| With exquisite pink and white beaches, crystal-clear waters and accommodations to suit every taste, the Bahamas offer variety unmatched anywhere in the Caribbean. Most visits to this beautiful archipelago begin is Nassau. Nassau's major tourist centers on Paradise Island and Cable Beach combine old-world charm with the excitement of casinos and nightclubs. Nassau is a great destination with sports facilities ranging from dolphin diving to PGA-rated golf courses.
The Islands of the Bahamas is an archipelago of about 700 islands and more than 2,000 cays, but visitors need only go as far as the larger islands - Nassau/Paradise Islands to find gorgeous beaches, world-renowned fishing and sailing, and glittering casinos.
Sports: With a variety of barrier reefs, platform reefs and atolls, The Islands of the Bahamas offer exceptional scuba diving and snorkeling. Other watersports include parasailing, windsurfing and waterskiing. Sailors will find calm waters and a wealth of marinas, while anglers can experience world class sport fishing for marlin, swordfish and bonefish. There are also golf courses and stables for horseback riding in Nassau. Most of the big resorts have tennis courts.
Things To See and Do: Museums and small galleries are scattered throughout the islands. The Pompey Museum in Nassau contains a collection by acclaimed Bahamian artist Amos Ferguson. The new Pirates of Nassau Museum , also in Nassau, brings to life the islands' 17th-century pirate past. There's a fine collection of historic architecture reflecting the island's rich history. Notable structures include Nassau's Government House, an example of Bahamian British and American Colonial styles, and Balcony House, the oldest wooden residential structure in Nassau. The islands' natural splendors are on view at national parks like Inagua National Park. Casinos in Nassau, Paradise Island offer every game imaginable.
Shopping: Shopping runs the gamut from duty-free outlets to small, family-run shops and markets. Nassau's Straw Market is filled with local hand-made crafts and products. Recently opened Festival Place on Nassau's Prince George Wharf offers island-made souvenirs and crafts.
Festivals: Junkanoo is a Mardi Gras-style festival that starts on New Year's Day and features costumed participants celebrating their African heritage through parade, music and dance. In July, Independence Week celebrations culminate on Independence Day, July 10.
Island Trivia: Several James Bond movies, the movie "My Father the Hero", as well as parts of "Splash" and "Cocoon" were filmed in the Bahamas.
Language: English
Electricity: 110 volts
Currency: The Bahamian dollar, but U.S. dollars are also accepted. |
