The Antiguan Experience

St. John's is the capital and largest city of Antigua and Barbuda, a country located in the West Indies in the Caribbean Sea, it is the commercial center of the nation and the chief port of the island of Antigua. As you approach St. John's, the skyline is dominated by the magnificently evocative white baroque towers of St. John's Cathedral. Built in 1845, the church is now in its third incarnation, as earthquakes in 1683 and in 1745 destroyed the previous structures. Depart the pier area and set off through the villages of Antigua discovering their individual and interesting qualities. Your first destination is a private home with an amazing and wonderful history. Be provided a history lesson about this property and the stories that accompany it. When you arrive you will find yourself on the top of a panoramic vista overlooking a valley that is dotted with cows and sheep. The home may look modest from the outside but you will be astounded upon stepping inside. Artifacts from the original settlers who bought the land in the 16th century surround you. The owner, who is also a direct descendant of the original family, will graciously walk you through the areas of her home that are open to you and will answer questions about her prized collections. Endemic trees and medicinal herbs are grown in the backyard and not only will your guide provide knowledge on the healing powers of these plants, but you will also enjoy a freshly brewed cup of herbal tea. Continue on to a local pineapple farm where you will get to see the production of this important crop. You will see the fruit in all of its stages of growth, and even get to enjoy it later on when you are at the beach, but next you are headed to Fryes Estate. At the estate you will see two of the island's oldest sugar mills, now in ruins and immensely picturesque. We can't let you forget that you're on a Caribbean island and, therefore, your next stop will be a beautiful beachfront setting. Whether you prefer to lounge on a chair in the shade of an umbrella and gaze at the azure blue water or jump into it, you'll love this refreshing Antigua Coast excursion on a private beach of white sand. Families will enjoy the beach games or water sports activities while building up hearty appetites. Luckily, this free time is followed by a delicious and typical West Indian lunch. The food is tantalizing and the staff are very welcoming as you dine in the midst of the music of steel pans and a local artist reciting poetry.