Sandals 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.

Jolly Beach Antigua: Jolly Beach Hotel

We loved the hotel, the staff and the food was very good. Antigua has beautiful beaches and the people were very nice and we felt welcome at the Jolly Beach Hotel. I was travelling with my 13 year old daughter and it was my first holiday in 4 years and we loved it . I am definitely going to try my best to come back next year! I also felt safe there with my daughter which was a concern with me when I planned this trip.

St James Club and Villas: Exactly What We Were Hoping For!

Flight, Transfers and Check-in were seamless. Very good Staff at St. James Club - all of them! Food was excellent, beaches & pools were not crowded. This place was top notch - will definitely return! Two beach choices - calm water in the bay; good snorkelling on the Atlantic side. Never had to try to find a lounge chair on either beach, or at the pools - plenty were available. Restaurants were very good; - a-la-carte at Rainbow Garden was fantastic! Buffet's also very good. Rooms rated as averag [... read more]e only because they are a little dated. beds were comfortable, but mattresses are showing signs of age. We took a premium room - excellent view of the ocean. We had a ground floor room and were pleasantly surprised that it was never damp (we typically find ground floors to be damp). Even saw the owner tending to a few chores from time to time.

The Verandah Antigua: Amazing resort with amazing people

Everything about The Verandah was amazing...the people, the site and the food was the best I have ever had on any holiday...really awesome. The only downfall is that the beaches are too small to go for long walks but that's the only negative.

St James Club and Villas: St. James Club - Paradise in Antigua

We had an amazing time at this resort, and would highly recommend it. We can't think of a single fault. The staff were amazing, so friendly and accommodating. The resort is older, but very well maintained. The buffet & restaurants had a great selection for everyone. There were two beaches, one which was very windy, and great for cooling off on those hot sunny Antigua days. The other was calmer and more sheltered which had many water activities such as paddle boats, kayaks, etc. There was always  [... read more]a band playing in the evening at one of the restaurants or in the courtyard near the lobby. The evenings are quiet after 10:00pm, so if you are looking for a resort with abundant night life this is probably not for you. For us, we were there for the sun & relaxation, so after a day at the pool or beach we were ready to retire to our room for the night. We did rent a car, and travelled the island one day which was lots of fun & extremely safe. We visited St.John's for shopping, Nelson's Dockyard, Shirley Heights for the steel band & sunset, as well as many of the beautiful beaches for snorkelling. Thank you St. James Club for a wonderful holiday and also to our rep. from Trip Central (Debbie McGuire) for your knowledge and expertise.

Jolly Beach Antigua: good place to vaction for the price

What an amazing beach. The water is so blue and being on the Caribbean side, there were no waves. Lots of shells on the beach but not enough to warrant taking water shoes. Staff was super friendly. We were there when the cricket tests were on so 2/3 of the resort was from England. They left at 8:30 and returned at 6:30 so the resort was very quiet during the day - no need to save chairs at the pol or beach. No one at the swim-up bar. No line - ups at any bar. Only 25 minutes form the airport an [... read more]d shuttle was great. Buffet was good, the ordinary expectations for breakfast -eggs -scrambles, fried, poached, hard-boiled or omelets plus sausage bacon, a bead station, a sweet station and a fruit station. Enough choices and a variety of themed through out the week for sinner Italian restaurant was excellent as well as seafood . Indian was a treat -a bit spicy As many reviews stated this is a dated resort -it is a 3 star. The rooms have an older feel but they are clean and we were only in our room to sleep and to change.

The Verandah Antigua: A beautiful relaxing resort!

My husband and I travelled to this resort with friends and our 6 year old son. The grounds are immaculate, absolutely beautiful. This resort had a little bit of everything for kids and adults. The beach is calm and the water is fairly shallow for young kids and adults to enjoy. Lots for everyone to do! The rooms had balconies and were very nice. The food was also good. I would definitely recommend this resort to friends and family.

Jolly Beach Antigua: Basic Resort

For a 3 star resort, it was acceptable, but don't expect more. The food was limited, but very good. Drinks are also basic, don't expect premium booze. A few of the staff are very friendly, but for the most part I don't think they like being there and don't always pay attention - overall acceptable. Pool needs to be cleaned. I don't think it was done once the entire week we were there. DJ loves his rap and caters to staff instead of patrons. Would have been nice to hear some Caribbean music. Abso [... read more]lutely beautiful beach. Easy bus ride to St John. Book a 3 star, get 3 star accommodations. All in all it was clean and acceptable but not fancy.

Jolly Beach Antigua: A resort that has all the right ingredients!

Just got back from a week at Jolly Beach Resort. We had a truly relaxing and stress free vacation. A big part of this is due to this resort. While it is an older resort, that clearly needs lots of updates, it makes up for it in many other ways. the rooms were fine and very clean with a great balcony. The staff were simply outstanding, friendly, down to earth and always willing to go the extra mile. The quality and section of the food was a huge strength. I have many dietary restrictions, and thi [... read more]s was not a problem at all. The three a la carte restaurants were very good, with the steakhouse being the front runner. The system to book was a little odd and frustrating as you could only book the day before and it was first come first served. Unfortunately this meant that unless you were willing to sacrifice sleep on your vacation, that you may be out of luck. the desk opened at 7:30. There was enough to do if you anted to be active, yet there was no pressure. We enjoyed being able to walk to the marina where there was a grocery store and restaurants. St. John's is a taxi, bus or shuttle ride away for some good shopping. Finally, I saved the best for last. the beach at this resort is simply outstanding. It is nice and long and just beautiful. You never feel crowded and you are not. an improvement would be for more be for some new beach loungers and for some umbrellas. To sum it up, we really loved our first visit to Antigua and to Jolly Beach.If you want a no hassle and stress free vacation, this fits the bill. If you want a fancy resort, this may not be the place for you.

The Verandah Antigua: Great Resort!!!

Great resort !! Everything .. check in ,clean room, fantastic food from award winning!!! Chef John Samuel, the great staff especially Desa and Sandra at the beach grill and bar to the shuttle drivers .it was amazing.

Royalton CHIC Antigua: Winter Escape

The hotel is old but our room was clean with a comfortable bed, working air conditioner and fully functional bathroom with plenty of hot water. Located on one of the islands' best beaches (we toured the island to compare), Dickenson Bay, it also has the best location on that beach. Food was adequate. Being a small resort (which we prefer) it's impossible to offer the variety you would get at the larger resorts without substantial waste. Bar service was provided during hours that were more than a [... read more]dequate. The hotel is located in a perfect spot for airport access, golf course and shopping in downtown St. Johns. We would love to visit this island again and based on the price to stay at this resort versus other locations, wouldn't hesitate to stay at Halcyon Cove again.

Sandals Antigua: Amazing experience in Antigua

We stayed at the Sandals Grande Antigua for a week at the end of February and had a wonderful time. From check-in to departure, the staff were friendly and helpful, the facilities were lovely and every detail was taken care of. There were plenty of pools and restaurants to choose from, and we never had difficulty finding chairs. We were unexpectedly upgraded to a rondoval with pool upon our arrival, which added an extra touch of amazing to our holiday. We would definitely go back!

St James Club and Villas: A Great Place to Relax

St. James Club is a wonderful place to put your feet up and enjoy the ocean breezes, the fine food, and beautiful grounds. The staff are very friendly and usually on top of their jobs. The variety of music adds to your relaxing holiday without being too loud. I would go back, without a doubt.

St James Club and Villas: Exceptional Setting

The layout of this spacious resort with its buildings and numerous pools, between two beaches on a landscaped peninsula, is unique and very beautiful. There are lots of free water-sports to engage in, on the sheltered bay. The staff are extremely pleasant and helpful.

The Verandah Antigua: Would go back in a heart beat!

We are an older couple just got back from our honeymoon vacation in Antigua. The island is absolutely breath taking and beautiful. We stayed at The Verandah Resort and Spa. The resort is very family oriented. The staff are friendly, professional and very accommodating. The food was amazing. Our complements go out to Chef John Samuel for making our dinners at Nicole's so special and delicious. The beach's are clean and well maintained. The entertainment, spa, activities and excursions were amazi [... read more]ng. We had fun and a very relaxing time during our vacation which is exactly what we needed. A special thanks to Desa and Sandra at the beach bar and grill, along with great service you always got a smile and of course good service. Another special thanks to Chef John Samuel for cooking those amazing meals and thank you to Sharon for showing us the residential development which we are interested in. Great experience! Thanks to the staff at The Verandah Resort and Spa you are all a great team!

Royalton CHIC Antigua: RETRO RESORT

This resort is older but has been well kept for the most part reno's are on going with little distrbance to it's guest. We loved the 60's feel felt like you where in a 007 movie. All staff are happy helpful and energetic they will go out of there way to help you! The food was the best a great selction and always fresh. The beach is very nice and not crowded unlike the 5 star next door we always had a chair and shade when we needed it and we did not have to get up a 5am to out your towell on a ch [... read more]air to save it . It is a smaller resort there for it is easy to get to know other patrons and staff. The shows each night where great always different,they even had karioke one night!! If you are looking for the biggest bang for your buck this is the place cost effective r and r is what i called it . had a great time keep up the great work thanks again hope to see you all again soon!!!

Pineapple Beach Club: Very nice, great for families or couples

Review will be based on knowing this resort will in the near future be replaced with a Beaches Resort. Grounds are beautifully landscaped and kept very clean. Rooms are dated but cleaned daily. Could be maintained better. Location and view from rooms is excellent. Dining could be improved such as more a la carte dining. Only 1 here as well as buffet dining. Food was excellent. Beach was excellent and pools small but adequate. Due to location, no sunset or sunrise to sit and watch. So this should [... read more] be mentioned in reviews or resort description for future bookings. Bar or lack of bars. Only 2 bars and one was only for soft drinks and some fruity drinks but for specialty drinks, they had to be served from the main bar farther away from the main beach area. Bar regularly ran out of some ingredients such as Tomato juice and diet coke. Entertainment could have been better but good enough for smaller resort such as this. Service was frequently slow, especially in buffet restaurant but those serving were very friendly as was most staff at the resort. No currency exchange could be obtained at front desk or gift shop. Staff seemed to be very friendly but I think their moral was low knowing that they could be out of work and this could be why there are fewer staff working and therefore service slow.