Rosie Doran visited Antigua in June 2004 and provides a round up of some of the best places to stay...

I am a firm believer in two- or three-centres for a longer stay. Not only would one get different aspect of the islands, but it helps to make the holiday seem longer. When travelling with top class tour operators, the moving about is made so easy.

The Carlisle Bay Hotel has recently been totally refurbished and is very ‘Balinese' and contemporary. The rooms all face the sea and are very minimalist in their decoration. The suites were enormous with delightful extras. The East Restaurant, serving Asian food, is a must-visit, even if not staying in the hotel. I was a little disappointed in the Spa - rather clinical, which somewhat belies the Balinist décor. However, there was a lovely swimming pool, and a very sophisticated beachside restaurant.

The Gaugin Cottages at Galley Bay looked unique and I believe the hotel's water activities make this a reasonably priced all-inclusive resort. The accommodation at Curtain Bluff is spacious and perfect for families. At the time of my visit, the restaurant furniture was about to be replaced. This property offers exceptionally good value as an all-inclusive resort.. Similarly, Blue Waters, with its wonderful setting, also offers good value as a fairly upmarket all-inclusive hotel, but why not dine out once or twice, maybe at Carlisle Bay or Inn at English Harbour.

Somehow the sea looked bluer at Coco Bay than anywhere else. Although the accommodation, in little rustic cottages perched up the hillside, wasn't first class, Coco Bay came over as a really happy environment to relax on holiday. Small and friendly, with an infinity pool looking out over two lovely beaches and non-motorised water sports available, I could imagine this property would be very popular. There was a bijou restaurant on the decking, where tables can be curtained off for private dining.

The Inn at English Harbour has an ‘Olde English' pub style décor with stunning views down over the harbour. The newly-built colonial accommodation is beautiful and very tastefully furnished - simple four-posters, wooden floors, and wrap-around decked balconies. There is an impressive fitness centre, tennis courts and a well-positioned pool. A good place to stay to enjoy the delights of Nelson's Dockyard.

Finally, I visited Jumby Bay, which is quite incredible. Set in 100 acres of paradise, Jumby Bay is very elegant and exclusive, with amazing beaches. I stayed in a rotunda cottage that has a separate living room, enormous four-poster bed, inside and outside bathrooms and guests are supplied with bikes or golf buggies to move around the resort. The villas are amongst the best I've ever seen - big open plan living area stepping down to a patio and your own pool, flanked each side by immense bedrooms and pretty bathrooms with outside showers. A kitchen you'd die for at home, and regularly-stocked fridges. There was a gorgeous main pool with curtained loungers, a putting green, trails for hiking and cycling, and plenty of water sports. This resort may be expensive, so perhaps an excellent place to spend the last few nights of a holiday. Being located so close to the airport, transfers are delayed until the very last minute.