They say once you've visited Antigua once, you'll always return and I can certainly see why. I'm not a stranger to the Caribbean, having lived in Belize and a bit further along the island in Saba, Dutch Antilles, I had an idea of what to expect. But Antigua is an island that perfectly blends tradition and keeps that caribbean vibe but will dazzle you with it's beauty and varying styles of resorts. Blue Waters has a rich history, founded by Antiguan WWII airman Osmond Kelsick as The Blue Waters Beach Hotel, it was later bought in 1984 by Englishman Ronald Randall and remains family-owned today. The first thing that strikes you is how the staff balance attentive professionalism and a family feel, making you feel welcome and relaxed.

For first-timers to Antigua – a Sunday visit to Shirley Heights is a not-to-be-missed Antiguan institution! Shirley Heights is a famous, elevated Lookout (part of the Shirley Heights military complex) on a southern tip of the island overlooking English Harbour and it is here, every Sunday from 4pm, that one of the longest running Sunday barbecue parties in the Caribbean takes place – it’s as much a Sunday tradition as going to church!
Listen to the rhythms of a steel band whilst enjoying spectacular views – this is ‘the’ place to be on a Sunday! There’s no denying that it is quintessentially ‘touristy’ – but every visitor to Antigua has to do it at least once! A great piece of advice I learned locally was to go to Shirley Heights for sunset and then venture back to your hotel for dinner – this way, you avoid the big crowds.
Hiring a car and visiting a few of the 365 beaches on the island is a great idea, it's pretty safe and easy to get around (mind the potholes!)
A Boat trip, you could venture to Barbuda and see the pink sand or like I did, take a boat trip and snorkel a wreck older than the titanic. There's really a huge choice of outings.

One of the best things about Blue Waters is that it's close to the airport and pretty central on the island. It takes around 45 mins to an hour to get pretty much anywhere by Cab or Coach.
It is located in Soldiers Bay on the north-west tip of the island, only 4 miles from the airport (about a 20 minute transfer). In my mind, this makes it the perfect fly-and-flop destination – fly direct with BA from Gatwick in 8 hours, disembark, grab your luggage and you can be at the hotel in less than 30 minutes! It’s also very easy to go exploring. The hotel can arrange taxis to take you around.
St Johns (the capital) is so close that it’s worth a visit – try Cecilia’s for an authentic ocean view lunch in a Caribbean chattel house.

English Harbour in the south provides an insight into the island’s history and its connection with Horatio Nelson.

Rest assured, one taste of Antigua will leave you wanting more! I was definitely smitten!

Tips - Take your mozzy spray (hotel provide plug ins and candles) some rooms have 3 pin english plugs, all have Netflix tv etc, take a hat as the sun is strong and leave you watch at the airport! It's Caribbean time you're on now.