Embracing the Island Life: A Guide to Living in Antigua

So, you have chosen a luxury villa and created a complete list of the things to do in Antigua that will keep you preoccupied once you move there. While you might be excited at the thought of finally moving, have you prepared for the possible change in your lifestyle?

As someone who will be a citizen for the first time, you might have plenty of questions. Is Antigua safe? How friendly are the locals? Will I be able to feel at home there?

To help you adjust and get used to your upcoming new chapter on a tropical island in the Caribbean, here are some tips for living comfortably in Antigua:

1. The Safety of Antigua

Antigua is generally considered one of the safest islands in the Caribbean and has a low crime rate. All you need to do to avoid petty risks is to follow common-sense safety practices, such as not leaving your belongings unattended, carrying large amounts of cash when visiting local destinations, and avoiding late-night walks alone while under the influence of alcohol.

2. Environmental Awareness

The island of Antigua is very particular about being environmentally friendly, and you’ll notice immediately once you interact with the community. In 2016, Antigua and Barbuda issued a permanent ban on plastics and encouraged people to leave no traces anywhere, especially on beaches and forests. You’ll see how clean and respectful Antigua is to nature, so consider being the same.

3. Strong Sense of Community

The citizens of Antigua are a tight-knit community that values socialising and connecting with everyone, whether it’s travellers or the locals. This is an excellent way to build your sense of belongingness and social aptitude, and the friendliness of the locals can help you integrate into the island quite easily.

4. Check the Currency

Antigua and Barbuda uses two types of currencies: the US Dollar (USD) and the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). Unfortunately, both use the $ sign, so it may be confusing when you’re buying something. 

Make it a habit to ask the vendor or seller what specific currency they are using for their goods or services. Since you are living in Antigua, you might as well exchange your cash into XCD for easier transactions.

Move in With Us at Tamarind Hills

Are you still looking for the ideal place in Antigua to call your home? Visit Tamarind Hills – the island’s premier boutique resort – for condominiums, townhouses, and luxury villas sold on a freehold basis.

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