The Bahamas comprises over 700 tropical islands
North of Cuba and East of Florida, and is hugely popular with Americans,
particularly during the Winter months. In fact so much so that despite
being part of the British Commonwealth (although an Independent country)
visiting the capital Nassau can sometimes feel like you're in Miami!
The close distance to the States has led to a booming offshore financial
industry, but the tourist economy is what really powers the Bahamas.
The mostly flat coral islands present some of the most beautiful locations
in all the world, and diving here is second to none. If you only visit
Freeport or Nassau you'll be missing a lot!
That is not to disparage them at all. Nassau and Freeport are both
beautiful cities, with a number of luxurious resorts. Nassau, the
capital, is home to over 200,000 people and has a rich history dating
back to the pirates of the Caribbean in the 16th Century.
Linked to Nassau (you may not even realize you've left Nassau if you're
too wowed by the scenery!) is Paradise Island, which is the home of
some of the biggest Bahamas resorts, like the Sheraton Grand Resort
and the truly stunning Atlantis Resort. These are definitely not for
the tourist on a budget, but if you have the money you'll find it
hard to find a better resort in the whole world. There are also casinos
galore in Paradise Island, but they tend to be of a more sophisticated
European-style than the flash and
gaudy neon casinos of Las Vegas. Most are open 24 hours a day, especially
at weekends, and offer gaming lessons for those who don't know the
games - although you do have to be over 18 years old to enter the
Bahamas casinos. Back over the bridge, just West of Nassau, the Cable
Beach area is also home to some fantastic resorts, such as the Radisson
Cable Beach, and they too have casinos.
On the Island of Grand Bahama, Freeport is the
most popular area. Seemingly more modern than Nassau, it caters to
a similar clientele of Americans hiding from the snow, but with perhaps
more of a family Bahamas vacation feel. If you can tear yourself away
from the snow-white beaches and clear blue Ocean, there is actually
a whole other side to Grand Bahama and Freeport.
The fishing here is excellent, and if you've
ever fancied catching a marlin, barracuda or tuna this could well
be your best opportunity.
If you prefer just to explore the natural wonders of the Bahamas,
be sure not to miss an eco-tour through Lucayan National Park. By
driving from Freeport (or taking one of the many boat hires) you can
enter a wonderland that stretches over 40 acres filled with mangrove
swamps, empty beaches, bat caves and all kinds of natural wonders.
One of the most exciting family activities for tourists visiting Freeport
is the dolphin swimming at The Dolphin Experience. The dolphins have
actually been trained to follow
boats out of the harbor at Port Lucaya and swim with tourist in the
open sea. The dolphins and the tourist are closely monitored by expert
dolphin trainers, and they assure us it is a perfectly safe and never
to be forgotten Bahamas activity!
Happy Peoples Marina, Staniel Cay
The remaining Bahama islands, such as Bimini, Abacos and Eleuthera
are called the Outislands. These islands are filled with pink sand
beach's, extraordinary shelling, and some of the best fishing, diving,
and snorkeling in the world.
The Abacos are located North of Freeport and
are most popular for Treasure Cay and Green Turtle Cay. The Treasure
Cay Resort and Marina is the finest resort in this area and perhaps
one of the finest in all the Bahamas. The club has a popular pool
bar, outstanding food, beach parties, a first class marina, and one
of the most beautiful beaches in all the Bahamas. Green Turtle Cay
is more isolated than Treasure Cay but is easily reachable by ferry.
To the south of Nassau is a group of islands called the Exumas. Mostly
visited by luxurious private yachts, this area is the most untouched
and private in all the Bahamas. Staniel Cay is the most extraordinary
island in this group. If you want pristine beauty, Staniel Cay Yacht
Club is the most remote and beautiful place to stay in all the Bahamas.
Also located on Staniel Cay is Happy Peoples Marina (photo above).
The locals here are very happy - and living in this Bahamas paradise,
why wouldn't they be!
An interesting fact to impress your friends is
that Christopher Columbus, never actually set foot on American soil,
in fact the closest Columbus got to America was San Salvador Island
in the Bahamas. Here you will find coral reefs teaming with fish,
breathtaking diving, bicycling, tennis, and an ocean view restaurant
serving the finest fresh seafood in the world.
The Bahamas are truly unique. Few places
on earth can equal the beauty and tranquility of the out islands.
Pink sand beaches, the finest seafood, incredible diving and fishing,
and a native culture comprised of some of the most sincere and friendly
people in the world. One trip to the out islands of the Bahamas and
you will never be the same again!
