Discover Antigua and Barbuda: Top Movies, TV Series, and Books Set in the Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda, the twin-island nation nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, has been the setting for an array of films, TV series, and books. Its vibrant culture, picturesque landscapes, and captivating history provide a unique backdrop for storytelling. This comprehensive guide will take you on an exploration of the famous films, TV shows, and books set in Antigua and Barbuda, along with a deep-dive into the locations where these narratives come to life.

Whether you are a film enthusiast, a literature lover, or an adventurous traveler, this guide will serve as your compass, navigating you through the cinematic and literary lanes of Antigua and Barbuda.

10 Famous Films Shot in Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda’s breathtaking beauty and distinctive Caribbean charm have attracted many filmmakers. Here are ten films that have immortalized the islands on the silver screen:

1. The Royal Treatment (2021) – This romantic comedy tells the story of a small-town hairdresser who falls in love with a prince, highlighting the island’s lush landscapes and luxury resorts.
2. How Stella Got Her Groove Back (1998) – Featuring scenes shot in Antigua, this film showcases the island’s tropical allure, playing a pivotal role in Stella’s transformative journey.
3. Crossbones (2014) – This pirate-themed TV series, though set in the Bahamas, was primarily filmed in Antigua, making full use of its pristine beaches and historic harbors.
4. Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (2011) – Antigua’s beautiful coastline serves as a backdrop in the fourth installment of this popular franchise.
5. Island in the Sun (1957) – This drama, set in the fictional Caribbean island of Santa Marta, was partly filmed in Antigua, capturing the island’s vibrant culture and stunning vistas.
6. The Pavilion (2004) – This Civil War-era drama used Antigua’s historic sites to depict its 19th-century setting, underlining the island’s architectural heritage.
7. Team Knight Rider (1997–1998) – The tropical setting of Antigua was used in several episodes of this action-adventure TV series.
8. The Firm (1993) – Antigua’s idyllic beaches and luxury resorts feature prominently in this legal thriller, serving as a stark contrast to the film’s tense plot.
9. The Skin (2011) – This Antiguan-produced film showcases local talent and features many of the island’s iconic locations, providing a glimpse into its folklore.
10. No Place Like Home (2006) – Filmed in Antigua, this drama highlights the island’s natural beauty and the challenges faced by its people.

These films not only entertain but also offer viewers a virtual tour of Antigua and Barbuda, from its idyllic beaches to its historic sites.

5 TV Shows Set in Antigua and Barbuda

The captivating aura of Antigua and Barbuda has also been reflected in several TV shows. Here are five series that have brought the spirit of these islands to the small screen:

1. Death in Paradise (2011–present) – While primarily filmed in Guadeloupe, the show’s fictional Saint Marie island shares many similarities with Antigua and Barbuda, including its beautiful beaches, colorful architecture, and vibrant culture.
2. Crossbones (2014) – This action-adventure series, set in the “golden age of piracy,” was mainly filmed in Antigua, capturing the island’s lush landscapes and historic forts.
3. The Amazing Race (2001–present) – The reality show’s second season featured Antigua as one of its destinations, with teams competing in challenges that highlighted the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
4. Ainsley’s Caribbean Kitchen (2019–present) – Celebrity chef Ainsley Harriott explores Antigua’s culinary scene in this cooking show, visiting local markets, fishing villages, and rum distilleries.
5. The Windsors at War (2020) – This documentary series includes an episode focused on Prince Harry’s military service in Barbuda, offering insights into the island’s role in the British military.

These TV shows encapsulate the essence of Antigua and Barbuda, from its stunning landscapes to its rich history and culture.

5 Animated Films Set in Antigua and Barbuda

While the genre of animated films set in Antigua and Barbuda is relatively unexplored, the nation’s vibrant culture and scenic beauty provide a treasure trove of inspiration. Here’s a list of animated films that, while not set in Antigua and Barbuda, evoke a Caribbean spirit akin to these islands:

1. The Princess and the Frog (2009) – While set in New Orleans, this Disney film portrays the rich culture and folklore of the Caribbean, which resonate with the cultural heritage of Antigua and Barbuda.
2. Moana (2016) – Moana’s journey across the Pacific shares similarities with the seafaring history of the Caribbean islands, including Antigua and Barbuda.
3. Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003) – Although a live-action film, its animated ride at Disneyland recreates the Caribbean’s pirate-infested waters, reminiscent of Antigua’s history.
4. The Pirates (2012) – The film’s depiction of the high seas and pirate adventures mirrors the maritime history of Antigua and Barbuda.
5. Rio (2011) – The vibrant colors, music, and festivity in this film capture the spirit of the Caribbean, similar to the festive atmosphere of Antigua’s annual carnival.

These animated features, with their Caribbean undertones, offer a taste of the vibrancy of Antigua and Barbuda’s culture and history.

Famous Books Set in Antigua and Barbuda: 3 Classic and 3 Contemporary

Antigua and Barbuda have provided a vibrant setting for both classic and contemporary literature. Here are six notable books that bring the spirit of these islands to life:

Classic:

1. “To Shoot Hard Labour” by Keithlyn and Fernando Smith – This memoir presents a vivid portrayal of Antiguan life in the early to mid-20th century, offering valuable insights into the island’s history.
2. “Annie John” by Jamaica Kincaid – Set in Antigua, this novel explores the complexities of mother-daughter relationships, adolescence, and colonialism.
3. “A Small Place” by Jamaica Kincaid – This powerful essay critiques tourism and the lingering effects of colonialism in Antigua.

Contemporary:

1. “Unburnable” by Marie-Elena John – This novel, set in modern-day Antigua and Washington, D.C., delves into Caribbean folklore, the legacy of slavery, and a woman’s journey to uncover her family’s past.
2. “The Ladies are Upstairs” by Merle Collins – This collection of interconnected stories spans from 1920s Grenada to present-day Antigua, weaving a narrative of resilience, identity, and migration.
3. “Lucy” by Jamaica Kincaid – This semi-autobiographical novel tells the story of a young woman from the West Indies who becomes an au pair in the United States, exploring themes of colonialism, gender, and power dynamics.

These books, from the classic narratives of Jamaica Kincaid to the contemporary stories of Marie-Elena John, offer readers an immersive journey into the culture, history, and social dynamics of Antigua and Barbuda.

Exploring Antigua and Barbuda Filming Locations: Where to Go

Antigua and Barbuda, with their picturesque beaches, historic sites, and vibrant towns, offer a wealth of filming locations. Here are some essential spots to visit:

1. English Harbour – Known for its historic Nelson’s Dockyard, it’s been featured in “Crossbones” and “The Royal Treatment.”
2. St. John’s – The nation’s capital, with its colorful buildings and bustling market, has appeared in various films and TV series.
3. Dickenson Bay – This popular beach, with its clear waters and white sands, has served as a backdrop for numerous films.
4. Shirley Heights – This lookout point, offering panoramic views of English Harbour, has been featured in several movies and TV shows.
5. Devil’s Bridge – This naturally formed limestone arch, surrounded by the crashing waves of the Atlantic, provides a dramatic setting for any scene.

Exploring these locations offers a blend of entertainment and sightseeing, allowing visitors to experience the rich film heritage of Antigua and Barbuda.

Where to Sleep in Antigua and Barbuda: 3 Cheap and 3 Luxury Options

Whether you prefer a budget-friendly guesthouse or a luxury resort, Antigua and Barbuda offer accommodations to suit every traveler. Here are three budget and three luxury options:

Budget:

1. Eko Cozy Guest House – Located in St. John’s, this guesthouse offers budget rooms with basic amenities.
2. Antigua Seaview – These affordable apartments, located near Fort Bay, offer stunning sea views.
3. The Larder – This unique option offers a stylish, budget-friendly stay above a popular restaurant in St. John’s.

Luxury:

1. Carlisle Bay – Located on the island’s south coast, this luxury resort offers suite-only accommodations, a private beach, and a full-service spa.
2. Curtain Bluff Resort – This all-inclusive luxury resort, located on a peninsula, offers beachfront rooms, gourmet dining, and a variety of water sports.
3. Jumby Bay Island – Accessible only by boat, this private island resort offers luxury villines, pristine beaches, and world-class dining.

These accommodations, from cozy guesthouses to luxurious resorts, cater to a variety of budgets and preferences, allowing every traveler to find their perfect stay in Antigua and Barbuda.

Where to Eat in Antigua and Barbuda: 3 Budget and 3 Luxury Options

From roadside food stands to upscale beachfront dining, Antigua and Barbuda offer a diverse culinary scene. Here are three budget-friendly eateries and three luxury dining options:

Budget:

1. OJ’s Beach Bar & Restaurant – Located in Crabbe Hill Village, OJ’s offers affordable Caribbean cuisine right on the beach.
2. Bayside Restaurant – This relaxed eatery in St. John’s offers local dishes at reasonable prices.
3. Roti Sue – Located in All Saints, this small eatery specializes in roti, a local favorite.

Luxury:

1. Sheer Rocks – Located in Valley Church, this luxury restaurant offers Mediterranean cuisine, tapas, and stunning sunset views.
2. Catherine’s Café – This chic beach café in English Harbour offers French and Caribbean cuisine, fine wines, and beachfront dining.
3. Carmichael’s – Located atop Sugar Ridge, this upscale restaurant offers international cuisine with a Caribbean twist and panoramic views of the island.

Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly local cuisine or luxurious gourmet dining, Antigua and Barbuda’s culinary scene has something for everyone.

Detailed Itinerary for Exploring Antigua and Barbuda Day by Day

Embark on a five-day journey through Antigua and Barbuda, exploring the islands’ cinematic and literary locations:

Day 1: St. John’s

Start your tour in the capital city, visiting locations featured in films and books. Explore the bustling market, the colorful buildings, and end your day at a local eatery.

Day 2: English Harbour and Nelson’s Dockyard

Visit the historic English Harbour, featured in “Crossbones.” Explore Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Day 3: Dickenson Bay

Spend the day at Dickenson Bay, a popular filming location. Relax on the beach, enjoy water sports, or simply soak up the sun.

Day 4: Shirley Heights and Devil’s Bridge

Visit Shirley Heights, a popular lookout point featured in several films. Then, head to Devil’s Bridge, a naturally formed limestone arch, for a dramatic photo op.

Day 5: Boat Tour and Jumby Bay Island

Take a boat tour around Antigua, visiting filming locations that are only accessible by water. End your trip with a visit to Jumby Bay Island, a luxury resort featured in “The Royal Treatment.”

This itinerary will take you through the best of Antigua and Barbuda’s filming locations, offering a mix of cultural exploration, relaxation, and sightseeing.

Cryptid Legends and Curiosities about Antigua and Barbuda’s Film Industry

Antigua and Barbuda’s film industry is rich with intriguing tales and legends. For instance, the islands are known for their stories about jumbies, ghost-like entities in local folklore. These tales have been integrated into some local films, adding a touch of the supernatural to the narratives.

In the realm of curiosities, Antigua and Barbuda’s film industry is relatively young but has grown significantly in recent years. The islands have attracted international productions with their beautiful landscapes, historic sites, and favorable filming conditions. The local film industry has also been developing, with initiatives to foster local talent and produce homegrown films.

Hidden Gems in Antigua and Barbuda

Beyond the popular tourist spots, Antigua and Barbuda harbor several lesser-known locations that offer unique insights into the islands’ culture and history:

1. Betty’s Hope – This historic sugar plantation offers a glimpse into the islands’ colonial past.
2. Mount Obama – The highest point in Antigua, this mountain offers stunning panoramic views.
3. Indian Town National Park – This park, home to Devil’s Bridge, also features a trail with native plants and information boards about the local ecology.

These hidden gems offer a deeper understanding of Antigua and Barbuda, providing a unique perspective beyond the usual tourist trail.

What to Pack and How to Dress for a Trip to Antigua and Barbuda

When packing for Antigua and Barbuda, consider the tropical climate, the activities you plan to do, and the local culture. Essentials include:

• Lightweight clothing for the warm, tropical climate.
• A swimsuit for beach days and water activities.
• Sunscreen and a hat to protect against the sun.
• Comfortable shoes for exploring the towns and natural areas.
• A light jacket for cooler evenings.
• Formal attire if you plan to dine at upscale restaurants or attend special events.

In terms of dress, Antigua and Barbuda is relatively casual, but it’s important to dress modestly when visiting towns or rural areas. Beachwear should be reserved for the beach.

Transportation Tips for Getting Around Antigua and Barbuda

Getting around Antigua and Barbuda can be done by car, taxi, bus, or bicycle:

• Car: Car rentals are available and offer the most flexibility. Keep in mind that driving is on the left side of the road.
• Taxi: Taxis are widely available and drivers often offer tour services.
• Bus: Local buses cover most of the island and offer an affordable way to get around.
• Bicycle: Some areas, like English Harbour, are ideal for cycling.

Remember, always respect local traffic laws and be mindful of narrow roads and steep hills.

Travel Documents Needed for Visiting Antigua and Barbuda

When visiting Antigua and Barbuda, ensure you have the following documents:

• A valid passport.
• A return ticket or proof of onward travel.
• Proof of sufficient funds for your stay.
• A visa, if required by your country of residence.

Check the latest information with your local embassy or consulate before travel.

Conclusion: Discover the Cinematic and Literary Landscapes of Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda offer more than just beautiful beaches and tropical weather. The islands are a treasure trove of cinematic and literary locations waiting to be explored. From the bustling streets of St. John’s to the historic sites of English Harbour, a journey through these islands is a journey through the stories they’ve inspired. Whether you’re a film buff, a book lover, or a traveler seeking a unique cultural experience, Antigua and Barbuda promise an unforgettable adventure. So pack your bags, bring your imagination, and get ready to step into the scenes of your favorite films and books in Antigua and Barbuda.