Antigua and Barbuda: Getting There and Transport How to get to Antigua and Barbuda For visitors from Europe , you can practically only get to…
Tag: Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda, a twin-island nation located in the Eastern Caribbean, boasts a rich history intertwined with the legacies of colonialism and the struggle for independence. Originally inhabited by the Siboney and Arawak peoples, the islands were encountered by Christopher Columbus in 1493. Colonized by the British in 1632, Antigua became an important sugar-producing colony, relying heavily on enslaved African labor. The islands were also utilized as a strategic naval base for the Royal Navy. Slavery persisted until the British Empire abolished it in 1834. Post-emancipation, Antigua and Barbuda moved through various administrative arrangements until achieving self-government in 1967 and full independence from Britain in 1981. Led by the Antigua Labour Party (ALP) under Prime Minister Vere Bird, the nation navigated political shifts and economic challenges. Tourism and offshore banking became pivotal to the economy, fostering development and international relations. The islands experienced the impact of natural disasters, including Hurricane Irma in 2017, but demonstrated resilience in recovery efforts. Antigua and Barbuda, a member of the Commonwealth, now thrive on their vibrant cultural heritage, stunning beaches, and a commitment to sustainable development, balancing the preservation of their natural beauty with economic progress in a dynamic Caribbean context.
Antigua and Barbuda Geography
Antigua and Barbuda key data Area: 442.6 km², of which Antigua: 280 km², Barbuda: 161 km², Redonda: 1.6 km². Population: 87,884 (CIA July 2011 estimate)….