St. John's: The Caribbean Jewel of Antigua and Barbuda

• HelloWadadli
  [wuh-dad-lee]
• GoodbyeLeh-weh-go
  [lay-weh-go]
• YesYa
  [yah]
• NoNoh
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomePleez/Tank yuh
  [pleez/tank yuh]
• Thank youTank yuh
  [tank yuh]
• Excuse me/SorryEgg-skews mi/Saari
  [egg-skews mee/sa-ree]
• How are you?Ow yuh duh?
  [ow yuh doo]
• Fine. And you?Fine. An yuh?
  [fine. an yuh?]
• Do you speak English?Yuh speak English?
  [yuh speak ing-glish]
• I don't understandMi nah ondahstand
  [mee nah on-duh-stand]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAh wah si di menu, pleez
  [ah wah see dee men-oo, pleez]
• I don't eat meatMi nah eat meat
  [mee nah eet meet]
• Cheers!Cheres!
  [cher-ees]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi wah pay, pleez
  [mee wah pay, pleez]

• Help!Elp!
  [elp]
• Go away!Go weh!
  [go way]
• Call the Police!Call di police!
  [call dee police]
• Call a doctor!Call ah docta!
  [call ah dock-ta]
• I'm lostMi loss
  [mee loss]
• I'm illMi sick
  [mee sik]

• I'd like to buy...Ah wah buy...
  [ah wah buy]
• I'm just lookingMi just lukin
  [mee just look-in]
• How much is it?Ow much it is?
  [ow much it is]
• That's too expensiveDat too pricy
  [dat too pry-see]
• Can you lower the price?Yuh cud lowa di price?
  [yuh kud low-ah dee pryce]

• What time is it?Wah time it is?
  [wah time it is]
• It's one o'clockIt wan o'cloc
  [it wun oh-clok]
• Half past (10)Haaf pas (10)
  [hahf past ten]
• MorningMawnin
  [morn-in]
• AfternoonAftanun
  [af-ta-noon]
• EveningIvinin
  [eve-ning]
• YesterdayYessiday
  [yes-si-day]
• TodayTuday
  [too-day]
• TomorrowTumara
  [too-mar-ah]
• 1Wan
  [wun]
• 2Tu
  [too]
• 3Tri
  [tree]
• 4Foh
  [foh]
• 5Fayv
  [fayv]
• 6Six
  [siks]
• 7Sevan
  [sev-an]
• 8Eyt
  [ate]
• 9Nain
  [nayn]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Weh di...deh?
  [weh dee...day]
• What's the address?Wah di address?
  [wah dee address]
• 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)?Wen di nex (bus)?
  [wen dee neks (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Ah ticket (to ....)
  [ah ticket (to)]

St. John's, the capital of Antigua and Barbuda, was founded in 1632 by English settlers. It quickly became a bustling port city due to its strategic location and natural harbor, which provided a safe haven for ships. The city's early years were marked by the establishment of sugar plantations, which fueled the local economy and led to the importation of enslaved Africans to work the fields.

The 18th century saw the rise of the sugar industry in St. John's, which became the economic backbone of the island. The city emerged as a central hub for the export of sugar, molasses, and rum. The wealth generated from the sugar trade led to the construction of grand Georgian-style buildings, many of which still stand today, adding to the city's historical charm.

Although Nelson’s Dockyard is located in English Harbour, its historical significance extends to St. John's. Named after Admiral Horatio Nelson, who was stationed in Antigua in the 1780s, the dockyard served as a crucial naval base for the British Royal Navy. The presence of the dockyard underscored St. John's importance as a military and trade port during the colonial era.

The abolition of slavery in 1834 was a monumental event in the history of St. John's. Enslaved Africans had long endured harsh conditions on the sugar plantations. The end of slavery led to significant social and economic changes, as freed individuals sought to establish new lives and livelihoods. The Moravian Church in St. John's played a pivotal role in educating and supporting the newly emancipated population.

St. John's Cathedral is a landmark of the city, originally built in 1683 and rebuilt in 1745 after an earthquake. The cathedral, with its twin towers and Baroque architectural style, is a testament to the city's resilience and religious heritage. Over the centuries, it has been a central place of worship and community gathering for the people of St. John's.

Antigua and Barbuda gained independence from Britain on November 1, 1981. St. John's, as the capital city, became the political and administrative center of the new nation. The city has since evolved into a vibrant blend of old and new, with modern developments complementing its rich historical backdrop. Today, St. John's is not only a hub of government and commerce but also a cultural focal point showcasing the island's heritage through museums, art galleries, and festivals.

St. John's is the capital of Antigua and Barbuda and is accessible primarily by air and sea. The V.C. Bird International Airport (ANU) is the main gateway, offering direct flights from major cities in North America, Europe, and the Caribbean. Cruise ships also dock at the Heritage Quay or Redcliffe Quay, making it a popular stop for Caribbean cruises. Taxis and car rentals are available at the airport and ports for onward travel.

Getting around St. John's is straightforward. Taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Fares are generally fixed, but it's advisable to confirm the rate before starting your journey. Public buses and minivans, known locally as 'jitneys,' are an affordable option for exploring the city and surrounding areas. Car rentals are also available for those who prefer to explore at their own pace.

The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), though US dollars are commonly accepted. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are available throughout St. John's, and most banks offer currency exchange services. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and in more remote areas.

St. John's is generally safe for tourists, but it's essential to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas. Areas like Grays Farm and Point can have higher crime rates, so exercise caution. Always keep your belongings secure and be cautious of your surroundings in crowded places. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 911.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The hospital in St. John's is the Mount St. John’s Medical Centre, which provides comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are also available for minor health issues. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. The local police station is located on American Road, and they are responsive to tourist-related incidents.

Fashion: Do dress casually but neatly. Beachwear is appropriate for the beach but not for the town or restaurants. Religion: Do respect local religious practices. Remove your hat when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous to drivers and fellow passengers. Don't expect strict schedules; buses run on island time. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Good morning' or 'Good afternoon.' A handshake is customary. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and seafood. Don't rush meals; dining is a leisurely affair.

To experience St. John's like a local, visit the Public Market on Market Street for fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with the vendors and ask about their products; they're often happy to share stories and tips. Take a stroll down Redcliffe Quay for a blend of historical charm and modern shopping. For a unique dining experience, try the roadside food stalls for authentic Caribbean flavors. Don't miss the chance to visit Fort James and enjoy the panoramic views of the harbor.