Eco-Adventures in the Bahamas

With over 700 islands and 2,400 cays, the Islands of The Bahamas offer an overwhelming variety of historical, cultural, and natural attractions. Although the size of The Bahamas is traditionally estimated by its land mass (about 5,400 square miles, including many tiny, uninhabited rocks and isles), these islands extend over a marine territory of about 100,000 square miles--almost twice the size of Spain and substantially larger than Great Britain. This marine territory is as important as the land mass itself, for while the land provides a place to live, the sea is a place to play and explore. Most people come to The Bahamas for its phenomenally clear waters and its abundant and varied marine life.

In fact, almost 5% of the world's coral reefs are located here, an amount surpassing even Australia's Great Barrier Reef. In addition to the unparalleled diversity of its marine life, the islands are rich in terrestrial flora and fauna. Because The Bahamas is an island nation, there are only two indigenous mammals-- the raccoon and the hutia, an endearing sort of tropical guinea-pig. Larger mammals introduced during colonization, such as wild donkeys, wild boars, and horses, do roam in less populous areas--and of course, whales and dolphins frequent the waters. Reptiles and amphibians such as the endangered Bahamian rock iguana, the Cat Island terrapin, and the Hawksbill turtle share the cays and islands of The Bahamas with the largest nesting colony of West Indian flamingoes in the world, as well as nesting colonies of the Bahama parrot. Unique among New World parrots, the Abaco parrot nests in natural limestone cavities on the ground. This nesting habit makes the parrot more vulnerable to predators, especially the wild cats of the Abaco forests.

While the islands of The Bahamas are not lush, their flora is distinctive, colorful, and varied. Among the Bahamian plants are the bull vine, whose bright red blooms attract butterflies, the wild grape, several kinds of fig, and the boldly colored and shaped bromeliad. There are also wild tamarind and pigeon plum trees, both of which produce edible fruit, and the ubiquitous casuarina pine. The various national parks encompass a wide range of environments--from hardwood forests and whiteland coppices to sand dunes and eerie, impenetrable mangrove flats. Perhaps because there's so much to conserve, Bahamians have a strong tradition of appreciating and protecting their environs.

As a result, the 12 government-funded national parks of The Bahamas are exceptional. They exist on several islands, encompassing every kind of habitat that the islands possess and ranging in size from the tiny gem of Lucayan National Park to the 20,000-acre National Park on Abaco.




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Aside from their beautiful beaches and views they also have other natural environment attractions. You'll definitely have an unforgettable vacation escapade in Bahamas.

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How to Plan a Cheap Vacation in the Bahamas

A trip to the Bahamas does not have to also mean a trip to a loan officer. The beautiful islands offer vacations for every budget. Even those with little to spare can make their way to the white and pink beaches by finding a cheap Bahamas vacation online. Websites such as Priceline and Hotwire are great places to start looking for a cheap Bahamas vacation These websites generally offer all-inclusive vacations, which helps to make the shopping experience easier. There are also plenty of other, lesser-known websites where travelers can find amazing deals on rentals, plane tickets, and more.

A cheap Bahamas vacation rental does not have to mean a lower standard of living. Consider Cookies Cabanas, a guest house on the beach of Cat Island. The home features a bedroom and bath with a double bed plus a hideaway bed and sits just 20 feet from a restaurant. Even better, this vacation home is only $90 per day. This low-priced home sits on an island considered one of the most beautiful in the Bahamas with high cliffs, densely-forested foothills, and 60 miles of deserted pink-and-white sand beach,.
In addition to cheap Bahamas vacation rentals, the Internet also offers many Bahamas vacation deals. Once again, vacation websites such as Priceline, Hotwire, and Orbitz are always publishing new Bahamas vacation deals. These websites often have last-minute vacation deals that offer spur-of-the-moment travelers a lower-price airline ticket so that the airline company can sell as many seats as possible.

Regardless of whether the traveler is leaving immediately or planning a vacation months in advance, it is always a good idea to purchase vacation packages on websites such as these, as packages often mean a savings over vacation arrangements purchased individually. The Bahamas is no longer a vacation destination only for the well-to-do. Thanks to online vacation websites, cheap deals can be found to suit any budget.

Bahamas Vacations Info provides detailed information on Bahamas vacation packages, rentals, family vacations, resorts, villas, ranging from cheap vacations to upscale retreats. Bahamas Vacations Info is the sister site of Lake Havasu Web.



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You can still have fun if you're on a tight budget on your Bahamas vacation. Just be patient in looking for cheaper or promo packages in the internet or travel agencies. There are affordable cabanas in Bahamas where you can stay and enjoy their food and the beach.

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Paradise Island

Paradise Island is currently the most expensive place to stay in the Bahamas. The small island was not always so glamorous, however. Paradise Island in the Bahamas was once known as Hog Island and was a major site for farming in the Bahamas. Paradise Island in the Bahamas is situated near New Providence, and the two islands are connected by a bridge between Paradise Island and Nassau Harbor.

Hog Island first became Paradise Island in the Bahamas when the island was purchased by Huntington Hartford in 1959. Huntington was the A&P Supermarket Heir and paid more then $11 million for the island. Huntington was the first entrepreneur to begin developing Bahamas Paradise Island and built the first major hotel on the site. He was also responsible for purchasing and transporting The Cloisters that rest at the Versailles Gardens, which is still a popular attraction on Bahamas Paradise Island. Huntington changed the name of the area from Hog to Paradise Island, and was also responsible for obtaining a gambling license for Bahamas Paradise Island. Huntington eventually turned ownership of the island over to his close friend and business partner, Jim Crosby, and ownership of the island has changed hands multiple times since then.

In addition to The Cloister, one of the main attractions for a Paradise Island vacation is the Atlantis Paradise Island Resort and Casino. The sprawling mega-hotel features the world's largest open air marina, hundreds of rooms, a private beach, and an enormous casino. Even if you won't be staying at the Atlantis for your Paradise Island vacation, the casino is a great attraction. If gambling isn't quite your niche you can also shop at one of the nicest shopping areas on the island. The Shops at the Atlantis include well known brand names and plenty of souvenir boutiques.

Of course, no Paradise Island vacation would be complete without at least one trip to the beach or out into the ocean. No matter where you hang your hat at night, your hotel staff or concierge will be more then happy to help plan any sort of trip or tour you would like to take. Most hotels offer free shuttle service to and from the most popular beaches. You can also book trips for scuba diving, snorkeling, and fishing through your hotel. Thanks to Paradise Island's proximity to Nassau, you can also enjoy some of the best attractions in Nassau. Paradise Island also has a couple of great golf courses, or you can always book a trip to visit Grand Bahama Island, as well.

Paradise Island is still the most expensive piece of real estate in the Bahamas, and in general guests find that a vacation there is more expensive than on other islands. Restaurants and nightclubs will reflect the higher cost, as will the hotels. Paradise Island can't be beat, though, for having so much to do in one small place. Depending on how would like to spend your vacation time, Paradise Island Bahamas can be an excellent choice.



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Paradise island is really a paradise because of it's beautiful views and beach. It's very calming and you can really relax in Bahamas.

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Weddings in The Islands of the Bahamas

Marriage

Your wedding ceremony or renewal of vows, whether traditional or unusual, can be an unforgettable experience no matter where in The Islands of the The Bahamas you choose to have it. You have many opportunities to have the wedding of your choice. The Islands offer several options in terms of theme and backdrop:

The Classic Wedding

The quaint, impressive charm of the 14th Century "French Cloisters" on Paradise Island, take you back in time as you stroll through its classic columns, overlooking Nassau's harbour.

The Tropical Wedding

With tropical flowers blooming and warm fragrant air surrounding you, weddings can be held on the hotel grounds or any of the botanical gardens throughout the Islands of The Bahamas. The bougainvillea, hibiscus, gardenias and poinciana make beautiful and unique wedding bouquets.

The Romantic Wedding

Any one of the number of islets and uninhabited cays, with their rugged shoreline that hug the Atlantic, or one of the numerous sandy beaches, provide an ideal backdrop where your "I Do" will be to the accompaniment of waves splashing up on the beach.

The Party Boat Wedding

Nuptial vows are exchanged on a festive party boat, cruising the serene waters of The Islands with the sun setting in the background, followed by dancing on board into the night.

The Aquatic Wedding

Coral Island offers a delightful glimpse of Nassau's underwater marine life, which can bear witness to your ceremony. Wearing a bathing suit or formal wedding attire, you are surrounded by the aquamarine waters, colourful coral reef and tropical marine life.



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Your wedding in Bahamas will be the most unforgettable and memorable day in your lives. It will be so romantic and full of love.

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The Best Season For Your Bahamas Holidays

Mention the word "Bahamas", and immediately you will think of a dream vacation or a paradise getaway lined with powdery-white beaches and crystal clear blue waters. You will also probably conjure up good thoughts about the Bahamanian people, what with their friendly smiles, warm, ready-to-please hospitality, and interesting culture. Even if you have never been there, you probably have heard a lot about this wonderful place in the Caribbean, just a few hours away by yacht from the harbors of Florida.

The Bahamas is a 100,000-square mile archipelago consisting of some 700 islands that line up along more than 500 miles of crystal clear seawater (some say the clearest in the world). You have to see it and judge it for yourself, of course, but you will not be disappointed. Scuba divers will delight in the fact that the Bahamas has the world's third longest barrier reef where close to 15% of the world's coral may be found and, as a result, a wide variety of underwater denizens may be found for their viewing pleasure.

For the adventurer, there are islands that are largely uninhabited that encircle the fourteen main islands that just beckon for a visit and discovery of its untamed beauty. Of course, for the "regular" visitors who still need their air conditioning and cable TV, there are several vacations spots much closer to civilization so that they can "get away from it all" without really getting away from it all.

The Bahamas has a year-long tropical to subtropical weather so any time is a good time to visit from a climate perspective. This is why Bahamas is called the "Isles of June" because of its great weather all year round with a 24-29degC temperature in both winter and summer.
Let's talk about how to make the most of your vacation regardless of which season you plan to go.

The peak season is somewhere mid-December to mid-April. During this winter season, many tourists from the much colder countries escape to the islands. Being peak season, hotels will be crowded so make sure you make your reservations at least 3 months in advance. And you need to book much more in advance if you plan to go there on Christmas time. But I guess, it's worth the investment if you come from the cold regions. Bahamas will definitely be your paradise.

Mid-April to mid-December is considered "off season". The winds are favorable during these months and expect a cold breeze in the early morning and evening. The temperature will be comfortable enough even on non-air-conditioned accommodations. The accommodations and packages are cheaper around this time (expect a good discount offer) so it's the best season to go for cost conscious travelers or for those traveling in groups. The hotels will be less crowded and you will have more quality, private time with your whole family.

March to mid-April on the other hand is the spring break. Expect a lot of vacationing students. It's a good time to go for young adults, as there will be lots of partying and sports events.

I have to note that June to November is a hurricane season. Most travelers are not really bothered but it will be good to check the weather forecast if you are planning to go during this time. With the advanced technology, the satellite forecasts are pretty accurate and adequate warning is given to the public incase of any danger.

I guess, if you want to escape from cold winter, then December to April is the season for you. If you are traveling as a group and wanting to have private moments with the whole family, then you might as well go during April to December where you can also avail of huge discounts. And if you prefer to party, spring will be a good alternative.



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Bahamas is a beautiful place and you can have lots of fun in it. It's better to make sure that the weather is good and no threats of hurricane so it won't spoil your vacation.

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Bahamas Hurricane Season

Hurricane Season in the Bahamas: Better Get Informed

June to November is the hurricane season in the Bahamas. People unaware of the Hurricane season, go to Bahamas Islands and may be held up in the islands. But information on the hurricanes is available.

Hurricane Season in Bahamas: Get the Hurricane Policy

Well, the hoteliers in the Bahamas Islands have a separate hurricane policy by which the traveler will get a refund with no penalties during a hurricane. These hoteliers also charge low rates and extend all possible help if you are held up by the Hurricane. Sometimes, large cancellations happen with inaccurate information on hurricane spreading.

Here is a link to the best tracking site once storms are identified as starting to form: http://www.stormpulse.com/

Bahamas Hotel Association (BHA) - Industry Hurricane Cancellation Policy

BHA maintains a Hurricane Cancellation Policy, which has been in place for a number of years. The policy considers travelers who would either need to postpone or cancel their vacation in The Bahamas.

The agreed policy gives the vacationer a choice of using deposits or payments toward a future stay at the same property in The Bahamas, or in the event that the vacationer cannot travel to The Bahamas at all, it provides the vacationer with a full refund.

Check your hotel’s hurricane policy:

Many Bahamian hotels have instituted a Hurricane Hotel Policy that states that visitors who cancel a Bahamas vacation during a hurricane will receive an immediate refund with no penalties. Every hotel is going to have its own policy. Higher end hotels will offer you a refund if your stay is interrupted or if you have to cancel without penalty if you cannot make the trip in the first place. Try to choose hotels that have a same day cancelation policy.

Some major credit cards like AmEx offer optional trip coverage ONLY if you buy your tickets utilizing that card. Call your credit card company NOW and ask about travel insurance and their refund policy in the event of cancellation as well. Confirm the EXTENT of the coverage they offer...



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So, if you're having a trip to Bahamas make sure you don't go on their hurricane season, it's dangerous and i think worrying is not necessary when having a vacation.

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Food For Thought

Adventurous travelers know that no two vacations should ever be exactly alike. Some people will prefer a tranquil stay by the ocean while others are eager to immerse themselves in local culture. Fortunately, the options for dining in The Bahamas can accommodate both the footloose and the formal vacationer.

The cost of dining in The Bahamas, as in many of the Caribbean islands, can be somewhat expensive. Travelers should have no problem finding moderately priced meals but are reminded that local specialties such as grouper, conch, and"peas'n' rice" will be more affordable, as they are more readily available on the islands.

Diners who prefer a very casual dining experience may be interested in the small local restaurants that have a somewhat limited menu. These can be a great opportunity to sample the most authentic local fare, and an average meal should cost less than $20(USD) per person. Fast food has also made its way into the islands and can be a familiar alternative for guests looking for an inexpensive bite to eat. Meals at fast food places will cost around $10(USD).

Moderate dining in The Bahamas often showcases many of the cultural influences that have played such an important role on the area. The menus generally reflect an interest in international cuisine and even the local dishes are often served with a continental flair. The cost of dining in a mid-range restaurant will generally be between $25(USD) and $40(USD).

Traditionally, The Bahamas has not been known for adventurous and innovative dining. This has started to change lately, as more renowned chefs have begun to arrive. It is no longer difficult to find very upscale establishments that serve traditional gourmet tastes alongside more exotic local fare. Visitors should expect to pay more than $40(USD) per person for a meal at one of the more tony restaurants.

Regardless of whether vacationers are searching for a quiet, romantic dinner for two or an accommodating meal for the whole family, there are countless ways to experience dining in The Bahamas.



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I guess they have a very good and delicious dishes. It really looks appetizing and the ambiance adds good mood in trying their native food.

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Facts About Bahamas Food

One of the adventures highly considered when visiting a new place is the native delicacy and food of the place. Its the most enjoyable and fulfilling escapade one can ever experience in a new place, tasting for the first time the savor of never before seen cooking. It may even be sometimes weird how a certain place comes up with their favorite dishes, and the Bahamian food is not an exemption to this.

Once you are in the Bahamas taking pleasure in the amazing and awesome beaches of unending white sand, you can total that dream vacation by exploring and indulging yourself in the savor of the Bahamian food. Bahamas food gets the limelight it ought to have at the many restaurants in the Bahamas islands, which also includes and international variety of tastes and styles. The native cuisine of the Bahamas depends greatly on seafood which are naturally caught fresh off shore and prepared with the best local flavors. Prepare you palate for some unique species and ingredients at restaurants in Bahamas islands as chefs themselves pride on Bahamas food never being ordinary.

Saying unique species and ingredients for Bahamas food is actually literal. Meat from the Conch mollusk is a favorite Bahamas food and is served in almost every way possible, including conch salad, conch fritters, conch burgers, conch chowder, scotched conch, and the ever exotic scorched conch where it is served raw and just washed with seawater and lime juice then rubbed with hot pepper, topped with fresh tomato and onion slices, served on a knife or skewer.

So if youre getting that feel of Bahamian lifestyle and spirit, try these Bahamas food to complete a once in a lifetime experience of Bahamian cooking:

Souse

You may want to start your Bahamian meal with an appetizer to set the mood, this unique soup is absolutely worth tasting, prepared consisting purely of onions, water, lime juice, celery, peppers and meat.

Fish n Grits

This Bahamas food is also worth trying. It is fish cooked with salt pork, onions, and green peppers served with grits as a morning meal.

Fish Chowder

This food is usually made with grouper, tomatoes, dark rum and lime juice.

Conch Fritters, Conch Chowders, Conch Salad, Scorched Conch

These Bahamas food are local specialties and prepared exquisitely, you may not want to leave the table without trying some of these.

Curried Mutton, Racoon Stew

Curried mutton refers to either goat or sheep; you may want to add these foods to your list.

Johhnycake

For dessert, you may want to try this mildly sweet bread served as a side-order.

Guava Duff

This Bahamas food is a dessert specialty of the Bahamas; it is made with sieved guava pulp, served with hard sauce which is a blend of butter, confectioners sugar, vanilla, and rum.

Nassau Royal

This is a local liqueur served alone or in coffee.

Kalik

This is the Bahamas national beer. You may also want to try other fruity, rum-based drinks such as the Goombay and the Bahama Mama.

Whatever you choose to have for your Bahamas food experience, all these foods are worth trying just dont forget to give fifteen percent tip if a service charge hasnt already been added.




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I love trying and eating delicacies of a particular place I'm visiting. I really think that Bahamas food is very delicious and exciting.

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Best Spring Break Cruises in the Bahamas

In these days spring break cruises are becoming more and more popular among young people. This is why young adults may have good jobs that take up their time along with their school assignment and parents in many cases are willing to spend more money than they have in the past.

Among the many cruises the Bahamas is a popular choice because it is more affordable than other spring break cruises and not near as far away as many.

One ocean trip that young people will enjoy and remember for a lifetime is the Spring Break Bahamas Party Cruise, taken on a full-sized cruise ship. Nearly all of the passengers are going there for their spring break, during the times when schools have their spring breaks. That makes for a cruise full of life.

True to tradition, this spring break cruise starts in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. In the morning passengers are boarding the ship and begin with an infinite buffet breakfast. On the ship there are all kinds of activities available to passengers including Las Vegas style casinos. On deck you can find pools, and dancing to a calypso band.

This cruise will bring you to the Bahamas, where you will have a five night hotel stay. At that place you can go out, explore the beaches and enjoy beach activities of the Bahamas. After your spring break, you will again board the ship and cruise back to Florida.

BahamaSun provides spring break cruises that also take you to the islands, drop you off, and pick you up to take you back to Florida. The ship is a Scandinavian cruise liner and you will get no cabin on it. Since the legal age is 18 you can drink at the bars in international waters and gamble at the casinos. While you are on board you can enjoy stage shows for your entertainment, using the pools or eating at the restaurants.

During your stay in the Bahamas you can choose a resort, a hotel to four people per room, or a condo up to eight people. It is easy to get into the partying spirit since gambling and drinking ages in the Bahamas are also 18.

A Bahamas Party Cruise that is sponsored by MTV is offered by Paradise Parties. Sponsoring by MTV means that there are great events on the cruise liner. In 2008, MTV will be shooting a show onboard where they are looking for the next great VJ. This is really a spring break cruise that you never want to miss!

In addition to this there are several other activities sponsored by the Bahamas Party Cruise. On the islands along with the MTV activities, there is a Tuesday night Mardi Gras party for all guests. Like other spring break cruises, the journey comes with hotel accommodations for a four night stay. This trip is absolutely one of the best spring break cruises available.

Have in mind, you are only young once, and spring break cruises don't come around day-after-day. If you would like to get the most fun, do a proper research in advance to find out the best spring break cruise possible.



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If you're going to spend your spring break in Bahamas it will be the most memorable vacation in your life. Aside from delicious food and beautiful beaches and views,you can explore many things in Bahamas.

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Bahamas Travel Tips

Important information that can make your trip more enjoyable.

Entry Requirements

US visitors staying for eight months or less need a return ticket plus a passport (passports expired up to five years may also be used), or a certified birth certificate with an official photo identification; naturalized citizens require naturalization papers and photo identification; permanent residents (green card holders) require their green card and a valid passport from their place of birth. Canadian visitors not staying more than three weeks need the same identification as those from the US All others need a valid passport. Some visitors may also require a visa.

Bank Hours

In Nassau, Paradise Island and Freeport/Lucaya, banks are opened from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Friday. Hours vary throughout the Out Islands.

Climate

The trade winds that blow almost continually throughout The Bahamas give the islands a warm agreeable climate which varies little year round. The most refreshing time is between September through May when the temperature averages 70-75F degrees. The rest of the year is a bit warmer with temperatures between 80-85F degrees.

Clothing

Casual summer wear can be worn during the day any time of the year; but be sure to bring a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings from December to February. Most hotels/restaurants/casinos require jackets for men in the evening, especially in cosmopolitan Nassau. Though walking the streets in swim trunks in mid-January might sound irresistible, beach clothing is inappropriate on the streets of downtown Nassau, in churches, restaurants and casinos. On the more laid-back Out Islands, dress-codes are much more flexible.

Currency

The legal tender is the Bahamian dollar (B$1), which is equivalent in value to the US dollar. Both US and Bahamian dollars are accepted interchangeably throughout the islands.

Customs Regulations & Taxes

Upon entering The Bahamas, everyone must fill out and sign an Immigration form, keeping a portion of the card in hand until departing. An oral baggage declaration is required. Each adult visitor is allowed to bring 50 cigars, 200 cigarettes or one pound of tobacco, one quart of spirits, and a variety of personal effects (personal radio headsets, bicycle, two still cameras, etc.). Purchases up to a value of one hundred dollars are permitted by all arriving passengers.

When departing, all visitors are required to pay a $15.00 departure tax ($18.00 from Grand Bahama); children six years and under are exempt. Departures to the US must go through US Customs pre-clearance. US visitors may take home US$600 worth of duty-free merchandise. The next $l,000 is taxed at 10%. Gifts valued up to $50 may be mailed home duty-free. One litre of wine, liqueur or liquor and five cartons of cigarettes may be taken duty-free.

Driving

British rules apply, so please drive on the left and watch those roundabouts! Visitors may use their home license for up to three months and may also apply for an international driver's license. Pedestrians should remember to look right before crossing streets.

Electricity

Electricity is normally 120 volts AC. American appliances are fully compatible.

Fishing and Diving

To protect the marine environment, spear fishing using scuba gear and possession of spearguns are illegal in The Bahamas. Cruising boats must clear customs at the nearest port of entry before beginning any diving or fishing activities. A permit is required for visiting vessels to engage in sports fishing at a cost of $20 per trip or $150 per year for vessels on which not more than six reels will be used. (Refer to the Yachtsman's Guide to the Bahamas 1995.)

Language

The official language of The Bahamas is English, more British than American, and generally intertwined with a special Bahamian dialect. Some Indian words like cassava and guava have been retained in the language.

Shopping

Effective January 1, 1992, the Government of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas abolished all import duties on 11 categories of items. Perfumes and Fragrances, Crystal, Leather Goods, Jewelry, Fine Linens and Tablecloths, Watches and Clocks, Photographic Equipment, China, Binoculars, and Telescopes are all duty free. Savings on these items are between 25% - 50% below US prices. It's easy to see why people often return from The Bahamas with more than nice tans.

The best shopping is concentrated in Nassau, Cable Beach, Paradise Island and Freeport/Lucaya; boutiques and gift shops are also found in most major resorts. Everything from duty-free products to local arts and crafts, wood, straw, shell and clothing creations are readily available.

Spring Break Season

Spring break season runs February 28 - April 10. This is important information, whether you're aiming to avoid the spring break season altogether or intent upon landing right in the middle of this month-long youthfest. Beach parties, sports meets, and musical entertainment lead off the packed Spring Break calendar. The front desk of your Bahamas hotel will surely be updated on the most detailed spring break info--or telephone the Ministry of Tourism at (242)322-7500.

Time

Eastern Standard Time is used on all islands. April to October is Eastern Daylight Time, in conjunction with US summer hours.

Tipping

Tip according to quality of service. Bellboys and porters usually receive $1 per bag, while most other servers (waiters, taxis, etc.) receive 15%. Some establishments include the gratuity in their bills.



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When having a vacation you have to prepare everything that is necessary in your trip. These tips can help you if you're planning to have a vacation in Bahamas.

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Time to Go

Understanding a little more about the advantages and disadvantages of each season of The Bahamas can help travelers make sure they pick the perfect time for their own island vacation.

The weather in The Bahamas, as in most places in the Caribbean, doesn't vary much from season to season. The difference between average temperatures in the summer and winter is only about ten degrees Fahrenheit, so the high season in The Bahamas is not usually dictated by the weather. Winter in The Bahamas is like the month of May in much of the North American Southeast, with an average temperature hovering around 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius). This makes winter the most popular time to visit, as North Americans escape the freezing temperatures of their home towns.

Summer brings hotter weather and humidity in The Bahamas, and both summer and fall have a greater chance of rain than other times of year. The hurricane season officially lasts from June 1 to November 30, but that's not cause for panic. More hurricanes hit the U.S. mainland than The Bahamas, and with today's meteorological technology, there should be more than enough warning to take proper precautions.

The crowds are the most obvious difference between visiting during the tourist season of The Bahamas versus the off-season, but this difference causes more changes than you might initially realize. Whether you consider these differences to be beneficial or not depends largely on your travel perspective.
The"Season"

Visiting The Bahamas in the high season of tourism is quite an experience. The islands become a hustling, bustling myriad of vacationers, all reveling in the beautiful weather and the Caribbean experience. Hotels, shops, and restaurants offer their most extensive service with a smile. The crowds can be exciting and exhilarating, but also a little daunting. This is definitely a time for small groups: singles, couples, or groups of friends who can navigate the islands with ease. The dating scene is also more lively in the high season, whereas it might be harder to meet people in the off-season.

Everything is more competitive in the high season of The Bahamas. Accommodations and flights should be booked at least two or three months in advance, and even earlier during certain times. Reservations are necessary, transportation is stretched thinner, and tours are generally more crowded. This is when the islands make most of their money, so they roll out the red carpet for every guest that arrives.
The"Off-Season"

While the high season is exciting, the off-season may be more indicative of the true Caribbean. With diminished crowds, a less-hurried, more quintessentially Caribbean way of life prevails. During the off-season in The Bahamas, midday temperatures may rise to an uncomfortable 85-90 degrees Fahrenheit, but the Atlantic trade winds keep the mornings, afternoons, and evenings extremely pleasant. Hotels and resorts may reduce their services and diminish their staff during the off-season, and some tours or activities may be closed altogether. Hotels also reserve their major repairs or renovations for the off-season, so it's a good idea to call ahead and make sure you won't be staying in the midst of a construction site.

On the flip side, traveling in the off-season can be much cheaper. Hotels cut their rates from 20 to 60 percent, and tours and shops may cut prices to remain competitive. There is easier access to public transportation, tee times and golf courses, tennis courts, water sports, and other activities. Flights and accommodations are easier to book. You may even be able to walk into a nice restaurant without reservations and be seated. This is a good time for families to travel because it's easier to keep track of children and there are less crowds to fight. The atmosphere is more cosmopolitan in the off-season as well, since a greater percentage of the tourists during this time are European.
Seasonal Events

Many people plan their vacation to the Caribbean around a certain event or festival. The high season of The Bahamas is filled with events like the Bimini Big Game All Wahoo Fishing Tournament, the Annual One Bahamas Music & Heritage Festival, and Junkanoo. Junkanoo is a Mardi Gras style festival that begins a few hours before dawn on New Year's Day in which men, women, and children, dressed in elaborate costumes and festive apparel, dance through the streets of Freeport, Nassau, and the Out Islands to celebrate their African heritage with music and dancing. Some towns and resorts hold mini-Junkanoos throughout the year for the enjoyment of travelers.

In September, visitors can experience the Grand Bahama Junkanoo Carnival. Events such as Independence Week and Emancipation Day also occur in the off-season. Other carnivals, festivals, sailing regattas, holidays, and fishing tournaments take place in The Bahamas throughout the year. Find more information on these events and many more in our article,"Events and Festivals."



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For me, summertime is the best time to go to Bahamas. They have an amazing and beautiful beaches and I want to enjoy the sun!

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Berry Island Bahamas

Berry Island Just to the northeast of Andros, on the northeastern edge of the Great Bahama Bank, lie the Berry Islands, a stirrup-shaped chain of 30 cays and numerous smaller islets. The Berrys, as locals call them, were believed to have been first settled in 1836 when Governor Colebrooke established a settlement of liberated Africans at Great Harbour Cay.

The Berries (population 634) offer beautiful opportunities for both divers and snorkelers.

Visitors will also find challenging dive spots, a nine-hole golf course and miles of beautiful, private beaches.

The two largest, Great Harbour Cay and Chub Cay, are where most of the Berry Island residents live, and are the centers for activity.

Chub Cay, the southernmost cay of the Berry chain, is known as the "Billfish Capital of The Bahamas" -- and The Berry Islands are second only to The Bimini Islands for championship sport fishing. During the month of May, the annual fishing tournament is held in Great Harbour Marina. It is an event that draws sport fishermen from around the world.

Between Great Harbour Cay and the Sturrup Cays are a number of privately owned Cays, including Bird Cay, Whale Cay, Frozen and Alder's Cays, Little Harbour Cay and Little Whale Cay.

Stirrup Cay Lighthouse, built in 1863, is said to have a resident ghost. Inland Blue Holes and the so-called Fishbowl of The Bahamas at Chub Cay add much to that cay's claim to be a major dive centre.

The Chub Cay Wall, which starts at 80 feet and drops to 4000 feet, provides divers with a magnificent look into the deep. The Canyons is located in 45 feet of water and has a variety of swim-throughs, tunnels and large coral arches. Another popular site is the Eel Garden which starts at 40 feet of water over white sand with hundreds of garden eels, southern stingrays and parrot fish. A rollover covered with coral heads continues down to about to about 75 feet.

A popular stopover for yachtsmen en route between Florida and Nassau, it is claimed that The Berry Islands boast more millionaires per square mile than most places on earth.



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All of the islands in Bahamas is very beautiful. You have to take a look on those islands, very calming!

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Small Islands, Great Service

While restaurants in The Bahamas can range from casual vendor stands to upscale bistros, the legendary island hospitality and delicious cuisine will always come standard.

The Bahamas have always tried to maintain a laid-back attitude, and this is nowhere more apparent than in the relaxed dress codes found at many popular island restaurants. During the daytime, shorts and t-shirts are generally acceptable, although travelers should note that bathing suits should be worn only at the beach or poolside. Several establishments may require a jacket for gentlemen, particularly for dinner and during peak season. If you are unsure of the exact requirement, feel free to inquire when making reservations.

Restaurants in The Bahamas get extremely busy, especially during the peak season. Consequently, vacationers are advised to make reservations well in advance to ensure that tables are available. Booking a table in advance can be made easy by such means as faxing reservations to restaurants before you even leave home. Hotels with concierge on staff should be able to give personalized recommendations and make reservations for their guests, as well.

Travelers should also be aware that when the check is presented at restaurants in The Bahamas, a service charge of 15 percent may have already been assessed. This is a gratuity for your servers and the staff who prepared your meal and if the charge is present, there is no need for additional tipping. If this charge is absent from your bill, the tipping standard here is around 15 to 20 percent, as in the United States. As always, guests should tip to reflect the quality of service.

With world-class service and an intriguing blend of colonial refinement and island exuberance, the restaurants of The Bahamas are to please hungry vacationers.



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In every vacation, we are looking for a very good food. In the Bahamas, you can find lots of restaurants that serves delicious dishes most tourists look for.

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Freeport, Lucaya, Bahamas!

When Christopher Columbus discovered the islands of the Bahamas in 1492 on his way to America, he named the largest island Gran Bajamar, "Great Shallows," a name that evolved through the centuries into Grand Bahama. The island is just 68 miles from West Palm Beach and is easily reached by plane or boat, making it a popular vacation spot for visitors looking for a taste of the tropics not far from home. The Freeport International Airport has been recently refurbished, opening the door even wider to visitors from all over the world.

Freeport/Lucaya, the island’s capital city and the second largest city in the islands, is one of the best-known destinations in the Bahamas. The city was specifically designed for the tourist trade, and as a result features terrific duty-free shopping and many attractions to keep visitors entertained and enthralled. The 10-acre International Bazaar in downtown Freeport is divided into sections that represent different parts of the world, each with its own collection of shops and restaurants. You can easily spend a whole day exploring the Bazaar, and when you run out of money, just pay a visit to the Bahamia Casino nearby!

Lucaya boasts its own shopping mecca, the picturesque Port Lucaya Marketplace and Marina, located across from the beach in Lucaya. This 6-acre complex is a great place to spend an afternoon or evening exploring the duty-free shops or chowing down at one of the many popular restaurants. Boaters won’t want to miss the impressive array of luxurious yachts anchored at the huge marina, an official port of entry into the Bahamas. The Our Lucaya Beach & Golf Resort nearby features a medium-sized casino in addition to lovely beaches and luxurious accommodations. And with the evening breeze come the sounds of tropical rhythms from live entertainment in the Count Basie Square.

After the sun sets in Freeport/Lucaya, the night comes alive with entertainment and spectacle. Sit back and enjoy a dazzling show at the Casino Royale Theater, Joker’s Wild, or Club Tropicana, or visit one of the many nightclubs where you can catch the sounds of local bands. If you’re feeling lucky, the gaming action at the casinos rolls on virtually non-stop, featuring craps, blackjack, roulette, mini-baccarat, and all of the latest slot machines. There are also lessons for novice gamblers as well as the Sports Book betting facility, where you can place wagers on football, basketball, or hockey games. Later, when you’ve had your fill of partying and playing the odds, you can search out a cozy bar on the beach and watch the moonlight skip across the ocean while you eat conch fritters and toss back Bahama Mamas.

Nature lovers will want to leave the modern amenities behind to explore the eco-structure of the Bahamas in Freeport’s Garden of the Groves, an 11-acre botanical park filled with plants, flowers, trees, and waterfalls. The Rand Nature Center offers 100 acres of winding nature trails showcasing native Bahamian plants. You can experience all the major habitats found on Grand Bahama in the 40-acre Lucayan National Park, famous for its limestone caves. You can even explore one of the two caves that are open to the public, if you’re not afraid of bats! Water sports of all kinds abound on Grand Bahama, from cruises and deep-sea fishing to swimming with dolphins and sharks. Snorkelers and scuba divers will find themselves right at home in the waters around the island exploring some of the world’s loveliest coral reefs. Guided tours are available everywhere, with the best spots located near Deadman’s Reef on the island’s west end.

The Pirates of the Bahamas Theme Park, right on the beach in Freeport, provides the perfect atmosphere for a day full of beach activities. The Kidd’s Camp offers adult supervision for children of all ages, with swings and seesaws, climbing and digging equipment, and a professional miniature golf course. Ping-pong tables, basketball courts, and all kinds of water sports are also available. You can eat from the galley of a "sunken" pirate battleship while you drink grog, and then at sunset compete in a line dancing or Macarena dance contest around a beach bonfire. Depending on how good a dancer you are, you might even win a prize!

Visitors to Grand Bahama may find it hard to decide where to stay, because the choices seem endless. Whether you choose a charming waterfront hotel or a deluxe modern resort, you can count on gracious service and genuine hospitality. There are accommodations for every taste, from the Our Lucaya Beach & Golf Resort’s luxurious modern atmosphere to Paradise Cove’s apartment-type rooms with full kitchens. The The Royal Oasis Golf Resort & Casino in Freeport, one of the island’s largest hotels, is adjacent to two 18-hole golf courses as well as the International Bazaar. The Grand Bahama Beach Hotel was completely gutted and refurbished two years ago, and several 4-star and 5-star hotels and resorts have opened in recent years. But if all the modern glitz and glamour isn’t your cup of tea, check out Pinder’s Point, Smith’s Point, or another of the sleepy settlements off the beaten path, where you can relax in a quieter atmosphere.

Come on down and enjoy your own tropical adventure in our capital city! No matter what you’re looking for in the Bahamas, you can find it in Freeport/Lucaya. The largest island in the Bahamas isn’t called "grand" for nothing—there’s something here for everyone!




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Wow! That's very amazing. Bahamas is rich in culture and beautiful history. You can visit their islands and it's fantastic!

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Bahamas Tourist Attractions

Bahamas, the tropical paradise on earth, offers innumerous unforgettable tourists attractions.

The exotic beaches and breathtaking adventure of the islands welcomes thousands of visitors every year. The main Bahamas Tourist Attraction are:

* Biminis.
* Long Island.
* Nassau.
* Andros
* Bimini Road.
* Crooked Island.
* Inagua National Park.
* Lucayan National Park.

Bahamas Accommodation Options: There are hundreds of lodging options in Bahamas. Most of these hotels give access to beach along with great food. Nassau Beach Hotel, Wyndham Nassau Resort, Nassau Palm Resort and Conference Center and Atlantis Paradise Island are the most popular hotels of Bahamas.

Bahamas Food and Wine: The tropical Caribbean Vacation remains incomplete without the mouthwatering Bahamian cuisine. The main cuisine includes freshly cooked sea food. The most popular local sea food of Bahamas is Conch. The firm white meat is served wit delicious soups, stews, curry etc. one of the most popular dessert of Bahamas is Guava Duff. Served in decorated bowls it’s a real treat for your taste buds. Crabs are also very popular in Bahamas. Asian, French, Italian style of cuisine is also available here.

Bahamas Shopping: The best things you can pick up from Bahamas are Cigarette, Perfume, Coins, Tribal artifacts, and Fendi brand collection. Bay Street is the best shopping destination here. You can find almost all sorts of gift items to take home for your loved ones.



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You'll definitely enjoy your vacation in Bahamas. They have many islands you can discover and explore.

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