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Bahamas
The Bahamas, a Caribbean treasure, is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant marine life, and crystal-clear waters. With powdery white sands, turquoise seas, and charming colonial architecture, it's perfect for beach lovers and history buffs.
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Summary
Overview
Months
01. January, 02. February, 03. March, 04. April, 12. December
Vacation type
Beach, Couple, Nature, Party, Family
Expenses
<200€, Over 200€
Temperature
25-30°C
Rainfall
50-100mm
Safety
Medium
Continent
North America
Currency
Bahamian dollar, U.S dollar
Languages
English
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit the Bahamas is from December to April. During these months, the weather is warm and dry with pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for enjoying the islands' beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. This period is considered the peak tourist season, so you can expect higher prices and more crowds.
If you prefer fewer tourists and more affordable rates, consider visiting during the shoulder months of May and November, when the weather is still good, though there might be a higher chance of rain.
Avoid the hurricane season from June to November if you want to minimize the risk of severe weather.
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: December-April (Winter)
Budget Vacation ($80-130/day)
Accommodation: $40-60/night (budget hotels, guesthouses).
Food: $20-30/day (local cafes, food trucks).
Activities: $10-30/day (beach activities, free excursions).
Transportation: $10-20/day (local buses, taxis).
Other Costs: $10/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($200-400/day)
Accommodation: $80-150/night (mid-range resorts, hotels).
Food: $40-70/day (restaurants, seafood dining).
Activities: $50-100/day (boat tours, snorkelling).
Transportation: $20-50/day (car rentals, taxis).
Other Costs: $20-30/day (excursions, shopping).
Luxury Vacation ($500+/day)
Accommodation: $250+/night (luxury resorts, private villas).
Food: $80+/day (fine dining, resort dining experiences).
Activities: $100+/day (private boat tours, fishing trips).
Transportation: $50+/day (private transport, charters).
Other Costs: $40+/day (luxury shopping, spa).
Off-Peak Season: May-November
Budget Vacation ($60-100/day)
Accommodation: $30-50/night (budget motels).
Food: $15-20/day (cafes, local dining).
Activities: $5-10/day (quiet beaches, self-guided tours).
Transportation: $5-10/day (local buses).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (extras).
Mid-Range Vacation ($150-250/day)
Accommodation: $60-120/night (mid-range hotels).
Food: $30-50/day (restaurants).
Activities: $20-50/day (water sports, snorkeling).
Transportation: $15-30/day (rentals, taxis).
Other Costs: $10-20/day (shopping).
Luxury Vacation ($400+/day)
Accommodation: $150+/night (luxury resorts, private villas).
Food: $60+/day (fine dining, exclusive experiences).
Activities: $80+/day (private excursions, boat rentals).
Transportation: $40+/day (luxury transport).
Other Costs: $30+/day (luxury shopping, indulgences).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Nassau
- The capital city, Nassau, is located on New Providence Island. It offers a blend of modern amenities and historical charm with attractions like the Atlantis Paradise Island resort, the historic Queen’s Staircase, and the bustling Straw Market.
2. Freeport
- Located on Grand Bahama Island, Freeport is known for its beautiful beaches, duty-free shopping, and outdoor activities. The Lucayan National Park and Port Lucaya Marketplace are popular attractions.
3. Marsh Harbour
- The largest town in the Abaco Islands, Marsh Harbour is a hub for boating and water sports. It’s known for its marinas, charming shops, and nearby cays, perfect for exploring by boat.
4. George Town
- Located on Great Exuma Island, George Town is famous for its stunning beaches and clear waters. The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park and Stocking Island are must-visit spots for snorkeling and enjoying the natural beauty.
5. Harbour Island
- Known for its pink sand beaches, Harbour Island is a charming destination with colonial architecture, vibrant local culture, and excellent dining options. The island’s main town, Dunmore Town, is particularly picturesque.
6. Alice Town
Situated on Bimini Island, Alice Town is a small but lively town known for its fishing, diving, and historical sites. The Bimini Road and the Fountain of Youth are notable attractions.
7. Governor’s Harbour
Located on Eleuthera Island, Governor’s Harbour is a historic town with beautiful beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. French Leave Beach and the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve are highlights in the area.
Nassau
Islands
1. New Providence Island
- This island is home to the capital city, Nassau. It offers a mix of cultural, historical, and modern attractions, including the Atlantis Paradise Island resort, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
2. Grand Bahama Island
- Known for its diverse ecosystems, Grand Bahama Island features beautiful beaches, the Lucayan National Park, and Port Lucaya Marketplace. It’s also a great spot for diving and snorkeling.
3. Exuma Islands
- The Exumas are renowned for their clear turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and swimming pigs at Big Major Cay. The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving.
4. Eleuthera
- This island is known for its pink sand beaches, charming towns, and natural attractions like the Glass Window Bridge and the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve.
5. Andros Island
- The largest island in the Bahamas, Andros is a paradise for nature lovers and divers. It’s home to the third-largest barrier reef in the world, blue holes, and extensive mangrove forests.
6. Harbour Island
Famous for its pink sand beaches, Harbour Island offers a relaxed atmosphere with colonial architecture, quaint shops, and excellent dining options.
7. Bimini Islands
- Located closest to the United States, Bimini is known for its deep-sea fishing, diving, and historical sites like the Bimini Road and the Fountain of Youth.
8. Long Island
- This island features dramatic cliffs, serene beaches, and Dean’s Blue Hole, one of the deepest blue holes in the world. It’s a great destination for exploring caves and enjoying outdoor activities.
9. Abaco Islands
- The Abacos are a group of islands and cays offering a sailor’s paradise. Marsh Harbour is a popular base for exploring the surrounding cays, which boast beautiful beaches and excellent sailing conditions.
10. Cat Island
- Known for its rolling hills and untouched beauty, Cat Island is perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape. The island features Mount Alvernia, the highest point in the Bahamas, and the historic Hermitage monastery.
Things to see
In Cities
1. Nassau’s Atlantis Paradise Island
- A large resort complex with an expansive water park, marine habitat, and luxury accommodations.
2. Nassau’s Queen’s Staircase
- A historic 66-step staircase carved from limestone, built by enslaved Africans in the late 18th century.
3. Nassau’s National Art Gallery of The Bahamas
- Showcases Bahamian art, including paintings, sculptures, and mixed-media works.
4. Freeport’s Port Lucaya Marketplace
- A vibrant shopping and dining destination with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
5. Nassau’s Pirate Museum
- Offers an interactive experience about the golden age of piracy in the Caribbean.
6. Nassau’s Straw Market
- A bustling market where visitors can purchase traditional Bahamian crafts, souvenirs, and local goods.
7. Freeport’s Lucayan National Park
- Home to one of the longest underwater cave systems in the world, along with mangroves and beaches.
8. Nassau’s The Bahamas Historical Society Museum
- Provides insights into the country's history and cultural heritage.
9. Nassau’s Christ Church Cathedral
- A historic Anglican church with beautiful architecture and a serene setting.
10. Nassau’s Fort Charlotte
- A historic fort offering panoramic views of the harbor and insight into the island’s colonial past.
In Nature
1. Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park
- A protected marine park with crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, ideal for snorkeling and diving.
2. Blue Hole
- A natural underwater sinkhole offering unique diving experiences and a stunning visual spectacle.
3. Pink Sands Beach
- Located on Harbour Island, this beach is known for its pink-hued sand and beautiful turquoise waters.
4. Dean's Blue Hole
- The world’s deepest blue hole, located near Long Island, offering opportunities for diving and snorkeling.
5. Eleuthera’s Glass Window Bridge
- A natural rock formation where the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea meet, creating a dramatic contrast.
6. Andros Island’s Blue Holes
- Freshwater blue holes found in Andros, perfect for exploring and diving.
7. Abaco Islands’ Marsh Harbour
- A great spot for boating and exploring the surrounding natural beauty.
8. Harbour Island’s Pink Sands Beach
- Renowned for its striking pink sand and clear waters.
9. Grand Bahama’s Lucayan National Park
- Features underwater caves, mangroves, and pristine beaches.
10. Bimini’s Sapona Wreck
- An accessible wreck site for snorkeling and diving, surrounded by vibrant marine life.
Nassau’s Atlantis Paradise Island
How to get around
1. Taxis
- Taxis are readily available, especially in popular tourist areas like Nassau, Freeport, and Paradise Island. They often operate on fixed rates, so it’s a good idea to confirm the fare before starting your journey.
2. Rental Cars
- Renting a car is a good option for exploring beyond the main tourist areas, especially on larger islands like Grand Bahama and New Providence. Driving is on the left side of the road.
3. Public Buses
- In Nassau and Freeport, there are local buses and jitneys (shared minibuses) that are an affordable way to travel around the city and to nearby areas. They might not be as frequent or reliable as taxis or rental cars.
4. Ferries
- Ferries are a popular way to travel between the various islands and cays of the Bahamas. Services connect major islands like Nassau, Freeport, and the Exumas.
5. Boats and Water Taxis
- For getting around smaller islands or accessing specific beaches and resorts, water taxis and boat rentals are available.
6. Bicycles and Scooters
- In some tourist areas, you can rent bicycles or scooters for a leisurely way to explore local sights.
For convenience, taxis and rental cars are commonly used, while ferries and water taxis are essential for island-hopping adventures.
What to eat
1. Conch Fritters
- Deep-fried balls of batter mixed with conch meat, herbs, and spices, often served with a spicy dipping sauce.
2. Cracked Conch
- Tender conch meat that is breaded and fried, typically served with a side of rice and peas or coleslaw.
3. Rock Lobsters
- Grilled or boiled Caribbean spiny lobsters, usually served with butter or a spicy sauce.
4. Bahamian Macaroni and Cheese
- A baked casserole made with pasta, cheese, and a creamy sauce, often enjoyed as a side dish or main course.
5. Bahama Mama
- A popular cocktail made with rum, coconut rum, orange juice, grenadine, and pineapple juice, perfect for enjoying by the beach.
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airport: Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS), Nassau
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €700 to €1,200.
- Cheapest Months: September and October.
- Peak Prices: December to March.
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $300 to $600.
- Cheapest Months: August to October.
- Peak Prices: December holidays.
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,200 to $2,000.
- Cheapest Months: September and November.
- Peak Prices: December and January.
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,500 to $2,500.
- Cheapest Months: May and November.
- Peak Prices: December holidays.
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $800 to $1,400.
- Cheapest Months: February and November.
- Peak Prices: July and December holidays.
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Most travelers do not need a visa to enter the Bahamas for short stays, including citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K., the EU, and Australia.
2. Visa-Free Countries
- Citizens from over 100 countries, including Japan and New Zealand, can enter the Bahamas without a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
3. Visa Application
- Travelers from countries that require a visa must apply at a Bahamian embassy or consulate before traveling.
4. Types of Visa
- Commonly issued as tourist visas for leisure travel, typically valid for up to 90 days.
5. Processing Time
- Visa processing times can vary, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your travel dates.
6. Duration of Stay
- Most visa-free visitors can stay for up to 90 days, with possible extensions through local immigration offices.
7. Health Requirements
- No specific vaccinations are required for entry, but travel insurance is recommended for medical emergencies.
8. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as these may change.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the Bahamian Dollar (BSD), which is on par with the US dollar. Credit cards are widely accepted.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 120V, and plug types A and B (two flat pins) are used. No adapter is needed for devices from North America.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is customary, with 15-20% being standard for good service in restaurants.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards are available from providers like BTC and ALIV. They can be purchased at stores and kiosks, offering various prepaid data plans.
6. Driving Side
- In the Bahamas, people drive on the left side of the road.