Antigua and Barbuda: A Popular Country for UK Expats

by Jack Limerick Marketing Manager

Antigua and Barbuda are two islands that comprise one country, which many people think is the world’s most beautiful nation. It is located in the Caribbean Sea between Guadeloupe and St Kitts, just southeast of the British Virgin Islands. It attracts many expats not only for its tropical climate, rich flora and idyllic beaches but also for its cultural combination of British and Creole ways of life.

If you’re thinking about retiring to the Caribbean or moving there to operate your online business you'll need an international removals company like 1st Move International and if you're not sure which country to choose, here are six good reasons why you should pick the colourful nation of Antigua and Barbuda as your expat home.

A Beach For Every Day of the Year

The country is also known as the "Land of 365 Beaches", and these beaches are among the most beautiful pink and white sand beaches in the Caribbean. The long and lively Dickenson Bay Beach is usually filled with people and offers many recreational activities, including jet skiing, banana boating and sightseeing in glass-bottomed boats. The country’s main public beach is Pigeon Point on the south coast, where you can sunbathe, snorkel and swim. Half Moon Bay is a beautiful, secluded beach. It is often relatively empty and is ideal if you want a spot where you can get away from it all.

Exciting Sea Life, Flora and Fauna

The areas bordering the country’s hiking trails and even some of the more remote areas contain diverse flora species. The two islands have over 100 bird species, including the brown pelican, the little egret and numerous herons. Codrington Lagoon National Park on the island of Barbuda is one of the world’s most important bird sanctuaries, and it is responsible for providing specialised care for the frigate bird. If you are a snorkeler or diver, you are sure to enjoy the country’s coral reefs, with Cades Reef in the St Mary area being a must-see experience.

One of the World’s Most Temperate Climates

The country’s low humidity and warm temperatures make it the perfect place to live year-round. The average yearly rainfall is about 100 cm. September, October and November are the wettest months, while the temperatures are slightly cooler in December, January and February.

Interesting Cultural Heritage

In addition to its natural beauty, the country of Antigua and Barbuda also has many cultural heritage sites. One of the most visited sites in the country is St John’s Cathedral, an Anglican church built in the 19^th century. Nelson’s Dockyard National Park is the location of the former 18^th century British Naval Dockyard and contains several restored buildings and many nature trails with lovely water views. The Museum of Antigua and Barbuda is also a must-see site.

No Language Barrier

The English arrived in Antigua and Barbuda in 1632 and ruled the country until 1981, except for a brief time when it was under French control. Due to its English colonial history, English is the country’s official language, so it’s easy to communicate with all residents of the country. The country is still a member of the Commonwealth of Nations.

Direct Air Service to the UK

There is direct air service to London from the island of Antigua three times a week, so it’s relatively easy to make a trip back to the UK to visit family and friends.