Where to relax in the Bahamas. Bahamas on the world map. Where are they located? things to do in Grand Bahama

Bahamas - islands in Atlantic Ocean, located between the island of Cuba and the Florida Peninsula. Of the nearly 700 islands and 2,500 coral reefs, only 30 have been developed by humans.

The Bahamas are one of the richest countries in the region.

total area countries – 259,000 sq. km, of which land accounts for 13,900 sq. km.

The capital is the city of Nassau, located on New Providence Island.

Holidays in the Bahamas are considered luxury and a symbol of good taste. Therefore, the epithet “chic” is suitable for any type of vacation here. A luxurious beach holiday on endless white sandy beaches with clear warm water and coral reefs, excellent conditions for active sports, many chic restaurants and gaming establishments open around the clock.

New Providence Island is the most favorite place the entire archipelago. The tourism industry is well developed here, there are many excellent hotels, cleanest beaches, shopping centers, bars and restaurants, casinos. The Atlantis complex houses one of the largest aquariums under open air. Near the island there are famous dive sites: Clifton Wall, Balmoral Island, Razorback coral arches. New Providence is home to the Bacardi Distillery, where you can visit free excursion with tasting.

Grand Bahama is the most northern island archipelago. Besides beach holiday, here you can also go diving, visit Tiger Beach with striped sharks or Paradise Cove, famous for its coral Deadman's Reef and black corals.

Andros is one of the few islands on the world map where it is quiet and peaceful, where you can truly relax from the bustle of big cities in the shade of mangroves, palm trees and fragrant pine trees, lying on the snow-white sand and peering into the endless blue distance.

How to get to the Bahamas

There is no direct road from Minsk to the Bahamas.

Delta and British Airways operate regular flights to the cities of Nassau, Freeport and Mash Harbor with connections in Europe. If the flight will be through the United States, you will need a US transit visa.

If you contact travel company“Thank you – travel”, our experienced managers will select a travel option that is convenient for you.

You can find our contacts.

Climate of the Bahamas

The territory of the Bahamas is influenced by a subtropical climate in the south and a tropical trade wind climate in the north.

The average summer temperature is +26 - +32 degrees (at southern islands somewhat warmer than in the central ones), winter - +18 - +22 degrees (warmer in the northwestern islands). Summer water temperature is on average +27 degrees, winter - +23 degrees.

Precipitation usually falls in summer in quantities of up to 800 mm in the form of short but strong showers. From May to November, the country experiences hurricanes and tropical storms.

The best time to holiday in the Bahamas is from September to May.

Very luxurious beaches are located on New Providence Island. The most popular is Cable Beach, where you can relax while sunbathing on the ocean, you can scuba dive admiring the beauty of the sea depths, you can hit the “jackpot” in the local casino, and if you wish, admire the unrivaled scenery of Paradise Island, get which can be reached via the original bridge.

On the island of Grand Bahama, Gold Rock Beach is famous, surrounded by coconut palms, orchids and sea grapes. But those who love a drive are recommended to visit Tiger Beach, where striped sharks “register”, and Paradise Bay, famous for Dead Man’s Reef and black corals.

Most wild island Bahamas - Andros invites guests to relax on Somerset Beach, surrounded by fishing villages. Here, relaxing on the beach can be combined with diving and fishing. And the newlyweds fell in love with the island of Andros, because it is here that wedding ceremonies are held in national style, And local hotels They even offer special “wedding packages.”

Beautiful beaches are also located on other islands of the Bahamas archipelago - it all depends on which vacation spot you choose.

Bahamas Hotels

It is believed that the most best hotels the world are represented precisely in the Bahamas. Here you will also find huge fashionable tourist complexes, and small cozy establishments for a measured family vacation. Most hotels operate on an all-inclusive system, which is considered the most advanced in the Caribbean.

Hotels are classified from 3* and above. In any of the hotels you will have a beautiful view from the window and air conditioning.

There are hotels located in historical buildings, there are boutique hotels with designer interiors, there are those located far from entertainment centers, there are ecological ones, powered by solar energy - the tourism infrastructure of the Bahamas offers a wide range of services.

In some hotels the system additional services water activities included.

Tip is 15% of the bill if service is not included in the check.

Other accommodation options include guesthouses and renting rooms from the local population.

Banks, money, exchange offices

The currency of the Bahamas is the Bahamian dollar, equal to 100 cents. However, US dollars also circulate freely throughout the archipelago.

Banking hours:

From Monday to Thursday – from 9.00–9.30 to 15.00

Fridays - 9.30 am to 5 pm (opening hours may vary on the islands)

In small towns, banks can only open a day or two a week.

Currency exchange is carried out in banks, hotels and large stores. The most stable exchange rate is in Nassau and Freeport; in other busy resorts it is less favorable.

All types of credit cards of global payment systems are accepted for payment. There are ATM ATMs in all major cities.

Travel checks (preferably in US dollars) can be cashed in banks, hotels and large stores. A large percentage may be charged for the transaction, so it is recommended to find out the terms of cashing out in advance.

Tips are 15% for all services. Some hotels and restaurants include service in the bill.

Tourist safety

All large resorts The Bahamas are safe for vacation, but it is still recommended to follow basic safety rules so that nothing overshadows your stay in this fabulous country.

It is better to store valuables, money and documents in a hotel safe.
at night, do not walk along city streets alone (this especially applies to women).
When engaging in active sports, you need to take care of your own safety - local companies pay little attention to this.
Spearfishing is prohibited.
Independent archaeological work on sunken ships is prohibited.
Selling or using drugs can result in serious prison sentences.

Transport

Domestic flights are operated by Bahamasair between large islands. But it is more profitable to hire a small plane individually.

There is no public transport in the Bahamas. A minibus operates in Nassau, and communication between the islands is carried out using boats and ferries.

There are private ones in Nassau and Freeport minibuses, which travel only around the city, but not to airports. Bargaining is possible during the trip.

Those interested can rent a car, motorcycle, scooter, scooter and bicycle. For driving everyone Vehicle In addition to a bicycle, you will need an international driving license (more than a year of driving experience), age more than 21 years and credit card.

You can rent a boat, motorboat and yacht.

Driving is on the left.

Entertainment, excursions, attractions of the Bahamas

In addition to the beach and active rest, there are many places in the Bahamas that are recommended to be visited to get a better understanding of the country. The islands are home to 25 protected areas with rich flora and fauna. For example, in national park"Abaco" (on the island of Great Inagua) you can watch rare animals and birds in a relaxed atmosphere.

And the Crystal Cay Marine Park Aquarium is considered the world's largest artificially created coral reef with an underwater observatory. The barrier reef off Andros Island is recognized as the third longest in the world.

Each island has its own specifics, and the choice is yours alone. On the islands of Andros, Berry, Bimini - excellent fishing, on the Abacos and Eleuthera - diving in coral reefs, on Exuma and Long Island - yachting, pink flamingos, iguanas, dolphins and sharks live on Inagua.

Shopping and shops

Store opening hours:

Monday to Saturday – from 9.00 to 13.00 and from 15.00 to 17.00

Many shops break for lunch from 12.00 to 14.30–15.00

Closed - Sunday

Bay Street is the world famous shopping center of the Bahamas. By reasonable prices here you can buy watches, jewelry, porcelain, crystal, leather bags, perfume - all these goods are tax-free. And in places that have the status of free trade zones, the cost of goods is another 15% lower.

Cuisine and restaurants

The basis national cuisine Bahamas - seafood. These include shells baked on coals, fried fish cutlets, all kinds of salads, lobsters, shrimp, and sea snail dishes. Peas are very common as a separate side dish or mixed with rice.

It is worth trying the local exotic soup made from onions, water, lime juice, celery, pepper and meat - all this is salted, mixed and practically uncooked.

Toast with jam, fried bacon and scrambled eggs, pasta, fried chicken, and schnitzel are no strangers to Bahamian cuisine.

Those with a sweet tooth will love Caribbean coconut johnny cakes, coconut crumb cakes, rice puddings, gingerbread and fruit salads. Fresh fruits are always on the table - pineapples, guava, mango, papaya, breadfruit.

Popular drinks include tea and coffee. fruit juices, Coca-Cola and Pepsi-Cola.

Alcohol is, of course, Nassau Royal rum and local beer Kalik.

Customs

The import and export of foreign currency is permitted in unlimited quantities. To export local currency, you must obtain permission from the Central Bank of the Bahamas (export of local money is allowed in the amount of 70 Bahamian dollars per person).

Persons over 18 years of age are allowed to import:

up to 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 450 g of tobacco.
up to 0.94 liters of strong alcohol. We can send you anywhere in the world!

The full name of the state is the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. The state consists of more than 3,000 islands, reefs and islets. The Bahamas is located north of Cuba and Haiti and close to Florida.

Originally settled by the Lucayans, originally from the Arawak tribe, the Bahamas became the first stop of Christopher Columbus back in 1492. Although the Spanish never colonized the Bahamas, they did send the Lucayans into slavery in Haiti, leaving the islands virtually deserted by 1513. In 1648, English colonists from Bermuda landed on the island of Eleuthera, and in 1718 the Bahamas became a crown colony.

Today, a constitutional monarchy remains the state's form of government, with Queen Elizabeth II represented by a governor general. The Bahamas has a parliamentary system of government, in which power is in the hands of a bicameral Parliament.

Capital	Nassau
Population

Population density	23.27 people/km 2
	English
Religion	Christianity
Form of government	A constitutional monarchy
	Bahamian dollar
Timezone
International dialing code
Internet domain zone
Electricity

The religious composition of the population of the Bahamas is diverse: 35.4% are Baptists, 15.1% Anglicans, 13.5% Catholics, 15.2% of the population belong to other Christian denominations, another part are Methodists, Pentecostals, the Church of God, are atheists or undecided.

The state's economy is based on tourism. It accounts for more than 60% of GDP. In addition, the tourism sector provides employment to more than half of the country's working population.

Climate and weather

The north of the Bahamas has a tropical trade wind climate, while the south has a subtropical climate. It is formed by the warm Gulf Stream, the influence of which is dangerous, as it provokes hurricanes in the summer. Precipitation falls in the form of rain from May to October.

Temperatures in summer range from +26...+32 °C. On the southern islands the temperature can reach +40 °C, but thanks to the trade winds the heat is easily tolerated. In winter, the temperature is between +18…+22.

You can go on vacation to the Bahamas at any time of the year, but in the summer southern beaches it can be very hot.

Nature

According to its geological structure, the Bahamas archipelago is a limestone plateau. Average height above sea level is 30 m, and highest point Bahamas - Mount Alvernia on the island of Ket, rising 63 meters above sea level. Due to the outcrop of salt-saturated limestone, many islands have mangrove swamps, salt lagoon lakes and sandy beaches. There are practically no rivers on the islands, so fresh water very little.

The flora of the Bahamas is not very diverse and is represented by low-growing shrubs, cacti, and aloe. Orchids and jasmine are growing.

The fauna is also not very diverse. In the Bahamas there are snakes, frogs, bats, and flamingos in the swamps and salt lagoons. In addition, a large number of migratory birds flock here to spend the winter.

But the underwater world of the Bahamas is simply amazing. The corals on the ocean floor are home to many species of fish that divers love. In the lagoons and creeks you can find mackerel and barracuda. There are sea turtles. Lives on reefs great amount corals, mollusks, sponges.

Attractions

The Bahamas are considered richest country in the region. Each island of the archipelago has that zest that will attract any tourist.

The Bahamian capital of Nassau has many interesting places. For example, you can stroll along Bay Street, a street with numerous shops and boutiques; or visit the Adastra Gardens, the Retreat Gardens reserve, underwater aquarium or the famous Cable Beach - an area of sandy beaches, hotels, and casinos. The heart of the city - central square with the buildings of the Supreme Court, Parliament, Colonial Administration. Business card city is the Atlantis Hotel. The most visited places by tourists - old water tower with beautiful views of the city and Queen Victoria's Staircase with 66 steps carved into the rock.

The city of Freeport is suitable for lovers of water sports, outdoor activities, golf and tennis. It is also worth visiting the Garden of the Groves, monuments ancient culture Arawak Indians, Rand Memorial Park.

In the city of New Bight on the island of Ket there is a unique architectural monument - the Hermitage, built on the top of Mount Alvernia. The Hermitage was built by an apostate priest in 1939. The work of Father Jerome includes the Church of the Savior on the same island and many beautiful monasteries and temples built on other islands of the archipelago.

Nutrition

Seafood is the basis of Bahamian cuisine. The national ingredient of the Bahamians is considered sea snail"konk". All kinds of salads, appetizers, and soups are prepared from this snail.

Can not imagine local cuisine no rice and pea dishes. Spiny lobster is the most expensive dish. For a very long time, various dishes and soup made from sea turtles were popular, which led this species of reptile to extinction. It is worth trying a dish of sea bass, which is served with a sauce of mushrooms, onions, spices and white wine.

Dessert is usually served with fruits (melons, pineapples, papayas, mangoes), drinks whose key ingredient is rum, and the famous Bahamian johnny cake. Non-alcoholic drinks include tea, coffee, and Pepsi-Cola.

Bahamian cuisine borrowed a lot from British, American and African cuisine, but adapted it to local conditions and opportunities.

Large cities have a large number of restaurants, cafes and bars. On average, the bill for one person in an inexpensive cafe will be $10-15. At the height of the tourist season, many cafes and restaurants are crowded, so you should take care in advance so as not to be left without dinner, for example.

Accommodation

In the Bahamas there is no classification system for hotels and inns, so the assignment of a “star” level here is made either by the owner of the rental premises or by the tour operator. Holidays in the Bahamas are considered very prestigious and expensive, which is why most hotels operate on an all-inclusive basis.

As a rule, guesthouses are located on the coast, which are mainly rented out to divers and surfers. Service in guesthouses may not always be at the highest level, but it corresponds to its prices.

There are also hotel complexes consisting of bungalows. There are eco-hotels that use only natural products for food and get electricity from solar panels.

If staying in a hotel is not part of the tourist’s plans, there is always the opportunity to rent a room from the local population.

Entertainment and relaxation

Most people go to the Bahamas for beach holidays, diving and surfing. The coastal area of the archipelago is replete with beautiful sandy beaches, the most famous and popular of which is Pink Beach on Harbor Island. The most expensive place The island of Eleuthera is considered a beach holiday destination.

A large number of shallow reefs attract beginner divers. There is something to see underwater - sunken ships, underwater caves. Underwater feeding of sharks on the Abaco Islands, New Providence, and Long Island is very popular. Those who like a less extreme holiday will be offered swimming with dolphins.

Most hotels include service in the price aquatic species sports, some offer them for a fee. There are a large number of water sports centers concentrated on the islands of New Providence, Harbor Island and Grand Bahama.

The Jonkonu Festival is held twice a year in the Bahamas. Colorful processions are accompanied by musical performances and fireworks. Freeport hosts the National Windsurfing Championships every January. The Music Fest festival takes place in the last week of May. July 10 is Independence Day. The Bahamian Wine and Food Festival takes place at the end of September.

Nassau and Freeport have a large number of bars, restaurants, and clubs for nightlife lovers.

Purchases

Shops in the Bahamas are open from Monday to Saturday from 9.00 to 13.00, followed by a lunch break and reopening from 15.00 to 17.00.

The world famous shopping street Bay Street is located in the old part of Nassau, and next to it is the Straw Market. In these places you can buy a variety of goods, ranging from fashionable clothing from world brands to exquisite jewelry, accessories and handmade souvenirs.

The second popular shopping destination is the small island of Paradise. Here, avid shopaholics will find everything their heart desires at affordable prices.

It is better to go shopping on a weekday morning, since at this time there are fewer people there.

Prices for goods in the Bahamas are comparable to those in the United States. Lovers of the beautiful life will have to shell out about $200 a day. Those who are more modest in their needs will settle for $70-150 per day. And don’t forget that the Bahamas has a duty-free system.

Transport

The Bahamas has two major international airports - international Airport Lindel Pindling Airport in Nassau and Grand Bahama International Airport in Freeport. In addition to these main ones, the Bahamas has about 60 smaller airports. Nassau, Freeport and Mathew Town have seaports.

Railway connections, as well as public transport, not in the Bahamas. Transportation is carried out by cars, motorcycles, and bicycles, which can be rented. There are taxis in the capital. The fare is regulated by the government. So, the cost for a quarter mile when traveling in a taxi will cost $2, then the rate will be 30 cents per quarter mile.

Communication between the islands is carried out by ferries and boats.

Length highways is 2700 km, half of which is paved.

Connection

The communication system in the archipelago is well developed. Payphones are found everywhere, you can make international calls from them, and payment is made using a calling card. The rooms of almost every hotel have a telephone from which you can make local calls or make an international call through an operator, although this will be 10-15% more expensive than from a payphone.

Mobile communications are also well developed. Local telecom operators provide 100% coverage of the state territory.

Internet provider BaTelNet provides almost all types of services. The average connection cost is $5 per hour.

Safety

When traveling to the Bahamas, it is not necessary, but it is advisable to be vaccinated against hepatitis B, diphtheria and tuberculosis. The widespread prevalence of HIV and AIDS in the region should also be taken into account.

Customs control is quite democratic. There are no restrictions on the import and export of foreign currency, but the export of local Money, the amount of which exceeds $70, must be accompanied by permission from the Central Bank of the Bahamas. The import ban applies to drugs, explosives, and weapons (without special permission).

The local population is quite friendly and ready to help if necessary. However, there are some restrictions and prohibitions. Fishing using underwater guns and other devices for these purposes is not permitted.

Local authorities are waging a tough fight against drug trafficking: even drug use can result in imprisonment.

Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and theft are quite common in the Bahamas, so you need to be careful. It is not advisable for girls and women to walk alone after dark.

There is virtually no government oversight of local firms offering services active species sports, which entails frequent accidents and deaths during underwater fishing, diving, and surfing.

Road traffic in the Bahamas is on the left.

Business climate

The Bahamas are considered a paradise for businessmen. It is possible to register any offshore companies here. But it is worth keeping in mind that buying real estate imposes a ban on doing business. However, it is very profitable to invest in business real estate. There are benefits for hotel owners.

There is no income tax, corporate tax, inheritance tax, or property tax in the Bahamas.

Real estate

Foreign citizens have the right to purchase both development land and other types of real estate in the Bahamas: villas, apartments, townhouses. There is a restriction on the area of real estate purchased by foreign citizens - it should not exceed 2 hectares, otherwise a special permit is required. The application for permission to purchase real estate must include information about the buyer and seller, a description of the property and the purpose of its acquisition. After selecting the property, a purchase offer is drawn up in writing and an advance payment is made.

It is best to entrust the registration of real estate to a lawyer. The presence of the parties is not required. The purchased property is subject to mandatory insurance and registration with the Investment Council.

Average cost of 1 sq.m. comfortable housing in the Bahamas is $7,000. Buying a bungalow will cost $300,000-500,000, a villa will cost $500,000 or more, and a penthouse will cost $1,000,000-3,000,000.

To travel to the Bahamas you need to apply for a visa at the British Embassy. The visa is issued for a period of up to 90 days, unless it concerns employment.

Despite the high cost of services, you can save money in the Bahamas. Many hotels offer guests discount cards for entry to nightclubs for $5. This is a very advantageous offer, considering that on weekends entrance to the club costs from $50.

Prices for imported alcoholic drinks are very high, so if you want to save on alcohol, it is better to order local drinks, such as rum and beer.

Please note that tips in the Bahamas range from 10 to 15%, and some restaurants and hotels include this in the bill in advance.

The Bahamas are famous great beaches, beautiful underwater world and original culture. The archipelago includes about 700 islands, of which only 40 are inhabited. Local resorts are perfect for both a leisurely holiday in complete unity with nature, and for extreme diving, as there are many underwater tunnels and “blue holes”.

Information about the Bahamas

The Bahamas have official name- Commonwealth of the Bahamas. The state is located in the Atlantic Ocean on an archipelago stretching for 1,500 km, and is separated from Cuba by the Old Bahama Strait and from the United States by the Gulf of Florida. The total area of the islands is about 14 thousand square meters. km. The largest of them are Andros, Great Abaco, Grand Bahama, Great Inagua, New Providence, Great Exuma, Eleuthera and several others.

Capital: Nassau.

Population: 377,374 people (as of 2013).

State structure: A constitutional monarchy headed by the Queen of Great Britain, who is represented in the Bahamas by the Governor General.

Language: English, “Patois” (Creole) is common among Haitians.

Religion: most of the population are Christians, mostly Baptists (35%). Folk beliefs also spread (“obeah”).

Time: 8 hours behind Moscow in summer and 9 hours in winter. On the last Sunday in March, time is moved forward one hour (valid until the first Sunday in November).

Climate

The climate in the Bahamas can be described as subtropical (in the south) and trade wind (in the north). In summer, the air temperature here reaches +32 °C, in winter - +22 °C. The central part of the archipelago is always cooler than the southern islands. The water temperature in the resorts of the Bahamas is about +27 °C in summer and +23 °C in winter.

Most of Precipitation on the islands falls from May to October, and strong storms and hurricanes are possible during these same months. Based on this, best time The period for holidays in the Bahamas is from the end of October to the beginning of May.

Average daily temperature at the resorts of the Bahamas, °C

Resorts in the Bahamas

Jan

Feb

March

Apr

May

June

July

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Nassau

+25

+26

+27

+29

+31

+32

+31

+30

+28

+26

Nassau, water t

+25

+26

+27

+28

+29

+28

+27

+26

Andros

+25

+26

+27

+29

+31

+32

+31

+29

+27

+26

Andros, water t

+23

+24

+25

+27

+28

+27

+26

+24

Abaco

+25

+26

+27

+29

+31

+32

+31

+29

+27

+26

Abaco, water t

+23

+24

+25

+27

+28

+27

+26

+24

Grand Bahama

+25

+26

+27

+29

+31

+32

+31

+29

+27

+26

Grand Bahama, t water

+23

+24

+25

+27

+28

+27

+26

+24

Eleuthera

+25

+26

+27

+29

+31

+32

+31

+29

+27

+26

Eleuthera, t water

+23

+24

+25

+27

+28

+27

+26

+24

Bimini

+20

+21

+22

+24

+26

+27

+28

+26

+23

+21

Map of the Bahamas

Nature

The Bahamas are stretches of limestone plateau jutting out from the ocean. Its underwater part has deep cracks and ferrous layers, making the underwater world of the Bahamas look very picturesque. Numerous things add to its beauty Coral reefs, blue holes and long tunnels connecting deep underwater caves. All this makes the islands of the archipelago very attractive for divers.

Previously, the entire territory of the Bahamas was covered rainforests, however, today they are preserved only on the islands of Grand Bahama, Abaco and Andros. On their territory you can see valuable types of wood - red ironwood and logwood, Caribbean pine trees, as well as different kinds exotic flowers - orchids, jasmine, bougainvillea, etc. Often on the islands you can find artificial plantings with coniferous trees, casuarinas and mahogany.

The fauna in the Bahamas is not very diverse. The most common species are bats, frogs, snakes, lizards, as well as birds - red flamingos, pelicans, herons, etc. Near the coasts there are numerous species of fish - mackerel, barracuda, Atlantic sailfish, etc. Thanks to this, fishing in the Bahamas is very exciting class.

Another natural feature of the Bahamas is its beautiful sandy beaches with fine sand, which attracts many travelers who want to soak up the sun and swim in the clear coastal waters.

Traditions and customs

The main characteristic of the Bahamians is their leisurely pace; on the islands it is not customary to rush anywhere. Locals They are generally calm and friendly, but sometimes they can express their emotions quite violently.

The dress code on the islands is informal. In most cases, a shirt and long trousers will be enough for men. IN resort areas Shorts are also quite suitable; in cities, overtly beachwear should be avoided. In the evening and on holidays, a long dress with ethnic patterns is considered good form for women, and a light suit for men.

As for culinary traditions, in the Bahamas they are closely associated with seafood. Char-baked shells, crabs, shrimp, fish cakes, seafood salads, various variations of dishes with conch snail, reef snapper in tomato or anchovy sauce, soup with lime juice, celery, meat and onions - these delicacies can be found in menus of almost all restaurants in the archipelago. The cuisine of the Bahamas was greatly influenced by the British colonialists, so traditional English dishes prepared with local peculiarities. Among the desserts, Caribbean coconut pies, rice puddings and fruit salads are very popular. In the bar menu you will definitely see Nassau Royal rum, the famous Bahamian beer Kalik, as well as various imported drinks.

Culture and architecture

The culture of the Bahamas was influenced by Africans, inhabitants neighboring islands Caribbean and colonists. An important part of the national folklore are obeah rituals, which are reminiscent of the rites of Santeria in Brazil and Cuba, as well as voodoo from Haiti. The practice involves turning to white and black magicians, connecting with departed ancestors and spirits the afterlife etc. Followers of the Obeah believe that evil spirits live in the silk cotton plant, and with special skill their power can be controlled. Voodoo rituals are also common in the Bahamas, especially among immigrants from Cuba, Haiti, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic.

Another bright side of Bahamian culture is music, which combines the traditions of colonialists and African slaves. Particularly popular are down-home styles (music performed on accordions, guitars and maracas) and goombay, which combines English folk songs with calypso melodies.

Dance art is also widespread in the Bahamas. In special halls or on the street you can see real dance performances, which intricately combine ritual African dances, classical ballet and modern choreography.

There are also architectural attractions in the Bahamas. Most of them date back to the period of colonization and are located in the capital of the state - the city of Nassau.

Main currency

The main currency on the islands is the Bahamian dollar, equal to 100 cents. Both coins and banknotes of various denominations are in circulation. US dollars are in free circulation. International credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.

You can exchange currency in the Bahamas at shopping centers, hotels and banks, which are usually open on weekdays until 15:00. The most favorable exchange rates are available at international banks located in Freeport and Nassau. There are ATMs in popular tourist areas in large quantities, which cannot be said about the peripheral islands, where withdrawing money is quite problematic. Hotels, restaurants and exchange offices may charge quite a large commission for cashing travel checks, so be sure to check their terms and conditions before using their services. It is most profitable to use travel checks in US dollars.

Flight

Fly from Russia to the Bahamas using direct flight it is forbidden. Most the best option- British Airways flight with a transfer in London (operates five times a week), taking about 13 hours. You can also fly to the USA, and from there, with the help of American airlines, to the capital of the Bahamas - Nassau. The disadvantage of this option is that such a trip requires an American transit visa. From the USA you can also get to the Bahamas by ferry (the trip takes about 5 hours).

Electricity

Mains voltage - 110V, 60 Hz. American type sockets.

Car rent

To rent a car in the Bahamas, you need an international driver's license, passport and credit card. The driver must be at least 21-23 years old (depending on the rental company). Car rental offices are located at airports, large hotels and in central urban areas.

Our advice

The tourist areas of the Bahamas are quite safe, but you should follow the usual precautions: do not walk around the outskirts at night, watch your wallet, leave valuables in the safe.

You do not need to have any vaccinations to enter the country - they will only be needed if you are arriving in the Bahamas from a hotbed of infectious diseases. It is advisable to be immunized against tuberculosis, diphtheria and hepatitis B. You should also avoid swimming in local fresh water bodies.

Tap water in the main cities is safe, although it tastes salty, so drinking bottled water is recommended. Water is out of popular tourist areas may be contaminated - you should not drink it. Dairy products, meat, poultry, vegetables and fruits can be eaten without fear - their safety is monitored.

To protect yourself from the sun, you should use special creams, since the level of insolation in the Bahamas is very high. On excursions, it is advisable to wear light clothing that covers your shoulders.

The Commonwealth of the Bahamas is an island archipelago, in which out of 700 islands, 30 are inhabited. The Bahamas are located 90 km from Florida in the Atlantic Ocean. IN Caribbean these islands are located in the very north. The islands of Abacos, Andros, Acklins, Exumas, Berry, Biminis and some others are considered the largest in the archipelago. The total area of the state is approximately 14 thousand square meters. km. The capital is Nassau. This The largest city the country, which is both its cultural and commercial center.

Population of the Bahamas

The number of inhabitants of the Bahamas is approximately 366 thousand people. Blacks and mulattoes make up more than 80% of the population.

Nature in the Bahamas

Hundreds of kilometers of white sand beaches, 2,500 coral reefs, clear coastal waters heated by the Gulf Stream have long been associated by most vacationers with the concept of “chic vacation.” The untouched nature of most of the islands attracts crowds of tourists. Inagua Island is home to rare pink flamingos and iguanas.

Climatic conditions

The Bahamas has a humid subtropical climate. The rainy season begins in May and lasts until October. Thanks to the soft wind from the equator, winter is very warm with a temperature of +15°C, and in summer, due to trade winds, the temperature does not exceed +32°C. The warm Gulf Stream washing the Bahamas from the west contributes to warming sea water up to approximately +25°C throughout the year.

Language

The only one in the Bahamas official language- English. The entire population of the country speaks it fluently.

Kitchen

The cuisine in the Bahamas consists of fruits and all kinds of fish, crab and seafood dishes. The main ingredient in most dishes is the conch shellfish. It is a well-known aphrodisiac and is widely used here. In the Bahamas they like to cook very spicy dishes, combining them with lime juice. And coconuts are even used in ice cream.

Currency of the Bahamas

The national currency is the Bahamian dollar. It is equivalent to the US dollar, and therefore US currency is also freely used in the Bahamas.

Religion

In the Bahamas, the island population is Christian, but belonging to other religious denominations is not condemned, thanks to complete freedom of religion.

Holidays

Boxing Day is celebrated in the Bahamas on December 26th. This very solemn and colorful event is considered traditional for all former colonies of Britain. The holiday is very colorful, in the form of a colorful carnival, which begins at midnight on Bay Street.

Major resorts in the Bahamas

The most visited resorts in the Bahamas are on the islands of Paradise, Grand Bahama and New Providence. The island of Grand Bahama has a golf course, tennis courts, and you can go underwater fishing and diving. On the island of Inagua you can swim with dolphins.

Attractions

In the center of the capital of the Bahamas is the famous Parliament Square, where in the 19th century the buildings of Parliament, the Supreme Court and the Colonial Administration were built around the statue of Queen Victoria.

Nassau Underwater Aquarium, Retreat Gardens, beautiful beaches Cable Beach is perfect for nature lovers. Not far from the center of the capital, Fort Charlotte is located, which was built back in 1788. Tourists will not be left indifferent by the labyrinth, which resembles the ruined Atlantis. A unique tunnel that passes under water and amazes with the beauty of the underwater world has no analogues in the world. "Sea Gardens" is a place where you can get acquainted with the rich flora and fauna of the underwater world. Handmade souvenirs created by local craftsmen from clay, straw and shells are very popular all over the world.

But the main attraction of the islands is their unique nature. Walking to the reefs, visiting natural areas where flamingos live, observing the underwater world of the Atlantic will be an interesting pastime for all tourists.

It's no secret that the Bahamas have long been popular place for recreation among tourists from all over the world. And even Russians fly there to relax. The truth is that distance scares off many people. Which you have to fly over. But when you get to the islands, you will immediately forget about everything that happened to you before. After all, the Bahamas is a holiday paradise on earth. There is everything you need here and even something you never dreamed of! If you look at the Bahamas on a world map, you will see where they are. And they are located in the Atlantic Ocean.

And if you look closely, you will see that the Bahamas are located somewhere in the middle between Cuba and Miami, which is located in the US state of Florida. This means that the Bahamas is hot and dry.

The Bahamas includes more than 700 islands, but only 30 of them are inhabited or inhabited. Why are the other islands empty? Some are too small to build anything on. And some islands are constantly flooded with water, so you can’t build there either.
But there are separate islands where you can go on an excursion. You will modern Robinson Crusoe, and you will remember this journey for a long time.

The Bahamas are washed by the ocean on all sides. But there are no rivers on the islands at all! But there are lakes that are connected to the ocean and in them salty water. Mountains are also almost absent. They simply have nowhere to go, because there is so little space.
But the islands are full of green vegetation. And it is forever green, because there is no cold winter here. And the vegetation grows here for a reason. Every bush and tree is under state protection! And all because there are few of them on the islands. That’s why there are nature reserves and parks everywhere, where you can hide from the sun and watch the animals.

See where the Bahamas are on the world map. And then you will definitely want to fly here.