Just off the coast of Florida is the closest heaven is to earth. In the midst of a chain of over 700 islands, you’ll discover the magical mix of traditional British colonial formality combined with the relaxed lifestyle of the Caribbean. The jewel in the crown of the Bahamas is the island of New Providence, where Nassau is located with its miles and miles of white sand beaches that stretch to the endless turquoise sea with the clearest waters in the world. But in addition to great beaches, the Nassau resort experience also offers fun adventures like the chance to swim with dolphins, kayak the calm waters, or take an exciting powerboat cruise. Nassau also boasts gourmet dining, glamorous nightlife, world-class casino gaming, scuba diving and snorkeling, championship golf. You can shop at Nassau’s famous Thatched Market, with its colorful bustle of open-air fruit and vegetable stalls and fresh fish market; or, the visitor can browse the exclusive international luxury designer boutiques on Bay Street, all within walking distance. The dazzling casinos jump with the music, color and excitement of the games: craps, slots, blackjack, baccarat and sports betting.
The Nassau area offers a number of interesting tourist attractions, such as climbing the 66 steps of the Queen’s Staircase to Fort Fincastle and the Water Tower, which is the highest point on the island. Versailles Gardens on Paradise Island is also a sight not to be missed. The gardens feature elegant terraces with statues and fountains, and a French cloister. For sailing and boating enthusiasts, the Port of Nassau offers a wide variety of rentals and custom charters at all price points. The many options and packages available include fully crewed, catered sailing excursions; day cruises, small and bareboat rentals for experienced sailors, motor boats, submarine rides as well as jet skis. Sailing trips are organized around scuba diving, snorkeling and barefoot picnics on remote tropical beaches or with dinner and cocktails on board. The Nassau Junkanoo festival is often compared to Curacao’s all-inclusive resort carnival for fun and celebration. Junkanoo takes place from the end of December to the first week of January each year, and is a huge street party of dancers in elaborate costumes parading to the music of whistles, cowbells and goatskin drums.
Visitors to the Bahamas should bring comfortable, casual clothing and slippers or sandals for beach days. Also plan to bring a pair of dressy casual shoes if you prefer restaurants that require formal attire. All the islands offer guided tours, and visitors can choose one that perfectly suits their interests, from bird watching in the lush forest to city shopping and gourmet tasting tours. Guided tours by experienced and friendly professional guides can be arranged at any hotel. For the adventurous visitor, all main islands have frequent jeepney service daily until 8:00 pm Fares to most destinations are 75 one-way for adults, 50 for children. Taxis can be hailed or hailed on city streets. All of the large all-inclusive Bahamas hotels and resorts have a taxi rank. Metered fares are low and reasonable and a 15% tip is recommended.
