First Antigua & Barbuda is in the Caribbean not to be confused with Antigua, the city in Guatemala. There was no particular reason for choosing to visit just needed an all inclusive on the beach for a little rest and relaxation. The weather was good so our flight from New York arrived about 15 minutes early. We disembarked by stairs on the tarmac and walked to the airport building. Before leaving home you should complete the required immigration form. If you do not you will be required to complete it at the airport. Taxi service is readily available and there is a dispatcher that gives you the cost payable to the driver upon arrival at your destination. Taxi fares are controlled and it is likely that your ride will be shared as mini vans are mostly used.

We booked through Expedia at the Jolly beach resort which is about twenty to thirty minutes ride from the airport . The facility is clean with fairly well manicured grounds. The check in process was not tedious completed within fifteen minutes once I got to the receptionist.

The facility is a bit dated still using keys to the doors, guest are given a removable lock for the safe, housekeeping service offered only if staying over seven nights or for $25 with request 24 hours in advance. Additional bed linen and towels can be requested if needed. However the rooms are clean with basic amenities.

Breakfast daily is buffet style with a wide selection. I would give it a very good rating. Bars and grill are also very good and informal. Some restaurants require reservation made through the tour desk on the day you wish the reservation for.

Going to the beach is a short walk away with an abundance of umbrella stalls and beach chairs. This beach is beautiful with the various change in colors not too much waves and clear that you can see your feet while standing in the water. There are water sports available on site.

During the stay the water was calm gentle waves rolling over the soft white sand. The temperature remained about 84 degrees during the day so sun block is highly recommended,

I am often asked about food, there are three restaurants the Palms , The Mangrove bar and grill restaurant, The Pizza Factory Restaurant and the coconut grill.

Every Thursday there is a party at Shirley Heights that many tourists go to listen to a steel band and a reggae band. Cocktails and bbq meals are available for sale. Another highlight is the sunset.

Shirley Heights sits 490 feet above sea level located on the southern tip of Antigua. It was a military lookout. Before getting to Shirley Heights we passed through the busy town during rush hour and to be expected traffic was heavy. One thing I noticed was how drivers were courteous to each other in navigating the narrow two lanes roadways.

Vivian Richards is a well known cricketer from Antigua, now retired. He played for the West Indies cricket team from 1971 to 1991 know as a great batter.

St. Barnabas Anglican Church is a historic church built in the 1800s.

We made a brief stop at the Blockhouse lookout that gave us a good view of the Falmouth Harbor. It was a fort used by the British where they had a clear view of the west coast.

There are a lot of water activities that can be arranged through different tour organizers. I chose to enjoy the beach and hotel entertainment except for the visit to Shirley Heights. Let me share a bit around the grounds.

Totally enjoyed great weather rain at night no issue that interfered with my stay.