On the Ground

On the Ground

Antigua's V. C. Bird International Airport, on the northeast coast, is a major hub for traffic between Caribbean islands and for international flights. Taxis meet every flight to Antigua, and drivers will offer to guide you around the island. The taxis are unmetered, but rates are posted at the airport, and drivers must carry a rate card with them. The fixed rate from the airport to St. John's is $10 (although drivers have been known to quote in EC dollars), to Dickenson Bay $16, and to English Harbour $31.

Renting a Car: If you are staying at an isolated resort or wish to sample the island's many fine restaurants, then a car is a necessity, less so if you are staying at an all-inclusive and plan to limit your on-island excursions to a sightseeing tour or two. It's certainly possible to get by without a car, particularly if you are staying near St. John's or English Harbour, but taxi rates mount up quickly (it can cost $50 for the round-trip between St. John's and English Harbour, including a half hour for you to do a bit of exploring). A temporary driving permit is required on the island ($20), and you drive on the left.