Tropical Bliss: Experiencing a Fairytale Wedding in Antigua

Sometimes, life gives you the perfect excuse to escape reality and dive headfirst into paradise—and for me, that moment came wrapped in a wedding invitation.

When a dear friend decided to tie the knot on the idyllic shores of Aruba, I knew this would be more than just another destination wedding. It was a chance to celebrate love, reconnect with friends, and soak in the island’s laid-back beauty.

From oceanfront vows to Caribbean sunsets and unexpected adventures, my trip to Aruba was unforgettable in every sense.

Here’s a glimpse into the magic, mishaps, and memories of a wedding week I’ll never forget.

Smooth Landing & Warm Welcome

We swooped in on an early bird flight, breezing through immigration like we had a VIP pass. No queues, no fuss—just a smooth glide through customs. Right outside, our transfer company was

easy to spot, like a beacon of organization. Our driver was a rockstar—he rolled out the welcome mat and even made a pit stop at a local patty shop. That flaky crust and spicy goodness was the perfect kickoff to our Caribbean escape!

First Impressions of the Royalton Antigua

Checking into the Royalton was slick, though I’ll be real—it wasn’t the jaw-dropping "wow" you’d expect from a luxury pad. You’re greeted by security and bellhops, then a rum punch station warms you up.

Our room wasn’t ready thanks to our early bird arrival, but check-in was smooth as silk. Slap on a wristband and voilà, you’ve got all-access to the resort. Heads up: they slap a $150 hold on your card for extras. Since it’s all-inclusive, this was a curveball. Plan your pennies!

Dining & Drinks: Mostly Hits

We feasted at five main spots: Caribbean flavors, Italian delights, a steakhouse, sports bar bites, and a buffet. Breakfast at the buffet was a daily highlight. But the real MVPs were the pool bar staff—fun, friendly, and unforgettable. We even swapped socials!

Entertainment & Nightlife

The Royalton skipped the nightly showbiz, but a live DJ spun tunes and took requests each night. Karaoke night? A total riot! Craving more nightlife? Hit up Vyce Nightclub, a 20–30 minute cab ride with an $8 cover. Drinks and eats were a steal—our group of 8 spent just $200 USD for a bottle of wine, drinks, and food—bargain for a blast!

Exploring Antigua

If you’re itching to wander, the hotel’s got transportation. But here’s a hack: buddy up with your transfer driver. Ours offered better group rates than the hotel and was our trusty guide. Downtown Antigua is a Caribbean classic—vibrant, colorful, and brimming with charm. Don’t skip Freddie’s for the island's best ice cream. And seek out Jay on the beach for jet ski thrills!

The Wedding: A Dreamy Island Bash

The reason for our jaunt—a wedding—was pure magic. The ceremony on the resort’s terrace overlooking the bay was breathtaking. The indoor reception in a ballroom was a cool escape from the heat. With stunning décor, a delicious buffet, and a superstar wedding crew, every detail was nailed.

Final Thoughts

From friendly faces and flavorful eats to beachside giggles and starry dance-offs, Antigua was an unforgettable adventure. The Royalton has room to level up, but the island’s charm and its people more than make up for it.

Would I return? You bet. Antigua is a must-see!

Want your own personal Antiguan experience, let me help you make it a reality. Plan your trip with me today. Eon@whitesandtraveler.com