Bahamas Travel Guide
Top Places to Visit
- Nassau – The vibrant capital with colonial architecture and markets.
- Exuma Cays – Famous for swimming pigs and crystal-clear waters.
- Harbour Island – Pink sand beaches and charming pastel cottages.
- Andros – The largest island known for blue holes and eco-tourism.
- Paradise Island – Luxury resorts, casinos, and marine habitats.
Language & Culture
English is the official language. Bahamian culture blends African, British, and Caribbean influences, celebrated through music, dance, and festivals like Junkanoo. Locals are warm and welcoming.
Transportation, Currency & Food
- Transportation: Taxis, ferries, and rental cars available. Inter-island flights are common.
- Currency: Bahamian Dollar (BSD), equivalent to USD and both are accepted.
- Food: Conch salad, rock lobster, peas and rice, guava duff, and fried snapper.
Best Season & Flight Routes
| Season | Weather | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| December – April | Cool, dry | High season with festivals |
| May – August | Warm, occasional showers | Good for water activities |
| September – November | Warm, hurricane risk | Low prices, fewer tourists |
Fly into Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) in Nassau. Major airlines connect from the US, UK, and Canada.
Estimated Budget (for Two Travelers)
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Flights | $600 – $1,000 | Round trip from North America |
| Accommodation | $1,000 – $2,000 | Mid-range hotel for 5–7 nights |
| Dining | $300 – $600 | Mix of restaurants and street food |
| Transport | $100 – $200 | Local transport and ferries |
| Activities | $200 – $400 | Boat tours, museums, snorkeling |
| Insurance | $100 – $150 | Travel and medical coverage |
| Misc. | $100 – $250 | Souvernirs, tips, extras |
Packing List Suggestions
- Passport and travel insurance documents
- Light tropical clothes, swimwear, sandals
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat
- Snorkel gear (optional), waterproof bag
- Mobile device, charger, adapter
20 Basic Language Tips
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Hello | Hello |
| Good morning | Good morning |
| Good evening | Good evening |
| How are you? | How are you? |
| I’m fine | I’m fine |
| Thank you | Thank you |
| You’re welcome | You’re welcome |
| Excuse me | Excuse me |
| Goodbye | Goodbye |
| I don’t understand | I don’t understand |
Health & Wellness Tips
- Use mosquito repellent
- Drink bottled water
- Wear sunscreen and hydrate often
- Know emergency numbers and nearest clinics
- Carry basic medication and travel insurance
Festival Events & Holidays
- Junkanoo Parade (Dec 26 & Jan 1)
- Bahamas Carnival (May)
- Independence Day (July 10)
- Goombay Summer Festival
Backup Plans & Contingencies
- Have offline maps and itinerary copies
- Download airline apps for alerts
- Choose flexible bookings where possible
- Stay updated on weather forecasts
- Keep emergency cash and local numbers
