Antigua7 of 9

Galley Bay Resort and Spa is a luxurious, uncommon mix of intimate, authentic experiences on 40 acres of lush gardens and a mile of sun-soaked white sand.

The moment you walk into Buba's restaurant in Antigua to sample some of his homegrown Caribbean cuisine, you feel like family.

Nudist beach Antigua? While Antigua may be famously conservative, Eden Beach delivers the clothing-optional experience perfect for those looking to escape.

Bushy's 1 & 9 is surprisingly smooth and heavy on the vanilla and nutmeg (butterscotch?) flavors. It's dry, spicy, and never to be repeated.

Cavelle's Cook Shop may be small and simple, but it's the spot for authentic eats in Antigua. Stop for a cold beer and a healthy serving of local food.

Even with the impromptu stops, wardrobe issues, and my constant stops to take photos, the whole soft adventure took less than an hour. It was fun, though.

A recipe for Sugar Ridge Antigua's Ruminiscing Cocktail, featuring rum, chocolate, coffee and more!

Pretty churches abound in Antigua. Then there's Saint Barnabas Anglican Church, an eccentric green structure that's beautiful in a uniquely Antiguan way.

Loud, local, and right along the road, The Buzz Antigua embodies many of the choice characteristics I look for in an authentic West Indian watering hole.