Antigua and Barbuda
Nobody knows exactly how many beaches these two Caribbean jewels have competing for the title of the most beautiful. More than enough, certainly; and if you want solitude, you can always find it. Sailors love Antigua for its picturesque anchorages, divers relish the enchanted atmosphere of the coral atoll of Barbuda, and dreamers can enjoy the fine sandy beaches against a backdrop of pure paradise.
A magnet for tourists is the Nelson’s Dockyard National Park in Antigua, a former British colonial naval base turned into a living museum. It’s a treasure trove for anyone fascinated by the turbulent history of the island and its seafaring past. A must for sailors is the Antigua Sailing Week in early summer, one of the most spectacular regattas in the world. More contemplative, but no less impressive, is a tour to the Nature Reserve of the Frigate Bird on Barbuda, where thousands of these great birds nest – and turn a beady eye on their visitors.