Vanessa Warren

Antigua and Barbuda are two major islands and several other smaller islands located in the eastern Caribbean Sea southeast of Puerto Rico. It is an independent state and a member of the Commonwealth. Since gaining independence from Britain in 1981, Antigua and Barbuda's key industry is tourism and related services.

The island nation has a population of approximately 96,286 people majorly of West African, British, and Madeiran descent. The capital is the largest port city known as St. John's in Antiguabut Codrington is the largest town in Barbuda. The two major islands lay 40kms apart and are separated by the sea from each other. The official language is English. The neighboring islands states are Saint Kitts, Nevis, and Montserrat.

In this article, we will highlight an interview with Dr. Dario Item, Ambassador of Antigua and Barbuda to UNWTO, whom we met at the tourism fair.

Hello Ambassador Dario Item, thank you for agreeing to meet on short notice I have a few questions on tourism for you about your country Antigua and Barbuda to the world.

Ambassador Dario Item: You are much welcome. What can I do for you?

On average, can you tell us how many tourists come to Antigua and Barbuda each year?

Ambassador Dario Item: From the state archives, my country has witnessed a rapid increase in the number of tourists each year. Before the pandemic, we received slightly more than 1 million tourists running for three years from 2017 to 2019 and with the world economies recovering from Covid effects, we expect to receive more visitors in the years to come.

What are some of the expectations of a tourist visit to your country?

Ambassador Dario Item: I would like to urge all the tourists from whichever part of the world planning to visitthe Caribbean to consider Antigua and Barbuda we have the best to offer as far as sand,sea, and safety in tourism is concerned just to mention a few, we have;

1. Beaches

There are 365 beaches on Antigua alone, which is a beach for every day of the year, and 12 beaches on Barbuda; these come packed with abundant sun, white or pink sand, and clear waters.

2. Sight Seeing

Apart from experiencing beach activities, you can also have fun with your family by taking the site seeing adventures to landmarks and historical sites like Shirley Heights and Fort James. It is a historical landmark and a military lookout that was recently restored. Religious sites like St. John the Divine is also a place to visit.

3. History Museums

Betty’s Hope is a museum and an active archeological site that displays the history of the islands and what they are about.

4. Shopping Malls

For the shopping lovers and sun-seekers, there are Piers and Boardwalks shopping malls housing famous shops like the Heritage Quay- Sunseekers.

Just to mention a few, my home country has something for everyone, beautiful scenic views, casinos, 3 star or 5-star hotels. Just everything to keep everyone hooked and wanting to come again.

Thanks for your time Ambassador Dario Item and I too look forward to visiting Antigua and Barbuda come next summer.

Antigua and Barbuda offer much-needed space and tranquility for all demographics. From beaches to shopping malls, everyone can enjoy time away from the hustle and bustle of major cities. Make for much-needed relaxation by visiting Antigua and Barbuda today.