Anchorage Rooms (Budget)

Anchorage Rooms is located to the south of the island, in English Harbour. This is a historical area, where in colonial times the British Navy based their operations. Nowadays, it serves as a base for the biggest "tourist" event, Sailing Week. There is also a thriving yachting industry in the area, and during the tourist season this area gets quite busy.


Pros
There is lots to love about Anchorage Rooms. First off, is the price. Despite the fact that it is located smack dab in the middle of one of the busiest tourist areas, you can get a room for as low as $75 per night, taxes included, in the high season! The buildings are relatively new, and well maintained. Of course, all rooms are en suite, and there is free wi-fi internet provided for guests. There is lots to do in the area, including restaurants, bars, the biggest "club" in the area (Abracadabras aka Abras), the historic Nelson's Dockyard,  and beaches, all within 5-10 minutes quick walk. The bus system in this area is generally reliable and runs relatively late, so you can easily get by without renting a car here. There is even a small cafe downstairs.

Cons
The biggest con here occurs during high season, which is simply getting a room! Other than that, most rooms come without AC (they do have ceiling fans) though I understand they are putting AC units in some of the rooms. Also, it does tend to get a bit noisy during the high season, with people walking around and several bars booming, so if you're here in March/April and your ONLY reason for a vacation was tranquility, this may not necessarily be the best place for you. Also, it doesn't appear that the rooms have any kitchen facilities, but this is such a minor issue in an area with a huge range of affordable eats that it would be nitpicking to point this out as a major problem.

VERDICT

Anchorage rooms is a gem of accommodation. Great location, great rooms, for a fabulous price. A near perfect pick for a person looking for cheap yet comfortable accommodation in Antigua.

4.5 out of 5 stars

Paige Pond Country Inn (Superbudget)

Paige Pond Country Inn is a pretty guesthouse located pretty much smack dab in the center of the island. Rates start at about 55 US per night, and can be booked from their website.


PROS
The pros about Paige Pond is that they seemingly having excellent high quality accommodation for a seriously low price. Both the outside appearance and the rooms themselves are clean and well maintained, something that is not often done with accommodation this cheap, and all the rooms are fitted with AC, which is a godsend for some of the stifling hot days The furnishings in the rooms are relatively new, none of that "rustic" (aka run down) look that you get with other cheaper places, and you have a decent kitchenette in even the cheapest rooms, as well as FREE wifi. It's far away from the hustle and bustle of St. John's/English Harbour, and the views just a little way down the road are simply spectacular, as they look over the valley of the Body Ponds.

CONS
On the other side, the cons are that this place is pretty out of the way. It's in the middle of the island, far away from the main points of St. John's on the northwest, Jolly Harbour on the southwest, and English Harbour in the south of the island. There aren't any supermarkets in the area, though there is a small onsite shop that will provide the bare essentials. There is a bus service on the route, but if you're intending on enjoying the nightlife you may be better off renting a car, or taking a taxi, especially at night.

VERDICT
The verdict is, Paige Pond is a great budget buy, clean, cheap, and comfortable, and lots of useful amentities.  Well worth it if you're willing to rent a car or are willing to take the bus, though you will have to stock up on supplies if you'll be staying here for a while.

Rating:

3.5 out of 5 stars

About budget Antigua

Many visitors to the island  of Antigua and Barbuda seem to think that it's an "expensive" island. Having grown up here, I can assure you that it's not. In fact, there is a wide range of inexpensive accommodation, restaurants, bars and activities around the island. Unfortunately, most of these places are smaller, or have a small budget, and thus receive a lot less coverage and buzz than other places. I've taken it upon myself to put these places on the map to show the world that coming to Antigua and Barbuda doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg. Welcome to Budget Antigua.