Fact 1: The Land of 365 Beaches
Antigua and Barbuda, a beautiful tropical paradise, is dubbed the ‘Land of 365 Beaches’. This is because it contains no less than one picturesque, charming beach for each day of the year. Imagine visiting a new beach every day without leaving the country!
Fact 2: The National Bird is a Delight
The National bird of Antigua and Barbuda is the Frigatebird or the Magnificent Frigatebird. This large seabird is known for its distinctive red gular pouch which the males inflate during the breeding season to attract females.
Fact 3: They Celebrate Cricket with Style
One of the most popular sports in Antigua and Barbuda is cricket. Sir Vivian Richards, one of the all-time greats in the cricketing world, is from Antigua. The islands have even hosted several cricket World Cup matches, boasting the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, a venue that can accommodate up to 10,000 spectators.
Fact 4: V.C. Bird International Airport
The V.C. Bird International Airport, named after Vere Bird, the first Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, is the largest and busiest airport in the country. The airport serves as the key gateway to the Eastern Caribbean.
Fact 5: A Tiny Population
Despite its geographical spread across many islands, the population of Antigua and Barbuda is surprisingly low. As per the latest estimates, this dual-island nation has a population of under 100,000 people, making it one of the smallest nations in the world.
Fact 6: The Donkey Sanctuary
In Antigua, there is a dedicated donkey sanctuary which began in 1991. It's home to over 150 donkeys and embraces the mission of caring for and rescuing donkeys from mistreatment. It's free to the public, relying on donations and volunteers.
Fact 7: Independence Celebrations
Antigua and Barbuda became an independent country on November 1st, 1981, separating from the United Kingdom. They celebrate this treasured day with a public holiday and lively events that include a parade, music performances, and various cultural presentations.
Fact 8: The Black Pineapple
Antigua is world-famous for its Black Pineapple, which is renowned for being the sweetest pineapple in the world. Unsurprisingly, it is the country's national fruit.
Fact 9: Sink Your Toes into Pink
Barbuda is home to one of the few pink sand beaches in the world, the striking colour due to the crushed coral in the sand. The pinkish hue makes Barbuda's beaches some of the most unique and stunning in the world.
Fact 10: Betty’s Hope Sugar Plantation
Betty's Hope Sugar Plantation was the first large-scale sugar plantation in Antigua. Established in 1674, it offers profound insights into Antiguan history and the sugar-trade era.
Fact 11: A Novel Name
Antigua was originally named "Wadadli" by the native population before Christopher Columbus renamed it after the Church of Santa Maria la Antigua in Sevilla, Spain.
Fact 12: Antigua Sailing Week
Held annually at the end of April and beginning of May, the Antigua Sailing Week is considered one of the premier sailing events in the world. The week-long festival attracts sailors and spectators from all around the globe.
Fact 13: Maritime Heritage
Antigua and Barbuda boast a rich maritime history. It was home to the British Navy's most important Caribbean base during much of the 18th century and continues to be a prime yachting destination today.
Fact 14: A Country Full of Lagoons
Approximately 11% of Barbuda's land area is lagoons and wetlands, which host a variety of bird species including the national bird, the frigate bird.
Fact 15: Tourism is Key
Tourism is the backbone of Antigua and Barbuda's economy, accounting for nearly 60% of the country's GDP. The islands attract visitors with their beautiful beaches, clear waters, and rich history.
Fact 16: The Islands Had Aofilms
Antigua and Barbuda were formerly known as the British Leeward Islands during the colonial period.
Fact 17: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Antigua's Nelson's Dockyard, a Georgian-styled marina and historical district, was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016. It is the only continuously working Georgian dockyard in the world.
Fact 18: A Rare Rattlesnake
Antigua is home to the highly endangered Antiguan racer, one of the rarest snakes in the world. Conservation efforts are in place to save these harmless, non-venomous snakes from extinction.
Fact 19: English is the Official Language
English is the official language of Antigua and Barbuda. Still, due to the influence of African languages, a Creole dialect called Antiguan Creole is spoken by the locals.
Fact 20: Highest Point
Mount Obama, originally named Boggy Peak, is the highest point in Antigua and Barbuda, standing at a height of 399 meters. It was renamed after the former U.S. President Barack Obama in 2009 to symbolize the people's high regard for him.