Currency:

East Caribbean dollar (XCD)

When to go:

Avoid hurricane season, July through October

Known for:

Handicrafts, white sand beaches

Languages:

English (official), local dialects

A country of 70,000 people, Antiguans and Barbadians enjoy a relatively high standard of living, supported by the country's thriving tourism industry, offshore banking and internet gambling resources. Antigua, the larger island, is home to the capital, Saint John's. The largest city on Barbuda is Codrington. Direct flights to Antigua depart frequently from the East Coast of the United States as well as Toronto and London.

Like other countries in the Caribbean, Antigua and Barbuda enjoy similar temperatures year round. Although independent, the country shows the influences of the British in the government structure and driving rules (stay to your left!). This penchant for things British extents to sport - the nation was a site for the 2007 Cricket World Cup.

While in Antigua, make sure to try fungie, the national dish made of cornmeal. To learn more about the country, check out the tourism site at www.antigua-barbuda.org.