In 2002, the twin-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda was a small Caribbean nation located in the West Indies. It had a population of approximately 68,000 people, most of whom were native Antiguans and Barbudans. According to computerannals, the economy was largely dependent on tourism and foreign investment, which made up a significant portion of its GDP. Despite this, poverty levels remained high with nearly one third of the population living below the poverty line. In addition to economic issues, there were also problems with crime and corruption which hindered economic development in certain areas. Despite these challenges, there were some positive developments in 2002 with foreign investment helping to spur economic growth and create jobs for Antiguans and Barbudans. In addition, the government began to focus on improving infrastructure and providing basic services such as healthcare and education which provided a glimmer of hope for a better future for the people of Antigua and Barbuda. Furthermore, efforts to strengthen democratic institutions have been made in order to promote stability within the country. All this has helped push the country forward towards greater development despite its current challenges.
Yearbook 2002
Antigua and Barbuda. The integration between the country and the other members of the eastern Caribbean cooperation organization OECS was deepened during the year. From spring, residents could travel freely within the region for up to six months. According to Countryaah website, national day of Antigua and Barbuda is every November 1. A joint passport for the OECS countries would be issued on January 1, 2003. An economic union would also be formed at year-end 2002/2003 to strengthen the region in the international export market.
In the spring, Antigua and Barbuda were removed from the OECD’s list of tax havens with weak rules on money laundering since the country opened its financial sector for better transparency.
Saint John’s – city of Antigua and Barbuda
Saint John’s, the capital of the Caribbean island state of Antigua and Barbuda; 43,400 residents (2007). The city is located by a good natural harbor on Antigua’s northwest coast and has a modern deep-water port that can receive the largest cruise ships. Hurricane Luis destroyed a large part of the country’s buildings in 1995, but the city is still characterized by 18th-century architecture, now mixed with modern houses.
Antigua and Barbuda Country Overview
Visas
Finn does not need a visa for a stay of less than six months. NOTE. The passport must be valid for 6 months from arrival in the country.
- According to ABBREVIATIONFINDER.ORG, ATG stands for Antigua and Barbuda.
Insurance
Every person participating in the trip must have a valid travel insurance that covers medical expenses in the event of illness or other similar need. Please check the validity of your own insurance and the terms and conditions of the insurance cancellation cover.
Please pay attention to the special nature of your trip and check the coverage of the insurance in that respect as well. In many locations, the insurance must also be valid when moving at an altitude of more than 3,000 meters, in which case it also covers mountain sickness.
Many hiking or diving trips require more extensive insurance, which covers, for example, diving or moving on a glacier. Please check the contents of your insurance with your insurance company.
Vaccinations
Diphtheria tetanus, MPR and hepatitis A are all recommended vaccines. Based on the risk assessment, the vaccines to be considered are hepatitis B and typhoid. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if yellow fever is reached from the risk area.
Please always check the vaccination requirements at your health center or the vaccination advice of the tourist clinic
Currency: East Caribbean Dollar (XCD). The U.S. dollar also goes to many places. Currency can be obtained from Finland by booking in advance. Check availability and course at www.forex.fi.
Tips
It is customary for waiters to leave a 10-15% tip, unless the service fee is included in the invoice price. The same amount can be dropped in taxis. Bag carriers tend to leave one US dollar.
Time
difference The time difference to Finland is -6 hours in winter and -7 hours in summer.
Electric current
230V, 60Hz. Finnish devices need an adapter.
Mobile phones
Please check the coverage of your subscription with your operator. The area code for Antigua and Barbuda is + 1-268.
Climate
The island has a tropical climate. Temperatures are almost +30 all year round. From June to October, the Caribbean is in danger of a hurricane. Rain is produced all year round, but the most active rainy season lasts from June to October.
