Antigua is a small island, and before I was invited to visit I can’t say I would have been able to point it out on a map. Famous for their massive annual sailing regatta and coral reefs, this beautiful Caribbean gem is the home of 365 beaches – literally a different one for each day of the year!
Caribbean travel is often considered to be a luxury market, out of reach for the average 20-something, which is why I was so thrilled to find out about Starfish Jolly Beach Resort.
Starfish Jolly Beach is a beautiful all inclusive with an expansive beach just steps away from your room and prices are really reasonable to boot. There are 4 on-site restaurants, bars around every corner, huge pools, and SO many pastel spots! If you’re looking for a vacation with a bustling urban city to explore Antigua likely isn’t for you, but if you’re hoping to relax on a beach and get some sun? Well, there are 365 beaches waiting for you and it’s almost always sunny (seriously).
My days at the resort were filled with flowers, piña coladas and maybe the best massage of my life – we even went out sailing but sadly we missed the lessons. I was travelling with a handful of awesome girls and the resort welcomed us the first evening with a stunning dinner setup right on the beach. It actually felt like a honeymoon moment and if you’re travelling with a partner I highly suggest this romantic addition to your stay!
Outside the resort we took a Nexus tour, which usually isn’t my travel style (I like to live like a local whenever I can) but I had SO much fun! We went off-roading in an open jeep all over the island, then boarded a massive catamaran for snorkelling with an open bar and local fare to follow. That boat was one of the best days of my 2018 year so far – we danced our butts off, we jumped off the bow (port bow?) and the crew even created a special drink for only our group (some sort of sunrise rum punch magic that was VERY strong). If you’re interested, it was this tour option!
Other than the tour there wasn’t a lot going on outside the resort with Antigua being such a small place, but we did take a walk to the grocery store just outside the Jolly Beach gates and stock up on Antiguan essentials like Susie’s Hot Sauce (hot tip – it’s way cheaper at the grocery store than a tourist shop!) I’ve also heard rumours of a donkey sanctuary and Stingray City where you can swim with the rays, but sadly we ran out of time.
My overall review? I loved everything about this trip, from the awesome group of girls I got to spend my days with to the crazy cute mint green wicker furniture in our hotel rooms at Starfish Jolly Beach. If you’re looking for an affordable stop in the sun with no worries in the world, this is your spot. Just don’t forget your sunscreen!
Special thank you to Fido for their amazing #FidoRoam plan – it makes daily travel data rates so easy with no hidden fees!