Antigua – the beach is just the beginning….

A small Caribbean island at just 11 x 4 miles but packed with stunning beaches and beautiful accommodation, fabulous restaurant choices serving the most delicious fresh food, plenty of activities to suit all ages and tastes and above all, the friendliest welcome from every person I met.

My 1st 3 nights were at Blue Waters. A family owned, boutique style hotel in the North set on a beautiful beach. A great appeal to British clientele, fabulous kids club and a wonderful wedding destination. No residency requirements and only a maximum of 1 wedding held here per day. Fabulous food from a variety of dining options and you must try the complimentary cocktail making class!

On to Tamarind Hills in the East where all rooms feature a kitchenette although breakfast can be booked. Set in a hillside with stunning views over a sandy bay. A great option for larger groups with villas up to 5 bedrooms. Still evolving with new features including a gin ‘n’ fish afternoon in the restaurant.

Hodges Bay, in the North was my final home. A contemporary, 5 year old hotel complete with funky art pieces including ‘Boonji’, a 22 foot tall spaceman guarding the pier. A focus on wellness as well as modern ocean front rooms with villas up to 4 bedrooms complete with pool and jacuzzi. The tiny ‘Prickly Pear’ island lies just off shore. Pre bookable by speedboat you can lunch, swim or just watch the world go by.

All inclusive is available at many hotels but don’t be afraid of booking with just breakfast included or even room only. Every hotel had superb restaurants on site but my eyes were opened at the variety of local, top class restaurants suiting all pockets and serving the most delicious fresh food. If you’re a seafood lover like me, you’ll be in for a treat especially at Sheer Rocks, Frye’s Beach Dennis Restaurant & Bar, The Anchor Restaurant & Bar and the unique Papa Zouk. If you like steak, head over to Gather for a fantastic choice.

Prefer adult only accommodation? Take a look at Pineapple Beach Club, Galley Bay, Hammock Cove or Cocos. Families will feel at home at Carlisle Bay, Tamarind Hills, Blue Waters or Hodges Bay.

Don’t leave without a visit to Stingray City where you can get up close to these graceful creatures in the open ocean, Nicole’s Table where you can learn to cook Antiguan style and before you eat what you produce, take in a spot of Rum tasting or a trip up to Shirley Heights where on Thursday and Sunday’s you can enjoy live music and BBQ while watching the sun go down.

A few top tips from me – • Driving is on the left as in the UK with reasonably priced car hire available. • Take an all-day boat trip around the Island • An all year-round destination (I visited in October) but hottest and wettest in August and September. • Currency is Eastern Caribbean dollar but US dollars are widely accepted. • Try a Rum cocktail or a fruit punch for an alcohol-free option.

I felt safe and above all, I felt welcome! Always a friendly smile and genuine warmth.

Will I be going back – for sure!