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The Bahamas is truly a magical place that attracts tourists from all over the world, and it’s no wonder why millions of travellers come here to enjoy all kinds of island holidays.
From surfing or snorkeling to lying under the palm trees, hiking through lush jungles, or exploring national parks, this island nation is beckoning to be visited. Although there are many different ways to relax in the Bahamas, you can always count on a good time!
The Bahamas have recently opened up to international tourism, including cruises. However, it’s important to keep the new entry restrictions in mind, such as applying for the Bahamas health visa before your trip.
Whether it’s your first cruise to the Bahamas or you’re an experienced pro, here is everything you need to know — including the best places to go, things to do, and useful travel tips.
Where to Go in the Bahamas
The Bahamas is home to more than 700 islands and 2,400 cays (small sandy islands) — which means that there is plenty to see and do.
Nassau
Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas, as well as its commercial and cultural center. It also has the country’s largest port, and most likely where you will begin your Bahamas journey after docking.
One of the main attractions of the capital is the Queen’s Staircase. This monument was built in honor of Queen Victoria and consists of 66 steps, which coincidentally matches the total number of years of the Queen’s reign. These stairs lead up to Fort Fincastle, which offers a beautiful view of the city.
Long Island
Long Island is one of the most famous and popular tourist destinations in the Bahamas (especially for fans of ecotourism). In fact, it was voted the most scenic island in the country thanks to its many natural attractions, vivid green ‘forests,’ and clear water.
Fans of extreme recreation will especially love this island due to its haven for underwater diving, snorkeling, and boating.
The most popular attraction on Long Island is Dean’s Blue Hole, which is located on the southeastern coast. This turquoise-sapphire sinkhole is the second biggest in the world, with a depth of 202 meters (663 ft). It also has a unique bottle-like shape, where the diameter at the top is around 25 meters (82 ft) and at the bottom it’s a whopping 100 meters (330 ft).
Lucayan National Park
Located on the island of Grand Bahama, this unique park has many natural attractions and looks like something out of a video game or fairytale!
One of the park’s defining features are its caves. It’s rumored that Lucayan is one of the largest underwater cave systems in the world, although only two are currently open to the public.
Travelers can easily explore the park’s caves, since both are equipped with bridges and multiple viewing platforms. There’s also the option to take a once-in-a-lifetime trip underwater and go scuba diving in Ben’s Cave, which is filled with fun and mysterious underground labyrinths!
In addition to the caves, visitors can walk around the territory and enjoy the local flora and fauna or rent a kayak and glide through the mangroves of the park.
Ocean Atlas
This unusual architectural structure appeared just a few years ago but has already managed to win the hearts of many tourists.
The 18-foot tall statue is located off the coast of New Providence sland (where the capital city is) and consists of a local Bahamian girl who is ‘holding up’ the Atlantic Ocean, much like her namesake.
Ocean Atlas is the world’s largest underwater sculpture and was made by Jason deCaires Taylor, who is famous for his underwater creations.
What You Need to Know Before Traveling to the Bahamas
Once you’ve added a few attractions to your itinerary and are ready to go on a holiday, don’t forget to keep these important travel tips in mind!
Left-hand Traffic
It may come as a surprise to visitors that there is left-hand traffic in the Bahamas (especially for those who rented a car!), but this is because the country was a former British colony.
Driving in the Bahamas may be very unusual if you have never encountered such a flow of traffic, so the best option would be to take a taxi or hire a driver to avoid unpleasant situations on the road.
Taxis
Although there are many taxis in the Bahamas, not all were created alike!
First off, most taxis do not use meters, and because of this, taxi drivers may try to trick tourists. To avoid problems with the taxi driver, be sure to agree on a price before getting into the car.
If you find a taxi with a BahamaHost logo, you’re in luck. Taxi drivers with this sticker work officially and will definitely not deceive you for money, and maybe even recommend some places that only locals know about. It is also worth knowing that taxis charge extra for transporting a group of people and extra luggage.
Island Time
Don’t take it personally if the guide or taxi driver is late, or the waiter takes a while to bring out your order.
Being late is considered normal, since no one is in a hurry and the rules of ‘island time’ are very much in place.
If you are a resident of a large city or metropolis where everyone is in a hurry, this may seem a bit strange, but it is nothing to worry about — just be sure to prepare yourself in advance and relax!
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Source: TheNet
