If you want to see the wilder side of the Caribbean then head to exotic Antigua! Join the party at the Caribbean's biggest summer festival, the Antigua Carnival! Held in late July/early August, open your senses as live steel bands play, brightly coloured feather headdresses are worn by dancing women, rum cocktails are in full swing and happy smiley faces are all here to greet you and get you in the holiday spirit!

With a fantastically exciting events calendar, there is something for the whole family. Be sure not to miss the annual Kite surfing camp at Nonsuch Bay or the many sailing events that revel in these stunning waters. The most notable is the Antigua Sailing Week Regatta, whose headquarters is at Nelson's Dockyard, the only surviving Georgian Naval dockyard in the world. Also a National Park, it is home to many restaurants, boutiques, gift shops and art galleries.

Some other great activities to be had on the island are; the Antigua Rainforest Canopy Tour where you can play amongst the treetops on suspended zip lines for a one hour tour with five zips, which includes the 'Screamer!' or take a 2½ hour Full Canopy Tour where you take short hikes over suspension bridges and includes nine zips. This is really popular so if you fancy swinging from the trees like Tarzan then book ahead!

Back on firm ground, spend the rest of the day relaxing in one of the many stunning and private luxury villas on the island. If you fancy a bit of exploration, there are quite literally enough beaches to visit a different one each day of the year, yes you heard us right - 365 to be exact! Make the most of the sand and sea by going out snorkelling and get up close and personal with the fish or head to the skies for a fabulous bird's eye view on a breathtaking helicopter tour.

Whether you're holidaying as a couple, group of friends or family, arguably the most unforgettable experience on the island is a visit to Stingray City! Visibility here exceeds 100ft (30metres) making it a fantastic place to explore the natural wonders of the sea... They will take you out to the home of the magnificent rays where you can stand up, swim, snorkel, touch and play with them in their colourful and natural habitat. With educated guides you are in safe hands, surrounded by a rainbow of tropical fish and playful Stingray! If that wasn't enough animal action, you can hop off the boat on your return, shower under a coconut tree and visit the cheeky monkeys and tropical parrots! Enjoy a refreshing rum punch and pick up your experience photos or buy a souvenir from the shop.

As the sun sets, the island comes alive at night where you can mingle at one of the many beach bars and enjoy some evening entertainment and splash some cash in the casinos. If you haven't had enough heat from the all-day sunshine, don't forget to try out the local specialities; Cavalier Rum and the Susie's Original spicy pepper hot sauce made from Scotch Bonnet peppers!