Antigua and Barbuda are among the Lesser Antilles and is a popular holiday destination in the Caribbean. In 1493 Christopher Columbus landed in Antigua. After possession and settlement attempts by all colonial powers failed, the islands were for a long time the pirate stronghold of the Caribbean. In 1680 a large part of the island of Baubuda became the property of the Codrington family, which also planted the first sugar cane plantation. Due to its geographical location, Lord Nelson’s natural and only storm-proof bay was selected as a base for the English fleet. English Harbor is also the name of the world famous rum of Antigua.