Pink sand beaches, coral reefs, 2,500 cays, and more than 700 islands comprise this stunning archipelago: The Bahamas. Geographically The Bahamas sits close to Florida and Cuba but after 325 years of British rule and the Queen as head of state the country still retains a distinct British feel. Nowhere is this more prevalent than in the capital, Nassau. Once the playground of pirates, today Nassau’s colonial homes and British forts draw visitors from all over the world. There’s even a “royal climb” up the Queen’s staircase to Fort Fincastle. And while most travellers choose to stay in Nassau when booking their flight to The Bahamas, the less developed Grand Bahama Island is also a great choice and has gone through a revival with new hotels being built along the Lucayan strip.
Eco-travellers who shun the casinos and mega-hotels that line Bahamas’ beaches will be happy to know that recently eco tourism has been growing in the country. Travellers booking flights to The Bahamas can expect to visit the preserved coral reef of the Andros Barrier Reef and Great Inagua Island, home to the world's largest flock of pink West Indian flamingos, which were nearly extinct a few years ago.
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In general the weather is good all year and the trade winds ensure that the temperatures remain relatively mild. The rainy season extends from May to November when there is a slight chance of hurricanes. Peak season is between December and April. Generally the northern and western islands are cooler while the southern islands can get very hot in summer.
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Peak Season:
September through May is the cool season and the time when most people visit. The temperature is an average of 24 degrees Celsius.
Off Season:
May to October is the off season, with the most rainfall occurring in these months. However, it is not extreme and temperatures are at their highest, so low-season fares tempt many holidaymakers out during this time. Hurricane season is June to November. Prices fall in this time, though the chances of becoming caught up in a hurricane are slight.
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Getting between islands is relatively easy, with a choice of flights from charter airlines. You will normally have to travel to or from Nassau, however, so if you're planning on island-hopping, you may end up visiting the city often. Bahamas Air provides the most routes.
There are some ferries that cover transportation between islands. The Fast Ferry service covers several routes originating at Nassau, though round trips are available taking in three or four destinations. Local ferries, or water taxis are also available.
If you’ve got lots of time to spare, take a mailboat. This is the cheapest way of travelling around, though certainly the slowest and you have no control over the destination.
Once on an island, hiring a car is the easiest and often only practical way of getting around. Driving is on the left and you have to be over 21 to hire a car.
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- Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas and is located on New Providence Island. It’s the arrival point for most vacationers, as it holds the airport and a large port. Lots of cruise ships stop here. For pirate lovers, a trip to the Pirates of Nassau Museum is a must. The “interactive” museum has a replica of the pirate ship Revenge. The museum is open from 9am-6pm Monday to Saturday and 9am-midday on Sunday.
- The beguilingly named Paradise Island is close to New Providence Island. It’s home to the Atlantis Hotel, one of the most impressive places to stay in the Caribbean. Even if you don't spend a night here, visit to take a look around. The huge hotel boasts a marina “to rival Monte Carlo,” an aqua park, and a marine habitat, with a replica of the sunken streets of Atlantis.
- The Abaco islands are made up of two islands and a number of cays. Popular especially with families, this is the place to enjoy the beaches and not do much else.
- Relax, you’re on Bahamas time now. Everything is a little more laid-back and, well, slower than you might be used to back home. Drinks may take a while to arrive in restaurants and bars (30 minutes isn't unusual) and meals even longer… The concept of rushing is almost unheard of. Don’t get frustrated, sit back and enjoy your holiday.
- As with lots of popular beach destinations, you’ll often encounter hawkers and beggars on the beaches and round the towns. This is most noticeable in Nassau and the biggest resorts. You’ll be offered everything from t-shirts and jewellery to hair braiding. If you’re determined not to purchase souvenirs, you do need to be alert: shaking hands with someone can often result in a bracelet being snapped on your wrist, which you are, of course, then expected to pay for.
- Getting off the beaten track: there are more than 700 islands making up the Bahamas, so, despite its immense popularity with tourists, it is possible to get away from it all. To explore some of the outer islands, hire a powerboat and just head out to sea.
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Nassau International (NAS) is 10 miles west of the city. To/from the airport: Taxi services are available. Facilities: Banking, car hire, post office, bars, restaurants and duty-free shops.
Grand Bahama International (FPO) is 3 miles from the city. To/from the airport: Taxis are available. Facilities: Banking, car hire, car parking, bar/restaurant and a duty-free shop.
The international airport at Moss Town, Exuma, also offers a runway.
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All visitors must be in possession of a return or onward ticket, plus proof of funds, and with the exception of nationals of Canada and the US, all visitors must hold passports which are valid at least six months after entry.
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UK nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to one month. A passport is required, valid for six months after entry, or some form of official photo identification with a birth certificate and/or citizenship card.
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