Vancouver International Airport serves as a major gateway to British Columbia and western Canada. Located on Sea Island near Vancouver, it handles millions of passengers each year from across North America and beyond. The airport features modern terminals with shops, restaurants and loungers for travelers. It connects directly to many cities in the United States, Asia, Europe and other Canadian destinations. With ongoing upgrades to facilities and technology, VIA remains a key hub for both business and leisure travel throughout the region.
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type A , Type B
Type A:
  Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
East Caribbean Dollar (XCD) £1 ≈ EC$3.60 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 4/5
Cashless payment options are increasingly available, especially in larger tourist areas and resorts.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. A tip of 10-15% is common in restaurants. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is allowed in most areas, especially at beaches, but should be done responsibly. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited in indoor public places, but allowed in outdoor areas. |
| Antigua and Barbuda Independence Day (November) |
Public celebrations and festivals. |
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| Christmas (December) |
Festivals and closures. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 911 |
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| Taxi apps: | None widely used; taxis are typically hailed directly or arranged by hotels. |
| Other: | Antigua and Barbuda is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant cultural festivals. |
V. C. Bird International Airport features a single modern terminal with ample space for its roughly 860,000 annual passengers. The airport opened its current terminal in 2015, designed with wide open spaces, natural lighting and climate control to keep passengers comfortable in the tropical climate. Key amenities include 46 check-in counters, 15 self-service kiosks, multiple jet bridges and a variety of retail and dining options.
Passengers can enjoy duty-free shopping offering luxury goods, local crafts and Antiguan rum. The airport also provides fast-track immigration options and VIP services, making arrivals and departures smoother. Free Wi-Fi and charging stations are available throughout the terminal, enhancing convenience.
Despite its modern features, travelers have reported occasional long waits at immigration during peak times and some congestion in seating areas. The airport strives to maintain a friendly atmosphere but can get busy, especially when multiple wide-body flights arrive simultaneously. Efforts to improve passenger experience are ongoing, including a newly launched online arrival system to speed customs and immigration processing.
Transportation options from the airport include taxis, car rentals and private transfers, making it easy to reach hotels and resorts scattered across the island. The airport plays a crucial role in supporting Antigua and Barbuda’s vibrant tourism economy, welcoming visitors to the stunning Eastern Caribbean.
The Executive Lounge, open from 10am to 11pm, features comfortable seating, premium bar, buffet with gourmet starters and desserts, free Wi-Fi, business services, and excellent customer service. Priority Pass members, certain airline customers, and paid access allow entry to this oasis within the terminal.
Most visitors choose to stay in the nearby capital St. John’s or at the numerous resorts and beaches around the island. Accommodation ranges from luxury resorts and boutique hotels to more affordable guesthouses, offering options for all budgets.
To St. John’s:
About 8 km from the airport, St. John’s is easily accessible by metered taxi, with fares typically around JMD 3,100 – 4,650 (£14.59 – 21.89) and a travel time of 15-20 minutes. Airport shuttles and private transfer services are also available and can be booked in advance.
To English Harbour:
Approximately 30 minutes by taxi or private car, English Harbour is a popular destination for yachting and historic sites. Public transport options are limited, so taxis or hire cars are recommended.
To Other resorts and beaches:
Car hire and private transfers are the most convenient ways to reach the island’s resorts and beaches, as public transport options from the airport are limited and infrequent.
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