Category recreation and tourism theme Bahamas. Open left menu grand bahama. To obtain a visa, you must provide

0

It's no secret that the Bahamas have long become a popular holiday destination for tourists from all over the world. And even Russians fly there to relax. The truth is that distance scares many people away. Which you have to fly over. But when you get to the islands, you will immediately forget about everything that happened to you before. After all, the Bahamas is a holiday paradise on earth. There is everything you need here and even something you never dreamed of! If you look at the Bahamas on a world map, you will see where they are. And they are located in the Atlantic Ocean.



And if you look closely, you will see that the Bahamas are located somewhere in the middle between Cuba and Miami, which is located in the US state of Florida. This means that the Bahamas is hot and dry.

The Bahamas includes more than 700 islands, but only 30 of them are inhabited or inhabited. Why are the other islands empty? Some are too small to build anything on. And some islands are constantly flooded with water, so you can’t build there either.
But there are separate islands where you can go on an excursion. You will be a modern-day Robinson Crusoe, and you will remember this journey for a long time.


The Bahamas are washed by the ocean on all sides. But there are no rivers on the islands at all! But there are lakes that are connected to the ocean and contain salt water. Mountains are also almost absent. They simply have nowhere to go, because there is so little space.
But the islands are full of green vegetation. And it is forever green, because there is no cold winter here. And the vegetation grows here for a reason. Every bush and tree is under state protection! And all because there are few of them on the islands. That’s why there are nature reserves and parks everywhere, where you can hide from the sun and watch animals.

See where the Bahamas are on the world map. And then you will definitely want to fly here.

The Bahamas, a state located on numerous islands near Cuba, is considered a truly paradise that annually attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world. And there are reasons for this. Read our article about what interesting sights there are in the Bahamas and how much the trip will cost.

If you decide to visit the Bahamas, here is a list of places that deserve attention:

In the center of the archipelago is the island of New Providence with the capital Nassau, which is its heart. To soak up the heavenly beaches, you need to walk a little from the center of the capital across the bridge. Unique landscapes with snow-white sand and gentle waves will delight both newlyweds and couples with children. There are a variety of water sports available for active guests. Lovers of passive relaxation have the opportunity to lie on sun loungers with a cocktail in hand.

Aquarium

When visiting Nassau, you cannot ignore the luxurious aquarium, located on 16 acres of land. For the safety of visitors, the underwater tunnel was made of durable material, allowing you to enjoy a variety of fish, plants and other creatures up close.

Botanical gardens

In Nassau, one of the most interesting attractions is the Royal Gardens. On the territory of the botanical garden there are wonderful roses, tropical trees, cozy romantic corners, bridges and canals. Just look at the blooming orchids.

Royal staircase

Of interest to tourists is the limestone Rock, in which 65 steps were carved into the stone in ancient times. This staircase is a connecting link between the upper and lower cities, but visiting this place at night is unsafe.

For those who love visiting museums, you can head to the Pirate Museum and the Pompeii Museum. The latter is dedicated to slavery.

State capital

It is the small town of Nassau. The history of its origin is curious. Initially, in its place there was a small settlement created by pirates. Here they lived, plotted raids, and divided the spoils. Over time, a city grew on the site of the village, which today is developed and modern.

The city is beautiful; walking along its streets, you will see many interesting buildings from different centuries. For example, an eighteenth-century fortress that has been preserved in almost perfect condition.

For entertainment lovers, the city has a casino, as well as opportunities to practice their favorite sports: golf, surfing, water polo, etc. There are many comfortable hotels in Nassau, so tourists prefer to spend their holidays here.

Local craftsmen make stunning jewelry and household items from seafood, so you definitely won’t leave here empty-handed.

Andros Island

This place is interesting for its nature. Almost the entire island is covered with dense tropical forest. Tourists enjoy visiting the lighthouse built on the island, and also bask in the warm rays of the sun on the most beautiful beach with white sand.

Hotels

In 2020, the cheapest hotel will cost 1,326 rubles. per person. The most expensive is 7900 rubles. Guests of the archipelago who value real comfort and do not take into account the price of the hotel can afford a stay in a hotel with a cost of 32,000 rubles. per night.

First-class complexes include:

The Cove Atlantis 5*

This hotel is located near the ocean. Guests can book either a luxurious suite or a more modest room. The hotel has restaurants, swimming pools, a beach, and game rooms. Among the advantages of the hotel, it is worth highlighting your own balcony in the room, which will allow you to admire the ocean.

Married couples, just like newlyweds, will find it interesting to stay here. The hotel has a dolphinarium, golf courses, a water park and a cozy cinema. Many restaurants allow you to choose the most suitable option and enjoy delicious dishes.

Atlantis Paradise Island (Beach Tower) 5*

There are cozy comfortable rooms with a modern flat-screen TV. Children and adults can have fun in the water park with slides and a slow-flowing river. The rooms are decorated in tropical blue tones. If desired, hotel guests can visit a luxurious spa center with a sauna and relax in a hot tub. For those who lead a healthy lifestyle, a fitness center is available.

You can eat in a cozy air-conditioned restaurant. You can enjoy a delicious cocktail or snack by the pool. The hotel has a free movie theater and free casino lessons.

The Reef Atlantis 5*

The hotel offers cozy rooms with views of the beaches. Here you can relax by the pool with a delicious cocktail in your hands.

Rooms include air conditioning, refrigerators, microwaves and minibars. Tourists can enjoy a golf course, tennis courts, a fitness center and spa treatments. It will be interesting and comfortable to relax here, both for active recreation enthusiasts and for couples with children. If desired, parents can order a nanny for the child.

Long Island

Those who want to take a break from the drab everyday life and bustle of the city can visit Long Isleung Island, where travelers have the opportunity to relax in a cozy bungalow overlooking the ocean. Off the coast of the island, experienced divers can snorkel or rent scuba gear to appreciate the beauty of the underwater world and see the inhabitants of the ocean. It is here that there is a huge 180-meter cave, famous among divers. It is considered the deepest blue hole in the entire Bahamian archipelago.

Rumor has it that a mythical creature lives in a deep cave that can drag anything it comes across into the water. From time to time, the water splashes out with force, which causes indescribable delight among tourists.

Eco-tourism is thriving on the island, which is why the price category of hotels will cost several times more than a stay in a regular hotel.

There is a huge monument on the island that is dedicated to Christopher Columbus. It was located on a hill in the Northern region of the island. Climbing up to the monument, tourists are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding area and the ocean.

When visiting the town of Salt Pond, you can look into the Anglican Church and St. Joseph. In the southern part of the city are the Cartwrights Cave caves, which were previously used by the Indians. Today it is home to a huge number of bats.

In the village of Pettiz you can visit a pottery workshop and buy quality ceramic products.

Tourists who are tired of noisy cities, business and constant meetings can indulge in heavenly unity with Mother Nature on the island.

Ardastra Gardens

In this captivating corner of nature, you can visit not only the botanical garden, but also enjoy the beauty of the park-reserve and zoo.

At the zoo you can see more than 300 species of animals and several hundred species of plants. Flocks of pink flamingos are especially popular among tourists and guests of the park area. They were brought to the park in the 50s. Amazing birds were presented to the island by the Bahamian government.

Having visited this place once, it is impossible to forget the shady exotic groves, unique species of shrubs and trees, and the aromas of flowers.

Boiling Hole Lake

The Bahamas are a group of islands, each of which offers different interesting places to see. The nature of Cat Island, which tourists, quite undeservedly, rarely visit, is practically untouched by civilization. There are a lot of secluded corners here, preserved in their pristine beauty.

Tourists should go to Boiling Hole Lake, where the water is crystal clear. It is worth noting that this place is interesting because during low and high tides, the water in it forms vortices, and it seems that the reservoir is boiling. Turning to the local population, you can hear incredible legends, following which there is an evil spirit living in the lake. The population does not recommend walking here alone, as it is unsafe. Clouds of steam often form above the lake, and it seems that the reservoir is truly protected by evil spirits.

If you want to visit the lake, you can book a tour. Boiling Hole is surrounded by mountains, and it can take at least four hours to get there. Therefore, it is important to travel in the morning. Local guides recommend starting the climb from the Ti-Tu-Gosh cave. Along the way, tourists will have to cross more than one valley, walk through a wild forest, contemplating unique landscapes.

Despite the fact that the path is not easy, what you see is worth the effort and energy.

Ancient Hermitage

On Cat Island you can visit the ancient Hermitage, which is located on Mount Alvernia. One of the local priests, Jerome, who was well versed in architecture, designed the building in a Celtic-Mediterranean style. The construction of the structure was conceived and carried out on the highest mountain of the island.

Having visited the mountain, you can admire the wonderful views that open onto the ocean and the surrounding area.

On the way to the mountain, travelers can contemplate beautiful paintings on stones, made by hand by craftsmen.

The talented architect designed not only the Hermitage, but also many other monasteries. Burial of Father Jerome in the vicinity of the island.

Bolshoi Island

It is located closest to Florida of all the islands. They are separated by a water surface of 90 km. The Lucian National Park within its territory became famous due to the fact that it served as the setting for the film “Pirates of the Caribbean”.

For tourists who love shopping, experts recommend visiting the Freeport Mall.

Those who prefer to soak up the snow-white sand under the gentle rays of the Bahamian sun can visit the beaches of Paradise Cove and Xanadu Beach.

Not far from Freeport, you can stroll through the Rand Memorial Nature Center, which features an abundance of tropical plants, cozy alleys and an interesting museum, which focuses on the historical period and the times of the Lucayans.

You can also visit the national park, on the territory of which there are underwater caves, which are a 12-kilometer system.

After visiting the park areas, you can turn to the village of Jack-Tar, where pirates previously stayed.

Shopping

On the main islands of the archipelago, prices do not differ significantly from those on the continent. But the price category of food products and fuel is much higher, since they are imported from the USA.

It is worth noting that porcelain products, leather, jewelry, watches and photographic equipment are not subject to import duty. Therefore, it is advisable to purchase these goods at a good discount here. That’s why the Bahamian archipelago is considered the shopping center of the Atlantic.

Shops and shopping centers are open from Monday to Saturday. Opening hours are from 9.00 to 13.00 and after a two-hour break until 17.00.

Those who know the value of money can visit the islands during the discount season, which begins parallel to the season on the continent.

Nassau

This town is famous for its souvenir shops, where gifts for every taste are sold. At first glance, the prices for the goods are very high. But a tourist has the right to bargain and buy a souvenir for an acceptable amount.

Regarded as the best downtown store in Nassau, the Straw Market Central Store is the most visited.

If desired, travelers can visit the shops on Bay Street.

Lovers of seafood delicacies should head to the fish market located in the Potter’s Cay Dock area.

What to buy

The imagination of tourists is amazed by the mass of objects made by the hands of experienced craftsmen. Products made from shells, straw, and fabric are held in special esteem. National alcoholic drinks, watches and perfume are no less relevant.

Tourists planning to purchase souvenirs simply must visit the straw souvenir market, which is located in the central part of Nassau. A huge assortment of goods, smiling sellers, ready to bargain and make concessions, will delight you with their irrepressible positive energy. Handmade jewelry and amulets are also sold here.

The good news is that tourists at customs do not fill out a declaration on the amount of funds imported into the archipelago.

Unique Bimin

Admirers of E. Hemingway's work should visit Bimin, the city in which he lived and worked for a long time. Unfortunately, several years ago the museum of the great writer burned down, but the flow of tourists wanting to touch Hemingway’s memorabilia still does not dry up.

Fountain of Youth

Many legends and tales have been written about the fountain of youth. In fact, the first story about the unique source was told by the Taino Indians to Leon, who was traveling in these areas. If you wish, you can ask the local population about the fountain, which is located in the southern part of the city.

A little about the kitchen

In order to get acquainted with the national dishes of the archipelago, it is not necessary to go to expensive establishments. Many national dishes were borrowed from Americans and Europeans.

One of the traditional delicacies of the Bahamas is the sea shellfish, which is also called “conk”. It is the main ingredient in first courses, salads and appetizers. The most expensive dish is spiny lobster, which can be enjoyed at certain times of the year. Gourmets flock for the opportunity to try this delicacy from April to August. It is during this period that fishermen are allowed to catch it.

Having visited an expensive restaurant or a cozy cafe, you can try baked crabs or various fish. Sea bass with white wine sauce, onions and mushrooms has an excellent subtle taste.

The Bahamian table should also include a dish based on peas in spicy sauce and rice.

The population of the island state loves dessert - guava pudding. Considering the fact that preparing the dessert takes a long time, it is prepared only for major holidays.

Among the alcoholic beverages in the Bahamas, they drink rum, both in pure form and as part of cocktails.

Nuances for tourists

  • Given the weak supervision of the authorities on the islands over companies organizing active sports, accidents often occur while surfing or fishing.
  • Outdoor enthusiasts should remember that the Bahamas prohibits spearfishing. For fishermen, there is a state duty, which is paid once when entering the ocean, in the amount of $20.
  • Divers are not allowed to carry out archaeological work on a sunken ship. Ignoring the rules leads to a fine and even deportation.
  • Swimming in fresh water is not advisable. Swimming pools with chlorinated water are suitable for this purpose.
  • There are no sharks on the beaches of the Bahamas, since they cannot penetrate here through the ridge of coral reefs. Swimming in the open sea is prohibited due to the nature of coastal currents.

Price

The prices for tours vary greatly. On average, if we consider a seven-day period of stay for two in the Bahamas, including round trip flights, the final cost will vary from 120 to 280 thousand rubles. And even more. It all depends on the tour operator, the island and the level of the hotel. A 10-day tour to Nassau will cost no less than $1,500.

The Bahamas are synonymous with luxury beach holidays: wide white sandy beaches, clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean and excellent coral reefs, as well as profitable duty-free shopping and hundreds of casinos. All about the Bahamas from the subtleties of tourism: prices, tours, photos and hotels.

  • Last minute tours Worldwide

Great Abaco is the second largest island of the Bahamas, well known to all yachtsmen in the world. The sailing season here lasts from spring to autumn. The vast coastal shallows are teeming with fish. Here you can practice any of the existing water sports, fishing, or visit the duty-free shops of the largest city on the island - Marsh Harbour.

Long Island is hardly visited by tourists. But in vain - this is the most picturesque island of the Bahamas, with beautiful nature and many places completely untouched by civilization. At the northern tip of the island, Cape Santa Maria is a long white sandy beach, one of the most beautiful in the Western Hemisphere. The main city of the island, Stella Maris, is a small but quite modern settlement, a starting point for diving and fishing expeditions.

The Exuma island chain includes over 360 small islands, and in its southern part there are two fairly large islands - Great and Little Exuma, where the entire local civilization is concentrated. This archipelago is a real paradise for yachtsmen, because these places are considered one of the most beautiful in the world: constant ebbs and flows, changing the depth of the coastal shallows, make the sea unusually beautiful. Diving enthusiasts will also have great fun here. All the details about the cities and resorts of the Bahamas are on the “Tourism Subtleties” page

Paradise holiday in the Bahamas

Customs

There are no exchange controls or restrictions on the import and export of foreign currency. To export local currency in excess of 70 BSD per person, permission must be obtained from the Central Bank of the Bahamas.

Duty-free import of 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 450 g of tobacco is allowed; up to 0.94 liters of strong alcoholic beverages and up to 0.94 liters of wine, as well as any other goods and products with a total value of up to 100 USD.

The transit of narcotic and explosive substances, items of historical and cultural value and weapons is prohibited - without the appropriate permits. The export of agricultural products, plants of all types and wood carvings requires permission from the country's Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries.

Bahamas phone numbers

The nearest Russian Embassy is in Cuba.

Rescue service: 911

Ambulance: 322-21-21 (New Providence), 352-26-89 (Freeport)

Air Ambulance Service at Sea (BASRA): 322-38-77

Cities do not have their own telephone codes. Payphones that allow you to make international calls are located everywhere and work with calling cards, which are sold at post offices, telephone company offices, hotels and supermarkets. You can also make a call from a payphone through an operator. As a rule, the cost of a call from a hotel is 10-15% more expensive than from a pay phone. You can also call another country from a post office.

Long Island is hardly visited by tourists. But in vain - this is the most picturesque island of the Bahamas, with beautiful nature and many places completely untouched by civilization.

Tourist safety

All popular tourist areas are fairly safe, but petty crimes such as theft from hotel rooms and pickpocketing are common. With the onset of darkness, tourists, and especially women, should avoid walking alone.

Spearfishing using underwater guns and other devices is prohibited on the islands. Sport fishing is permitted, but a fee of 20 USD must be paid for one trip to the sea, provided that no more than six reels of line are installed on the vessel. Independent archaeological work on sunken ships is also prohibited. Violation of these rules can result in a substantial fine and deportation from the country.

Don't forget to tell tourists that local laws regarding drug trafficking are very strict: selling or even simply using drugs can easily result in a long prison sentence.

Climate of the Bahamas

The climate is tropical trade wind in the north and subtropical in the south. The average temperature in summer is +26...+32 °C. On the southern islands (Great and Little Inagua, Mayaguana) the summer is much warmer than in the central part of the archipelago. In winter, the average temperature is +18...+22 °C, the coolest on the northwestern islands. The average water temperature is usually +27 °C in summer and around +23 °C in winter. The best time to visit the country is considered to be the cool season from September to May.

Bahamas Hotels

Hotels in the Bahamas are very diverse: there are large high-rise complexes and small cozy establishments. The local all-inclusive system is recognized as the best in the Caribbean.

Mains voltage: 120 V, 60 Hz. American standard plugs with two flat pins are used.

Money

The country's currency is the Bahamian dollar (BSD), divided into 1 dollar. Current rate: 1 BSD = 62.27 RUB (1 USD = 1 BSD, 1 EUR = 1.1 BSD).

Currency can be exchanged at bank offices, hotels and large stores. The Bahamian dollar is tightly pegged to the US dollar, but exchange rates can vary widely between institutions. The most stable rate is in the offices of international banks in Nassau and Freeport, the most unfavorable is in tourist areas.

All types of credit cards are accepted for payment. Travel checks can be cashed in the same place where you can change currency - at bank offices, hotels and large stores. Some hotels, restaurants and exchange offices charge large fees for check cashing, so it's always best to check with them in advance.

Tips are usually 15% in most places, including taxis. Some hotels and restaurants include them in the bill. Bellhops, guides, porters and porters usually expect about 1 USD per piece of luggage or excursion, and maids, depending on the hotel, 1-2 USD per day. Many hotels add a government tax of 10% (Nassau and Grand Bahama) to 8% (Family Islands).

Banks are usually open from 9:00-9:30 to 15:00 from Monday to Thursday, on Fridays from 9:30 to 17:00. However, opening hours may vary on different islands. Some banks in the periphery are often open only one or two days a week.

US dollars circulate freely in the country.

Holidays in the Bahamas

It is in the Bahamas that you can rent an entire beach and throw a fabulous party. The newlyweds do not crawl out of the warm nests of their hotels, gorging themselves on the famous local aphrodisiac - the conch shellfish, which is mixed here in almost every dish. Families with children fill Instagram feeds with selfies against the backdrop of pink and white sand. Beautiful ladies enjoy amazing spa treatments while their boyfriends storm the “Caribbean Vegas”, sitting at a gambling table not in a smoky room, but on a wooden terrace overlooking the sea. Will it not be enough? Then get ecotourism in nature reserves, diving at sunken ships, snorkeling with dolphins, fishing for giant sea reptiles, learning about the heritage of pirates, as well as the hospitality and cordiality of always smiling locals.

Cuisine and restaurants

Local delicacies: seafood salads, spiny lobsters and shrimps, charcoal-grilled crabs, red snapper fillets, shells of all kinds, etc.

The most popular non-alcoholic drinks are tea (English style) and coffee (mostly very strong Colombian or Brazilian). The islands produce classic rum, the best variety of which is Nassau Royal, and you can also buy imported alcohol everywhere. Local beer “Kalik” tastes good and is sold everywhere on the islands.

Entertainment and attractions of the Bahamas

There are about 25 protected areas on the islands. Great Inagua Island is an excellent place for bird watching; Abaco National Park, Man o' War Reef (Abaco Cay), the protected area around Love Hill on the northeast coast of North Andros and Embrister Creek north of New Harbor on Cat Island are also famous for their rich wildlife -Island.

Every Bahamian resort has an abundance of nightlife restaurants, bars, cabarets and casinos. In addition, the islands have everything for active recreation and water sports. The largest number of sports centers are on the island of New Providence, as well as on the islands of Grand Bahama and Harbor Island.

Andros, Berry, Bimini islands - fishing. Abacos and Eleuthera Islands - diving in coral reefs. Exuma Islands and Long Island - yacht trips. Inagua Island - pink flamingos, exotic iguanas, swimming with dolphins and even the opportunity to feed sharks. Grand Bahama Island is for those who are interested in scuba diving and fishing.

Prices on the page are as of November 2019.

The Bahamas are famous for its excellent beaches, beautiful underwater world and distinctive culture. The archipelago includes about 700 islands, of which only 40 are inhabited. Local resorts are perfect for both a leisurely holiday in complete unity with nature, and for extreme diving, as there are many underwater tunnels and “blue holes”.

Information about the Bahamas

The Bahamas have an official name - the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. The state is located in the Atlantic Ocean on an archipelago stretching for 1,500 km, and is separated from Cuba by the Old Bahama Strait and from the United States by the Gulf of Florida. The total area of ​​the islands is about 14 thousand square meters. km. The largest of them are Andros, Great Abaco, Grand Bahama, Great Inagua, New Providence, Great Exuma, Eleuthera and several others.

Capital: Nassau.

Population: 377,374 people (as of 2013).

Government system: constitutional monarchy headed by the Queen of Great Britain, which is represented in the Bahamas by the Governor General.

Language: English, “Patois” (Creole) is common among Haitians.

Religion: most of the population are Christians, mostly Baptists (35%). Folk beliefs also spread (“obeah”).

Time: 8 hours behind Moscow in summer and 9 hours in winter. On the last Sunday in March, time is moved forward one hour (valid until the first Sunday in November).

Climate

The climate in the Bahamas can be described as subtropical (in the south) and trade wind (in the north). In summer, the air temperature here reaches +32 °C, in winter - +22 °C. The central part of the archipelago is always cooler than the southern islands. The water temperature in the resorts of the Bahamas is about +27 °C in summer and +23 °C in winter.

Most of the precipitation on the islands falls from May to October, and strong storms and hurricanes are possible during these same months. Based on this, the best time to vacation in the Bahamas is considered to be the period from late October to early May.

Average daily temperature at the resorts of the Bahamas, °C

Resorts in the Bahamas Jan Feb March Apr May June July Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Nassau +25 +25 +26 +27 +29 +31 +32 +32 +31 +30 +28 +26
Nassau, water t +25 +25 +25 +26 +27 +28 +29 +29 +29 +28 +27 +26
Andros +25 +25 +26 +27 +29 +31 +31 +32 +31 +29 +27 +26
Andros, water t +23 +23 +23 +24 +25 +27 +28 +28 +28 +27 +26 +24
Abaco +25 +25 +26 +27 +29 +31 +31 +32 +31 +29 +27 +26
Abaco, water t +23 +23 +23 +24 +25 +27 +28 +28 +28 +27 +26 +24
Grand Bahama +25 +25 +26 +27 +29 +31 +31 +32 +31 +29 +27 +26
Grand Bahama, t water +23 +23 +23 +24 +25 +27 +28 +28 +28 +27 +26 +24
Eleuthera +25 +25 +26 +27 +29 +31 +31 +32 +31 +29 +27 +26
Eleuthera, t water +23 +23 +23 +24 +25 +27 +28 +28 +28 +27 +26 +24
Bimini +20 +21 +22 +24 +26 +27 +28 +28 +28 +26 +23 +21

Map of the Bahamas

Nature

The Bahamas are stretches of limestone plateau jutting out from the ocean. Its underwater part has deep cracks and ferrous layers, making the underwater world of the Bahamas look very picturesque. Adding to its beauty are numerous coral reefs, blue holes and long tunnels connecting deep underwater caves. All this makes the islands of the archipelago very attractive for divers.

Previously, the entire territory of the Bahamas was covered with tropical forests, but today they are preserved only on the islands of Grand Bahama, Abaco and Andros. On their territory you can see valuable types of wood - red ironwood and logwood, Caribbean pines, as well as various types of exotic flowers - orchids, jasmine, bougainvillea, etc. Often on the islands you can find artificial plantings with coniferous trees, casuarinas and mahogany.

The fauna in the Bahamas is not very diverse. The most common species are bats, frogs, snakes, lizards, as well as birds - red flamingos, pelicans, herons, etc. Near the coasts there are numerous species of fish - mackerel, barracuda, Atlantic sailfish, etc. Thanks to this, fishing in the Bahamas is very exciting class.

Another natural feature of the Bahamas is its beautiful sandy beaches with fine sand, which attracts many travelers who want to soak up the sun and swim in the clear coastal waters.

Traditions and customs

The main characteristic of the Bahamians is their leisurely pace; on the islands it is not customary to rush anywhere. Local residents are generally calm and friendly, but sometimes they can express their emotions quite violently.

The dress code on the islands is informal. In most cases, a shirt and long trousers will be enough for men. In resort areas, shorts are fine; in cities, overtly beachwear should be avoided. In the evening and on holidays, a long dress with ethnic patterns is considered good form for women, and a light suit for men.

As for culinary traditions, in the Bahamas they are closely connected with seafood. Char-baked shells, crabs, shrimp, fish cakes, seafood salads, various variations of dishes with conch snail, reef snapper in tomato or anchovy sauce, soup with lime juice, celery, meat and onions - these delicacies can be found in menus of almost all restaurants in the archipelago. The cuisine of the Bahamas was greatly influenced by the British colonialists, so traditional English dishes prepared taking into account local characteristics are also common here. Among the desserts, Caribbean coconut pies, rice puddings and fruit salads are very popular. In the bar menu you will definitely see Nassau Royal rum, the famous Bahamian beer Kalik, as well as various imported drinks.

Culture and architecture

The culture of the Bahamas was influenced by Africans, inhabitants of neighboring Caribbean islands, and colonists. An important part of the national folklore are obeah rituals, which are reminiscent of the rites of Santeria in Brazil and Cuba, as well as voodoo from Haiti. The practice involves turning to white and black magicians, communicating with departed ancestors and spirits of the underworld, etc. Followers of obeah believe that evil spirits live in silk cotton, and with special skill their power can be controlled. Voodoo rituals are also common in the Bahamas, especially among immigrants from Cuba, Haiti, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic.

Another bright side of Bahamian culture is music, which combines the traditions of colonialists and African slaves. Particularly popular are down-home styles (music performed on accordions, guitars and maracas) and goombay, which combines English folk songs with calypso melodies.

Dance art is also widespread in the Bahamas. In special halls or on the street you can see real dance performances, which intricately combine ritual African dances, classical ballet and modern choreography.

There are also architectural attractions in the Bahamas. Most of them date back to the colonial period and are located in the capital of the state, the city of Nassau.

Main currency

The main currency on the islands is the Bahamian dollar, equal to 100 cents. Both coins and banknotes of various denominations are in circulation. US dollars are in free circulation. International credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.

You can exchange currency in the Bahamas in shopping centers, hotels and banks, which are usually open on weekdays until 15:00. The most favorable exchange rates are available at international banks located in Freeport and Nassau. There are a large number of ATMs in popular tourist areas, which cannot be said about the peripheral islands, where withdrawing money is quite problematic. Hotels, restaurants and exchange offices may charge quite a large commission for cashing traveller's checks, so check the terms and conditions before using their services. It is most profitable to use travel checks in US dollars.

Flight

You cannot fly from Russia to the Bahamas using a direct flight. The best option is a British Airways flight connecting in London (operating five times a week), which takes about 13 hours. You can also fly to the USA, and from there, with the help of American airlines, to the capital of the Bahamas - Nassau. The disadvantage of this option is that such a trip requires an American transit visa. From the USA you can also get to the Bahamas by ferry (the trip takes about 5 hours).

Electricity

Mains voltage - 110V, 60 Hz. American type sockets.

Car rent

To rent a car in the Bahamas, you need an international driver's license, passport and credit card. The driver must be at least 21-23 years old (depending on the rental company). Car rental offices are located at airports, large hotels and in central city areas.

Our advice

The tourist areas of the Bahamas are quite safe, but you should follow the usual precautions: do not walk around the outskirts at night, watch your wallet, leave valuables in the safe.

You do not need to have any vaccinations to enter the country - they will only be needed if you are arriving in the Bahamas from a hotbed of infectious diseases. It is advisable to be immunized against tuberculosis, diphtheria and hepatitis B. You should also avoid swimming in local fresh water bodies.

Tap water in the main cities is safe, although it tastes salty, so drinking bottled water is recommended. Water outside popular tourist areas may be contaminated and should not be drunk. Dairy products, meat, poultry, vegetables and fruits can be eaten without fear - their safety is monitored.

To protect yourself from the sun, you should use special creams, since the level of insolation in the Bahamas is very high. On excursions, it is advisable to wear light clothing that covers your shoulders.

About 6 million tourists visit the Bahamas every year. The small island country attracts travelers with its excellent infrastructure and excellent conditions for relaxing by the sea. Here you can enjoy scuba diving and sailing, as well as the opportunity to explore the places where pirates of the Caribbean once hunted.

The modern culture of the Bahamas was shaped by the millions of Africans brought to the area over 300 years ago. The country values ​​festivals, carnivals, sailing regattas and fishing competitions.

Cities and attractions of the Bahamas

For vibrant nightlife, you should head to the capital. It is also famous for its beautiful harbor and paradise beaches with white sand, coral reefs and warm water. The most famous beach of the capital can be found on. Those who wish can take a yacht ride here, go diving and fish to their heart's content.

It is worth continuing the journey by visiting a small island called. This is an elite place for VIPs to relax. The size of the island is not that large, but there are wonderful places for a luxurious holiday, but the prices for accommodation and entertainment are high.

Another popular resort is North Island, which is located 90 km from the state of Florida. Here you can simply lie on the beach, or have fun during a trip to Tiger Beach, where many striped sharks live. The impressions from visiting this place will last a lifetime.

It is worth including in the list of capital attractions of the Bahamas. Lovers like this place; they often make appointments here for their other halves. You can also go to. It looks like a limestone rock with 65 steps. It is said that after the death of Queen Victoria, the governor ordered slaves to create a monument in the rock in her honor. This is how a staircase appeared in the city, each step of which is a symbol of a year in the queen’s life.

When is the best time to go to the Bahamas?

Although the country is not prone to natural disasters, it does have a hurricane season that runs from June to November. The weather service warns the population about possible disasters. It is best to buy a tour during the cool season - from September to May.

Tourist safety

Street crime on the islands has increased recently, so precautions are a good idea. Most of the crimes occur in non-tourist areas, but cases of thefts have also been recorded in places where crowds of visitors walk. Girls are not recommended to go out alone at night. Also, you should not wear expensive jewelry or take large sums of money with you. You should be especially careful on deserted beaches; it is better to give preference to crowded vacation spots by the sea.

 

It might be useful to read: