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Antigua Travel Tips

The Caribbean island of Antigua has over 360 beaches and is the perfect beach destination for anyone who is into beach activities. From swimming and walking on a white sand beach, to snorkeling, diving and exploring the coral reef, here in Antigua you will find a beach for every taste. So if you are thinking of a beach vacation in Antigua you will find some tips and information below that will help you plan your trip.

Getting to Antigua

All flights arrive and depart from the VC Bird International Airport (ANU). The airport is about five miles outside of the Antiguan capital of St. John’s. Some airlines offer connections to Antigua, for example: American Airlines from Charlotte, Delta from Atlanta, and United Airlines from Newark, so if you are planning to fly to Antigua there are some seasonal and year-round options. Alternatively another way to get to Antigua is via cruise ship. The island is a popular port for Caribbean cruise liners, and numerous cruise ships dock here. If you are coming from the United States you will get a six-month tourist stamp, so a visa to visit Antigua is not required.

Getting Around

There is an affordable island transportation service, which we don’t recommend because it is largely unreliable. Best is to rent a car because that way you will have more flexibility to explore the island’s wonders. If you decide to rent a car you will need an Antiguan driver’s license, which is easy to obtain and can be issued by most car rental agencies. It requires a valid driver’s license from home. Some of the roads are a bit bumpy and narrow, so if you don’t feel comfortable driving, you may consider getting around by taxi. Even though it could be a bit more costly, the taxi drivers are usually very friendly and can give you travel tips or additional information for your destination.

Best Time to Travel

Overall Antigua has a pleasant climate year round, but what’s considered peak season is from mid-December to early April when visitors from Europe and North America come to the island to escape the cold winter at home. From mid-April to the end of November the climate is a bit more humid and there might be more tropical storms. There is also a hurricane season that is between June and September.

Money

If you are coming from the United States, the U.S. Dollar will be accepted across the island. Many prestigious stores and restaurants also accept all standard credit cards. If you plan to use local currency you will need the Eastern Caribbean Dollar. It is best to exchange currency in banks where rates are better.

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Things to Know Before Visiting the Bahamas

What makes the Bahamas an attractive travel destination to Americans and visitors from around the world is the combination of good weather year round, picture-perfect beaches and the large selection of land and water activities. Getting to the Bahamas is easy and you can either fly here or come on a cruise ship. Here is what you need to know before you come.

Passport requirement

You will need your passport to visit the Bahamas, and it needs to be valid for at least six months after your trip. So if you still need to do some passport arrangements, make sure you give yourself enough time to obtain a passport before your departure date.

Currency

Even though the Bahamas have their own currency (Bahamian dollar), it is of equal value to the American dollar. So changing currency is not necessary. The American dollar is accepted everywhere and you can also use most debit cards and the standard credit cards – Visa, Mastercard and American Express. When you use your card there might be small international transaction fees.

Accommodations

Just like most of the Caribbean islands, the Bahamas are pricey. But you will get what you pay for. There are a few good resorts here, but most visitors prefer the seclusion and privacy of a vacation home. If you plan to stay at a vacation home you will most likely have access to additional services, such as a cook, butler, concierge, etc, so you will not be missing out on what resorts offer.

Activities

The Bahamas is an activity paradise and there is so much to do and see here. Ocean activities range from swimming with sharks and dolphins, snorkeling with colorful fish in the shallow waters of Nassau’s famous reefs, diving and exploring deep walls, fascinating wrecks, blue holes, tunnels and more. If you don’t want to get wet you can still explore the amazing underwater world of the Bahamas by taking an underwater cruise in your own submarine. Another must-do is a sunset dinner cruise where you can enjoy a casual atmosphere on a sailing catamaran, watch the sunset and enjoy a buffet dinner.  For the most adventurous of you, come and parasail over the clear blue crystal waters of Cabbage Beach. This once-in-a-lifetime experience will take your breath away. If you are into land adventures, you will love venturing out on an ATV. This is a unique way to drive through and explore the lush jungle and enjoy panoramic views of the turquoise sea and beautiful shoreline.

Dining

Discovering the Bahamian cuisine is a must-do for everyone who comes here. The Bahamas offers a large selection of dining options, from casual beachfront cafés and award-winning fine dining restaurants to Mom & Pop eateries featuring traditional Bahamian favorites in a laid-back atmosphere. There are even tours that will take you off the beaten tourist path on a delicious culinary adventure through Nassau’s vibrant downtown neighborhood where you will visit and sample local delicacies, including classic conch fritters, baked macaroni and cheese, rum cake and more.

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Getting Married in Antigua

Imagine it’s your wedding day – you and your loved one holding hands surrounded by classic Caribbean scenery – palm trees, white sands, azure blue water and a tropical warm breeze creasing your hair. If this is how you have always dreamed of saying “I do”, come visit the island of Antigua. Getting married here is easy, inexpensive and there is no waiting time. There are three easy steps: visit the Ministry of Justice which is located on lower Nevis Street in downtown St. John’s, bring your valid passports, complete the application and pay the application fees (a registration fee of US $40, marriage license fee of US $150 and Marriage Officer’s fee of US $50).

All you need is your valid passport in order to proof your citizenship. If you have had previous marriages, bring a proof of your divorce papers. If you are a widow or widower you will also need to bring your late spouse’s marriage and death certificate. Please bring all original documents. Necessary copies will be made in the Marriage Office. The legal marriage age in Antigua is 18, but if you are lucky to find your loved one earlier and you are 15+ you will also need to present authorization from your parents or guardians.

Depending on the type of wedding ceremony you desire you will also find a large list of island wedding providers that will serve your needs. Most of the island’s resorts have their own wedding packages that come with a discount rate if you stay with them. All ceremonies are both legal and binding. If you choose, you can get marred in a church. You will need permission from the church authorities where you wish to be married. If you have your own pastor you can ask them to establish contact with the church where you wish to perform your wedding ceremony. Keep in mind some churches will require the couple to attend a pre-nuptial consultation. So if you are planning to get married in a church, keep this in mind and plan ahead.

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Our Top Three Villa Picks on Turks & Caicos

Turks and Caicos is a beautiful group of 40 low-lying islands in the Caribbean, located southeast of the Bahamas. The gateway island of Providenciales, known as Provo, is home to expansive Grace Bay Beach, as well as numerous luxury resorts, shops and restaurants. There is also no shortage of private luxury villas for travelers seeking ultimate comfort and privacy. Here is our top three villa picks on Turks and Caicos.

Hawksbill Villa

Hawksbill is an eight bedroom beachfront villa on Grace Bay, accommodating up to sixteen guests. The bedrooms are spread across different buildings, which makes it the perfect retreat for a large family, corporate gathering or other special event. Hawksbill can be rented as either a 5, 6, 8, or a 10 bedroom villa if combined with the adjacent beach house. The villas feature contemporary Caribbean design and natural materials, including stones and different types of wood that create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Located on the property is a long swimming pool perfect for laps, a Jacuzzi, a gym, a tennis and a basketball court.

Hawksbill boasts a high vaulted ceiling and an open floor plan in its living and dining area with plenty of windows that create a bright and airy ambience. The kitchen and screened terrace open to the outside. The stand-along master suite is situated on the opposite side of the pool from the main house. Located behind the main house is a two bedroom guest house with its own kitchen and living space. With its beautiful open spaces, Hawksbill is the ideal luxury villa venue in Turks and Caicos.

Triton Villa

Triton is a seven bedroom beachfront villa, situated on over two beautiful acres right behind the pristine sand dunes of Long Bay Beach. The property features two pools, a hot tub, bocce ball and tennis courts, an outdoor movie theater with fire pit and panoramic ocean views. Triton has king beds, en-suite bathrooms and ocean views from six of the seven bedrooms. Three of the suites have private balconies, and the remaining four open to the terrace.

Triton’s neutral tones and clean-lined furnishings create an atmosphere of ultimate luxury. Guests enjoy an airy atmosphere that is enhanced by the sliding glass doors that allow the ocean breeze to drift into the home. Since there are no hotels or other developments within two miles of the villa, Triton is the perfect vacation rental for those seeking privacy and ultimate seclusion – it is the ideal luxury accommodation for wedding receptions, corporate events or other special occasions.

Coral Pavilion

Coral Pavilion is a five bedroom beachfront villa located on the best stretch of Grace Bay, accommodating parties of up to ten guests. The villa’s unique Bajan architecture is what makes it stand out. Encompassing 8,000 square feet of indoor area and 120 feet of beach frontage, the villa offers plenty of space for its guests. Four of the five bedrooms have king size beds and the remaining one has two twin beds. Each bedroom also has an en-suite bathroom. The upstairs Master bedroom also features an en-suite office and a terrace overlooking the turquoise waters of Grace Bay. All bedrooms have air-conditioning, ceiling fans, a TV and Sonos sound system.

Coral Pavilion also features extra perks, including complimentary airport transfer, welcome beverages, cold towels and daily breakfast. Ready to serve all guests is a private chef, butler and housekeeper. Guests also enjoy complimentary access to the gym and resort facilities at nearby Seven Stars. A personal concierge can assist guests with bookings or tours and activities.

 
 

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5 Things to See and Do on Antigua

Situated in the eastern Caribbean, the island of Antigua is a popular year-round travel destination. Many visitors arrive at the cruise ship port in the picturesque capital of St. John’s, where shops, restaurants, museums and historic buildings are the prime draws. Popular activities include a variety of water sports, such as swimming, surfing, diving, sunbathing, sailing, windsurfing and fishing. Below are five popular things to see and do on Antigua.

Stingray City

Looking for a fun and unique adventure? Located just a five-minute speedboat ride off Antigua’s eastern shore is Stingray City, a shallow pool with a sandy ocean bottom amid a tropical coral reef that’s home to hundreds of friendly stingrays. Watch these magnificent creatures glide through the crystal clear waters. If you want, you can stand, swim or snorkel with them. Feeling the stingrays’ smooth bodies brush against your skin is a highlight of this adventure.

Nelson’s Dockyard National Park

Located in English Harbour, Nelson’s Dockyard National Park is one of Antigua’s most popular tourist attractions. It is home to the island’s 18th century British Naval Dockyard, as well as restored historic buildings and scenic nature trails. The restored marina features beautiful old stone warehouses, and visitors also find shops, restaurants, galleries and museums to explore. After a tour of the dockyard, you can enjoy the panoramic views from the ruins of Fort Shirley, located on the hilltop at Shirley Heights.

St. John’s

St. John’s is the capital of Antigua and Barbuda. The city features an array of colonial cottages and market stalls to explore. One of the city’s most distinctive buildinds is St. John’s Cathedral, known for its beautiful white neo-Baroque towers. St. John’s also offers visitors plenty of great shopping opportunities. There are many duty free shops at Heritage Quay, or head to Redcliffe Quay to browse a variety of souvenir stalls.

Museum of Antigua and Barbuda
To learn about the island’s history, visit the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda located in the former 18th century courthouse in St. John’s. The museum traces the history of these islands from their geological origins all the way to their political independence in 1981. You’ll find many interesting exhibits, including a full-scale replica of an Arawak dwelling, exhibits of the islands’ different ecosystems, as well as pottery and weaving tools.

Fig Tree Drive

This scenic drive along Antigua’s south shore offers visitors a glimpse of local island life. Fig Tree Drive winds through a beautiful rainforest, farmlands and small fishing villages. Banana trees (called “figs” by local residents), coconut palms and mango trees dot the landscape. You’ll also get to see the ruins of sugar mills. Keep an eye out for roadside stands selling fresh fruit.

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Over Yonder Cay – One of the Best Vacations in the World

Located in the heart of the Bahamas’ Exuma chain about 200 miles from Florida, Over Yonder Cay is the perfect vacation destination if you are looking for privacy and ultimate luxury. The 72-acre island used to be a quaint fishing outpost in the past. Today, it features four stunningly beautiful island villas spread out around the island, yet within a golf cart ride away from each other. Each one of the villas offers an amazing level of comfort and features stunning architectural design and state-of-the-art green energy technology.

The main villa, Meridian House, offers guests plenty of space, with four en-suite bedrooms that sleep eight guests. It is situated on the highest point of the island with panoramic sweeping views of the Exumas on all sides. Situated close to the main beach is West Sands, which accommodates eight guests as well. This villa also has four bedrooms, two of which share a bathroom. Overlooking the eastern beach is East Cove, which also sleeps eight guests. The remaining villa, South Point, is surrounded on two sides by the sea as it is located on a peninsula. The villa has room for six guests, with three bedrooms, two of which share a bathroom. All villas have satellite TV, Wi-Fi Internet and iPads, as well as a Kaleidescape entertainment library and Crestron control system. Meridian House also features a 12-seat movie theater; the three other villas each have a 70-inch TV. Suites are also equipped with a 40-inch TV and en-suite bathroom.

Another unique feature of Over Yonder Cay is the island’s cutting-edge hybrid energy system. It is almost entirely powered by wind and solar energy harnessed by three wind turbines and a 1.5-acre solar field. Several back-up generators provide power to the island if necessary.

Over Yonder Cay offers guests a variety of activities – both on land and in the water. Guests have full access to the island’s boats and water sports toys, including crewed motorboats for snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing and excursions to the neighbor islands. The 120-foot sailing yacht is perfect for a great adventure at sea, while the 50-foot Merritt is available for a fishing tour. A pair of 30-foot sailboats and catamarans are available as well.

The West Beach Club features a pool, hot tub and a great sound system, so it is the perfect place to relax during the day and party by night. Over Yonder Cay also features a nine-hole par three golf course, a floodlit tennis court, a beach volleyball court and two fitness centers. The island also features three spectacular pools and hot tubs throughout the property.

With its 320 days of sunshine per year and average temperatures that rarely fall below 77°F (25°C), Over Yonder Cay is a year-round travel destination. There are several ways to reach the island. Guests can arrive directly from Miami or Fort Lauderdale on one of the island’s two eight-passenger Cessna Grand Caravan seaplanes. Nearby commercial airports include Staniel Cay (a 10-minute boat ride away from Over Yonder Cay), or Georgetown (30 minutes away from Over Yonder Cay by seaplane). Georgetown has an 8,000-foot runway that can accommodate large private jets. Over Yonder Cay can also accommodate larger vessels for those arriving by yacht. The island’s deep-water marina can handle multiple yachts of up to 13 feet of draft at mean low tide.

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Ultimate Diving Adventure – Dive the Titanic

Looking for a unique and once-in-a-lifetime diving adventure? Blue Sky Luxury Travels, in partnership with The Bluefish, are offering limited dives to the legendary “unsinkable” Titanic! Two identical expeditions will set sail from St. John’s in Newfoundland. This extremely rare diving adventure will take you to a depth of 12,500 feet on board the MIR I or II submersibles. The dates are yet to be released, but participation is limited to just 20 divers per expedition, so if you are interested in this adventure, book your seat as soon as possible.

The MIRs accommodate one pilot and two passengers. After a briefing, you’ll enter the submersible and the on-board crane will lift the MIRs into the ocean. You’ll then begin your descent at a rate of 100 feet per minute. The entire drive takes about 11 to 12 hours during which you’ll get in close proximity to the Titanic. The submersible’s bright lights will pick up her huge anchors, which are larger than the submersible, as well as the capstans, the bridge, and the famous grand staircase, all nestled amongst rivers of rust as the ocean slowly consumes the grand old lady. You’ll also get to see the Titanic’s telemotor, the massive boilers, the propellers, and the Marconi Room, from which the world’s very first SOS was broadcast.

The price per person for this expedition ranges from $90K-$115K. For more information and to make your reservation, contact Shanna Dickerson, owner of Blue Sky Luxury Travels at 615.604.2447 or info@blueskyconcierge.com

BSLC Admin

Things to Do in Turks and Caicos

Located in the Caribbean to the southeast of the Bahamas, the Turks and Caicos archipelago consists of 40 low-lying coral islands. The island group’s main hub is the island of Providenciales, also known as Provo. It is home to beautiful Grace Bay Beach, which is lined by luxury resorts, shops and restaurants. There are many things to do in Turks and Caicos, and below are some of the highlights – popular things to do among visitors to the islands.

Relax on Grace Bay

Located on the north shore of Providenciales, Grace Bay Beach is everything you could want from a picture perfect tropical beach – the water is an amazing turquoise blue and the sand is powdery soft and white. Spend a day sunbathing on Grace Bay Beach and enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the crystal clear waters. Grace Bay is also backed by most of the island’s luxury resorts, so there is no shortage of entertainment – meaning shops, bars and restaurants are never too far away.

Kiteboard at Long Bay Beach

South of Grace Bay in the southern part of Providenciales Island is Long Bay Beach, known as a popular spot for kiteboarding. Here, the Atlantic trade winds create perfect conditions for this water sport. The bay is ideal for first-timers, and you’ll be able to rent all the necessary equipment from local providers. Kiteboarding lessons by professional instructors are being offered as well.

Visit the Turks and Caicos National Museum

Learn about local history at the Turks & Caicos National Museum, which is one of the top heritage draws of the archipelago’s capital, Cockburn Town. It features many exhibits about the local culture, including an exhibit about the native Lucayan peoples who resided here before the arrival of the Europeans. Another fascinating exhibit is the reconstructed archaeological remains of the iconic Molasses Reef Wreck, which is the oldest shipwreck in the entire Americas. This ruined Spanish caravel is thought to have been sunk around 1500.

Explore the Conch Bar Caves

Located on Middle Caicos Island, the Conch Bar Caves cut deep into the limestone rock beds and form a subterranean labyrinth of caverns, tunnels and chambers. Some of the cave system’s interesting features include stalactites, stalagmites and columns, along with pools that fluctuate with the ocean tide. Some of the chambers have graffiti depicting the names and dates of some visitors from the early 20th century. Due to some sensitive cave features, all visitors to Conch Bar Caves must be accompanied by a guide.

Discover the Columbus Landfall National Park

Located along the west shore of Grand Turk, the Columbus National Park marks the very spot where Christopher Columbus is believed to have first set foot on the lands of the New World back in the 1400s. The park extends out into the water, and the main draw of this park is the natural wonders that abound offshore. It is here where you will find many of the best beaches and dive sites on Grand Turk, including Cockburn Town Beach, Governor’s Beach, Pillory Beach, English Point and the Cruise Center Beach. This is where many visitors are doing their PADI qualification, and there are numerous outfitters on offer in nearby Cockburn Town.

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Best Activities on St. Lucia

Located in the Eastern Caribbean, St. Lucia is a beautiful island nation with volcanic beaches lining its shoreline and the Pitons on its west coast. Trails in the island’s interior lead to waterfalls. St. Lucia is a popular tourist destination, and there are several luxury resorts on the island. Castries, the capital, is a popular Caribbean cruise port.

One of St. Lucia’s top attractions is Sulphur Springs, also known as the “world’s only drive in volcano.” Located near Soufrière in the southwestern part of the island, the Soufrière Volcano last erupted in the 1700s. Today, it is considered to be a dormant volcano. The water at the center of the springs boils at about 340 Fahrenheit (170 Celsius), and it is possible to drive up right to the edge of the springs. A few hundred yards downstream from the springs, the water temperature is cool enough for people to enjoy a hot mud bath, about 110 Fahrenheit (45 Celsius). These mud baths are believed by some to have medicinal properties, and they attract people from all over the world who hope to heal a variety of conditions, such as eczema, arthritis, sore joints and sun burns.

Another popular St. Lucia attraction that is also located in Soufrière is St. Lucia Botanical Gardens, also known as the Diamond Botanical Gardens, which is the oldest botanical garden on the island and home to the Diamond Waterfall, which has been described as one of St. Lucia’s natural wonders. Encompassing six acres, the botanical garden is a haven for birds and insects and features an abundance of tropical flora. What makes the Diamond Waterfall truly unique is the fact that it is probably the most colorful waterfall in the Caribbean. That’s because its waters have a high mineral content. Its stream is a mixture of rain water and volcanism fed by the Sulphur Springs. Minerals that are found in the water include sulphur, magnesium, iron, manganese, calcium and copper sulphate, all contributing to the kaleidoscope of colors that make up the rock face behind the waterfall. A well-maintained path winds through the botanical garden, making it a popular tourist attraction.

The Tet Paul Nature Trail is a popular destination among hiking enthusiasts. Located just 10 minutes from Soufrière, the trail features spectacular views. From the majestic Pitons and Jalousie Bay on St. Lucia’s south shore, to the far away neighbor islands of Martinique and St. Vincent, you can enjoy many fantastic photo opportunities along the way. The hike itself is considered easy to moderate and is great for solo travelers and families alike. Another popular hiking destination are the Pitons, which are two volcanic mountains. Gros Piton rises 2,619 feet (798 m) above sea level, and together with Petit Piton (2,461 ft / 739 m), the two mountains are the hallmark of St. Lucia’s western coast. While it is possible to hike up both mountains, only Gros Piton is legally sanctioned by St. Lucia’s government. Petit Piton is very steep and more dangerous. Gros Piton, on the other hand, is still a challenging hike, but it is considered as not too difficult for most hikers. From the peak, you can see a vast portion of the island.

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Top Bahamas Beaches

Situated in the Atlantic Ocean southeast of Florida, the Bahamas archipelago encompasses 700-plus islands and even more beaches. Many of them are picture perfect tropical beaches and stand out for their perfect mix of sand and surf. The islands of Grand Bahama and Paradise Island are home to many hotels and resorts and are among the best known. Top snorkel and scuba diving sites include the spectacular Andros Barrier Reef, the black coral gardens off Bimini and Thunderball Grotto.

Located on Grand Bahama Island within the protected Lucayan National Park, Gold Rock Beach is the most beautiful section of this island’s 90 miles of south shore coastline. This white sand beach is almost a football field wide at low tide, and the shallow nearshore waters are perfect for wading and snorkeling. For those who prefer to stay dry, the park is also home to limestone caves that are worth a visit.

Due to its proximity to the most popular resort in the Bahamas, Cabbage Beach on Paradise Island is a must-see. Since it is just a short stroll from Atlantis Resorts Bahamas, it is one of the most visited beaches in the Bahamas. The beach is a great place for swimming and snorkeling. There are many things to do here. Atlantis Resorts Bahamas is a huge property, home to six luxury hotels, a fabulous gambling casino as well as Paradise Beach, made famous in movies like Pirates of the Caribbean and James Bond’s Thunderball and Casino Royale.

Another top Bahamas Beach is Pink Sands Beach, located on Harbour Island, which is accessible via a two-hour ferry ride from Nassau. The island is known for its 35-plus miles of pale pink sand beaches. The pink sand comes from broken coral pieces and shells of foraminifera, a single-celled organism. Harbour Island is one of just a few locations in the world with pink sand beaches, so this island is well worth a visit.

Long Island is home to Deals Beach, which is situated along the island’s main road. It’s a beautiful two mile stretch of sand with a shallow bay, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, wading or sailing. Another top Bahamas beach is Long Bay Beach on San Salvador Island. This beach was named after the longboats that Christopher Columbus and his crew used to come ashore here in October 1492. The exact location is marked by a white cross, and it is the most photographed place on the island. Swimming and snorkeling are popular activities here, and there are a few large reefs just offshore that are teeming with marine life.

Looking for a beach that’s off the beaten path? Visit Tahiti Beach in the Abacos. Located on the southern tip of Elbow Cay, this stunningly beautiful white sand beach is lined with coconut palms. It is very secluded and accessible only on foot, bike or by boat, so you are sure to find a stretch of sand to call your own. Tahiti Beach is a great spot for swimming or collecting sea shells, starfish and sand dollars.

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