Thinking about moving to English Harbour? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in English Harbour.
English Harbour, located on the southeastern coast of Antigua, is a charming town known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant yachting scene. It’s a place where the old world meets the new, where the hustle and bustle of modern life is tempered by the laid-back Caribbean lifestyle. But like any place, living in English Harbour has its pros and cons. Let’s delve into what makes this town both a paradise and a challenge for its residents.
Pros of Living in English Harbour
One of the most significant advantages of living in English Harbour is its natural beauty. The town is nestled in a deep, sheltered bay surrounded by lush green hills. The beaches, such as Pigeon Point and Galleon Beach, are some of the most beautiful in the Caribbean, with white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The area is also home to Nelson’s Dockyard National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can explore historic buildings and enjoy stunning views of the harbour.
English Harbour is also a hub for yachting and sailing. The town hosts the annual Antigua Sailing Week, one of the world’s premier sailing events, attracting participants and spectators from around the globe. There are numerous marinas in the area, such as the Antigua Yacht Club Marina and the Falmouth Harbour Marina, where you can dock your boat or rent one for a day out on the water.
The town’s history is another draw. English Harbour was once a vital naval base for the British during the colonial era, and many of the buildings from that time have been preserved and restored. The Admiral’s House Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s past, while the Dockyard Bakery serves up delicious pastries in a historic setting.
English Harbour also boasts a vibrant social scene. There are numerous bars and restaurants in the area, from casual beachfront eateries to upscale dining establishments. Shirley Heights Lookout is a popular spot for its weekly Sunday barbecue and party, where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy food, drinks, live music, and breathtaking views of the sunset over the harbour.
Despite its small size, English Harbour has a strong sense of community. There are numerous local organizations and events that bring people together, such as the Antigua and Barbuda Humane Society, which organizes regular volunteer opportunities, and the annual Antigua Carnival, a celebration of the island’s culture and history.
Cons of Living in English Harbour, Antigua & Barbuda
While English Harbour has many advantages, it also has its drawbacks. One of the main challenges of living in the town is the cost of living. Prices for goods and services are generally higher than in other parts of Antigua, due in part to the town’s popularity with tourists and yacht owners. This can make everyday expenses, such as groceries and utilities, more costly than you might expect.
The town’s reliance on tourism also means that it can get crowded during the high season, which runs from December to April. This can lead to increased traffic, longer wait times at restaurants and shops, and a general sense of busyness that some residents find overwhelming. The flip side of this is that the town can feel quiet and deserted during the low season, when many businesses close down and the number of events and activities decreases.
Another potential downside of living in English Harbour is the lack of certain amenities. While the town has basic services like grocery stores and medical clinics, it lacks larger facilities like hospitals and shopping malls. For these, residents often have to travel to St. John’s, the capital of Antigua, which is about a 30-minute drive away.
Finally, while English Harbour’s natural beauty is undeniable, it also comes with certain challenges. The town is vulnerable to hurricanes, which can cause significant damage and disruption. Additionally, the heat and humidity can be intense, particularly during the summer months, and may be uncomfortable for those not used to tropical climates.
In conclusion, English Harbour is a place of contrasts. It offers stunning natural beauty, a rich history, and a vibrant social scene, but it also presents challenges in terms of cost of living, seasonal fluctuations, lack of amenities, and weather-related risks. As with any place, whether or not it’s the right place for you will depend on your personal preferences and circumstances.
