A collection of important information
that can make your trip more enjoyable.
 Tipping/Gratuities:
Same as in the US; 10-15% depending on the service. Some
restaurants & hotels will automatically add a 10% gratuity.
If in doubt, just ask. Give porters and bellboys 50 cents per bag,
taxi drivers 10-15% of the fare.
Telephones:
Calling the U.K. is easy from Antigua and Barbuda. Most hotels offer U.K. Direct
calling service, or can connect you with a U.K. operator for calling home.
Taxes:
Antigua & Barbuda has
a room tax of 8.5% and service charge of 10%.
Electricity:
Part of the island is 110 volts, the remainder is 220 volts. Most hotels have
both voltages available. The type of plug used is the standard american flat pin.
Appropriate Attire:
Informal, but conservative. Beach attire is appropriate for the beach but not
town, shops or restaurants. Some hotels and restaurants stipulate jacket
and tie for men and dresses for women in the evening.
Time Zone:
Atlantic Standard Time, GMT -4.
Currency/Money:
Official currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar which is fixed to the US
dollar. US currency, travelers
checks and major credit cards are welcome everywhere.
Banks:
Antigua and Barbuda Investment Bank, Antigua Commercial Bank, Bank of Antigua,
Bank of Nova Scotia, Barclays Bank PLC, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce,
Caribbean Corporation Bank, Royal Bank of Canada. Banking hours are Monday
through Thursday from 8:00am to 1:00pm and again from 3:00pm to 5:00pm; Friday
from 8:00am to 12:00pm, and 3:00pm to 5:00pm.
Medical Facilities:
There are several general practitioners and specialists on the island, a hospital
and a private clinic. No vaccinations are required unless the visitor is
arriving from an endemic area. Recompression chambers are available by air
ambulance at nearby Saba and in St. Thomas. Pharmaceutical services are widely
available.
Passports & Immigration:
U.S. , Canadian, U.K. and passport holders of other European Union countries
nationals require proof of citizenship--a valid passport, original or certified
birth certificate. Other nationalities should contact the nearest tourist
office for entry requirements.
Customs & Imports :
The importation and wearing of camouflage clothing is prohibited in Antigua and Barbuda.
Visitors should leave such items at home to avoid confiscation.
We have 3 documents which relate to the import of pets and plants/food available in PDF format below.
Traveling with Pets
An import permit must be obtained from the Chief Veterinary Officer before the importation of all animals. In order to obtain this permit, the intended animal must first be micro-chipped and its blood tested for Rabies Titer at an approved laboratory. The result of such tests must then be forwarded to:
The Acting Chief Veterinary Officer
PO Box 1282
St. Johns, Antigua Tel/Fax: (268) 460-1759
Shopping Hours:
Monday - Saturday 8:00am to noon and 1:00pm-5:00pm.
Personal Safety:
Antigua & Barbuda are relatively crime free, but exercise normal precautions, and common sense;
i.e. don't leave valuables unattended in rental cars or on the beach.
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