Drunk On Life In Antigua

There's more than punch and sandy beaches to this idyllic Caribbean island, discovers Anna Walker

I take a moment to slow my breath, quickened from a hike in the fierce Caribbean sun, as I crouch down, hushed with my companions. We’re gathered around an unassuming cavity in the ground, many of us cameras out, paparazzi-style, hoping to catch a glimpse of an unlikely holiday photo star—the tarantula.

The bravest of our group, Kathy, is gently probing this unwitting spider’s home with a long piece of grass. The plant’s feathery tips, our guide assures us, imitate a spider’s legs. Kathy’s engaged in a tug of war, not entirely sure whether she wants to win the struggle that will bring this slumber disturbed creature to the surface.

Perhaps this isn’t the scene you imagine when you think of a trip to the Sandals Grande Antigua resort. A couple’s paradise, certainly. Long colourful cocktails sipped on longer white sand beaches. Endless days stretched out in front of the waves. Lingering warm nights enjoying food in one of the 11 restaurants. But if there’s one thing the resort provides in abundance in my week-long stay, it’s surprises.