GETTING THERE: The Bahamas are just a short distance from the US. In fact, The Bahamas are one of its closest neighbors! Many major US cities offer direct flights to Nassau (its major international airport). If not, there are many flights from nearby Miami International. There are 20 airports scattered throughout the islands, but Nassau is the biggest. It also offers small charter flight connections to the other islands. Another popular way to get to the Bahamas is by ship. Many people first experience The Bahamas as a cruise stop – Nassau is one of the busiest ports in the Caribbean and welcomes virtually every cruise line.
Additionally, almost every major ocean line owns its own private island getaway in the Bahamas. Also, it is a lovely day trip from the east coast of Florida to the Bahamas, whether by charter or private boat! Once on-island, taxis are often available on the larger, more populated islands, though scooters, bikes, and golf carts are a preferred mode of transportation. Car rentals are challenging to get, as they tend to be unnecessary for visitors.
LANGUAGE: The primary language spoken in The Bahamas is English, since English rule had the greatest influence and time of rule. Many different cultures influence The Bahamas, and they have adapted their own version of Creole that is also spoken.
CLIMATE: Is there any destination that has truly perfect weather? The Bahamas sure comes close! Thanks to lovely Trade Winds, The Bahamas enjoys temperatures in the 70’s and 80’s year-round, almost always with a lovely, gentle breeze. In the winter, temperatures will stay steady in the low to mid 70’s, and in the summer, they may hit low 90’s. Rainy months in the Bahamas are May and June, but showers tend to pass quickly. Because they are found on the edge of the Caribbean and Atlantic, they do observe hurricane season between June and November, though hurricanes are surprisingly rare.
MONEY/CURRENCY (CREDIT CARDS, DEBIT CARDS, TIPPING, ATMS): The main form of currency in The Bahamas is called the “Bahamian dollar”, but it is interchangeable with the US dollar. US dollars are widely accepted across all islands, as are most major credit cards. ATM’s are typically easy to find, but be advised that cash is easiest while shopping.
ELECTRICITY: On the Bahamas the power plugs and sockets are of type A and B. The standard voltage is 120 V and the standard frequency is 60 Hz. If you’re traveling from the US, you won’t need an adapter.
1. Used to be British Territory as one nation with Turks & Caicos. The Bahamas declared its independence and also separated from Turks & Caicos in 1973.
2. Shopping is duty-free! That means no import duties (added expense) are charged, so shopping prices are often 25-50% below US prices.
3. Christopher Columbus first landed in the New World in The Bahamas, NOT New England/US, on San Salvador Island, in 1492. He called it “Baja Mar” which means shallow sea, which later
turned into “The Bahamas” with English influence in the Islands.
4. The Bahamas were a favorite hideout for real-life pirates because it was easy for them to hide treasure in the shallows and nearby islands that were inaccessible for most ships. The Bahamas also sit right in the major shipping lane, and is typically the first or last land before crossing the Atlantic.
5. Nassau was destroyed TWICE due to lawlessness and lack of order during the Age of Piracy.
1. Spend the day relaxing on one of the private islands.
2. Go sailing or out on a catamaran – try a snorkel/sail!
3. Take a charter to Pig Island, and hang out with these friendly natives
4. Take a great historical tour, combined with a little fun and whimsy! Try a pirate tour or visit Fort Fincastle on Nassau.
5. Foodie alert! Love trying local flavors? Try the Nassau Food Tour.
6. Looking for something a little more leisurely? Visit Ardastra Gardens and catch the Marching Flamingos performance.
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