Fig Tree Drive

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Heart of Rainforest, Liberta, Antigua

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Rain forest vegetation Photo - Fig Tree Drive, Antigua, Antigua and Barbuda

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Antigua's Fig Tree Drive

by Jodeci527

Miami-Dade County, Florida

April 18, 2011

Best of IgoUgo Fig Tree Drive refers to a winding road in the countryside of Antigua, between the center and the southern coast of the island. It runs through what is known as the Antigua Rainforest and makes for a very relaxing and calming journey, as rarely ...Read more Fig Tree Drive refers to a winding road in the countryside of Antigua, between the center and the southern coast of the island. It runs through what is known as the Antigua Rainforest and makes for a very relaxing and calming journey, as rarely anything can soothe frazzled nerves such as an abundance of clean, fresh air.

The road is paved, however there are patches ranging from being slightly uneven to even rough, due to the frequency of tropical storms passing through the island. The heavy torrential rainfall tends to erode the asphalt, forming several 'pot holes'. These small holes in the roads actually seem to be quite widespread throughout the Caribbean as a whole, so be prepared.

It's a local attraction for both visitors and locals alike. Short term visitors tend to book tours which include Fig Tree Drive, while visitors who have a few days to spare, usually rent a vehicle to travel the route at their own pace. It is very common however, to find Antiguans enjoying a leisurely cruise in their vehicles, especially during the weekends and on public holidays. Traffic congestion is very rare, which eliminates the need for any road rage whatsoever.

Fig Tree Drive however, is not a simple route. It runs through valleys and climbs over lush green hills, teeming with coconut trees, and countless fig trees. Fig trees are smaller versions of bananas, and are best grown in areas with gently sloping terrain. This area has the best conditions for this type of plant growth, and therefore most of the farms which specialize in figs are found adjacent to one another along this main road. Needless to say, this is how the name 'Fig Tree Drive' came about.

Aside from drivers looking for a picturesque drive, Fig Tree Drive is also a perfect route for hiking. The different slopes along the route, attract a large number of persons who are looking for a gentle trek. The vast number of trees along the way provide plenty of shade so hikers are not limited to the early hours of the morning. Any time is a great time to tackle the route by foot.

Similar to hikers, bikers are also thrilled with the area. The paved roadway is great for even the most basic of bicycles, and it's a usual sight to see groups of persons and the occasional solo biker going for a ride along Fig Tree Drive. Even the toughest of self proclaimed race track drivers, slow their roll in this area, so bicycles are generally safe to ride in this part of the isle.

Along the way, there are several small shops and shacks which sell various provisions, specifically local drinks. These local drinks are usually in the form of freshly made juices made from seasonal fruits such as tamarind, passion fruit and ginger beer. If you really want to indulge yourself in something one hundred percent all natural however, cold coconut water is also available straight from the nut. These stalls usually serve as pit stop for bikers and hikers along the way.

Tourists and other visitors love to make stops at these stalls for other reasons. Rather than a refreshing drink, they flock to the shops to sample the actual local fruits and treats which are currently in season, such as mangoes, guavas, pineapples and kenips. Sugar cane is also widely available, already peeled and bagged for easy eating.

There is also a craft shop situated on the fringe of the rainforest that has lots of different locally made items. Some of these items may be small paper weights or refrigerator magnets, or large wooden masks and intricate paintings. These are just a few items which visitors could take home with them as tokens of their trip to Antigua. The craft shop is located near to the Antigua Rainforest Canopy Tour, a zip line company who caters for anyone seeking a thrill.

During the summer months however, Fig Tree Drive has an unusual amount of traffic. This is due to the mango season, and the countless number of mango trees found along the way. Some of these mango trees have no owners, so when the fruits are ripe, it becomes a free for all affair. Small children and adults alike, clamber up the branches to retrieve the largest and juiciest mangoes for their families and friends.

This journey has something to offer everyone. Whether you're an exercise enthusiast, a nature lover or even an adventure seeker, you'll feel quite in you're element. If time permits, I recommend taking the time to drive, hike or bike your way through Fig Tree Drive.
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Antigua's Fig Tree Drive