We lived in Antigua many years ago, in the sort of colonial homes that make this place a World Heritage site. So we were amazed and delighted to be able to stay in this wonderfully kept, strategically modernized, and extremely charming colonial residence right on the main street coming into town, just two blocks from the central park. This is the atmosphere that many hotels are trying to recreate, but here it's real. In true colonial style, the house is built around a large and beautiful garden, with a fountain in the middle. Every room - the large living-dining room, the (4) bedrooms, the kitchen, the library - is spacious, inviting, and comfortable, with furnishings and decoration that reflect the history of the house and the local culture. At the same time, there are key modern features, including an Apple TV, reliable internet (on which this review is written), a printer, a microwave, an excellent gas stove, and a new refrigerator-freezer. Elma, the property manager, greeted us on our arrival and with pride showed us all around the house; we called her a few times with questions and she was always immediately responsive and friendly. Housekeepers come every few days to clean, do laundry, and neaten up; and the gardener comes each week to keep the abundant garden of tropical plants at its best. Antigua has much to see and do, and an huge assortment of restaurants; but there were days when we were happy to just sit among the colonial columns of the corredor that connects the rooms and borders the garden, soak in the peace and beauty of the house, and make dinner at home. All in all, a lovely experience for those who want to enjoy Antigua as it was.
Alfred Bartlett, M.D.