Bowled over by Antigua

What better place to watch the game of Cricket than in Antigua where the pastime is more of a religion than a mere sport. The British brought cricket to the island and it is now claimed by the region as one of its major passions in life. If you are a cricket fan – and in fact even if you are not – a day of cricket is a brilliant way to view Antigua culture first hand – the excitement and energy that surrounds the game is fantastic fun and the whole island comes alive when cricket is in town.

You can soak up the atmosphere staying at the 3 star plus Grand Pineapple, set on a stunning beach in a secluded location on the northeast corner of Antigua. The hotel offers a superb value for money option and is surrounded by extensive, lush tropical gardens and decorated in vibrant Caribbean colours. There are many activities available ranging from windsurfing, sailing and snorkelling to tennis and golf at a nearby course.

Staying all-inclusive at the Grand Pineapple Beach Antigua starts from £1070 for 7 nights or £1557 for 14 nights per person. Flights are with Virgin Atlantic and the price is valid on travel dates until 5 December 2008. For more information, visit Grandpineapple.co.uk.

If you still want to keep the romance alive but are insistent on watching the cricket check in to Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa where the other half can enjoy a whole host of 'luxury included' activities and facilities such as scuba diving or perhaps indulge in a massage at the award winning spa or just relax around one of the many pools or stunning beach.

The Sandals Grande Antigua is loacted on the longest stretch of Antigua’s renowned Dickenson Bay beach, the suites are designed to provide couples with the latest in Caribbean luxury. The stylish accommodation incorporates a Caribbean Grove with Mediterranean inspired elements nestled against a powdery white sand beach. Last year the property had a $70 million expansion to the existing Caribbean Village.

Staying 7 nights on a 'luxury Included' basis at the Sandals Grande Antigua starts from £1417 saving £280 per person. Flights are with Virgin Atlantic and the price is valid on travel dates until 5 December 2008. For more information, log on to Sandals.co.uk.