Travel Essentials › Antigua & Barbuda
Travel Essentials
Plugs: Type A and B, 230 V. Emergency: One number for everything 911 or 999. Tipping: A 10 to 15 percent service charge is usually added to bills; if not, tip about 10 to 15 percent. Tap water: Tap water is often treated, but many visitors prefer bottled water; ask your hotel.
Open The Antigua & Barbuda Trip Kit
Type A and B, 230 V
| One number for everything | 911 or 999 |
A 10 to 15 percent service charge is usually added to bills; if not, tip about 10 to 15 percent.
Greetings. A polite good morning or good afternoon and a friendly handshake are expected before asking for anything. Friends and family often hug.
Beachwear. Swimsuits are for the beach and pool; cover up in towns, shops and churches.
Sundays. Many locals attend church on Sunday and some small shops close, so plan around it.
Antigua is generally safe for visitors, though petty theft from cars and beaches happens; take usual precautions.
Unrequested guides and crafts. People near beaches and sights may offer tours or crafts; agree prices first or politely say no.
Unmetered taxis. Taxis have set fares by zone; ask the fare before the ride and confirm the currency (XCD or USD).
Women travelers. Women traveling alone may get unwanted attention; avoid isolated beaches alone.
Legal · Use Caution
The law against same-sex relations was struck down in 2022, but society is conservative and public affection is best avoided outside resorts.
| Coffee (café) | XCD 11 | $4 |
| Local bus or metro ride | XCD 3 | $1.10 |
| Mid-range restaurant meal | XCD 80 | $30 |
| Hostel bed / budget room (night) | XCD 200 | $75 |
| Mid-range hotel (night) | XCD 650 | $240 |
| Daily budget, mid-range traveler | XCD 650 | $240 |
2026-09
December to April is dry and sunny; June to November is hurricane season, with the highest risk from August to October.