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Guide to St Johns, Antigua
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St JohnsThe capital city of Antigua, St Johns, isnt much different (in terms of atmosphere) than any other place in the country. Youre bound to notice change in the marketplace on weekends, but other than the spike in foot traffic, everything in St Johns seems somewhat mellow. The city has centuries of history behind it, but coming across an enduring symbol of its early days will be rare, as Antigua has experienced a number of destructive earthquakes. However, the city still thrives more today than ever on tourism and the produce market. Farmers from outside the city board buses each week with their bounty hoping to score the biggest profits of their years, some even getting early starts by selling to newbies of St Johns. The lively manner of the people here is quite contagious, so dont be surprised if you find yourself amidst the crowds haggling excitedly for those fruits and veggies!
When to go:
The climate in St Johns is superb throughout the year in terms of the daily temperatures. But if youd like to avoid daily rain showers, we suggest avoiding autumn altogether. Summer is hurricane season, though these natural occurrences are rare. Youll enjoy the low humidity of winter and spring, and while temperatures during this time dip a bit below their summer peak (~85F), the change is nothing drastic, and the most you will ever need is a spring jacket in the early-morning and late-evening hours. Despite all of this, there is much to do in the city no matter what day it may be, and if its a bit too warm for your liking, the cool Caribbean breezes will sooth your soul. Adversely, the foot exercise from a stroll along the harbour will warm you nicely on those few brisk days in winter.
Getting there and around:
Antigua International Airport is conveniently located just 5 miles (8km) from St Johns, making it an easy, quick ride to your hotel. The airport is well-stocked with all of the necessary services (and a few desired ones) for international flyers. Inside the terminal are a bureaux de change, a post office, bar, restaurant, and a few shops to while away the minutes if youre waiting for a scheduled bus. Taxis will take you to your hotel for a fixed rate, which means the hassle of bargaining is off your shoulders. If you wish, you can arrange an impromptu city tour with the driver, but you will have to be somewhat generous in your price offers and tipping is commonplace.
Getting around St Johns is easier than in any other place on the island, and while youre riding the citys buses, rolling around in the back seat of a taxi, or driving yourself around in some rented wheels, you can rest assured that you wont be going to the local ATM machine a great many times during your stay. Note: to rent a vehicle, you must have both a valid drivers license (from your home country, or an international license) and a temporary permit, available at the agency of your choice.
Attractions:
Time and time again, visitors to St Johns are intrigued and astounded at how much fun they have while roaming around the Saturday morning markets. The streets are alive with sounds of clucking chickens, the smells of savory, sweet fruits, and the aroma of fresh picked flowers, and you rarely ever get bored of the non-stop frenzy that lasts from 8am to noon.
If youd like some respite from the aural chaos, however, you can make your way to St Johns Cathedral, the citys flagship church. Though it was first constructed in the late 17^th -century, because Antigua was the victim of repeated earthquakes throughout centuries, the church had to be reconstructed more than once. The most recent repair-job was done in 1845, and we must say, it retains an historic semblance that adds more to its luster than takes away from it. Close by is the Museum of Antigua & Barbuda, where youll get to see exhibits ranging from the islands prehistoric significance to the more-recent, successful quest for independence.
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