Buying A Property In Antigua

Sailing is just one of the activities you can enjoy in Antigua

Antigua, a small Caribbean Leeward Island, measuring only 14 miles wide by 12 miles long, has hit the headlines in recent times as being one of the homes of Sir Allen Stanford, a financier and high profile sponsor of professional sports who has been accused of fraud.

Texan Sir Allen's presence on the island has been enormous, particularly in the last decade when it is said almost everyone on the island has in some way become financially connected, beholden or affected by his business affairs.

The sea off the coast of Antigua is beautifuly clear

Antigua's attraction from businessmen like Stanford has grown in the last five years since Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer, who was voted into power in March 2004, lifted overseas investment restrictions and introduced attractive tax concessions to encourage foreign nationals to the island. The incentive has encouraged inward investment in the island by foreign property developers, which in turn has seen several new developments and phases commence construction - such as Cove Residences at Blue Waters and Elle Antigua.

These two developments are typical of those springing up on the island: boutique, exclusive and refined. Yes, on the whole Antigua is one of the more sophisticated Caribbean destinations. Sure, there are several largish all-inclusive resorts dotted around the island - primarily on the Caribbean side - but on the whole Antigua attracts lower key tourists who want to blend in with rather than stand out from the crowd.

It is a philosophy the Government is keen to promote. Harold Lovell MP, Minister of Tourism for Antigua & Barbuda, said: 'We are keen for Antigua to lose its tourism seasonality and boutique projects will not only help us to achieve this aim but will also assist with out plan for the island to become a mid- to upmarket destination. Residential property ownership is very much part of our master-plan to increase Antigua's year-round appeal.'

- For more about Antigua, see our Alternative Places To Buy Abroad gallery