Antigua and Barbuda Travel Guide

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Shopping

Uniquely Antiguan purchases include straw goods, pottery, batik and silk-screen printed fabrics, and jewelry incorporating semi-precious Antiguan stones. English bone china, crystal, French perfumes, watches and table linens are all available at very attractive prices.

Heritage Quay Complex is a shopping and entertainment area with over 50 duty-free shops, restaurants and a casino with a supper club. It forms part of the newest development in central St John’s. Brightly stocked stalls of fruit and vegetables are sold at the Public Market, along with a few locally-made crafts. In late 2001 efforts were made to unclog the public roads of street-vendors so pedestrians and vehicles could move more freely. They were moved into the multi-story Vendors Mall where they now ply their trade of handicrafts, clothing and souvenirs from 150 stalls.

Shopping hours: Mon-Fri 0830-1600 (some close 1200-1300); Sat 0800-1200. Most shops in St John's close at noon on Thursday.

Currency

Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD; symbol EC$) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of EC$100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of EC$1, and 25, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cents. US currency is accepted almost everywhere.

The EC Dollar is tied to the US Dollar.

Currency Exchange

Although the EC Dollar is tied to the US Dollar, exchange rates will vary at different exchange establishments. There are international banks in St John’s, and Pound Sterling and US Dollars can be exchanged at hotels and in the larger shops.

Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and ATMs

American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are accepted. ATMs are available in major resorts.

Travelers Checks

Are widely accepted. They can be exchanged at international banks, hotels and the larger stores. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travelers are advised to take traveler's checks in US Dollars.

Currency Restrictions

There are no limits on the import of local and foreign currency, provided it is declared upon arrival. The export of local and foreign currency is permitted up to the amount imported and declared.

Banking Hours

Mon-Thurs 0800-1500; Fri 0800-1300 and 1500-1700 (some banks open until midday on Saturday).

Exchange Rate