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BarbudaBarbuda has been left largely undeveloped, open to be enjoyed in its pristine natural state. The island is renowned for its long empty beaches where it is still possible to leave footprints in virgin sand. The breathtaking pink sand beaches of the south-western shore stretch as far as 10 miles (16km) without interruption and are lapped by the gentle Caribbean waters, while those on the island's eastern shore, facing the Atlantic, are somewhat rougher, although still outstanding for beachcombing. Most of the island is surrounded by a coral barrier reef that provides a rich and
colorful marine life and is excellent for snorkeling. There are a number of small resorts on the island that offer watersports facilities, golf and tennis. Nature lovers will find an abundance of wildlife on the island. The wooded interior is home to fallow deer, wild pig and over 170 species of bird while in the island's north-western lagoon is the Bird Sanctuary. Here you will find over 5,000 frigate birds, the most aerial of waterbirds, possessing a massive five-foot (2m) wingspan. Sometimes known as the 'man o' war bird', the frigate bird harasses less agile flyers like pelicans, egrets, and cormorants until they drop their catch. Barbuda can be reached easily from Antigua, either by air (a 20-minute flight, twice daily) or by boat (in three hours).
AntiguaAntigua is the largest of the English-speaking Leeward islands and is usually the first stop for visitors to Antigua and Barbuda. The island boasts 365 glorious beaches, a near-perfect climate and plenty to occupy the visitor. Antigua is home to St Johns, the island's capital, and the city's skyline is dominated by the magnificently evocative white Baroque towers of St John's Cathedral. Built in 1845, the church is now in its third incarnation, as earthquakes in 1683 and in 1745 destroyed the previous structures. The towers are the first sight of Antigua for about half of the island's visitors each year, many of whom arrive by boat.
With its recently completed cruise ship dock and many hotels, St John's is a lively hub for shopping and dining. Most tourist activity is confined to the harborfront complexes of Heritage Quay, a favorite for cruise ship passengers, and the more traditional Redcliffe Quay. For those interested in the early history of the island, there is the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda, housed in the colonial Court House (circa 1750). The museum displays artifacts from the colonial period and from the earlier Arawak settlers who lived on the islands between 35 and 1100 AD. On Friday and Saturday mornings, there is a vibrant farmers market on the southern edge of the city, where folk crafts, colorful tropical fruits, and a buzzing crowd make for a lively morning.
Antigua's highest point is Boggy's Peak at 1,319 feet (402m), but the island is mostly flat and covered with sugar cane, tropical fruit trees, palms and exotic flowers. For those tired of lazing on the beach, there is sailing, diving, snorkeling, beachcombing and other leisurely pursuits on offer.
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