There are holidays—and then there are Sandals holidays. From the moment our journey began at Gatwick International Airport to the second we reluctantly boarded our flight home, our trip to Sandals® Grande Antigua was nothing short of unforgettable.
Day 1 – Wheels Up to Paradise
Our adventure began at Gatwick Airport, where we met our fabulous Sandals hosts, Paul Hill and Katie Gardner, who looked after us from the very first moment. We were lucky enough to have access to the No1 Lounge, and with mimosas flowing and a hearty English breakfast to set the tone, spirits were high.
The flight itself… well, a flight is a flight. But the reward at the other end made every minute worth it.
Stepping off the plane into sunny, humid Antigua felt like walking straight into holiday mode. We were whisked away in private Sandals taxis and driven to the resort, where we were greeted with warm smiles, a refreshing cocktail, and even a bottle of water—much needed after the long journey.
Our rooms were nothing short of spectacular: sea-facing views, huge jacuzzi-style tubs, and a fully stocked bar that made it very tempting to never leave. But curiosity (and thirst!) got the better of us, so we wandered down to the beachfront bar. A sudden downpour met us there, but if anything, the rain only added to the fun—after all, nothing dampens the spirit when you’re in Antigua.
For our first evening, we headed to Mario’s, a divine Italian restaurant offering buffet-style starters and indulgent mains. Naturally, a couple of bottles of wine helped wash down the delicious food. It was the perfect start.
Day 2 – Exploring the Best of Sandals
Day 2 began with a leisurely beachfront breakfast at Bayside, where the sound of the waves and warm Caribbean breeze instantly set the tone for a relaxing day.
Then the real work began—our three-hour tour of the resort. From the elegant Mediterranean Club Level Suites to the breathtaking Butler Suites, each room type showcased the luxury and attention to detail that Sandals is known for.
After all that hard work, it was only right that we retreated to the pool to soak up the sun with a cocktail in hand.
Dinner that evening was at Kimonos, where the Teppanyaki chef kept us thoroughly entertained while cooking an incredible meal right in front of us. But the night didn’t end there—on our walk back we stumbled upon a silent disco, one of many evening activities at the resort. Let’s just say… it was impossible not to join in.
Day 3 – Golf, Sunsets & Big Bamboo
After the entertainment of the night before, we laced up our shoes and headed to Cedar Valley Golf Course. With temperatures hitting 32°C, let’s just say the course won that day. Still, it was great fun and a brilliant experience.
The afternoon was spent relaxing on the beach and at the pool bar before we headed off on a sunset catamaran cruise—a real highlight of the trip. Seeing the island from the water as the sun dipped below the horizon was simply breathtaking.
But the entertainment didn’t stop there. On the way back, the crew performed an absolutely hysterical reenactment of the Caribbean classic “Big Bamboo.” Our stomachs hurt from laughing, and it was one of those unexpected holiday moments you remember forever.
Back on land, we freshened up and made our way to a private beach dinner, an authentic fine-dining Caribbean meal that served a perfect end to an unforgettable day.
Day 4 – A Journey Through Antigua
Our final full day on the island was one to remember. We were treated to a tuk-tuk tour that gave us an intimate look at the culture, flavours, and natural beauty of Antigua.
We stopped at St. John’s, the bustling capital, visited a traditional farmer who has been crafting hot sauces and homemade punches her entire life, and travelled to several beaches—each more beautiful than the last. After all, Antigua is famous for its 365 beaches—one for every day of the year.
Driving through the island gave me time to reflect on what had been an eye-opening experience. From the staff, to the food, to the immaculate beaches, to the evening entertainment—Sandals truly goes above and beyond. And of course, our incredible hosts Paul and Katie made the experience even more special.
Day 5 – A Bittersweet Goodbye
Our final morning arrived far too quickly. We dragged ourselves to breakfast at Bayside, knowing we’d soon have to leave this incredible resort behind. But we departed with memories that will last a lifetime.
If we had to score the trip out of 10… we’d give it a 20.
Ready for Your Own Sandals Adventure?
If our experience has inspired you to see the magic of Sandals for yourself, explore their incredible resorts here:
Sandals® Grande Antigua—where luxury meets paradise, and memories are made forever.
