Brian, N3OC is currently active again as V26OC from Antigua Island, IOTA NA - 100.
He will operate on HF Bands plus 6m.
Recent DX Spots V26OC
QSL via home call.
Ads for direct QSL:
BRIAN J MC GINNESS, 1001 HAWLINGS ROAD, BROOKEVILLE, MD, 20833, USA.
The fragile tropical paradise of Antigua
Discovered by Christopher Columbus, Antigua is one of those “paradise islands” where the weather is always warm and there are many sunny days throughout the year. It is here that a huge number of world-class regattas are held, authentic Caribbean rum is produced, and the number of beaches matches the number of days in the year.
Antigua Islands. Authors - Kevin & Jamie Bell.
Geography of a tropical island
The island's “foundation” consists mainly of limestone deposits of coral origin. Its coastline is rocky and dotted with numerous bays and coves. Some of them form convenient harbors. Unlike other Antilles islands, Antigua's surface is flat, with no mountain ranges. Despite abundant rainfall, there is a problem with drought caused by the absence of rivers and human intervention (deforestation). This is solved by desalination of seawater.
From Columbus to the present day
At the very end of the 15th century, the famous navigator Christopher Columbus discovered an island known to the local population as Vadadli, which literally translates as “our property.” Almost a century and a half later, the area was colonized by the British, who subsequently firmly “secured” their rights to these lands, repelling French invaders in 1666. The island remained a British colony for many centuries, then became part of the West Indian Federation. The state gained independence in 1981, but to this day remains part of the Commonwealth, headed by Great Britain.
Antigua owes its current name to Columbus, who named his discovery after one of the Spanish churches, Santa Maria La Antigua. Today, Antigua and Barbuda has several sources of income, the main ones being tourism, the gaming industry, and offshore banking.
Cococharnel, Antigua Island. Author - Eric Lanier.
What surprises does Antigua have in store?
In addition to its well-developed tourist infrastructure, the island of Antigua offers stunning nature, winding hiking trails, and amazing architectural monuments.
In the capital city of St. John's, there is a historic district, the centerpiece of which is St. John's Cathedral, built in the neo-baroque style. The shrine was erected in the 19th century on the site of a former 17th-century religious building. Next to the cathedral is an ancient cemetery, which is no less significant in terms of historical value.
The most interesting artifacts related to the life and history of the state are located in the Antigua and Barbuda Museum, which is housed in a stunningly beautiful old building from the colonial period. In addition to the museum, the island has many colonial architectural sites, most of which are located on Long Street, which is convenient for quiet walks. And if you head to Dickenson Bay, you will find the ruins of the ancient Corbin Castle.
The island also has some completely unusual attractions, such as the Hope Manor Bettiz sugar plantation and the adjacent museum. And, of course, it is impossible not to notice the enduring symbol of Antigua—the old windmills, of which there are about 150.
Antigua Island. Author - Charles Slang.
Unique nature and Devil's Bridge
The island's rich nature consists of a huge number of rare plants, among which fly equally rare birds – all of them have found their home in Indian Town – the island's national park. Another park, Half Moon Bay, is notable for its stunningly beautiful bay, which bears the same name as the reserve.
Almost every corner of the globe has a place that has given rise to many legends and tales. On the island of Antigua, this place is a rocky formation called the Devil's Bridge. This unusual natural monument attracts visitors with its mystery and picturesque views.
The Rendezvous Trail, rich in unusual landscapes and convenient for hiking, runs through areas where rare trees and shrubs grow, including valuable species of redwood. A huge number of birds also inhabit this area, creating a “paradise” atmosphere on the island.
The huge number of beaches, which have earned the island its reputation as a “resort paradise,” are also worth mentioning. The most popular and lively bays, Runaway Bay and Dickenson Bay, are located in the northwestern part of Antigua.
Relaxation, peace, and unity with nature
With its rare combination of tropical fauna and exquisite historical monuments, the island of Antigua is not just a popular world resort offering a wealth of opportunities for luxury vacations. It is a place with a special atmosphere and amazing, fragile nature that can only be touched with the eyes.
