Currency
The official currency in Antigua and Barbuda is Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$), divided into 100 cents. Available denominations are EC$100, EC$50, EC$20, EC$10 and EC$5 for notes and EC$1, EC$25, 10 cents, 5 cents, 2 cents 1 cent for coins.
The Eastern Caribbean dollar is fixed to the US dollar at a rate approximately US$1.00 = EC$2.7.
US dollar is also widely used and accepted almost everywhere in Antigua and Barbuda.
To avoid being cheated, travelers should always verify if the quoted price or fee is in EC$ or US$.
Foreign Currency Exchange
Money can be best exchanged at banks. Although US dollars are acceptable everywhere, they are usually converted at a lower rate of US$1.00 to EC$2.50, so with larger purchases it's better to exchange money to EC$ first.
ATMs
Automated Teller Machines (ATM's) are available throughout the islands, also in major
resorts. Some machines dispense cash in both EC$ and US$.
Credit Cards
Major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Diners Club) are widely accepted. Some merchants may charge additional fee when paying by credit card.
Traveler's Checks
Traveler's checks can be cashed at banks and major hotels, some restaurants, larger stores and in casinos. Casinos will cash traveler's checks without a fee.
Banking Hours
Banking hours are generally 8:00am - 3:00pm (Monday to Thursday) and 8:00am - 1:00pm (Friday). Some banks are also open until noon on Saturdays.
Taxes and Tipping
Restaurants add a service charge of 10% to the bill so the tips are not required. Hotels charge 8.5% room charge.
