Antigua and Barbuda: the interview

The Weddingparadises.com interview with:
Maria Blackman, Marketing & Communications Executive
Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority

1) honeymoon:

a) What is the address of your general touristic website in English language?
Our address is www.visitantiguabarbuda.co.uk

b) Do you have an extra subsite and / or printed brochure for honeymooners?
We are producing a honeymoon supplement which will be distributed from September 2011 throughout the UK & Europe

c) What would you consider as the most romantic places for honeymooners in your destination?
The islands’ myriad of luxurious hotels, provide the perfect setting, for newlyweds looking for an intimate getaway. Most of these award-winning hotels, offer wedding and honeymoon packages, ranging from pampering spa sessions to romantic sunset cruises for two.

d) What are the most popular general touristic attractions of your destination that honeymooners
"must see" (if the should like to see something else but themselves ...)?
Newlyweds can try their hand at sailing, diving or snorkelling together to create that perfect experience to remember forever. Perhaps take a swim around the coral reef and have your photograph taken together with friendly stingrays (they really are friendly!).
Jump in a jeep and travel deep in to the islands’ many national parks in Antigua such as Devil’s Bridge, Nelson’s Dockyard, and Shirley Heights; pop across to the Frigate Bird Sanctuary in Barbuda and be fascinated by the mating rituals of the Frigate bird; or blow the budget and hop in a helicopter to get an aerial view of the destination – and of course to complement that just-married exhilarating feeling.
A picnic for two within the lush, and green settings of the Wallings Dam is a great way to spend quality time. The sea is also never far away so why not enjoy a magical sunset cruise around some of the islands’ most secluded and picturesque coastline, with a glass of champagne and a fine lobster dinner.
Information on these activities are available on our website: www.visitantiguabarbuda.co.uk

e) Which times of the year are considered as low and high season?
low season June - October
high season November - May

2) destination weddings:

a) What are the basic requirements for a legal civil wedding in your destination for a couple from abroad?
With, no waiting period or residency requirements for a wedding license to be issued (same-day marriages are possible) and an array of wedding planners to choose from, arranging your Big Day in Antigua is a breeze and as stress-free as possible.
· Both partners must have valid passports as proof of citizenship
· If either partner has been previously married, bring along the original decree absolute. In the case of a widow/widower, bring the original marriage and death certificates.
· All documents presented must be original or certified as original by the issuing departments or offices.
· Both partners must be over the age of 18 or have written consent from parents or guardians.

b) Is there an internet address in English language where all details for destination weddings can be found?
www.visitantiguabarbuda.co.uk/weddingshoneymoons.asp

c) What would you consider as the most romantic places for a legal civil and / or church wedding in your destination?
Throughout both islands, relics of the past mix with reminders of the present, making this an ideal location to stage an original wedding ceremony. Pick one of the historical sites at Nelson’s Dockyard, Betty’s Hope or Fort James in Antigua; or hop on over to Barbuda to discover the Martello Tower and Two Foot Bay.
For many the classical beach wedding is the only option. Antigua and Barbuda pride themselves on their pristine pink and white sandy beaches and with 365 to choose from,
For those looking for something off-the-beaten-track, look no further than the famous Shirley Heights. Overlooking English Harbour, this location on an Antiguan cliff top offers breath-taking panoramic views.
For a wedding with plenty of heritage, the world-famous Nelson’s Dockyard in English Harbour is just the spot.
A fair share of beautiful, historic churches, means that a traditional church wedding, can also be selected. With option ranging from the magnificent St. John’s Anglican Cathedral built in 1681 and whose twin spires, can be seen throughout the capital city, or the unique octagonal shaped, intimate Parham church built in 1840.

3) general questions:

a) Is it possible to follow your tourist board on facebook?
www.facebook.com/AntiguaBarbuda

b) Are there general and / or wedding / honeymoon related image videos about your destination on youtube or somewhere else?
www.visitantiguabarbuda.co.uk/exploring-filmfootage.asp or:

c) What else would you like to tell future wedding couples and / or honeymooners regarding your destination?
Antigua and Barbuda is renowned for its 365 beautiful beaches and clear azure blue waters, however it also boasts captivating culture, exhilarating activity and rich historical treasure with something to appeal to all seeking the ultimate romantic setting for declarations of love.
Antiguans are known for their hospitality and visitors are assured a welcome as warm as the weather. The destination provides a wonderful escape with its rich colonial history, first class hotels and resorts, sporting attractions and delicious cuisine and fresh produce.

For visiting the general site of Antigua and Barbuda on Weddingparadises.com please click HERE!

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