About Place
- "Turquoise waters and pink sand beaches."
- "Diverse marine life and stunning coral reefs."
- "Rich history intertwined with piracy and British colonialism."
Reasons to Visit
- Pristine Beaches : The Bahamas is renowned for its breathtaking beaches, each offering a unique charm. Pink Sands Beach on Harbour Island, with its distinctive blush-colored sand, is a standout. The crystal-clear waters and powdery white sands of Cable Beach in Nassau and the secluded beauty of Gold Rock Beach in Lucayan National Park are perfect for relaxation and water activities.
- Aquatic Adventures : The Bahamas is a haven for water enthusiasts. Its diverse marine life and vibrant coral reefs make it an ideal destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. The Andros Barrier Reef, the third-largest in the world, is a must-see for divers. For those seeking thrills, swimming with pigs at Exuma's Pig Beach and exploring the blue holes in Andros offer unforgettable experiences.
- Cultural Richness : Beyond its natural beauty, the Bahamas boasts a rich cultural heritage. Nassau, the capital, is a blend of colonial architecture and modern vibrancy. The annual Junkanoo Festival, with its colorful costumes and lively music, showcases the island's cultural spirit. Historical sites like Fort Charlotte and the Queen's Staircase provide a glimpse into the Bahamas' storied past.
Travel Expenses
- Travel to & from destination :
- Round-trip airfare from nearest metro city to Nassau : $600 per person
- Total for 2 people : $1200
- Hotel cost:
- Average hotel cost in Nassau : $200 per night
- Total for 4 nights : $800
- Food cost :
- Average cost per meal : $25 per person
- Total for 10 meals (lunch and dinner for 5 days) : $500
- Activity cost :
- National Art Gallery : $10 per person
- Fort Fincastle : $3 per person
- Blue Lagoon Island : $100 per person
- Aquaventure at Atlantis : $165 per person
- Ardastra Gardens : $20 per person
- Total : $298 per person, $596 for 2 people
- Near destination travel cost :
- Rented car cost : $50 per day
- Total for 4 days : $200
Total Estimated Travel Expense :
- $1200 (airfare) + $800 (hotel) + $500 (food) + $596 (activities) + $200 (transport) = $3296
Visa
- United States : No visa required for stays up to 8 months.
- Canada : No visa required for stays up to 8 months.
- United Kingdom : No visa required for stays up to 21 days.
- European Union (Schengen Area) : No visa required for stays up to 90 days.
- Australia : No visa required for stays up to 3 months.
- India : Visa required, apply at the nearest Bahamian consulate or embassy.
- China : Visa required, apply at the nearest Bahamian consulate or embassy.
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival and Nassau Exploration Arrive in Nassau, the vibrant capital of the Bahamas. Check into your hotel and start your day with a visit to the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, where you can appreciate Bahamian art and culture. For lunch, head to Arawak Cay, also known as Fish Fry, to try conch salad at Twin Brothers from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM. In the afternoon, explore the historic Fort Fincastle from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM, and then take a walk down Bay Street for some shopping and local crafts until 6:00 PM. For dinner, enjoy Bahamian cuisine at Graycliff Restaurant from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. End the night with a stroll along Junkanoo Beach, admiring the sunset and the lively atmosphere.
Day 2 : Day Trip to Blue Lagoon Island Start your day early with a ferry ride to Blue Lagoon Island, departing at 8:00 AM. Spend the morning swimming with dolphins and enjoying the island's beautiful beaches until 12:00 PM. For lunch, try the beachside grill, serving fresh seafood and tropical drinks from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM. In the afternoon, relax by the lagoon, kayak, or paddleboard until 4:00 PM. Return to Nassau by ferry around 5:00 PM. For dinner, savor the flavors at Café Matisse, known for its Italian and Bahamian fusion cuisine, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Enjoy a quiet evening at your hotel or explore the local nightlife at Señor Frog's.
Day 3 : Exploring Paradise Island Take a short taxi ride to Paradise Island in the morning, arriving by 9:00 AM. Visit the famous Atlantis Resort and explore its Aquaventure water park and marine habitats until 12:00 PM. Have lunch at The Cove, enjoying a variety of international dishes from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM. In the afternoon, relax at Cabbage Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, until 5:00 PM. Return to Nassau and dine at The Poop Deck from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, known for its fresh seafood and stunning waterfront views. Spend your evening at the Atlantis Casino, testing your luck or enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Day 4 : Cultural Day in Nassau Start your day with a visit to the Queen's Staircase and Fort Charlotte from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, learning about Nassau's history and enjoying panoramic views. For lunch, head to the Bahamian Cookin' Restaurant & Bar from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM, where you can savor traditional Bahamian dishes. In the afternoon, explore the Ardastra Gardens & Wildlife Conservation Centre from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, where you can see flamingos, parrots, and other native wildlife. Return to your hotel to freshen up before dinner at Sapodilla from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, offering a fine dining experience with Bahamian and international cuisine. End the night with a moonlit walk along Cable Beach.
Day 5 : Departure Spend your last morning enjoying a leisurely breakfast at your hotel and relaxing by the pool or beach until it's time to check out. If time permits, visit the Straw Market from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM for some last-minute souvenir shopping. Transfer to the airport for your flight home, taking with you unforgettable memories of the Bahamas.
Safety Tips
- Avoid isolated areas, especially at night.
- Keep your valuables secure and out of sight.
- Be cautious when using ATMs, particularly at night.
- Stay aware of your surroundings.
- Use reputable transportation services.
- Drink responsibly and never leave your drink unattended.
- Follow local laws and customs.
- Keep emergency contacts handy.
- Use hotel safes for important documents.
- Purchase travel insurance.
Flights
- American Airlines : New York to Nassau, 3 hours, approx. $300
- Delta Airlines : Atlanta to Nassau, 2 hours, approx. $250
- British Airways : London to Nassau, 9 hours, approx. $700
- Air Canada : Toronto to Nassau, 4 hours, approx. $400
- JetBlue : Fort Lauderdale to Nassau, 1 hour, approx. $150
Hotels
- The Royal at Atlantis
- Grand Hyatt Baha Mar
- British Colonial Hilton Nassau
- The Reef at Atlantis
- Sandyport Beach Resort
Contacts
- Nearest Indian Embassy : High Commission of India, Kingston (Jamaica), +1 876-927-3114
- Police : 911
- Ambulance : 911
- Firefighters : 911
Country
Closet Airport
Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS)
Nearest City
Miami
Florida
Heritage Sites
The Queen's Staircase
Airlines
American Airlines
Delta Airlines
British Airways
Air Canada
JetBlue
Currency
- Bahamian dollar (BSD)
- US dollar (USD)
Languages Spoken
English
Real Story
The Battle of Nassau (March 3-4, 1776) : The Battle of Nassau, also known as the Raid on Nassau, was a crucial early engagement during the American Revolutionary War. It marked the first amphibious assault by the Continental Marines, now known as the United States Marine Corps, and was aimed at capturing British munitions stored in Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas.
The Continental Navy, under the command of Commodore Esek Hopkins, embarked on an expedition to the Bahamas with a fleet of eight ships. The objective was to seize gunpowder and military supplies stored in Nassau that were desperately needed by the Continental Army. The fleet set sail from Philadelphia in February 1776 and arrived in the Bahamas on March 1.
Upon arrival, Hopkins and his marines launched a surprise attack on March 3. The British defenders, caught off guard, were unable to mount a significant resistance. The marines quickly overpowered the local militia and secured the town. The following day, the American forces occupied Fort Nassau, capturing a large quantity of military supplies, including gunpowder, cannons, and other munitions.
Although the primary objective of capturing a significant stockpile of gunpowder was not fully achieved—much of it had been removed by the British prior to the assault—the raid was considered a strategic success. It demonstrated the capability and resolve of the Continental Navy and Marines, boosting morale among American forces.
The Battle of Nassau holds historical significance as it was the first amphibious operation conducted by the Continental Marines and set a precedent for future marine operations. It also highlighted the importance of naval power and the need for maritime control in the struggle for American independence.
Today, the Battle of Nassau is commemorated as a pivotal event in the early history of the United States Marine Corps. The raid showcased the bravery and ingenuity of the American forces, serving as a reminder of the strategic importance of the Bahamas in the broader context of the American Revolutionary War.
Cuisine
Bahamian cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavors influenced by African, British, and Caribbean traditions. Seafood is the star of Bahamian dishes, with conch being a local favorite. Conch salad, a ceviche-style dish made with fresh conch, lime juice, tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers, is a must-try. Rock lobster, or Bahamian crawfish, is another popular dish, often grilled and served with a side of peas 'n rice—a flavorful combination of pigeon peas, rice, tomatoes, and spices. Other notable dishes include cracked conch, Bahamian stew fish, and Johnny cake, a dense, slightly sweet bread. For dessert, guava duff, a steamed pudding made with guava and served with a rum or brandy sauce, offers a deliciously sweet end to a meal.
Culture and History
The Bahamas, an archipelago of over 700 islands and cays, is known for its vibrant culture and rich history. The cultural fabric of the Bahamas is a unique blend of African, European, and indigenous influences. This melting pot is most evident in the music, dance, art, and cuisine of the islands.
The Bahamian people are known for their warm hospitality and vibrant spirit. Music is at the heart of Bahamian culture, with genres like Junkanoo, rake and scrape, and calypso being immensely popular. Junkanoo, in particular, is a traditional Bahamian street parade that features music, dance, and elaborate costumes. It is held on Boxing Day and New Year's Day, attracting locals and tourists alike to experience the rhythmic beats and colorful displays.
The islands' history is deeply intertwined with the legacy of colonialism and the African diaspora. The Lucayans, the indigenous people of the Bahamas, were the first inhabitants of the islands. However, their population was decimated by the arrival of European colonizers, particularly the Spanish in the late 15th century. The British subsequently established a permanent settlement in the 17th century, bringing with them enslaved Africans to work on the plantations. The abolition of slavery in 1834 was a significant turning point, leading to the development of a distinct Afro-Bahamian culture.
The Bahamas gained independence from Britain in 1973, but the influence of British colonialism is still evident in the architecture, legal system, and educational institutions. Today, the Bahamas is a proud member of the Commonwealth, maintaining strong ties with its colonial past while celebrating its unique cultural heritage.
The cuisine of the Bahamas reflects its cultural diversity. Seafood is a staple, with dishes like conch salad, rock lobster, and snapper being local favorites. Bahamian cuisine is also known for its use of spices and bold flavors, with dishes like peas 'n rice, Johnny cake, and guava duff being popular choices.
The Bahamas is not just a destination for sun and sand; it is a place where culture and history come alive, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Bahamian life.