Jolly Harbour: The Gem of Antigua and Barbuda

• HelloWadadli
  [wa-da-dlee]
• GoodbyeLeh we meet up
  [lay we meet up]
• YesYeah man
  [yeah man]
• NoNah man
  [nah man]
• Please/You're welcomeLeh we
  [lay we]
• Thank youTank yuh
  [tank yuh]
• Excuse me/SorrySarry
  [sah-ree]
• How are you?Ayo good?
  [ah-yo good?]
• Fine. And you?Mi good. An yuh?
  [mee good. an yuh?]
• Do you speak English?Yuh speak English?
  [yuh speak English?]
• I don't understandMi nah understan
  [mee nah un-der-stan]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi wah see di menu, please
  [mee wa see dee men-yu, please]
• I don't eat meatMi nah eat meat
  [mee nah eet meet]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi wah pay, please
  [mee wa pay, please]

• Help!Help!
  [Help!]
• Go away!Gweh!
  [gweh!]
• Call the Police!Call de Police!
  [Call dee Police!]
• Call a doctor!Call a doctor!
  [Call a doctor!]
• I'm lostMi loss
  [mee loss]
• I'm illMi sick
  [mee sik]

• I'd like to buy...Mi wah buy...
  [mee wa buy...]
• I'm just lookingMi jus looking
  [mee jus looking]
• How much is it?How much dat deh?
  [How much dat deh?]
• That's too expensiveDat too dear
  [dat too dear]
• Can you lower the price?Yuh cud drop di price?
  [yuh kud drop dee price?]

• What time is it?Ayo wa time?
  [ah-yo wa time?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
• Half past (10)Half pas ten
  [Half pas ten]
• MorningMahnin
  [mahn-in]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
• EveningEvenin
  [even-in]
• YesterdayYestadeh
  [yes-ta-deh]
• TodayToday
  [Today]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Tree
  [tree]
• 4Fo'
  [fo]
• 5Five
  [fiv]
• 6Six
  [siks]
• 7Seven
  [sev-en]
• 8Eight
  [ate]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Wey di...deh?
  [way dee...deh?]
• What's the address?Wah di address deh?
  [wa dee address deh?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Yuh cud show mi (pan di map)?
  [yuh kud show mee (pan dee map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?When de nex (bus)?
  [When dee nex (bus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

Jolly Harbour, like the rest of Antigua and Barbuda, was originally inhabited by the Arawak and Carib peoples. These indigenous communities thrived on the islands, relying on fishing, agriculture, and trade.

In 1493, Christopher Columbus encountered Antigua during his second voyage to the New World. However, it wasn't until 1632 that English settlers established a permanent presence on the island. Jolly Harbour, with its strategic location, soon became a notable point of interest for these early settlers.

During the 17th and 18th centuries, Antigua, including the area now known as Jolly Harbour, became a hub for sugar plantations. Enslaved Africans were brought to the island to work on these plantations, significantly impacting the social and economic landscape of the region.

The abolition of slavery in the British Empire in 1834 marked a significant turning point for Antigua and Barbuda. Formerly enslaved individuals sought to establish new lives, and the economy began to diversify. Jolly Harbour witnessed gradual changes as the agricultural focus shifted.

In the latter half of the 20th century, Jolly Harbour underwent significant development as a premier tourist destination. With the construction of marinas, resorts, and residential areas, it transformed into a vibrant hub for visitors seeking leisure and recreation.

Jolly Harbour is a vibrant reflection of Antigua and Barbuda's rich cultural tapestry. The area hosts various cultural events, from Carnival celebrations to sailing regattas, showcasing the island's heritage and the enduring spirit of its people.

Jolly Harbour is located on the west coast of Antigua, one of the two main islands of Antigua and Barbuda. The nearest international gateway is V.C. Bird International Airport (ANU), which is about a 30-minute drive from Jolly Harbour. Direct flights are available from major cities in North America, Europe, and other Caribbean islands. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Jolly Harbour. There are also private shuttle services available that can be booked in advance.

Within Jolly Harbour, getting around is relatively easy. Many visitors prefer to rent a golf cart, which is a popular mode of transportation for navigating the resort area. For those wishing to explore further afield, renting a car is a convenient option. Taxis are also readily available and can be hired for short trips or full-day excursions. Public buses do operate on the island but may not be the most reliable for tourists. Boat rentals are available for those wishing to explore the coastline and nearby islands.

The official currency of Antigua and Barbuda is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). However, US Dollars are widely accepted throughout Jolly Harbour. Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and tips. ATMs are available in the area, but it is a good idea to bring enough cash to cover your expenses, especially if you plan to venture outside of Jolly Harbour.

Jolly Harbour is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unlit areas and keep your belongings secure. Petty theft can occur, so use hotel safes for valuables. While Jolly Harbour itself is safe, some areas in St. John's, the capital city, have higher crime rates, especially at night. Always stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest medical facilities are located in St. John's, approximately 20 minutes away by car. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Jolly Harbour where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. The local police station is also in St. John's, and there are fire services available on the island.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually, but avoid overly revealing clothing when outside of beach areas. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. There are various Christian denominations on the island, and modesty is appreciated, especially in churches. Public Transport: Do be patient as public transport can be infrequent. Don't rely solely on buses for getting around. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'good morning.' A handshake is customary when meeting someone new. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and seafood. Don't refuse food or drink offered by locals, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Jolly Harbour like a local, visit the local markets and try fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with local fishermen and learn about their daily catch. Participating in local events and festivals, such as the Antigua Carnival, can provide a deeper cultural understanding. Don't miss out on visiting nearby attractions like the historic Nelson's Dockyard and the picturesque Shirley Heights for stunning views and live music. Renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the harbour is also a popular activity among locals.