Street crime is not a major problem on these islands, but tourists are sometimes targeted for petty theft and the occasional pickpocketing or purse snatching, particularly on busy cruise-ship days or at events such as Carnival and cricket. Exercise common sense during your visit: Don't venture into deserted areas or beaches alone at night; lock your car and stow valuables in either a room safe or with hotel security; and don't leave belongings unattended at the beach or in other public areas. Don't flash large sums of money in public or wear expensive watches and jewelry to the beach. Wrap an article of clothing around personal items to make them less conspicuous while you go swimming.
A few areas on the outskirts of the city are not recommended for visitors. These include Gray's Farm, Green Bay, Hatton, Point and Villa.
For the latest information, contact your country's travel-advisory agency.
Dos & Don'ts
Do book far in advance if you're visiting during Carnival in late July or during Sailing Week in April.
Do ask whether a price is being quoted in U.S. or Eastern Caribbean dollars: Both are widely accepted, but they are not equal in value.
Do consider the hostels as an alternative to the expense of regular hotels, especially if you are younger or on a tight budget.
Do be aware that, at 17 degrees above the equator, the sun is very strong—even on cloudy days. Always wear sunscreen and a hat.
Do try to see a cricket match at the Recreation Grounds in St. John's or one of the fields outside of the city (games are often held on weekends, January-July). Cricket is big on Antigua: Viv Richards, a world-famous Antiguan player, even has a street named after him in St. John's and was named a national hero—not to mention a title: He is now Sir Vivian.
Do try Wadadli, the local beer (it's brewed under German guidelines). Also try the local light rum Cavalier.
The best way to stay on track when driving from St. John's to English Harbour is to follow the hand-painted signs that advertise English Harbour restaurants.
Do hire a guide to go caving on Barbuda—the stalactites, stalagmites and fossils are exceptional.
Don't waste water. Antigua lacks groundwater, so drinking water is either collected from rainfall or processed through a desalination plant at Crabbs. Many hotels have desalination plants.
Do consider taking a catamaran all the way around Antigua.
Do dance to the ubiquitous soca music.
