The twin islands are a vibrant tapestry of diverse cultures. The journey begins with the Amerindian people, the original inhabitants who thrived on the islands before the arrival of the British in the 17th century. When the British colonialists came, they brought West African slaves to toil in the sugarcane plantations like the island’s restored Betty’s Hope, which is a testament to the heartache and hardships of these people who were taken forcibly from their homeland. All these distinct groups have left an indelible mark on the country, contributing their own unique traditions, customs and food, resulting in a true mosaic of cultures in the twin islands.
The islands are home to historical sites and landmarks that reflect their colonial past, such as the aforementioned Betty’s Hope, forts and plantation houses. The crowning glory is undeniably the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nelson’s Dockyard, the island’s top tourist attraction and the oldest working Georgian dockyard in the world.
Today, Antigua & Barbuda has blossomed into a cosmopolitan melting pot, attracting individuals from across the globe who have chosen to call Antigua & Barbuda home and who have brought their own cultures into the mix.