Tourists Take a Deep Breath and Relax on Barbuda's Coast
Tipping/Gratuities
Same as in the US; 10-15% depending on the service. Some restaurants & hotels will automatically add a 10% gratuity. If in doubt, just ask. Give porters and bellhops 50 cents per bag, taxi drivers 10-15% of the fare.
Telephones
Calling the U.S. is easy from Antigua and Barbuda. Most hotels offer USA Direct calling service, or can connect you with a U.S. operator for calling home.
Taxes
Antigua & Barbuda has a US$28.00 (EC$70.00) airport departure tax, a room tax of 8.5% and service charge of 10% (in lieu of tipping).
Electricity
Part of the island is 110 volts, the remainder is 220 volts. Most hotels have both voltages available.
Appropriate Attire
Informal, but conservative. Beach attire is appropriate for the beach but not town, shops or restaurants. Some hotels and restaurants stipulate jacket and tie for men and dresses for women in the evening.
Customs and Import
The importation and wearing of camouflage clothing is prohibited in Antigua and Barbuda. Visitors should leave such items at home to avoid confiscation.
Time Zone
Atlantic Standard Time, one hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time and the same as Eastern Daylight Time. GMT -4.
Currency/Money
Official currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar which is fixed to the US dollar. Recent exchange rate was US$1.00 = EC$2.65. US currency, travelers checks and major credit cards are welcome everywhere.
Banks
Antigua and Barbuda Development Bank, Antigua and Barbuda Investment, Bank Antigua Commercial Bank, Bank of Antigua, Bank of Nova Scotia, Barclays Bank PLC, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, Caribbean Corporation Bank, Royal Bank of Canada, Swiss American National Bank of Antigua. Banking hours are Monday through Thursday from 8:00am to 1:00pm and again from 3:00pm to 5:00pm; Friday from 8:00am to 12:00pm, and 3:00pm to 5:00pm.
Medical Facilities
There are several general practitioners and specialists on the island, a hospital and a private clinic. No vaccinations are required unless the visitor is arriving from an endemic area. Recompression chambers are available by air ambulance at nearby Saba and in St. Thomas. Pharmaceutical services are widely available.
Traditional Costumes Worn by Locals in a Street Fesitval
Passports & Immigration
U.S. , Canadian and U.K. nationals require proof of citizenship–a valid passport, original or certified birth certificate. U.S. residents and others should contact the nearest tourist office for entry requirements.
Cruise Ship Passengers
Cruise ship passengers who are “in-transit” and stay less than 24 hours are not required to present a visa.
Shopping Hours
Monday thru Saturday 8:00am to noon and 1:00pm-5:00pm.
Personal Safety
Antigua & Barbuda are relatively crime free, but exercise normal precautions; i.e. don’t leave valuables unattended in rental cars or on the beach.
