The nation also includes the tiny (0.6 square mile) uninhabited island of Redonda, now a nature preserve. The current population for the nation is approximately 68,000 and its capital is St. John's on Antigua.  Together, the islands offer everything a holiday-maker could want.

Antigua and Barbuda enjoys an average of eight and a half hours of sunlight every day. Temperatures generally range from the mid-seventies in the winter to the mid-eighties in the summer. Annual rainfall averages only 45 inches, making it the sunniest of the Eastern Caribbean Islands, and the northeast trade winds are nearly constant, flagging only in September. The island enjoys low humidity year-round

For sun-lovers and swimmers, there is said to be a first-class beach for every day of the year. The great majority rest inside the calm, protected waters of Antigua’s Caribbean side. All are open to the public, and so the challenge posed to a visitor is not how to gain access to the best of them but simply, how to locate the beach that suits one's taste.

Barbuda's smooth coastline is edged with long pink and white sand beaches protected by barrier reefs. In fact, the pristine pink beaches of the southwestern shore stretch as far as ten miles without interruption. The beaches of the island's eastern shore, facing the Atlantic, are somewhat rougher, although they are outstanding for beachcombing. Life on Barbuda is quiet and accommodation is limited, but that’s just what makes the island so irresistibly charm.

Essential Facts:
Language: English is the official language. English patois is widely spoken.
Capital city: St. John's, 23,500
Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar, US$1=EC2.68
Religions: Christian (predominantly Anglican/Protestant; some Roman Catholic)
Political status: An independent nation; member of the British Commonwealth
Literacy rate: 89% (1960 est.)
Electricity: 220/110 volts AC, 60 Hz. American-style 2-pin plugs. Some hotels also have outlets for 240 volts AC; in this case European-style 2-pin plugs are used.
Telecommunications: The international dialing code for Antigua and Barbuda is +1 268 followed by a seven digit number. On the island, use the seven digits alone.
Entry Requirements: U.S. , Canadian, U.K. and passport holders of other European Union countries nationals require proof of citizenship--a valid passport. Other nationalities should contact the nearest tourist office for entry requirements.
Departure Tax: Antigua and Barbuda has a US$20 pp airport departure tax
What to Bring: For these tropical climates, lightweight cottons or linen are recommended, with rainwear needed from September to December. Dress is informal unless formal dress is specifically requested. As a gesture towards the islanders themselves, it is preferable not to wear scanty clothing or beachwear in towns or villages.