Going on a Discovery Trip to Antigua and Barbuda? 6 Travel Tips You Must Know

Thanks to citizenship by investment (CBI) programs, the Caribbean has become a home to many expatriates. These programs let individuals and families have a backup plan, as well as an alternative solution for their business and wealth growth endeavors.

For families of six or more, Antigua and Barbuda citizenship offers one of the most cost-effective second passports in the region. Not only does it give you the legal right to live here, but it also lets you enjoy the perks of Antiguan citizenship, like visa-free travel to around 150 countries.

But before you finalize your investment application, you need to fully understand what the country can offer, especially as your second home. Going on a discovery trip to the country will help you make an informed choice.

This article presents some of the key information about Antigua and Barbuda and the importance of a discovery trip, with some helpful tips when going on one.

Antigua and Barbuda: The Twin-Island Wonder

Located on the southern end of the Leeward Islands chain in the West Indies, Antigua and Barbuda is known for its gorgeous beaches and azure waters. In fact, popular knowledge about the main island having 365 beaches has made the country even more appealing to visitors and investors alike.

Interestingly, though, the nation comprises three islands, not two. Besides the ones that gave the nation its name, Antigua and Barbuda also covers Redonda Island – a small uninhabited landmass just 35 miles east of Antigua.

When visiting the country, you’ll notice that many locals speak English fluently. It’s the nation’s official language, after all. You may hear a bit of Creole and Spanish and some Patois (local English dialect), too.

As for money, you may need to exchange cash for Eastern Caribbean dollars, the country’s local currency. The good news is that the exchange rate is quite stable.

Visiting Antigua and Barbuda

Depending on where you’re coming from, you’ll find plenty of direct flights to Antigua and Barbuda. This is particularly true for other Caribbean islands, the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. If not, you can always book a private jet charter for a comfortable and secure trip.

During your discovery trip, you may want to visit areas where government-approved real estate properties are located for your CBI application, including:

Galleon Beach
Ayers Creek
Falmouth Harbour
Half Moon Bay Beach
Valley Church
Nonsuch Bay
St. Paul’s

Real estate investment is among the most popular investment options in Antigua and Barbuda, and other Caribbean nations. It is also the best choice for individuals who intend to spend more time in the country.

Even if you don’t plan on living here, real estate investment may also be a good option for you since you can have the place rented out to tourists. Either way, you’ll definitely get more than your money’s worth given the booming tourism sector in the nation.

Discovery Trips and Why They are Important

Discovery trips help you know more about a potential second passport country and how living there can affect your quality of life.

A discovery trip will also give you first-hand information about the community you’ll be joining, particularly details that no brochure or Internet search would be able to tell you. This can range from the road and traffic situation to the unique neighborhood quirks.

6 Travel Tips for Your Discovery Trip to Antigua

A discovery trip to Antigua and Barbuda can be like any other Caribbean vacation. However, there are a few other things you need to bring.

Read below the six travel tips that can help make your discovery trip much more fulfilling:

1. Have a checklist of things to check in the area.

As previously mentioned, a discovery trip lets you check out a community and see whether it matches your needs, preferences, and unique lifestyle goals. To accomplish this, you must make sure you have a checklist of things you want to see when you visit Antigua.

If possible, print out your criteria list on what your ideal second home should be like. This will allow you to grade the prospective second passport country based on your goals and lifestyle.

2. Bring complete travel documents.

Traveling to another country today means bringing not only your passport and visa (if necessary) but also completing your vaccinations. Check the latest travel advisory for Antigua and Barbuda, and don’t forget your health insurance documents, just in case.

3. Pack some in-flight essentials.

Whether you book a private jet or intend to fly commercial, you’ll also need a couple of things to make traveling to the Caribbean more comfortable.

Noise-canceling headphones, an eye mask, and a neck pillow allow you to sleep soundly while on the flight. You might also want to bring some items for entertainment, such as a tablet, laptop, or magazine.

4. Keep certain items handy in your hand-carry bag.

When packing your hand-carry bag, make sure you bring the following items for easy access:

Eco-friendly sunscreen
Water bottle
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
Phone charger and power bank
First-aid and essential prescription meds

You can tweak this list based on your specific needs.

5. Pack small bottles of toiletries.

To avoid hassles in airport security checks (and a mess inside your luggage), only pack three-ounce bottles of toiletries. As much as possible, don’t fill them to the brim.

Follow the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) 3-1-1 rule for carrying liquids:

3: Each liquid product must be in a 3.4-ounce container (or smaller).
1: All the containers must be packed in a clear quart-sized plastic bag.
1: A passenger is only allowed one plastic bag.

6. Organize your suitcase.

Use packing cubes to organize the contents of your suitcase. This will make finding what you’re looking for easier. It also lets you focus more on the actual trip.

Also, make sure you pack the right ‌clothing based on your destination. For a discovery trip to Antigua and Barbuda, wear and pack pieces made from light and comfortable fabrics, like cotton and linen.

If you intend to enjoy the beautiful beaches while you’re here, pack water shoes and swimwear, too.