How do these two islands differ? Which do you prefer and why?<BR>Thank you, Jessica

I don't know which I prefer. Antigua has historical sites, varied scenery and more people. If I wanted sightseeing I would go there. Anguilla isn't as scenically interesting but has the most beautiful beaches. I haven't been there since all the resorts moved in so I imagine you might not be able to be the only ones on Shoal Bay any more. You could go over to St. Martin though for a change of pace.<BR><BR>Personally I'd be going to Anguilla, partly to see how it has changed.

Antigua is lush, tropical, has lovely beaches and is much more developed than Anguilla. More options of things to do, shopping, day trips, etc. Bigger resorts and more activity. Some history to explore in and around English Harbour and shopping in St. John's. Some excellent restaurants! Only because I am a very serious beach person, there is little to do but beach on Anguilla (and dine in some wonderful restuaruants). no major developemnt, I would definitely head to Anguilla.

Antigua and Anguilla both have nice beaches, but Antigua has a culture. Anguilla is sanitized, a sort of mini-Cayman. Blue hair heaven.

Do both places have vendors on the beaches selling their wears? Are they agressive? Annoying? I've never<BR>been to either island and was wondering if I was going to be able to relax or have to deal with somebody trying to sell me something?!!

Can you experts tell me if the sound of gunfire is fairly routine on either of the islands, like it is on parts of St. Thomas as reported in this article<BR>http://www.onepaper.com/stthomasvi/?v=d&i=&s=News%3ALocal&p=47033<BR>

No vendors are allowed on Anguilla which makes it perfect for those of us seeking the a sanitized experience. I would guess Antigua has vendors since it is a typical Caribbean island, please correct me if I'm wrong. Gunfire is a routine occurence in parts of St. Thomas, times have really changed. Fortunately so far the gunfire rarely affects tourists --- it seems to be more drug and gang related.

Well, couple of things off kilter here. Funny last year I was approached by one vendor on the beach on Anguilla offering goods and this year during my visit only had two but did stay longer. They are polite and don't approach the second time if you refused the first. Never had anyone approach me on Antiuga but my one and only islands that happened on was Barbados and Aruba! <BR>Gosh ... tried to find that article since I hadn't read it and saw where residents were hosts to NYC Fire Dept, the local bird count, The Olympic Team from the USVI, the charter vacations for rescue workers, some great receipes, discussion of the Marine Project just to name of few of the good things reported. <BR>BTW, I have heard exactly the same number of gunshots on Anguilla, Antigua, St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix and that would be ZERO. More likely to hear the shutters clicking taking all the great pix! <BR>Happy Travels

Here's a quote from the article:<BR><BR>"Of 171 reports of illegal discharges of firearms on the island, he said, only one came from Hull Bay. This startled at least one resident, as the sound of gunfire is fairly routine in the area."<BR><BR>I guess 171 people disagree with Karen...

No, just you, "Pamela." Thought maybe you could post the article link since the link did not come up with the information in The Source for me! Didn't say no one heard them, said I didn't and I couldn't find the information! I was sure it was lifted out of an article that I hadn't read since you are getting quite good at that! &lt;G&gt;

Karen, it certainly works for me --- not sure why the link doesn't work for you, are you cut-and-pasting it properly? The St. Thomas Source article is entitled "POLICE, PARKS OFFICIALS CITE LACK OF RESOURCES" and describes how they're dealing with the crime there. I was astounded that gunfire was a routine occurrence! To read the reviews here, you would assume it was paradise! Hopefully Antigua and Anguilla are safer.<BR><BR>http://www.onepaper.com/stthomasvi/?v=d&i=&s=News%3ALocal&p=47033<BR>

Thanks, "Pamela," for the article. Didn't read that one since that is was kinda old news and an ongoing problem with not enuf staff and the budget problems. But Shaun does cover the news clearly and accurately and doesn't sweep anything under the rug like so many islands. Now could you explain why you chose to put that in a thread about Anguilla and Antigua since it has absolutely nothing to do with either? No, never mind. YAWN! We got your agenda down pat! &lt;G and YAWN again!&gt; <BR>Have a great day!

One thing is for certain, if someone mentions crime in the US Virgin Islands, guess who just *HAS* to repond and use the most hilariously twisted logic to downplay the crime no matter what! You can't buy entertainment this rich! LOL

Well, I know this has gotten off topic, but I just have to say that I live in a rural area near the Adirondacks and I hear gunshots almost daily. I didn't hear any during my recent 9-day stay on St. Thomas.<BR>Of course, we've got a lot more squirrels up here.<BR>

Free squirrel meat would be ideal to fill your cooler to take to the Virgin Islands. Or does the meat have to have USDA labels?<BR>

Was in Anguilla about 3 yars ago. Stayed at the Sonesta. It was really nice. It is extremely quiet, beautiful beaches and great restaurants. Bring books to read and snorkel. We loved it. The people were extremely nice. Would consider going back back like to try new places, but we're looking for one similar--that is not overrun by toutists. Have a great time

I have never been to Antigua, but did spend a week last year on Meads Bay in Anguilla. <BR><BR>Anguilla is extremely dry and pretty flat. Several beaches are gorgeous. According to locals, the conditions of the beaches (width, waves) vary seasonally. We stayed on Meads Bay which was lovely in August. The water was idyllic and we had an oceanfront 2 bedroom condo a stone's throw from the water. I think it cost us $1400 for a week! Plain but couldn't have been better located. My husband would love to go back this year (would probably like to buy one of the condo units), but for me there was one major drawback-no snorkeling. I tried several beach areas, including snorkeling around cliffs, with no success. <BR><BR>Anguilla is not a pretty island inland and there's not much to do but swim and shell (on one beach). There are some good restaurants and a nice range of condos, hotels and suite accomodations.