visit the United States, but citizens of Antigua and Barbuda receive one for 10 years.
  • The country recognizes second citizenship, so you can keep your first passport.
  • Tax optimization: income received abroad is not subject to taxes.
  • The speed of obtaining a second passport: the period from application to receipt of the document is from 3 to 6 months.
  • The amount of economic investment in citizenship is much lower than for similar programs in European countries.
  • The non-refundable contribution to the state fund is from $200,000, and the minimum threshold for repayable investments is from $400,000.
  • The program is supervised by the state and is implemented only through official representatives, so all payments are transparent, and lists of investment objects are approved by the government.
  • The result of participation in the program is full citizenship for the investor and his family members.
  • There are no residency requirements, no interviews or language or history exams required.

We will prepare an individual solution for you and your family, tell you how to obtain Antigua and Barbuda citizenship through investment, and select various options for investment participation. We accompany our clients at all stages, from the first consultation to the moment of return on investment. You can make an appointment for a personal appointment right now.

The English admiral Horatio Nelson, who founded a naval base on Antigua in 1784, did not know that 200 years later this island, along with the island of Barbuda, would become one of the best tourist destinations in the Caribbean. Tourists to the islands of Antigua and Barbuda are attracted by numerous carnivals and, above all, magnificent white beaches.

Geography of Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda is an island nation located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, 650 km southeast of Puerto Rico. The main islands of this exotic country for us are Antigua and Barbuda. In addition, this state also includes a number of smaller islands - Green, Guinea, Long, York and Redonda. The total area of ​​the country is 442 square meters. km.

Most of the territory of the islands of Antigua and Barbuda is lowland. The highest peak in Antigua is Mount Obama, whose height reaches 402 meters. In Barbuda, the height of the highest local hill (there are simply no mountains there) reaches 42 meters.

The coastline of Antigua and Barbuda is heavily indented and contains many lagoons, beaches and natural harbours. All the islands of this country are surrounded by reefs and shoals.

There are no permanent rivers on the islands of Antigua and Barbuda, but there is a lot of underground freshwater.

Capital

St. John's is the capital of the state of Antigua and Barbuda. More than 35 thousand people now live in this city. St. John's was founded by the English around the 1630s and 40s.

Official language

The official language of the people of Antigua and Barbuda is English.

Religion

About 74% of the population is Christian (mostly Anglicans, but there are also Baptists, Presbyterians and Catholics).

Government of Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda is a constitutional monarchy governed by a Governor-General appointed by the Queen of Great Britain. Formally, in 1981, this state gained independence from Great Britain. The Governor General appoints the Council of Ministers.

The bicameral local parliament consists of the Senate (17 senators) and the House of Representatives (17 deputies).

The main political parties are the Antigua Labor Party, the United Progressive Party and the Barbuda People's Movement.

Climate and weather

The climate is tropical. The average air temperature during the day is +27-31C. The dry season lasts from November to April, and the rainy season lasts from May to October. But you can vacation in Antigua and Barbuda all year round.

Sea in Antigua and Barbuda

The state of Antigua and Barbuda is located on islands in the Caribbean Sea. Both main islands (i.e. Antigua and Barbuda) are surrounded by beautiful coral reefs. The average sea temperature near the coast is +25C.

Culture

The main cultural events in Antigua and Barbuda are Sailing Week (held every April) and Carnival (celebrated every summer).

The traditional Carnival is held in honor of the liberation of slaves, which occurred on August 1, 1838. This grandiose show continues in Antigua for 10 days. Preparations for the Carnival begin several weeks before its main events.

On the island of Barbuda, the Caribana Carnival takes place every May, lasting 5 days. All local carnivals are accompanied by massive street processions, music, dance and theatrical performances.

Every September the popular international music festival De Jam Festival is held, attracting DJs from the Caribbean, USA and UK.

Cuisine of Antigua and Barbuda

The cuisine of Antigua and Barbuda was influenced by the culinary traditions of the Caribbean islands, England, Holland and France. The main food products are fish and seafood. The inhabitants of these islands show real talent when preparing lobster.

We recommend trying “Pepperpot” (a stew with vegetables and spices, often served with corn porridge), “Roti” (cutlets with potatoes and curry), “Ducana” (grated sweet potatoes with coconut, sugar and spices, wrapped in banana leaf), Tamarind balls (local sweets), and black pineapples, known for their unique extra-sweet taste.

Traditional non-alcoholic drinks - tea, herbal tea, fruit juices.

Traditional alcoholic drinks are Ting (a homemade sparkling grapefruit drink), Wadadli (local beer), and, of course, rum.

Sights of Antigua and Barbuda

The main attraction of Antigua and Barbuda is Nelson's Dockyard, located on the southern coast of the island of Antigua. Nelson's Dockyard is a British naval base built in 1725. This historical monument now includes a museum, barracks, souvenir shops, and a multimedia center.

In St. John's, attractions include St. John's Cathedral, Fort James, medieval shops, Fort Barrington, and the former slave market.

Cities and resorts

The largest city in the state of Antigua and Barbuda is St. John's, which is home to more than 30 thousand people. The remaining local cities can hardly be considered such by Western standards, because... too few people live in them. Thus, the population of All Saints, the second largest city in Antigua and Barbuda, is about 3 thousand people.

Antigua and Barbuda is an excellent beach resort with numerous beaches. So, in Antigua alone there are 365 beaches, one for every day of the year.

On the northwestern coast of the island of Antigua there are two beach areas - Dickenson Bay and Runaway Bay, they are very popular among foreign tourists. Hawksbill's four beaches are also highly regarded (one of which is nudist).

The beaches of the hilly southwestern and southern coast of Antigua (Fryes Bay, Darkwood Beach, Johnsons Point, Rendezvous Bay and Pigeon Point) do not have such well-developed infrastructure as in the north-west of the island. There are not many tourists on these beaches. The beaches on the east coast of Antigua are most often chosen by families as their holiday destination.

In turn, the flat coast of the island of Barbuda is fringed by long pink and white sandy beaches. They are reliably protected from the Caribbean Sea by reefs.

Souvenirs/shopping

Tourists vacationing in Antigua and Barbuda buy handicrafts, ceramics, paintings, scented candles, Caribbean masks, wicker baskets, straw hats, local dolls, jam, local coffee, herbal tea, herbs, spices, and hot sauces as souvenirs.

Office hours

Top 5 best beaches in Antigua and Barbuda

1. Diana beach & Coco Point - the best beach on the island of Barbuda, as well as in the entire Caribbean. Endless white sand and coconut palms are the perfect recipe for a tropical retreat. It is customary to highlight the Coco Point cape, which ends in an excellent sandbank.

2. Jolly - the best beach on the island of Antigua in the Caribbean. It may not be the most beautiful beach on the island, but it is the most soulful.


3. Curtain Bluff - the best hotel beach on the island of Antigua. There is a surfer's beach facing the open sea, and a closed part of the beach located in the harbor. In both places there is a classic tropical landscape with palm trees, white sand and clear water.


4. Lighthouse bay - the beach of the luxury hotel of the same name on the island of Barbuda. It is part of the huge 17 Mile beach.


5. Mamora Bay - another luxurious hotel beach on the island of Antigua. In fact, these are two beaches. The first one is located in a bay and is well protected from waves and wind. The second one looks out over the open ocean.

We recommend reading