In the eastern Caribbean just north of Antigua, Barbuda is one of the Leeward Islands. On one side of the island the Atlantic Ocean ravages the wild beaches, strewing them with driftwood and shells, while on the other the calm Caribbean Sea creates endless stretches of perfect white and pink sandy beaches. The island is much less developed than many of the Caribbean neighbours. Popular activities include swimming and snorkelling, as the clear waters abound with turtles and tropical fish. Photo by: André Pipa

Barbuda is largely rocky and flat. Most of the island is covered by bush, home to dear and boar, land turtles and guinea fowl, as well as the occasional wild cat. The island is also famous for its colony and more than 5,000 frigate birds. There are many caves on the island. In one of them, is possible to climb right through to the top of the Highlands from where you can see for miles. Other caves go underground and underwater and should only be explored by experience cavers. Photo by: Liembo

The first inhabitants of the island were the Ciboney in 2400 BC. Later Christopher Columbus landed on Barbuda in 1493, Arawak and Carib Indians were living there. In 1685, the island was leased to brothers Christopher and John Codrington. The Codrington family influences can still be seen in the street names and architectural remains on the island. Photo by: Brian Ritchie

When to go: November to April. Population: 2000. How to get there: Fly or take a ferry from Antigua. You should know: Book accommodation in advance as there are only a few boutique-style resorts on the island. Photo by: André Pipa