Russ

I am thinking of going to Antigua in May this year. I was hoping on getting feed back on the Island and also the Sandals resort there. Is it a nice Island to visit and how is the weather in May. Thanks! <BR>

ilisa

My husband and I honeymooned on Antigua in March, 1993. We loved the island. It is not a lush, beautiful island; it's rather impoverished. However, the friendliness of the people more than made up for that. We stayed at Pineapple Beach which we loved. The beach was beautiful, the food delicious. The weather was perfect - mid-80s, sunny the entire time. Things to see are Nelson's Dockyard and Shirley Heights (go there on a Sunday when the steel bands are there). St. John's was dirty and crowded, but we managed our fair share of shopping, and like I said, the people were so friendly. I would definitely visit if I were you. <BR>

Emily Connolly

Hi Russ, <BR>We stayed at Sandal's Antigua several years ago. This is a terrific property with something for everyone. Their staff is very helpful. All of the rooms are nice, but the best are the honeymoon suites and the rondovals on the beach. Of course, these are the most expensive. We were there the first week of May and the weather was perfect - the weather does not vary very much from monthe to month. The main pool is always busy with games and stuff, but the smaller pools are always great for privacy. Dining room is very nice - lots of tropical birds love to come in and eat your bread crumbs. The Islanders are exceptionally friendly, Enjoy your trip!!

Julie

Went to Antigua in February, 98. Stayed at the Pineapple Beach Club and attended a wedding at Sandals. Pineapple beat Sandals hands down. The beach, the views, and the food were wonderful at the Pineapple. We found at Sandals that the beach was dirty and there are alot of hotels up and down the beach, making it crowded. The grounds there are nice. <BR> <BR>If you go, you have to go on the Tropikelly Off-Road Tour. We saw parts of the island that we wouldn't have been able to see. This is a definite must-do! <BR> <BR>The weather was beautiful the whole time we were there.

Beth

We've been to Antigua twice, once stayed at the St. James, and once at Galley Bay. St James is okay, but Galley Bay is wonderful. We were there the last week in April last year, which is Racing Week and it was very crowded, every where we went there were sailors. It was also very hot. I though the weather was more comfortable when we went in February. <BR> <BR>There are some very beautiful beaches that are away from the resorts, like Darkwood beach and Half Moon Bay. You can get a taxi to take you there and pick you up, or rent a car. <BR> <BR>If you are looking for a restaurant to splurge, there's a terrific French Restaurant called Chez Pascal in the 5-Islands area not far from Galley Bay. Service and food there were excellent. <BR> <BR>It is a very nice island, and I think you will enjoy it.

bob

We stayed at Galley Bay this past Sept, just before Georges hit. Only 60 rooms, 3/4 mile horseshoe beach, beautiful grounds. Took a catamaran on an island circumnavigation cruise...saw all the other resorts that way. We were not impressed with Sandals beach...small, crowded, and noisy! Good tips on other places to see already posted...If you gamble, only try Kings Casino, there are smaller gyp joints that are nothing but a hustle. Antigua's standard of living is higher than most other isles, although is certainly doesn't compare to American norms. People are friendly and helpful. Weather should be 85 in May. Enjoy!

Joe Niemczura

<BR>Hi - i am happy to find this thread.... we are a family of four, going to Antigua the first week of February..... does anybody know what the cost of renting a sailboat for a day would be? I have sailed here in Maine and I would like to get my kids to do some sailing in, say, a 20-footer w/2 sails... nothing fancy, not overnight....... any body out there done it?

Dave

Tom,do a search for Antigua's tourism home page and from there you will find some info on boat rentals. I'm leaving for Antigua monday and if I see any info on rentals I'll contact you when I return from sailing Sunfish every day next week. <BR> <BR>

Sara

Has anyone stayed at Mango Bay Beach Resort? Also, how is the scuba diving on Antigua?

Christie

My husband and I visited Antigua in July '98, and we already want ot go back! No, it is not a lush, beautiful island, but the people there are very nice and friendly, which more than makes up for the physical environment. We styaed at the Rex Halycon on Dickinson Bay, which was right next to Sandals. It was rather "spartan," but very clean and a good value for the price. The beach was always nice- we never saw any trash on it. There were even little crabs that came up in the evenings after dark that we played with! <BR> <BR>We did not do an all-inclusive plan, but rather opted to experience more of the local cuisine. We absolutely recommend it! We never had trouble finding a restaurant- only deciding on which one we wanted to go to! Our favorite: HOME, just outside of St. John's. The food was wonderful, and we will never forget it! Be sure to make a reservation, as the place is very small and a favorite with both locals and travelers alike. <BR> <BR>Our two top picks for things to do: <BR>1. Shirley Heights Sunday Night BBQ and party! Bring your camera, as the sunset is fabulous! Live steel drum and reggae music, plus good BBQ and cold beer! (Hint: local Wadadli beer is half the price of imports, and just as good!) Be sure to take a CAB- it is a very steep, winding road, and after a few beers, you could get into trouble...best to let a cab driver take care of you! <BR>2. Bo Tours 4-wheel drive tour of the island. Great value- $60 US for the whole day, including lunch. Bring LOTS of film, as you'll see sights and views that are not to be missed! <BR> <BR>ENJOY your visit!!!

Katherine

I visited the Islands of Antigua and Barbuda from 2/6/99 until 2/14/99. While reading the postings on these islands, I have quite the different view. The people border between arrogance and belligerence. We rented a jeep from a national company (the only time we used our credit card), and were asked for money when we inquired about places to drive and directions. We had people in St.John's come up and rock the jeep while we were at a red light. We were told by a police officer in St. John's the touists money is wanted, but they do not care if we like it or even come back. But the frosting on the cake is when we returned, we found that someone had tried to run up $37,000. on our credit card twice, and are still trying to run smaller amounts. We have our cards, by the way. <BR> <BR>We met with other couples who had struck out on their own (not an all inclusive resort) and they had equally bad horror stories to share, so we feel as if it was not just us. <BR> <BR>Each year we visit a different island in the Caribbean. I would not recommend Antigua or Barbuda. You are not safe if you go on your own. You are not wanted. Take your hard earned money to some other location. <BR>

Brian

I am very surprised to read Katherine's remarks. I operate a small beachfront hotel in Antigua, and due to our size (small) get to know most of the guests quite well. I chat to them every day and when they are departing, and virtually everyone comments on how friendly everyone is! I have been running my place for 15 years and can honestly say that I have never heard of anyone having their vehicle attacked anywhere in Antigua. Of course some of the most commercial beaches have a few vendors who are too pushy, but normally, if treated politely, they leave you alone. I am sorry to hear that your holiday was less than perfect, but I assure you that your vacation must have been the exception! Not the rule!

janet

I too was surprised by Katherine's remarks.My husband and I spent a week there in Feb' 97 and loved it.We stayed with friends who are living there.They were transfered there with a Canadian bank . We found the people to be very friendly.We were on the go the entire week and did't have a single problem.I would have to say Shirley Heights and Half Moon bay were my favourite spots. If you love the beach a day at Half Moon is a must do. As far as accomodations go our friends stayed at Pineapple Beach while they were waiting to move into their house .They said it was lovely.Other friends of ours spend 5 weeks in Antigua every winter.They stay at Yepton's.We visited them and had dinner there.The food was great <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR>and they also had a really nice view of the cruise ships leaving in the evening all lit up .Very clean private beach as well.Hope I've been a little help.If you go I don't think you'll be dissapointed. P.S. We walked the beach at Sandals.It was quite crowed.However we saw a wedding video of a couple we know who were married there and the place looked quite nice.

janet

I too was surprised by Katherine's remarks.My husband and I spent a week there in Feb' 97 and loved it.We stayed with friends who are living there.They were transfered there with a Canadian bank . We found the people to be very friendly.We were on the go the entire week and did't have a single problem.I would have to say Shirley Heights and Half Moon bay were my favourite spots. If you love the beach a day at Half Moon is a must do. As far as accomodations go our friends stayed at Pineapple Beach while they were waiting to move into their house .They said it was lovely.Other friends of ours spend 5 weeks in Antigua every winter.They stay at Yepton's.We visited them and had dinner there.The food was great <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR>and they also had a really nice view of the cruise ships leaving in the evening all lit up .Very clean private beach as well.Hope I've been a little help.If you go I don't think you'll be dissapointed. P.S. We walked the beach at Sandals.It was quite crowed.However we saw a wedding video of a couple we know who were married there and the place looked quite nice.

Katherine

I tend to think that you would have a better time in a resort atmosphere. My husband & I travel abroad three times a year and two weeks of that time is within the Caribbean. We usually take public transportation, getting a better feel for the local and people doing so. We venture out on our own, and do not participate in the resorts inclusions. Sad, but true, this was a very disappointing location for our visit. But I will say that most of the ill-will we ran into was centered in St. Johns. The beaches were clean and beach vendors very nice. Our resort personnel were nice - the airport people were nice. But the groups sitting on steps at street corners and some of the market vendors were the other story. <BR> Trust me when I say that the devistation of treatment in St. Johns is enough to keep me away. Not to mention that we have never had our credit card number used anywhere in the world until now. I don't understand either, I would like to have a better feeling about Antigua, because the readings from -'97 to '98 sound like a different place from what we, and the six other couples with us experienced.

ROBBED IN ANTIGUA

February 11, 1999 <BR>Karen Musumeci <BR>22 Mulberry Circle <BR>Staten Island, NY 10314 <BR> <BR> <BR>Liberty Travel <BR>23-15 Richmond Avenue File # 006-79-1824-1 <BR>Staten Island, New York 10314 <BR>Attn.: Elaine Logelfo <BR>Office Manager <BR> <BR>Dear Ms. Logelfo: <BR> <BR> Please accept the following as a detailed account of my bitter travel experience at the Royal Antiguan Beach & Tennis Resort. <BR> While deciding what resort to choose, I presented my travel agent with several basic preferences. Among these preferences, was access to tennis, a quiet beach to relax on, and a clean well kept facility to stay at. In addition, I requested that my travel agent phone the Royal Antiguan to inquire about the availability of a safety deposit box. Having been assured that all of the above preferences were to be expected at the Royal Antiguan, I booked a vacation. <BR> We arrived at the Royal Antiguan on February 5, 1999 after 4:00pm. We waited forty minutes for a room. Once in the room, we took the opportunity to look around. The room we were assigned to, was not the room represented by the photo in the travel catalog. (Please refer to the attached list for details). When we learned that room 721 was not going to be a room where we would be happy, we called the front desk to request a room change. We were told that the resort had no vacancies at that time. <BR> Having spent a lot of money for this vacation, we resolved to try to make the best of a bad situation. We decided to go enjoy the beach. Before going to the beach, my fiancé and I stopped at the front desk to request a safety deposit box. We were told that there were no boxes available; we were then put on a waiting list. We immediately requested a meeting with the hotel manager on duty. Mr. Richards listened to all of our complaints. He assured us that we would be bumped up to the top of the security box waiting list. In addition, he informed us that the problems in the room would be taken care of promptly. During our meeting with the manager, we reiterated our request for a room change. We had paid for an ocean view room. The room we were assigned to had limited, if any view of the ocean/sea. Again, we were informed that no other rooms were available. Mr. Richards informed us that a room might be available on February 9. As we were departing on the 10th, this offer was less than helpful to us. <BR> On our way to the beach, we were quickly solicited by numerous sales people for various restaurants and day trips. We demonstrated some assertiveness by informing the various sales people that we preferred to seek out our own reservations. We were without success in deterring the local sales people who continued to harass us on the premises of the resort. In addition to having to ward off sales pitches, we had to contend with construction going on right behind the beach (also on resort premises). Noises such as hammering and drilling interfere with my idea of relaxation. <BR> A day or two later, we decided to play tennis. To our dismay, we found yet another problem. The tennis courts at the Royal Antiguan were being used by local children for a tennis tournament. We inquired with the sports coordinator, who informed us that the children were granted permission to use the private courts. This was disappointing and inconvenient for the paying customers. <BR> A number of other significant problems exist at the resort. On February 9, at approximately 7:00pm, I discovered that a piece of jewelry had been taken from my hotel room. I immediately notified Mr. Jeffers, the manager on duty. Hotel security and the local police were called. I provided both parties with a detailed account of the incident along with a description of the item. The local police were surprised to learn that a safety security box could not be provided. Before leaving our valuables behind in the room, we would ensure that all doors were secured. On our daily return from the beach, we would learn that the terrace door had been left unlocked by housekeeping services. The Royal Antiguan Resort was negligent in maintaining what minimal security we had. The guest room terraces are directly connected. Several seconds are more than enough time for a neighboring occupant to trespass into my room. Again, the police were surprised at the lack of security with regard to terrace accessability. The police's officers who filed the report informed us that they planned to speak with hotel administration about better room security. <BR> On February 9, I made arrangements to be picked up in the front of the Resort. I called the Alexander Parrish Company, and a representative instructed me to be outside at 1:00pm. At 1:20pm, I began to be concerned. I asked the front desk to call the company to inquire about a pick up. After making an unsuccessful call, the front desk attendant informed me that Alexander Parrish was in the process of dissolving operations. She instructed me to give my voucher to a taxi for transport. She further warned me by saying that I would have difficulty being picked up by a taxi because cash paying customers were preferred. We were refused a ride back to the airport by a dozen drivers. Ultimately, I raised my voice and started to draw attention. We were granted a ride at 2:05pm. <BR> I might have felt a little better about my experience at the Royal Antiguan if some effort had been made to correct the various problems which were reported to management. We were assured that they would be addressed and they never were. A fellow disgruntled vacationer suggested that I post my experience with the Royal Antiguan Resort on the Internet. Before I do so, I'd like to afford all parties the opportunity to provide some compensation for my horrendous experiences. <BR> <BR>When available, you will be provided with a copy of the police report which was filed on February 9, 1999. I have taken photographs of various problems in the room. Please contact me at the above phone number if you require copies for your investigation of this resort. <BR> <BR>Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. <BR> <BR> <BR>Sincerely, <BR> <BR>Karen musumeci <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR>Major Hotel Room Complaints <BR> <BR> <BR>1. Loose tiles on the bathroom floor and around the shower. <BR>2. Old damaged furniture throughout the room. <BR>3. No VCR; Ocean View rooms were to be equipped with a VCR. <BR>4. Small bugs were seen all over the room. Large insects were observed near the ice machines <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR>Additional Complaints <BR> <BR> <BR>1. There were flies all over the food at The Lagoon Cafe, and Beach Grill and Bar. <BR>

KarenW

Second the votes to dine at Chez Pascal (he also invites you to swim in the pool ... maybe stop for lunch and a swim - pretty setting)and Home. Also be sure to stop by Le Biestro and Julian's. Can't decide which was best!

Amanda

Earlier this year I visited Antigua on business and made reservations to extend my stay into vacation after my business was completed. It was a mistake. Even now I feel as I were being granted a favor to be there. I was uncomfortable with my treatment to the point that I did not stay my entire two weeks. <BR> <BR>The island could have been a good place to vacation. But what Antiguans need to know is that each person there – each taxi driver, each hotel person, each street vendor, each shop keeper, each restaurant person, each driver, each person on the street represents a part of the “pie” of Antigua. I am in customer service in the states, and I know that if over 90% of contact is unfavorable, word of mouth will kill your business. In my experience, from the restaurants I entered to the places I swam, I was not treated nicely; at best. Being short changed was the practice of the street vendors (even when dealing in EC money), and being ignored was the practice of the majority of the businesses and getting information about anything is about as easy as finding a streetsign. Being harassed with horns and shouting at my car was a continuing factor when you were in a “green” tagged rental car. <BR> <BR> Mine was not isolated to just my resort, mine was from Shirley Heights to English Harbor, to St. John’s, to Devil’s Bridge. An especially disturbing factor there was when I was directed down a dead end street from a local’s directions and then he stood in the exit laughing when I turned around. I had to wait until he chose to move before I could get out. If more feel as if I do, the ripple effect of the lack of tourism on Antigua will be felt shortly and should be a growing concern for each person, whether in direct contact with tourists or not. Antigua proved to be a very expensive place to visit. <BR> <BR> I lost something in Antigua besides the material things that were taken from my car – I lost my innocence of thinking that I could visit another country, meeting and talking with natives and having a good time learning from them about their lives and their country. I cut my losses and left early realizing that Antigua was not going to offer the warmth, security or charm to convince me to stay or convince me to return. <BR>

ilisa

Karen, having a bad experience with your hotel hardly constitutes being "robbed in Antigua." You should not direct your anger at an entire country because of the poor customer service of a private business.

kmiguana

To Ilisa, the big mouth: <BR>My bad experiences at Antigua go well beyond the letter you read. The letter you read was addressed to the Royal Antiguan. Complaints about the island of Antigua were not included in the letter because the are irrelevant to my complaints to the resort manager, but thank you for the benefit of the doubt.