Antigua?

hrhone328

Okay, I know there are A TON of posts about this, but I just wanted to get a fresh opinion. DF and I are eloping and trying to decide on a place. I think we've settled on Antigua, but can't decide on a resort. I'm torn between Galley Bay and Sandals. Galley Bay has gotten better reviews, but do they do all the same romantic stuff that Sandals does? How are the accomodations at either resort? Clean, new, etc? Is Antigua a good place for venturing off of the resort? Safe, etc?

I apprecite any feedback! If you could tell me the date of your stay as well, that would be helpful!

Thanks!
Heather

ali79ger

I won't be of much help, but FI and I have booked Galley Bay for our October 2011 honeymoon and CANNOT WAIT!  I think its the favorite part of my weddign right about now.    We booked a Gaugin Cottage - looking forward to lots of rest, relaxation and some peace and quiet!

sassy8179

I haven't STAYED at either Sandals or Galley bay - that's because I live here, so I can't give you personal experience on the hotels themselves. However, from what other people have said, Sandals gets alot of good and some bad reviews (more good than bad from what I have seen). Galley Bay always seems to get good reviews.

I think the difference would be that Sandals is larger and more hotel chain-y. Galley Bay is a bit more out of the way, quieter and more unique. I think there are pros and cons for both. Sandals is a bit more central, easy to get from here to there, and Galley Bay is a bit more tucked away.

FWIW, I'm having my reception at Sandals in February, though I did consider Galley Bay, but decided it would be easier for people to get to and from Sandals.

As far as Antigua goes, it is very safe to venture off the resort and there are many places which are worthy of visiting to get a better feel of the island (Shirley Heights, Nelson's Dockyard, Devil's Bridge, Fig Tree Drive, nto to mention zip-lining and catamaran tours as well).

I hope that helps!

hrhone328

Thanks, Sassy! I did read a bunch of your posts on other threads as well. What's the hurricane season there? Best months to come when it's not too hot/humid? I like my warm weather, but we went to Mexico in May and it was soooo hot and humid. It was unbearable.

sassy8179

The hurricane season is so weird here now - it used to be around July till September (ish), but it's gotten later and later each year - we had Tomas pass just below us just a few weeks ago. Thankfully we have not been badly hit for a long time.

Here's the thing, the best months, I would say, are the high season months - November to April... That is, in terms of weather. High season also means that most of the hotels are more expensive! There's generally more activity going on in these months - yachting shows, Sailing Week, etc. That's why it's more expensive.

The nights are getting cooler now, it's so nice! If you wanted to avoid the high season prices, I think May should still be nice here... I would say June, July, August and September are hottest.

When are you planning to come? I have friends coming for my wedding in Feb and they got amazing deals at Sandals (60% off), which is great considering February is in the midst of high season - those are no longer running, I don't think, but depending on when your wedding is, maybe there will be deals running again? another time....