We had a look at the accommodation 3 summers ago when we decided we needed to move out of English Harbour which was absolutely dead. I have to admit that we really didn't like the room we were shown ( the standard room). The block we were shown to was in real need of refurbishment. Perhaps it has been done now? The next grade of room would have been better but they wanted a fortune for it. The complex itself had a lot going for it and I would have been happy enough with everything apart from the room. A huge plus for it is that it is on an absolutely gorgeous beach. We actually eventually booked in to the nearby Jolly Harbour Villas. Be prepared for the fact that it will be the rainy season- you just have to decamp to the nearest beach bar. It never rained for more than an hour or so and often it was only for a few minutes. AI is the way to go in summer as a lot of places are closed.
Antigua is a beautiful island. We loved it.

Hi,

thanks for your reply. I was planning on upgrading to a superior room anyway, as I really can't live without a bathtub!! Kuoni have a free night offer as part of the package which makes the cost a little less painful.

Not too worried about the rainy season - I was in Jamaica many years ago in October, which is their rainiest month. I don't remember it being too bad, and if the weather charts are to be believed June in Antigua isn't meant to be as wet as Jamaica in October!

If the complex itself looks good then that's encouraging. Did you find the people there friendly and helpful? And also - is there stuff outside the hotel, eg shops etc in walking distance? Not looking for anything spectacular, just enough not to feel totally isolated. It'll be my first time going AI.

Thanks,

A.

We were there in July and some places were closed. there wasn't too much outwith our own complex- which is well worth a visit by the way. There are a few shops. There is also a casino if thats any good for you. However, there was a fair bit of building going on - private villas so perhaps there might be a bit more now.
The people are really friendly. Even beach sellers take a no thanks with a smile We never looked at excursions as we hired a car but if you get a chance to visit other beaches then you should take it. There are so many stunning beaches. Half Moon Bay and Dickenson Bay are a couple of the best we visited. But, as said earlier, you are already on a fab beach.

sunstruck,

I stayed at the Jolly Beach in March 2008. It's a decent enough medium class hotel. Food was pretty good and the staff excellent (especially the bar staff in the evening). Rooms are a little basic but have everything you need, you don't spend that much time in them anyway. I'd have no problems going back especially since the dive centre I wanted to use is a 2 minute stroll down the beach!

Darren

oh yes- forgot about the dive centre. Must be a great place for diving. The water is so clear and loads of fish even close to the shore.

sunstruck,

I've uploaded a few photos of Jolly Beach Resort in to the Caribbean Photo Album for you.

Darren

Hi,

Many thanks for your replies and to Darren for the photos. Am yet to book as didn't have time last week but am looking forward to it. It's been so long since I was last in the Caribbean and I've been itching to go back for ages.

Thanks again,

A.