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Antigua & Barbuda

  Coastal   Beaches  

Antigua and Barbuda is a twin-island country located in the Eastern Caribbean, known for its reef-lined beaches, rainforests, and resorts. Antigua, the larger of the two main islands, is ringed with coral reefs and known for its many sandy beaches, numbering into the hundreds. The island's English Harbour and the historic Nelson's Dockyard are national parks, which reflect the country's colonial history with the British Navy. St. John's, the capital and largest city, is dominated by the white baroque towers of St. John's Cathedral and has a lively commercial center. Barbuda, the smaller island, is known for its secluded beaches and is a haven for wildlife, including the frigate bird colony in the Codrington Lagoon. The local culture is a vibrant mix of West African, British, and Creole influences, reflected in its music, cuisine, and festivals like the annual Carnival. The economy is primarily driven by tourism, but the country also has a growing financial services sector. The islands are occasionally threatened by hurricanes, which can cause significant damage. Despite this, the country's natural beauty and friendly locals make it a popular destination for travelers seeking a quintessential Caribbean experience.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Antigua and Barbuda is considered moderate. While it is lower than some of its Caribbean neighbors, the cost of imported goods and utilities can be relatively high.

Weather

Antigua & Barbuda experiences a tropical maritime climate with little seasonal temperature variation. The islands are generally warm and sunny throughout the year, with a wet season from June to November and a drier season from December to May. Hurricanes and tropical storms can affect the islands during the wet season.

Educational System Antigua & Barbuda

The educational system in Antigua and Barbuda is structured similarly to the British model, reflecting the country's history as a former British colony. Education is compulsory for children between the ages of 5 and 16. The system is divided into three levels: primary, secondary, and tertiary. Primary education begins with kindergarten, followed by six years of elementary education. Students then move on to secondary education, which lasts for five years and culminates in the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) examinations. Successful students may continue to two additional years of advanced secondary education, leading to the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE). The government of Antigua and Barbuda prioritizes education, and as such, public schooling is free for citizens, though there are also private schools available. The academic year typically starts in September and ends in July, with breaks in December and April. The quality of education is generally good, with a literacy rate of over 90%. Schools in Antigua and Barbuda focus on preparing students for higher education and the workforce with a curriculum that includes English, mathematics, science, and social studies, as well as opportunities for vocational training. For families moving to Antigua and Barbuda, it's important to note that the primary language of instruction is English, and the education system is well-regarded for its structured approach and comprehensive curriculum

Healthcare in Antigua & Barbuda

The healthcare system in Antigua & Barbuda consists of both public and private healthcare services. The public healthcare system is accessible to all citizens and legal residents, including the Mount St. John's Medical Centre, which is the main hospital on the island of Antigua. There are also several health clinics distributed throughout the islands. While the public healthcare system provides essential services, it may sometimes lack the resources and equipment found in more developed countries. Private healthcare, on the other hand, offers more specialized services and generally shorter waiting times, but at a higher cost. The quality of healthcare can vary, with private healthcare typically providing a higher standard of care compared to public services. Expats and digital nomads can access public healthcare once they are legal residents or if they contribute to the Medical Benefits Scheme through employment. However, many expats and digital nomads choose to have private health insurance to cover more comprehensive healthcare services and medical emergencies.

Best Places to Live in Antigua & Barbuda
Discover the top-ranked towns in Antigua & Barbuda. Click on the town's name for a full profile of each town.
Rankings are based on a combination of many factors including schools, recreation, family-friendliness, cost of living and crime.

Universities in Antigua & Barbuda

The university system in Antigua and Barbuda is growing, with the main institution being the University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus. This campus was established to serve the tertiary education needs of the Eastern Caribbean and offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Degree programs typically take three to four years to complete for a bachelor's degree and an additional one to two years for a master's degree. The academic year is divided into two semesters, with a third, shorter summer semester for certain courses. As a foreign student considering attending university in Antigua and Barbuda, it's important to be aware that the costs can vary depending on the program and level of study. Tuition fees for international students are generally higher than for local students. In addition to tuition, students should budget for accommodation, food, transportation, and other living expenses. The UWI Five Islands Campus provides a supportive environment for international students, including orientation programs and student services. The campus is equipped with modern facilities, and the faculty is experienced and qualified. The university aims to provide a high-quality education that prepares students for the global job market. For specific program costs, foreign students should consult the university's website or contact the admissions office directly

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Living in Antigua & Barbuda

Healthcare in Antigua & Barbuda

The healthcare system in Antigua & Barbuda consists of both public and private healthcare services. The public healthcare system is accessible to all citizens and legal residents, including the Mount St. John's Medical Centre, which is the main hospital on the island of Antigua. There are also several health clinics distributed throughout the islands. While the public healthcare system provides essential services, it may sometimes lack the resources and equipment found in more developed countries. Private healthcare, on the other hand, offers more specialized services and generally shorter waiting times, but at a higher cost. The quality of healthcare can vary, with private healthcare typically providing a higher standard of care compared to public services. Expats and digital nomads can access public healthcare once they are legal residents or if they contribute to the Medical Benefits Scheme through employment. However, many expats and digital nomads choose to have private health insurance to cover more comprehensive healthcare services and medical emergencies.

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