The Verandah Antigua: Great relaxing vacation

We choose The Verandah for a quiet and relaxing vacation. We enjoyed our stay. This resort is lovely with great food and quiet location. Excellent friendly staff and service. Would definitely return and recommend.

Royalton CHIC Antigua: Overall comfortable little resort

This resort is perfect for those who don't need much. The rooms are good always clean facilities (pool/beach) are perfect for those who have little kids and for the adults who just want a quick and refreshing dip in the water. It is unfortunate that one side of the beach (closest to the bar and carib dining) has lots of stones on the sand and upon entry to the water but again it is easy to deal with. Although the islanders deal in $US currency we brought the $EC and there was no issues working w [... read more]ith the exchange. Anywhere you want to go is a taxi ride away and not expensive and taxis are readily available right on the resort. All of the staff are so very nice and helpful special thanks to Shane in the main dining for making our stay that much more enjoyable. This young man works hard and it is obvious that he will go places in life if the right opportunity is presented to him. Overall a good little resort.

Galley Bay Resort and Spa: Quiet and relaxing resort

Beach-excellent, no weeds and the water was clear and all sand. Drive from airport a short half hour, beach rooms are right on the beach with own patio and loungers. Extra loungers so never a shortage. Next to no vendors harassing you, 1 or 2 ladies quietly offering trinkets. Tour with Captain Sean and he can arrange anything you want on his private sailboat. He will be on the beach everyday by the watersports desk Ladies you will appreciate how immaculate and clean his entire boat is. Location  [... read more]of hotel on a mostly secluded beach is the best feature of this resort. Depending on time of year surf is not an issue. We had calm waters the entire visit in early Decmber. Never feels crowded even at full capacity. We would go back but after trying some new spots in the next few years first.

Jolly Beach Antigua: Relaxing and enjoyable!

Awesome beach - actually considered to be the best on the island. Food just okay, a bit boring, most meat overcooked, fish a better choice. Super saver room not recommended - clean and functional but tiny with hard bed. Entertainment good. Sand fleas at dusk and dawn seem to affect some, me particularly but not my husband.

The Verandah Antigua: Excellant Resort

I loved the cleanliness, cheerfulness of the employees and the resort it self. Laid back but there for any of your needs. Food was excellent! Beaches were lovely. I would recommend this resort to anyone who needs some R&R. There are some stairs to contend with but on vacation you just take your time.

Jolly Beach Antigua: Never Again

Won't go back &would not recommend, supposed superior room was less than standard at any other resort. The resort is dated even rooms they say have been renovated are stuck in rhe 70's. Picked up in van for 9 people & their luggage piled up up over their heads.

Sandals Grande Antigua: beautiful resort, great food, friendly people

The grounds were perfectly maintained. The food was delicious. The beach and ocean were perfect. Have to go early to find a beach chair at the beach or main pool. The staff is very friendly. There are all sorts of in motorized water sports that you can partake in. The only complaint is when you are on the beach it's a public beach and there are several local residents walking up and down that will constantly try to get you to buy something.

Galley Bay Resort and Spa: Enjoyable resort

This was our first time to Galley Bay. We were expecting a GREAT resort due to reviews on Trip Advisor. The one thing that was always mentioned on them was the outstanding staff. Honestly, we were stunned by what we experienced. Although we are friendly, respectful guests, we encountered so many staff who had flat personalities and no smiles. This was particularly evidenced with the morning restaurant crew who were moody. As well, the first night we ate at the Gaugain (sp), not one of the waitre [... read more]sses showed any emotion and were like robots in their responses of "Thank you". It was VERY strange to have such an opposite response to our attempt at interacting to staff. The day bartenders at the bar were also 'blah'. We just shook our heads at the unemotional responses we got when dealing with them. With that being said, we enjoyed our Deluxe Beachfront room. We were right on the beach!! The view was lovely. The whole resort is so beautiful and relaxing. We did the garden tour with Curt, which was fabulous. Also, we went with Shiloh on his walk. Both are highlights at the resort. We commend the resort for its ecological efforts. Guests are given hard water bottles which they can take home. You refill them with ice and water at "Rehydration Stations" The long verandah is fabulous with its Muskoka rocking chairs. The turtle sanctuary is wonderful. We enjoyed visiting the parents and children every day. Captain Sean's sailboat trip is worth taking! Unfortunately, the surf can be wild. We missed out on two days of ocean swimming due to red flags and the day we left, it was still red flags. The pool is nice and the way they have arranged the palapas and sun loungers is great in that there is privacy. Ismay's ala carte was just good--not great. The hype did not live up to what was expected.

St James Club and Villas: Nice Resort, Antigua is a hidden jem

This place is on a wonderful bay. Food was good. Staff was friendly. Weather was great. Swimming pools are small put warm. Nothing fancy about house keeping if you are looking for that extra flare of flowers and towel animals on your bed. Room fridge is not stocked which would of been nice for a drink on the balcony. Nice tennis courts if you play. Really the only bad thing I would have to say is the beer. If you're going down south and that's all you drink better bring your own. You have about  [... read more]2 mins to drink it when it's cold, after that best to just leave it.

The Verandah Antigua: Great Resort

Great resort, quite. Not a busy resort if that is what your looking for. Good food and the people of Antigua are very nice. The sellers on the beach approach you but don't bother once you say no. That was great.

Jolly Beach Antigua: R&R in Antigua

This resort is a little dated and the rooms are small. However...the beach was phenomenal, the grounds were wonderfully maintained...and the staff...they made the trip!! They are all fantastic!!!!!!! Find the bartender Neil...makes a mean Kamakaze shooter!! Joice is just a delight...her Bloody Mary drinks will wake you up and get you ready for the day! You are on island time....relax....rest up...and dance like no body is watching...OR....dance like you will never see these guests again!!

The Verandah Antigua: A balanced review

As with most places there were things we liked and things we didn't like about this resort. Overall this resort was much more suitable for families, rather than couples. The positives: Food was great and we enjoyed being able to eat a la cart for every dinner, although reservations were required. Service was pretty prompt. Rooms were spacious with a nice big tub and nice balcony. Rooms are quiet and feel like a house instead of an apartment. Activities were fairly plentiful during the day, could [... read more] kayak in the bay or mini golf or walk to another beach or to devils bridge. Pools were nice and warm. Drinks were great quality and variety. Transfer from airport was only about 30 min. The negatives: As mentioned, not great for couples because the main pool was full of children yelling and splashing. There was a small adults pool but no bar near by, you had to walk ten minutes to get a drink. Resort nice enough, but for the price point you will find a much more luxurious resort feel in places like Jamaica, Cuba, Mexico or Dominican. There was nothing put in the bar fridge, not even pops. The beach was calm for children, but fairly small and not that clear since it is in a bay with more stagnant water, If you rent a car, they don't tell you that you need cash for everything including gas. We were not informed and had to use all our cash for gas and at one gas station the lady refused to give us any change. The beaches are beautiful on the other side of the island, but getting to them is a bit confusing as there are not signs for most places. We felt safe enough though and people were friendly for the most part. There is no night life, minimal entertainment compared to most other resorts we have been to and there indoor bar area was closed the whole time we were there. You need to like walking to stay here as some rooms are very far from the main area. If you really want to visit somewhere new than Antigua is beautiful and can be fun to explore if you are adventurous and the verandah is good value out of the options you have there, however, for the price point you can go to nicer resorts elsewhere in the Caribbean, especially if you want somewhere romantic. For a family vacation this place has quite a bit to offer.

Sandals Grande Antigua: Fantastic

Beautiful Resort. Service was spectacular, very nice and friendly staff. Food was excellent! Only meal we didn't like was at the Drunken Duck. Room was clean with well stocked bar. Maybe the only negative was the bed. Not the most comfortable I have slept on.

The Verandah Antigua: It was paradise

The resort, food, staff, beach, weather was amazing. The resort is very quite-not your party resort. Food was great, themed buffet every night, which gives everyone a chance try something new. Staff were so friendly and helpful with any inquiry we had. Our air conditioner was leaking one night, and by the time we came back from our excursion the next time, the AC was fixed.

The Verandah Antigua: Relaxing and beautiful resort

The resort was beautiful! The villas were clean and a nice size. The whole resort is surrounded by lush gardens. The food was really tastey and had a variety every night. The beaches are gorgeous! The staff were really nice and friendly. The only complaint was the service was super slow. The resort was like being at a retreat. My family and I were so relaxed during our stay.

Jolly Beach Antigua: older resort about 40 years

Super clean, they are always doing something to keep it in good standing, painting, reburishing rooms Well worth the money, they are there to please, and the food is great Lovely beach, lots of shells

Sandals Grande Antigua: Amazing

It was the greatest experience for my wife and I. Our agent Brenda Melo was truly a wonderful person . The sandals resort was incredible food , room and services . Sandals truly knows how to keep their guest happy and the staff were just to polite and respectful. AAA++++

The Verandah Antigua: Ahhhhhhh, The Verandah!

My husband and I just returned from one glorious week in Antigua (June 13-20). Let me start off by saying, it's not a matter of "IF" we will be back, but rather "WHEN"! The staff were so incredibly welcoming and truly happy to have us at the resort. Here's a shout out to some that we got to know: Duty Manager Bishop (what an amazing guy.....track him down and hear about his interesting travels to China); Chad and Tanya in the Buckaneer (always greeting with you with a cheery smile); Iran, Neil a [... read more]nd of course, quiet and lovely Althea - again, always so available to spend a few moments to chat. Dayton, our favourite bar manager!!! Olsen and Kyle - the best watersport hosts ever!!! And last, but certainly not least, Josette! We must send a special thank you to you for introducing us to Jerk Chicken! Sooooo delicious! The intent of our vacation was to simply "get away" from the hectic day-to-day pace of life, sit, relax and FINALLY read a book! This resort did not disappoint! Here are some highlights: - This resort seemed to be geared toward guests of all ages, and those who were not wild partiers. You don't really hear a "peep" after 11 p.m. - no blaring music at the pools: some guests brought small radios and were very respectful - again, no one with loud music - a wide array of food . Always hot. Always plentiful. Always fresh and tasty. - not all restaurants are open every day, so be sure to pop into Guest Services to make your reservation 24 hours in advance. This has been disastrous for us in the past, but I must say, we did not have any troubles at all at The Verandah. Absolutely 100% of our choices were accommodated. - Although we did bring along our Bubba Mugs, drink portions were quite large and this was not really necessary (except when popping down to the beach). -Accessing the beach on the property could pose some challenges for anyone with mobility issues (about 20 stairs or so), HOWEVER, don't fret.....about 2 minutes away is the lovely Long Bay Beach....no stairs required. - We took a taxi trip ($52 return for 4 people) into St. John's. For anyone who has not been into town, it is worth the trip. We partnered up with another couple to share the ride in. Remember, you don't have to make friends for life, just a nice ride in and back as the cost is $52 return whether for 2 or 4 people. - Be sure to check out some of the art galleries in town. There are some wonderful pieces....we know.....we brought some back! -The locals in town were very welcoming and many seemed to offer up a "Welcome to Antigua". -This was a vacation destination that we felt entirely comfortable and safe in. -The specialty restaurant is available at an additional cost of approx. $35 per person. We would HIGHLY recommend this to anyone considering that special vacation treat. The ambiance, food and entertainment was 5*. -Don't be shy - talk to Olsen and Kyle about how to kayak or paddleboard. They'll give you a tutorial. We did both and had an amazing time. You're never too old to try something new. - They will also take you out on a sailing adventure. This is included in the cost of your "all inclusive", however, don't be cheap.....tip them! - Our room was absolutely spotless! Everyday our floors were mopped by the housekeeping staff. They really work hard to keep everything tidy! They are the best. -Although we chose to have a quiet, relaxing week away, there are plenty of excursions that are available through guest services (and in our case, Air Canada). These included: catamaran trips, snorkeling, and ziplining to name only a few. -Because of the beautiful breeze that blows, the effects of the sun can be very deceiving. BRING SUNSCREEN. I almost even broke my "never wear a hat" policy for this vacay! Interesting Observations: -Antigua gets very little rain. Even when the forecast calls for rain, it rains for about 5 minutes and does not impact your day of fun in the sun; As our friends at the resort told us "Believe it when you see it". -There were NO bugs or mosquitos at all! This really surprised us. Honestly....NO BUGS! -The tradewinds that blow (especially in the evenings), make it so enjoyable to simply sit, have a glass of wine and enjoy the surroundings. -Waterfrogs and crickets begin chirping around 6:30 every night. It was a truly beautiful sound of nature to hear. -It gets very dark in Antigua early. By 7:00 p.m. it was completely dark! Look to the stars - again, so very beautiful. -There is a tribe of goats just down the road from the resort. Being a goat lover.....this was such a bonus! As I said, we will definitely be back and, in fact, will be bringing a few others along!

Sugar Ridge: Great boutique hotel

Amazing pools, infinity pool is topnotch with a view. Rooms are very uperrclass with 4 poster beds. Unique setting and pleasant staff. Very friendly. Not far from airport. Free shuttle service to both Nest beach & Jolley Harbour.

Royalton CHIC Antigua: My Stay from May 17-May 24th

Staff: Friendly! Seem timid at times however getting conversating with them and they are great people! Fenton - Entertainment Dept - chirp him if you want to see some activities happening on your stay!! Especially water aerobics !! He's pretty hilarious and can get things going if you JOIN IN ! Janet - the towel lady - she seems shy, however once you get her talking shes pretty awesome Dave - the dude on the beach with matching everything! from glasses to hat to shirt......buy excursions from [... read more] him and he'll take care of you. Very personable and laid back! Orlando - Bartendar - Call him Boss!! Ask him for the "orlando special" and youll love that drink Great bartendar and very humble! Dalston - Bartendar - older gentlemen, but dont let that fool you! He can jam and have great convos with you! Great bartendar as well!! Very personable! Ann-Marie - Restaurant supervisor - shes amazing laid back and personable. Love her. All the ladies at breakfast are amazing also!! Miss chatting with them already Food: breakfast amazing, lunch the curry chicken, jerk chicken and stew chicken were IDEAL! Especially the BBQ day on Saturday eve! Restaurant Staff: amazing service. no complaints. Rooms: Average. If you have been to Cuba - same type of feel. Bathrooms could get some renos however you have all you need. Fridge: All inclusive doesnt get you water, pop or alcochol in your mini fridge which makes no sense to me. A FIRST experience for me and ive travelled everywhere in the caribbean and that MAFE NO SENSE. The water on the resort is safe to drink, even though the locals tell you to get bottled water instead because its better. I drank the water given on the resort amongst others and we are all fine Snacks: BRING SOME WITH YOU.......as things are a bit pricey in the hotel shop. just saying. I get they need to make money, however if you can bring your favorites from home, i recommend it. Coffee Lovers: my recommendation is bring your own! Housekeeping: Keep things tidy! We left tips each day and the room was clean and good to go and stocked with towels, toiletries and bed made everyday. A La Carte Menu: That is only one and the ODD part about it, is youhad to pay for? It wasnt included in all inclusive- which is another thing that makes no sense to me - as all inclusive SHOULD include those things. So keep that in mind. We stayed on room 336 which gave you a nice niew of the beach and pool area. The ocean view rooms that actually face the ocean do not have balconies. Sunday do the Shirley Heights Excursion. The Mountain top view is gorgeous! Also bring exta cash to enjoy their BBQ there and a few drinks! Its worth it ! All in all a relaxing vacation. If you are looking for a party resort this isnt the one for you.