Investment Immigration to Antigua, learn about Antigua travel tips to make your immigrant life more enjoyable!
Tipping/Service Charges:
Same as in the United States; approximately 10-15%, depending on the service. Some restaurants and hotels automatically add a 10% service charge. If in doubt, feel free to ask. Provide porters and hotel staff with a service fee of 50 cents per bag, and taxi drivers with 10-15% of the fare.
Telephone:
Calling the UK from Antigua and Barbuda is very easy. Most hotels offer direct-dial service to the UK or can connect you with a UK operator to call home.
Taxes:
Antigua and Barbuda has an 8.5% room tax and a 10% service charge.
Electricity:
Some parts of the island are 110 volts, while others are 220 volts. Most hotels have both voltages available. The plug type used is the standard American flat-pin plug.
Appropriate Attire:
Informal, but conservative. Beachwear is suitable for the beach but not for town, shops, or restaurants. Some hotels and restaurants require men to wear jackets and ties and women to wear dresses in the evening.
Time Zone:
Atlantic Standard Time, 4 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time.
Currency/Funds:
The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar, which is pegged to the US Dollar. US currency, traveler's checks, and major credit cards are widely accepted.
Banks:
Antigua and Barbuda Investment Bank, Antigua Commercial Bank, Bank of Antigua, Scotiabank, Barclays Bank, CIBC, Caribbean Union Bank, and Royal Bank of Canada. Banking hours are Monday to Thursday 8:00am-1:00pm, 3:00pm-5:00pm; Friday 8:00am-12:00pm, 3:00pm-5:00pm.
Medical Facilities:
There are several general practitioners and specialists on the island, one hospital, and one private clinic. Vaccinations are not required unless the visitor is arriving from an infected area. Decompression chambers are available via air ambulance in nearby Saba and Saint Thomas. Pharmaceutical services are readily available.
Passport and Immigration:
Citizens of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and other EU countries are required to provide proof of citizenship—a valid original passport, or an original or notarized birth certificate. Citizens of other countries should contact the nearest tourism office for entry requirements.
Customs and Imports:
Antigua and Barbuda prohibits the import or wearing of camouflage clothing. Visitors should leave these items at home to avoid confiscation.
Traveling with Pets:
All animals must first obtain an import permit from the Chief Veterinary Officer. To obtain this permit, the animal must first be microchipped, and its blood must be tested for rabies at an approved laboratory.
Shopping Hours:
Monday to Saturday 8:00am to 12:00pm, and 1:00pm to 5:00pm.
Personal Safety:
Antigua and Barbuda has a relatively low crime rate, but standard precautions and common sense should be exercised, such as not leaving valuables unattended in taxis or on the beach.