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Bahamas

INTRODUCTION

Whether the winter months have you wishing for sun or the hectic tasks of daily life have you wishing you could get away, the Bahamas are sure to be the answer to your prayers. Whether you pass the time by fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, or just plain relaxing on the beach with the ocean at your feet, any trip to the Bahamas is sure to be a pleasure. With many different islands to choose from, and an adventure awaiting you on each, a trip to the Bahamas should be on the top of your "to-do" list!

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Climate: The Bahamas is known for its wonderfully inviting, pleasant all year round weather. You will not be disappointed! The summer days are hot and the nights are warm.

Capital: Nassau

Currency: Dollar - Currently 1 BSD = 1.0000 USD

Languages: English, French, and Creole.

Passport and visa requirements: Proof of U.S. citizenship such as passport (if you are using an expired passport, it cannot be expired more than 5 years) or original or certified copy of a birth certificate with a photo I.D., and onward/return ticket required for stay of up to 8 months. Proof of sufficient funds also required. Embassy of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas, 202-319-2660

Power: 120 V, 60 Hz

Time Zone: UTC-5

ATTRACTIONS

Grand Bahama Island

Grand Bahama Island is filled with natural wonders that make it a fascinating place to explore, whether on land or sea.

Biking Nature Tour

You'll be able to ride a historic trail that early settlers traversed, visit the ruins of one of the island's first settlements, stop along wetlands to glimpse stately Herons and Egrets, and view picturesque scenery, including the pine forest and shady coppice.

The Heritage Trail

Before 1955, the main transportation artery on Grand Bahama Island was the Old Freetown Road, a dirt path leading from Old Freetown in the east to Eight Mile Rock and other settlements in the west. The road was little more than a dirt path and after the development of a modern highway in Freeport, the old road was abandoned and left to nature. Eventually, nature did such a good job of reclaiming it that a stretch of the road near Freetown has become one of the island's chief nature walks.

Pinetree Stables

For a uniquely romantic experience, enjoy a lovely horse ride. From stables in the heart of the city you can ride along tree-lined trails to William's Town beach, where you are free to gallop along the sand and surf.

Nassau

Prized for its sheltered harbour, the city made history and preserved it beautifully in Victorian mansions, cathedrals, 18th century fortresses, and a Queen's Staircase, whose 66 steps lead to a view not to be missed. Nassau is home to weatherbeaten, ancient forts, elegant, noble architecture, and fine local and international crafts and goods.

Atlantis

Not only is Atlantis worth spending a day at for the waterpark and rides, it is also a great place for lodging and dining. Go for dinner at Chop Stix, followed by a night at the famous Atlantis casino, or stop by the Water's Edge Buffet during the day. Although it is very pricey, it is a guaranteed great vacation. Located right in Nassau, it is world-reknowned as a luxury resort.

Fort Charlotte

Of all the forts in the Bahamas, Charlotte is the largest, a fact that illustrates Nassau's importance. It was built in 1788 under the governorship of Lord Dunmore, and it is picture perfect with a moat and dungeons. It ramparts offer one the best views of Nassau.

Queen's Staircase

The most famous architectural sight in Nassau, the Queen's Staircase is a flight of 66 steps that links Fort Fincastle to Princess Margaret Hospital. What makes it remarkable is that the staircase was not built, but carved out of calcareos (coral-based) sandstone at the end of the 18th century.

Adelaide

This small village, with its calming and rustic atmosphere, was one of the first black settlements after the abolition of slavery in all British colonies.

Cable Beach

Until 1907, when the trans-atlantic cable connecting the Bahamas to Jupiter, Florida was laid there, it was a beach without a name. This beautiful beach is now the ultimate tropical playground, fringed by hotels and casinos.

Inagua

Inagua provides a treasure of a different kind: salt, a critical staple in the days before refrigeration. Sailing vessels were called here regularly to purchase the commodity and the settlement of Matthew Town developed into quite a prosperous trading post because of its salt trade.

LODGING

Island Outpost

PERSONAL STORIES

Princess Cruise Line has their own island, "Princess Cays". Here you can lay in your own hammock between two palm trees with no other people around as far as the eyes can see. Now that's heaven on earth!