Five days in Antigua

From Dom Rep to Antigua for a contrasting experience of the Caribbean. Where Dom Rep had more of a Spanish feel, the British influence is all around in Antigua. Antigua is also one of the Caribbean's smaller islands and it feels like everyone knows everyone here. With its economy so reliant on tourism you can be sure you'll be well looked after, albeit in Caribbean time!

The island itself is beautiful, with idyllic beaches everywhere you turn (one for every day of the year, they say) and being so small it's easy to get around and explore. With such lovely hotels the temptation would be to stay put for the duration but there's plenty to do outside your resort, particularly in the evenings.

Friday nights see Nelson's Dockyard transfrom into the venue for Seafood Friday with music and seafood served under the stars. Delicious food and a good night out, but the highlight for me was Shirley Heights Lookout which hosts the "biggest and best" party every Sunday. We arrived just in time to watch the sunset over English Harbour, before joining in the party with a ridiculously energetic steel band followed by live music on stage. I loved every minute but if you prefer to avoid the crowds there's a more laid back version on a Thursday evening.

After our Sunday night exertions we were given time to relax on Monday with a full day Catamaran trip - the Island Circumnavigation tour. A great way to see the island from a different perspective and see for yourself just how many beaches there really are!