The Trade Winds sits atop a hill overlooking Dickenson Bay on Antigua's north end. Getting down to the beach requires a ten-minute walk, maybe fifteen. Add five minutes to the return because of the steepness of the hill. A shuttle is available but didn't appear to run according to the published schedule. Like everything else, the busses run on island time, so leave the big-city, rush-rush attitude behind. Relax and enjoy the slow pace. Don't come here for a business-type function and expect to keep a tight schedule. If you need a ride somewhere, the staff will call you a taxi. A ride into the actual town/port of St. John's, about four miles west/southwest cost $12 US, which seemed very reasonable.
The hotel grounds are beautiful. Gardeners work all day (quietly, by the way) to keep things looking great. Hummingbirds and yellow-bellied sapsuckers (yes, they really do exist) flit around the colorful hedges and flowers. The pool and deck are kind of small, but you don't want to spend much time there anyway. Too much to see on the island.
Next to the pool is the outdoor restaurant/bar. The food is great. Other reviewers have commented on slow service, but, as stated earlier, relax and enjoy the setting and the view. Leave the stateside rush behind. The food is worth the wait. Cruise ship customers take taxis from St. John's just to visit the restaurant. Enjoy the sunrise or the sunset. Have a cocktail or two or an Antiguan Wadadli beer. When your meal arrives, savor it. You'll love it. The menu has something for everyone.
I wondered a little bit when I walked into the room and saw a big can of bug spray sitting on the dresser, but I didn't see anything frightening other than mosquitoes, which ate me alive after dark. The rooms are very clean, as is most everything else that the typical tourist will see on the island.
The hotel staff all go above and beyond to make your experience enjoyable. If and when you go, say "hello" to Milton the security guard, Stephen the bartender, and Kim at the front desk, along with everybody else. They are all friendly, courteous, and extremely helpful.
- Trade Winds St Johns
- Hotel Trade Winds
