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Travelers who want to explore Antigua at their own speed can choose from more than a dozen car rental locations, most of which are at the airport.
In order to drive on the island of Antigua, you must first purchase a temporary local driver's license, which costs about $20(USD) and requires that you have a valid driver's license from home. You can purchase a temporary license from the Inland Revenue Department, through some rental agencies, and even at some resort hotels.
Although renting a car is easy, driving around Antigua may not be. Beware that the steep and winding back roads in Antigua are bumpy and riddled with potholes, police rarely enforce the 40 mph speed limit, and traffic control is at a minimum. There are few to no traffic signs, so it would be wise to take a reliable map to avoid getting lost. On the other hand, many of the main roads are paved and having a car at your disposal may offer you the opportunity to visit parts of Antigua you may not have seen otherwise.
When driving in Antigua, remember that you must drive on the left side of the road. There are several U.S.-based rental agencies that provide pick up service at the airport, including Avis (tel. 800-331-1212 in the U.S. or 268-462-2840 in Antigua) and Hertz (tel. 800-654-3131 in the U.S. or 268-462-6450 in Antigua). There is also a Dollar Agency that can be reached at 800-800-4000 in the U.S or 268-462-3366 in Antigua. Local agencies include Bigs Car Rental, which is located in English Harbour (tel. 268-562-4901), Tropical Rentals in St. Mary's (tel. 268-562-5180), and Paradise Car Rental in Rex Halycon Cove (tel. 268-462-9780).
If you are traveling with small children, bear in mind that rental car agencies do not provide car or booster seats for rent. Though it is not illegal to drive without a child safety restraint, the conditions of the roads, among other safety issues, make it a good idea for you bring your own car seat along.
Most rental car companies have a variety of cars in stock, including SUVs and four-wheel drive cars for those who want to do some off-road traveling. The rates for renting a car start at $35(USD) per day and at $210(USD) per week, depending on the make and model of the car. Collision-damage waivers can be purchased for about $9(USD) to $11(USD) per day, although you may still be liable for the cost of some vehicle repairs.
If you keep safety in mind and are not easily intimidated, renting a car can be a fun and independent way to explore Antigua.
Bicycles and scooters offer exciting transportation alternatives in Antigua.
Antigua's bus service allows vacationers to travel like locals.
Vacation planning isn't complete until you decide on one of the great accommodation options found in Antigua.
