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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 or through some rental agencies.
Although renting a car is easy, driving around Antigua may not be. In fact, it is recommended that visitors don't drive, due to the less-than-ideal driving conditions. Beware that the steep and winding roads on Antigua are extremely bumpy and riddled with potholes, and that volcanic ash makes roads very slippery. 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.
If you decide to brave the poor traffic conditions, 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.
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.
Visitors who rent bikes and scooters often find that getting around Antigua is as easy as it is fun.
Buses offer an inexpensive and exciting way to travel through Antigua
Vacation planning isn't complete until you decide on one of the great accommodation options available throughout Antigua.