First and foremost, (belated) Merry Christmas to all! Sorry I haven't been keeping up, but I'm back now and here to give you a reivew of my trip to C&C Winebar - which of course is not accommodation, but a decent place to eat!
C&C is, as decribed, a "bar" but so much more! Located in the historical Redcliffe Quay, the outside setting really gives the place a great ambience. They have an extensive range of wines, but specialise in South African Wines. In addition to the drinks, they also serve finger food - including chicken wings, fries, coconut shrimp, cheese platters. The prices for these are extremely decent - 6 chicken wings for $12 EC (or $4.50 US) works about to be a great price, and the wine servings start at about $8-9 EC. I've noticed that they recently expanded, so hoping to try them out again pretty soon.
Cheers!
(Pictures to come later, when my main computer is back up!)
Monday, December 31, 2012
Friday, December 14, 2012
Sorry for the delay!
Hey guys, sorry for the fact that I haven't been posting for the past few days. Things have been CRAZY busy for the past month, both at work and personally. I promise at least 2 new awesome budget antigua posts before christmas, so watch out for those!
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
3 Martinis Beach Bar, Restaurant and Apartments
3 Martinis Beachbar, Restaurant and Apartments
So I was passing by Turners beach the other day. Since I’d
never actually walked ALL the way along the beach, I decided that this would be
the perfect opportunity to. At the end of the beach I stumbled onto the 3
Martinis.
Pros
The best thing about
3 Martinis is it’s proximity to the beach. It is located on the opposite side
of the road to the beach, literally a stones throw away, just a few steps and
you’re on the beautiful, nearly mile long beach. Not only that, the slight
elevation means beautiful views of neighbouring Montserrat
Of course, there is the price. This starts at 75$ US per
night – nothing short of a fantastic bargain for beach side accommodation
Another pro is location location location. 3 Martinis is
located on the South West Coast, with a long stretch of Turners beach right in
front of you. The guesthouse has a restaurant located right downstairs. Should
you get tired of this fare, though, there is Keyonna Beach Club which is a bit
more upscale, and then Turners Beach Bar at the end of the beach. These are all
5-10 minutes easy walking distance.
You will also be right on the bus route, meaning easy access
to a number of beaches, hotels, and other attractions located along the coast.
This includes Jolly Harbour, with a supermarket, many restaurants, and shopping.
CONS
3 Martini’s Bar is certainly dated. You get an immediate
“rustic” vibe, and the peeling paint immediately signals the fact that the
exterior is in serious need of upkeep, which is a regular comment from those who
have stayed there. Unfortunately, I haven’t had a proper look inside, so I can’t
really comment on the décor. It is also my understand that there’s no AC, so if
you’re a city dweller who absolutely NEEDS their room at a well maintained 72
degrees, this may not be the place for you.
VERDICT
3 Martinis offers an excellent opportunity for those who
enjoy opening their windows and looking down on a beautiful ocean and a white
sandy beach. While it is no luxury accommodation by any means, and is in need
of a bit of sprucing up, it makes up for this in heart and having a fantastic
location. It also works well as a base in exploring other beaches and areas of
interest around the island.
RATING
3.5 out of 5 stars
Friday, October 26, 2012
Inn La Galleria - Super Budget
Inn La Galleria is located on the North Western side of the island, right off the village of Five Islands. This area contains several lovely beaches, the best of which is arguably Deep Bay, located 10 minutes walk or so (if you take the shortcut) from Inn La Galleria
PROS
For what it offers, Galleria is the cheapest on the island. Period. Prices start from 48 US per night, all taxes included. All rooms are air conditioned and come with en suite bathrooms, which means that you won't have to be sharing with anyone else. It is located on top of a small hill, giving you spectacular views of the Deep Bay. There is also the breakfast option for an extra $10US per person, a steal of a deal since it's an *actual* breakfast instead of just toast and cereal. It's a small property (12 rooms if I'm correct) meaning that there are no irritating noises, sights or activities that you'll experience on a large resort. You also have the option of walking down to the beach, although this will depend on the security at Grand Royal Antiguan since you'll have to walk through their lobby. However, Deep Bay is easily one of the best beaches on the island, so is well worth the trek.
CONS
Inn La Galleria is a proper "budget" accommodation. This means that the inn, unfortunately, is not always up to many people's standards. Much upkeep is necessary, both inside and outside of the rooms, as well as in some cases new furniture, better bedding, etc. "Shabby chic" may be one of the words that comes to mind when describing Galleria
Another issue is the location. It's not very close to town or any of the other main areas of the island, meaning that you'll either have to rent a car, or get a taxi, or bus. While there is public transport, it's mainly only available during the day, and runs rarely on Sunday, making transport difficult. Also, if you are planning on staying for an extended period, you will need to stock up somewhere else, as there are no major supermarkets in the village.
VERDICT
Inn La Galleria is a great place for backpackers and people looking to save some money or are not very particular about their budget surroundings. While there may be a few issues regarding upkeep, make no mistake: This is a great deal, with cheap accommodation and a great nearby beach, more than worth the price you'll pay.
RATING
3.5 out of 5 stars
PROS
For what it offers, Galleria is the cheapest on the island. Period. Prices start from 48 US per night, all taxes included. All rooms are air conditioned and come with en suite bathrooms, which means that you won't have to be sharing with anyone else. It is located on top of a small hill, giving you spectacular views of the Deep Bay. There is also the breakfast option for an extra $10US per person, a steal of a deal since it's an *actual* breakfast instead of just toast and cereal. It's a small property (12 rooms if I'm correct) meaning that there are no irritating noises, sights or activities that you'll experience on a large resort. You also have the option of walking down to the beach, although this will depend on the security at Grand Royal Antiguan since you'll have to walk through their lobby. However, Deep Bay is easily one of the best beaches on the island, so is well worth the trek.
CONS
Inn La Galleria is a proper "budget" accommodation. This means that the inn, unfortunately, is not always up to many people's standards. Much upkeep is necessary, both inside and outside of the rooms, as well as in some cases new furniture, better bedding, etc. "Shabby chic" may be one of the words that comes to mind when describing Galleria
Another issue is the location. It's not very close to town or any of the other main areas of the island, meaning that you'll either have to rent a car, or get a taxi, or bus. While there is public transport, it's mainly only available during the day, and runs rarely on Sunday, making transport difficult. Also, if you are planning on staying for an extended period, you will need to stock up somewhere else, as there are no major supermarkets in the village.
VERDICT
Inn La Galleria is a great place for backpackers and people looking to save some money or are not very particular about their budget surroundings. While there may be a few issues regarding upkeep, make no mistake: This is a great deal, with cheap accommodation and a great nearby beach, more than worth the price you'll pay.
RATING
3.5 out of 5 stars
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Sweet T's Ice Cream Parlour and Snackette
I've done quite a few hotels, so I figured it's now time for something different.
Sweet T's is located to the southern part of the island, in the village of Falmouth, just a few minutes drive away from English Harbour. It's brightly coloured building on the left hand side as you are driving towards English Harbour just before Bailey's Supermarket. Although it's named an "Ice Cream Parlour" it is so much more than that. There are a wide range of normal, fast foods (e.g. burgers, hot dogs and fries) which you can get at the normal "local" prices - e.g. starting at about $15 EC (or about $6.50 US) you can get a decent burger and fries, or something similar. Personally, it's a godsend, and I highly recommend it to ESPECIALLY those going to the Shirley Heights lime, which has (in my opinion) somewhat exhorbitant prices for the said same fast food.
Of course, they also sell a wide variety of sweet treats, including ice cream. However, to me the real draw is the creative and inventive "milkshakes. Most of these involve alcohol, although there are probably some virgin, but taste wonderful and go down well, and there are a wide varieties of flavours and styles to choose from.
The only minor quibble is that it is exclusively outdoor, meaning that especially at dusk there may be a few mosquitos trying to take a bite. Other than that, it is a great recommendation for anyone staying or passing through the English Harbour/Falmouth community.
RATING
4.5 out of 5
Sweet T's is located to the southern part of the island, in the village of Falmouth, just a few minutes drive away from English Harbour. It's brightly coloured building on the left hand side as you are driving towards English Harbour just before Bailey's Supermarket. Although it's named an "Ice Cream Parlour" it is so much more than that. There are a wide range of normal, fast foods (e.g. burgers, hot dogs and fries) which you can get at the normal "local" prices - e.g. starting at about $15 EC (or about $6.50 US) you can get a decent burger and fries, or something similar. Personally, it's a godsend, and I highly recommend it to ESPECIALLY those going to the Shirley Heights lime, which has (in my opinion) somewhat exhorbitant prices for the said same fast food.
Of course, they also sell a wide variety of sweet treats, including ice cream. However, to me the real draw is the creative and inventive "milkshakes. Most of these involve alcohol, although there are probably some virgin, but taste wonderful and go down well, and there are a wide varieties of flavours and styles to choose from.
The only minor quibble is that it is exclusively outdoor, meaning that especially at dusk there may be a few mosquitos trying to take a bite. Other than that, it is a great recommendation for anyone staying or passing through the English Harbour/Falmouth community.
RATING
4.5 out of 5
Thursday, October 11, 2012
B and J's Guest House (Budget)
So I'm going to write a post on place that I have never seen any kinds of reviews or feedback on - hopefully someone will be able to stay there and tell me what it's like!
PROS
B and J's Guesthouse is located in the main (and only) city of Antigua and Barbuda, which is St. John's. This means that there's plenty of access to all the capital has to offer, including shops, food, transport, etc. There are lots of people who don't necessarily need to be situated on or near a beach, but like the convenience of town, and this is probably the place for you! At $80 US per night, this is a very decent price being offered, and a bit cheaper than the rest of the accommodation in the city of St. John's (meaning Heritage Hotel and City View) It's a proper self catering apartment, which means that you can save money by preparing food there or go out to a restaurant in St. John's. The place looks to be in decent condition, and there is (allegedly) air conditioning and internet access. When I spoke to the gentleman involved, he also seemed quite happy to give me a discount if I considered staying there. Being in St. John's, there is relatively close access to the islands two main bus stations (about 10 minutes walk) so transport will be relatively easy to come by.
CONS
It's possible that a large amount of traffic, both human and vehicular, can keep one up at night. Also, although the area is "relatively" safe, it certainly isn't as safe to walk around at night, as there would not be the level of security you would have with another guesthouse/resort. Also, THERE IS NO WEBSITE!!! Something critical in this day and age! Doesn't seem to be a facebook page either. However, you can get their details from this site:http://www.antiguahotels.org/v2/hotel.php?id=53
VERDICT
Although St. John's may not be the best place to spend a relaxing vacation, there are many people who would appreciate the merits of staying in the city of St. John's. Clean, well appointed, and very reasonably priced, B and J's Guesthouse represents a great deal for people hoping to stay in the capital city.
RATING
3.5 out of 5 stars
PROS
B and J's Guesthouse is located in the main (and only) city of Antigua and Barbuda, which is St. John's. This means that there's plenty of access to all the capital has to offer, including shops, food, transport, etc. There are lots of people who don't necessarily need to be situated on or near a beach, but like the convenience of town, and this is probably the place for you! At $80 US per night, this is a very decent price being offered, and a bit cheaper than the rest of the accommodation in the city of St. John's (meaning Heritage Hotel and City View) It's a proper self catering apartment, which means that you can save money by preparing food there or go out to a restaurant in St. John's. The place looks to be in decent condition, and there is (allegedly) air conditioning and internet access. When I spoke to the gentleman involved, he also seemed quite happy to give me a discount if I considered staying there. Being in St. John's, there is relatively close access to the islands two main bus stations (about 10 minutes walk) so transport will be relatively easy to come by.
CONS
It's possible that a large amount of traffic, both human and vehicular, can keep one up at night. Also, although the area is "relatively" safe, it certainly isn't as safe to walk around at night, as there would not be the level of security you would have with another guesthouse/resort. Also, THERE IS NO WEBSITE!!! Something critical in this day and age! Doesn't seem to be a facebook page either. However, you can get their details from this site:http://www.antiguahotels.org/v2/hotel.php?id=53
VERDICT
Although St. John's may not be the best place to spend a relaxing vacation, there are many people who would appreciate the merits of staying in the city of St. John's. Clean, well appointed, and very reasonably priced, B and J's Guesthouse represents a great deal for people hoping to stay in the capital city.
RATING
3.5 out of 5 stars
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Barrymore Beach Club (Budget)
Antigua is well known for it's 365 beaches. Unfortunately, beachside resorts tend to run far more expensive than most budgeters can afford. However, Barrymore Beach Club is a great opportunity for an affordable vacation right on the beach without breaking the budget.
PROS:
Barrymore Beach Club is located right on a beautiful beach, Runaway Bay. This is on the North West Coast of Antigua. Runaway Beach is located right next to Dickenson Bay, the less beautiful yet more popular of the beaches. One of the fabulous things about Runaway is that you get a beautiful, nearly secluded beach, yet access to the many restaurants, bars, and other amenities located just 5-10 minutes walk away at Dickenson Bay, with one or two of these located on Runaway itself.
The price ranges from around $85 US a night in off season to about $120 during the high season for a one bedroom apartment. Again, for a property where you can literally walk onto the beach, this is a fabulous bargain. You are also located relatively close to town (although you may still need a car to get there) and two major supermarkets (Epicurean and First Choice) are also located just about a 5 minute drive away, with a small shop which sells the basic amenities at Dickenson Bay a few minutes away. The option of self catering is there if you don't feel like walking to a restaurant every day or would like to save a bit of money.
CONS:
Not many cons. It would seem that AC is either not provided in some rooms, or provided at an extra charge in other rooms, which *may* be a bit of a problem if you're not used to the hot weather, although ceiling fans are in all the rooms. There also doesn't seem to be a dedicated website, although you can book it through VRBO (Vacation Rentals By Owner)
VERDICT
Barrymore Beach Club is a great deal for those looking for an affordable beachside vacation. There is the ability to relax on a gorgeous, clear beach, or visit a far more lively one just a few minutes away. With few drawbacks, and a price cheap enough to fit most pockets, this is nearly a perfect budget vacation getaway.
RATING
4.5 out of 5 stars
PROS:
Barrymore Beach Club is located right on a beautiful beach, Runaway Bay. This is on the North West Coast of Antigua. Runaway Beach is located right next to Dickenson Bay, the less beautiful yet more popular of the beaches. One of the fabulous things about Runaway is that you get a beautiful, nearly secluded beach, yet access to the many restaurants, bars, and other amenities located just 5-10 minutes walk away at Dickenson Bay, with one or two of these located on Runaway itself.
The price ranges from around $85 US a night in off season to about $120 during the high season for a one bedroom apartment. Again, for a property where you can literally walk onto the beach, this is a fabulous bargain. You are also located relatively close to town (although you may still need a car to get there) and two major supermarkets (Epicurean and First Choice) are also located just about a 5 minute drive away, with a small shop which sells the basic amenities at Dickenson Bay a few minutes away. The option of self catering is there if you don't feel like walking to a restaurant every day or would like to save a bit of money.
CONS:
Not many cons. It would seem that AC is either not provided in some rooms, or provided at an extra charge in other rooms, which *may* be a bit of a problem if you're not used to the hot weather, although ceiling fans are in all the rooms. There also doesn't seem to be a dedicated website, although you can book it through VRBO (Vacation Rentals By Owner)
VERDICT
Barrymore Beach Club is a great deal for those looking for an affordable beachside vacation. There is the ability to relax on a gorgeous, clear beach, or visit a far more lively one just a few minutes away. With few drawbacks, and a price cheap enough to fit most pockets, this is nearly a perfect budget vacation getaway.
RATING
4.5 out of 5 stars
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