The Virgin Atlantic guide to Antigua

Dropping down through broken cloud on the final approach. Noticing the sea getting lighter, turning from dark olive to bright turquoise. Catching a first glimpse of the island, the palm trees, the beaches, yachts moored in quiet bays, the white roofs. Cabin crew seats for landing. Holidays ahoy!

Antigua is part of the Lesser Antilles of the eastern Caribbean. The first thing you’ll learn about the island is that it has 365 beaches, one for each day of the year. They’re dotted around one of the most intricate coastlines in the Caribbean, interspersed with peaceful bays and dramatic rocky headlands, often fringed with coral reefs. And all of this on an island that is only 108 square miles, making it just the right size to explore. It’s one of our all-time favourite holiday destinations.

Anne and Lynn

Onboard a recent flight to Antigua was flight service manager Lynn Sutherby, who has been to Antigua many times in her career, and Anna Oliver who joined our cabin crew team a year ago and was on her first visit to the island. We spoke to them both on their return.

“Antigua is safe and relaxed, and there’s always something to do. Our airport team here are amazing, and I’ve made many friends over the years,” said Lynn, “The people here are super friendly, and it has amazing beaches, what more could you ask for? Jolly Beach is my favourite, but there are also lots of hidden gems to discover. A day trip to Prickly Pear Island should also be on your list”.

“As it was my first time on the island, I wanted to experience as much as possible,” said Anna. “I started off the adventure with an evening meal at Sheer Rocks in Cocobay Resort. When we arrived the sun was setting, so we sat down by the infinity pool and took in the stunning views of the white sandy beaches. I had the seafood which was delicious, and the staff were all very friendly – I would definitely recommend a visit!

“The next day I had the incredible experience of swimming with stingrays and snorkelling over the nearby reef. We then stopped for lunch at ‘Ana’s on the Beach‘ in Dickenson Bay, and from there we noticed a small floating bar out to sea. After waving at them for a few minutes, a boat came and rowed us out to it where we enjoyed cocktails and music. What I loved about Antigua is the stress-free feel of the island; nothing is rushed. The Antiguan people will go out of their way to help you and make you feel at home. I love how unspoiled the island is, full of green trees and beaches for miles on end! Antigua has won a place in my heart, and I will definitely be going back again!”

Antigua is famous for its hospitality and warm welcomes and nowhere is that more evident than our lovely team at the airport. They know they’re the first and last people you’ll see on your visit to the island, so from the second you step off the aircraft into the new shiny terminal building (to be greeted by a local steel band) our duty manager Michelle is determined you’ll be treated as friends. She works alongside her colleague Bernard Ho, and together they manage a team of around 18 people from Despatch Services Antigua who look after our flights.

Choosing a Caribbean island for your hard-earned holiday is a big decision. With Antigua, you can’t go wrong. Just make sure you book a window seat to enjoy that spectacular landing!

Virgin Atlantic operates flights to Antigua from London Heathrow seasonally, up to four times a week.