Antigua, the largest British Leeward Island, has often been called ‘a beach with an island in the middle’ because of its 365 pristine beaches and tranquil blue waters. In three and a half hours you can be whisked away by Air Jamaica, American Airlines or BWIA to drink rum punch on the island that Whitney Houston, Robin Leech and Eric Clapton have called home.

Leave your watch at home and say goodbye to our crabby cabbies because upon landing at V.C. Bird International Airport, friendly minibus drivers with colorful nicknames like Big Eye and will drive you to the place you have chosen for your stay. Whether you’ve booked accommodations at a bed and breakfast, moderately priced hotel or all-inclusive beachfront villa, you are sure to learn all about where you are staying and the history of the entire island from your driver. He may even suggest an island-wide excursion be part of the next day’s itinerary.

Feeling adventurous? Apply for a local driving permit when you land and explore the island on your own. With over 68,000 residents in Antigua, it’s very hard to get lost on an island that’s only 108 square miles. Just don’t forget to drive on the left!

Local restaurants in town serve fish caught daily, seasoned rice and curried dishes. At night, Miller’s By the Sea, features live music and an international twist on local cuisine. Sunday nights, the place to be is Shirley Heights. Shirley Heights, the actual backdrop for Duran Duran’s video “Rio�, will allow you to mingle with locals and other tourists, enjoy seafood, barbecue and the sounds of steel band music.

Early morning risers can enjoy the treat of traveling by horse on scenic trails around the island or a trek to the beach to swim with your horse.

Late risers need not worry as water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, yachts, catamarans and a pirate ship await! The Jolly Roger pirate ship anchors itself in a secluded cove allowing fearless passengers to ‘walk the plank’, swing off the ship or learn calypso dancing all before a festive lunch.