Antigua

I have always wanted to visit the Caribbean islands, it’s somewhere that’s been my dream destination since I was small. When I had the opportunity to visit on an educational trip with Virgin holidays I was over the moon, although I was concerned that my extremely high expectations may mean I was disappointed. I am happy to report that I wasn’t- in fact Antigua exceeded my expectations in every way and is literally heaven on earth.

This is really my idea of a perfect destination- sunshine, stunning coastline, friendly people, amazing food and loads to see and do. Virgin showed us several properties on the island, from affordable to downright luxurious so I got to experience a real range of places to stay. We also swam with stingrays at Stingray City, lounged on a catamaran day trip around the island and inspected so many hotels that I’m now keen to go back and see them all again! Here are the hotels we visited with a little bit about each one:

Blue Waters

This is a very well- kept luxury resort with lots of room and villa options. Perfect for groups and luxury travellers. I was wowed by Rock Cottage, which can be privately rented offering groups or large families the best of both worlds - a well-equipped private villa with the benefit of hotel facilities. The beaches here are small but perfectly formed.

Cove Suites at Blue Waters

Very luxurious and extremely spacious suites, with ocean views and beautiful pools. I loved how the bathroom doors can be opened so you can bathe with view of the ocean. Perfect for honeymooners.

Verandah

Great for families, with two lovely beaches and loads to do for kids. Rooms were fairly basic, but two bed suites are available which is ideal for families who don’t all want to be in one room together. There are lots of places to eat and the fab kids club gives parents the chance for some relaxation whilst the kids are entertained.

St James Club & The Beach Club

Good facilities for families with practical self-catering villas as well as dining options on site. The adults only suites have great views. The wide sweeping beach here is calm and relaxing with a fantastic backdrop. At the Beach Club, exclusive to Virgin, the rooms are spacious, overlooking the beach and out to sea.

Carlisle Bay

Wow! This is true top end luxury, with very stylish rooms and a superb beach. Despite being very chic and understatedly stylish the hotel caters very well for families with an on-site cinema and pizza oven. The food was out of this world, and the service impeccable. Stay here and you will not be disappointed!

Cocobay

My favourite hotel on Antigua. Adults only, with brilliant little wooden pastel coloured cottages dotted around the site reflecting the local architecture and divine views from every direction. There are three great beaches if you can drag yourself away from the breath-taking infinity pool. I loved the rooms with slipper baths on the veranda. Honeymooners paradise, I can think of no better place to stay.

Sugar Ridge

Seat back away from the coast this is a very luxurious, modern styled property with a large gym and excellent spa facilities. Far reaching views are a real winner, and there is a regular shuttle to beach. Ideal for style conscious couples.

Galley Bay

A superb adults-only resort with great facilities and dining options, plus a wonderful long stretch of beach. The best cocktails on the island! There are various room options here, many of which lead directly onto the sandy beach. The whole atmosphere of the resort is warm and welcoming, and this would be an ideal honeymoon retreat. The food and service were truly excellent.

Sandals Grande Antigua

A large resort with two distinct halves, the Italian side which is high rise and quite imposing and the Mediterranean side which is low rise. The resort has a host of facilities - and everything is of a very high standard. Loud music round the pool and resort area may put people off who are looking for tranquillity, but there are quieter areas to explore and the all-inclusive meals, drinks and activities really do mean you won’t be reaching for your wallet once you’re in resort.

I can't thank Virgin Holidays enough for the chance to see this destination, and the wide selection of hotels that they offer guests. If you are considering a holiday to anywhere in the Caribbean please do not hesitate to get in touch so we can discuss your options, there are so many islands to choose from and the beautiful beaches, swaying palm trees, amazing food and drink and welcoming people will never fail to impress.