Welcome to Antigua and Barbuda 😊

Quick Facts About Antigua and Barbuda

Money and Finances

The currency of Antigua and Barbuda is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD). Coins are available in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10 and 25 cents, and notes come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 Eastern Caribbean dollars.

ATM Network

ATMs are available in Antigua and Barbuda and can be found in most cities and tourist areas. Visitors are advised to check if their bank card is accepted before traveling to Antigua and Barbuda.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are widely accepted in Antigua and Barbuda, particularly Visa and Mastercard. However, American Express may not be accepted in all places. Visitors are advised to carry cash as a backup, especially for smaller purchases or in more rural areas.

Internet and Phones

Antigua and Barbuda has a relatively fast internet speed, with an average download speed of 14.5 Mbps and an average upload speed of 6.2 Mbps. While there is no government interference in internet use, some websites may be blocked by individual ISPs.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

The main telco companies in Antigua and Barbuda are Digicel and Flow. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is around $50 USD per month. SIM cards are readily available and there are no known issues with sim compatibility.

Dialling to Antigua and Barbuda

To call Antigua and Barbuda from another country, dial the international code (011 in the US), then the country code (1-268), followed by the local number. When dialling within the country, the area code is always required and should be included before the local number.

Transport Around Antigua and Barbuda

Air Travel

Antigua and Barbuda has one major airport, the V.C. Bird International Airport, located in the capital city of St. John's on the island of Antigua.

Train Travel

There is no inter-city train network in Antigua and Barbuda.

Metro / Local Trains

There is no metro in Antigua and Barbuda.

Buses

Antigua and Barbuda has a bus network operated by the Antigua Barbuda Transport Board. A one-way ticket costs around $2.00 and journey times vary depending on the route.

Rideshare

There are several rideshare companies operating in Antigua and Barbuda, including Uber and Lyft. Average travel prices vary depending on the destination.

Driving by Car

Driving is relatively easy in Antigua and Barbuda, with most roads in good condition. Speed limits are in kilometers per hour and range from 30-50 km/h in urban areas to 80 km/h on highways. Antigua and Barbuda uses right-hand drive.

Local Customs

In Antigua and Barbuda, tipping is not expected but appreciated for exceptional service. Locals typically greet each other with a handshake or hug, and may also kiss on the cheek if they know each other well. There is no specific custom for bowing. When speaking with strangers, it is important to be polite and respectful. Men and women typically address each other with their titles and last names until they have developed a closer relationship.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

Antigua and Barbuda has a mixed healthcare system, with both public and private facilities. Medical care can be expensive for visitors without insurance, with the approximate cost for a visit to a doctor ranging from $60 to $100 USD.

COVID Situation

Antigua and Barbuda has implemented strict protocols to manage COVID-19, such as mandatory face masks and social distancing. As of November 2021, the country has recorded a total of 3,979 cases and 58 deaths, with active cases being low.

Common Health Risks

Some common health risks in Antigua and Barbuda include sunburn and dehydration due to the hot climate, and the risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and Zika virus. Visitors should also be cautious with their food and water intake to prevent illnesses such as traveler's diarrhea.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

Antigua and Barbuda allows consumption of alcohol for adults aged 18 and over. Public drunkenness is illegal and can result in arrest and detention. It is also illegal to sell or supply alcohol to minors.

Recreational Drugs

Recreational drug use is illegal in Antigua and Barbuda, including for soft drugs such as cannabis and other party drugs. Possession, use, and trafficking of drugs can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment.

Pre-Marital Relationships

Antigua and Barbuda does not recognize common-law relationships or partnerships. Pre-marital sexual relationships are legal but may be frowned upon in some conservative communities.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Antigua and Barbuda, punishable by up to 15 years in prison. Discrimination against LGBTQ individuals is also prevalent in the country.

Firearms / Guns

The use and possession of firearms is regulated and requires a permit in Antigua and Barbuda. Unlicensed individuals caught with firearms can face up to 20 years in prison.