Antigua Site

Antigua was the capital of Guatemala until 1773, when the Santa Marta earthquake rocked the foundations of the town. Still, the city retains its colonial charm in the extravagant architecture of buildings, churches, convents and old residences, which offer more than a glimpse of past prosperity.

Staying in the Caribbean is not just all about loitering under the sun while taking a dip in its pristine blue waters. There is more to the vacation getaway than what you think it is. The islands comprising it are all rich in its heritage and culture, where the way of living in Antigua is no exemption to that.

Located right in the heart of the Caribbean, in the middle of the British Leeward Islands, Antigua is most notable for its sunny, dry weather. In fact, it has one of the driest weathers in the whole Caribbean region, an asset when the rest of the islands are wilting under the humidity of the tropical climate.

Flamboyant costumes. Beauty pageants. Talent shows. Great music. All these and more define a fantastic celebration of happiness that is the Antigua Carnival.

In retrospect, the Antigua Carnival dates back in August 1 of 1834 when slavery was entirely abolished. In 1666, it was ravaged by French inhabitants but was soon conquered by the British and was formally restored to them by the Treaty of Breda. Now, Queen Elizabeth II is its head of state under a constitutional monarchy government.

One very amazing thing about this Caribbean island is that it need not cost too much from your pocket to enjoy its pristine blue waters and silky white sands. Except for those that have been transformed into exclusive plush resorts by real estate developers, the entire Antigua beach is open to the public.