Every now and again, one needs a ‘fly and flop’ vacation. No plans, just relaxation and enjoyment. So, when I arrived on the quiet eastern coast of Antigua, a short 30-minute drive from V.C. Bird International Airport to the newly renovated adults-only all-inclusive resort, The Verandah Antigua, it was exactly what I needed.
Immediately upon entering the cottage-like waterfront suite, I felt at home, with its charming front porch and private verandah overlooking luscious tropical trees and lagoon, perfect for winding down with glass of wine at sunset.
Set upon 30 acres, there’s plenty to fill your days (and evenings) with 2 beaches, 4 pools, fitness centre, and array of water and resort activities (paddleboards, kayaks, Hobie Cats, mini golf, volleyball, billiards) and entertainment. Grounds are well-kept, with gorgeous tall palms, bright croton and pink bougainvillea, and there’s even an on-site farm growing some of the produce used at the property.
The Verandah Resort & Spa, Antigua
The Verandah Resort & Spa, Antigua, Long Bay, Willikies, Antigua and Barbuda. A short drive from Devil’s Bridge, it’s home to the largest freshwater pool in Antigua.
And, when you’re not catching a wave or putting the course, a plethora of food options will whet the appetite with 6 restaurants (Nicole’s, a fine dining option, has a surcharge) cafe, pub, and 2 bars. When the munchies hit, after a hearty breakfast, lunch or evening meal, a hot wood-fired pizza, nachos and finger licking Parmesan wings, hits the spot.
Mornings become a ritual of grabbing a cappuccino at Café 1761, complete with friendly banter with baristas who make a fine java jolt. Then, it’s a quick stroll up to Seabreeze buffet where I feast on local delights like stew chicken, ‘chop chop’ and dasheen or continental regulars and impeccable omelette made on the spot.
The expansive property makes mobile shuttle requisite (I am here to laze of course), and I enjoy gracious conversations with the drivers, while whizzing off from one location to the next, often passing the tick-tock of pickleball players enjoying court time. At Tranquility spa, an intense, well-needed massage sorts out the kinks from heavy luggage and other travel battle scars. The short three-day stay is just a tease of sun, fun and full tummy, leaving me in high spirits.
This original article first appeared in the SPRING 2025 issue of City Style and Living Magazine.
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