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12:02 am
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Weather in Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda
28°
Partly cloudy
Wed
24
28
Thu
25
27
Fri
25
27
Sat
25
28
Sun
24
27
SPF level in Antigua and Barbuda
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around Antigua and Barbuda
Tipping in Antigua and Barbuda
Tipping is appreciated in Antigua and Barbuda for good service. While not always explicitly expected, it is a customary way to show appreciation.
Restaurant
10-15% of the bill
Bar/Café
10% of the bill, or a small amount for good service
Taxi
10% of the fare, especially for assistance with luggage
Hotel Porter
1-2 XCD per bag
Hotel Housekeeper
2-5 XCD per day
Tour Guide
10-15% of the tour price
Safety in Antigua and Barbuda
Tips for British travellers
Antigua and Barbuda is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Take care when walking alone off busy main roads, avoid isolated areas and beaches, especially after dark.
Only use licensed taxis, which are not metered, and agree the fare in local currency with the driver before setting off.
Make sure your accommodation or yacht is secure and leave valuables in a safety deposit box or secure hotel safe.
Do not carry or wear camouflage clothing as this is illegal for anyone, including children.
Take particular care around large gatherings like street and beach parties, especially after dark or during festival season.
Bonus tips:
Pack all luggage yourself and do not carry anything through customs for anyone else as drug possession carries severe penalties.
Take care when swimming as currents can be strong and not all beaches have lifeguards or warning flags.
Driving in Antigua and Barbuda
A valid UK driving license is accepted for a limited period. An international driving permit is recommended.
Side of road
left
Motorway speed limit
65 km/h
Urban speed limit
40 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.08%
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
911
Save 911 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Antigua and Barbuda
Voltage
230V / 60Hz
Plug types
Type A, Type B
UK adapter needed?
Yes
The voltage in Antigua and Barbuda is 230V at 60Hz. Plug types A and B are used. British travelers will need an adapter to use their devices.
Cards & payments
Card payments are widely accepted in tourist areas, hotels, and larger establishments, but less so in smaller shops and local markets.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1 303 967 1096
ATMs in Antigua and Barbuda
ATMs are available in major towns and tourist areas, but less common in rural locations.
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are generally reliable in tourist areas. Ensure your card is chip and PIN enabled. It's advisable to withdraw sufficient cash when visiting remote areas.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, EU roaming agreements no longer apply. Check with your UK mobile provider about roaming charges in Antigua and Barbuda. Roaming charges can be high, so consider local SIM options for longer stays.
Local SIM data package
5GB for 135 XCD (~£40)
Network coverage
4G, 3G, 2G
Local carriers
Flow, Digicel
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in most hotels, restaurants, and cafes in tourist areas. Coverage may be limited in more remote areas.
Average speed
25 Mbps
WiFi is generally accessible in tourist hotspots. Mobile data is an option, but can be expensive without a local SIM. Average speed listed is suitable for basic browsing and streaming, but connection quality can vary.
Health & vaccinations in Antigua and Barbuda
It's important to ensure you have adequate travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation, for the duration of your trip to Antigua and Barbuda. Check that your policy covers all planned activities. While Antigua and Barbuda doesn't participate in the GHIC/EHIC scheme, comprehensive travel insurance is crucial.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
Consult your GP or a travel clinic for the latest health advice and recommended vaccinations for Antigua and Barbuda. Dengue fever, chikungunya virus and zika virus are present, so take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, such as using repellent, wearing long sleeves and trousers, and staying in air-conditioned accommodation. Tap water is generally considered safe to drink, but bottled water is recommended for those with sensitive stomachs.
Calling Antigua and Barbuda
Country code
+268
To call Antigua and Barbuda from the UK, dial 00 1 268 followed by the local number.
To call the British High Commission in St John's from the UK you would dial 00 1 268 462 0008.
The country code for Antigua and Barbuda is 1-268. When calling from abroad, dial your country's exit code, followed by 1-268, and then the local number. Mobile phone coverage is generally good across the islands.
UK Embassy in Antigua and Barbuda
British High Commission St John's
Coolidge Corporate Complex Sir George Walter Highway St John's Antigua
Airport in Antigua and Barbuda
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.