Antigua: 6 Reasons To Book The Caribbean Getaway Of Your Dreams Right Now

It's no surprise the Carribean is a top choice for those looking for a getaway that's both picture-perfect and revitalising. But with so many amazing options, deciding which island to visit is no easy task.

We spent five days exploring Antigua and discovered what sets this island apart from the rest. From its Insta-worthy beaches to the unparalleled rum punch, we've rounded up 6 reasons Antigua should be your next dreamy getaway...

Experience luxury at the sweetest hotel 

Sugar Ridge Resort is a little slice of heaven. The luxury boutique resort boasts rooms with the most beautiful panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea, which you can enjoy from your private plunge pool. 

And if you're not feeling indulgent enough in your room, you can work out in the fitness centre or head to the spa for the self-care session you truly deserve. If you can bear to drag yourself away from the resort you can jump on the free shuttle bus to Turner’s Beach or Valley Church Beach, where Sugar Ridge staff will be on hand to make sure your time away from the resort is just as dreamy as your stay.

Spend the day with a stingray

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Any fears disappear the moment you're amongst these beautiful and peaceful creatures. A trip to Stingray City involves travelling by boat to the stingray's hangout, where they come flocking the moment they realise the tourists with the food have arrived. It's pretty clear the staff consider the rays family, and they'll tell you each of their names and personality traits. 

You'd be forgiven for being fearful about approaching a creature with a deadly stinger, but if you follow the clear instructions from the staff these amazing animals will allow you to hold them, feed them and you might even catch them taking a shining to you. It's a pretty life-changing experience to be honest.

Ready steady cook

It's impossible to go to Antigua and not fall in love with the food, so taking a cooking class that means you can recreate the magic yourself is a no brainer. Nicole's Table offers Caribbean cooking classes and it's no surprise they've been awarded 5/5 on TripAdvisor. 

Nicole will share all her secrets with you during the class, and if you aren't blown away by her cooking skills (which, btw, you will be) you'll absolutely fall in love with her captivating stories and infectious charm. Failing that, her rum punch will have you hook line and sinker, we promise.

Get Carnival Ready

We recommend visiting Janna costume designs to check out the amazing costumes being designed for the Antiguan carnival. We were lucky enough to have Janna show us all the designs she's planning a full year in advanced.

Obviously the best part is trying the designs on. The only downside? The part where you have to give them back.

Life's a beach

If crystal clear waters and silk-like sand is your thing then Antigua is undoubtedly the place for you. While there are tons of things to be getting on with on the island, there's nothing quite like immersing yourself in a good book in a tranquil setting.

A whole lot of history 

The Great House Antigua is a unique choice of accommodation. The beautiful house is situated on a 400-year-old former sugar plantation that's been converted to a wellness sanctuary retreat, and it's beaming with a rich history.

The accommodation isn't for those who enjoy a sparkly new hotel with an all-you-can-eat buffet but will be enjoyed by any history-lovers, and the hotel's family owners will gladly fill you in on its fascinating past.

MTV Travelled with visit Antigua and Barbuda. Virgin Atlantic flies from London Gatwick to Antigua’s VC Bird International Airport with prices starting from £502 return. A Sugar Ridge Resort offers a Deluxe King Room with Plunge Pool from £240 per night. The Great House Antigua offers a minimum of 4 nights for £492. For more information go to visitantiguabarbuda.com.