Bahamas

The ‘Isles of Perpetual June’

The Islands Of The Bahamas is a vast 100,000 square mile archipelago of beautiful beaches, exclusive attractions and uncharted terrain. Each of its 700 breathtaking islands is surrounded by the clearest waters in the world, and offers its own experience of culture and geography. Scuba divers flock from around the world for its elaborate coral reefs. Beach lovers come to feel the Caribbean waters roll over pink and white sands. Families travel here for paramount adventure. And lovers escape to find a romance of untainted shores, exotic landscapes and surreal Caribbean intimacy. Just a few steps on the Islands Of The Bahamas will reveal why George Washington hailed them as the ‘Isles of Perpetual June.’

A Grand Paradise

Nassau/Paradise Island and Grand Bahama Island are the premier islands for travel and tourism in the Bahamas. An endless string of beaches, resorts, shops, golf courses and casinos are mixed with the ecological wonders of the Bahamas for a perfect blend of manmade and natural attractions. In-land travelers will notice the unmistakable character of colonial architecture and British influence. Local shops, signature ‘goombay’ rhythms, fresh seafood and splendid boating ports are just some of the sights, sounds and smells you can expect at the Paradise and Grand Bahama Islands.

The Out Islands

Named for their seclusion and mystery, the Out Islands beckon adventurers and romantics to explore the untamed Caribbean world. Stunning beaches, exclusive dive sites and excellent fishing are just the beginning to the resources of the Out Islands. Journey to uninhabited beaches, quaint inns, Old English cathedrals and historic sites of old and new cultures. The secrets of this land are as limitless as the horizon itself, and promise a new adventure for every anticipated voyage.

Recreation and Exploration

Sports lovers and avid explorers will find every imagined adventure in the Islands Of The Bahamas. Spend your days traversing the fairways on championship golf courses or tour through a nature preserve of wild horses and tropical birds. The soft sands, hidden coves and uninhabited cays within the archipelago make it a haven for sailing voyages and world-renowned diving. And the versatility of the Islands allows for a jovial night of music and dancing or a moonlit evening on an abandoned beach.

Weddings and Romance

The magnificent collection of picturesque islands in the Bahamas has naturally made it a popular retreat for destination weddings, honeymoons and romantic escapes. Elegant hotels and quaint beach houses spread along the coastlines, offering a myriad of options for your romantic agenda. Wedding details can be arranged through the islands many specialists and vows can be exchanged within one day of arrival subject to prior application.

One of the Few

The Islands Of The Bahamas is one of the few Caribbean destinations to offer both modern tourist attractions and secluded beaches. Each island permeates with its own blend of strikingly clear waters, breathtaking beaches and colorful history. All Inclusive Outlet offers a growing list of resorts in the Bahamas and will continue to watch with anticipation as travelers explore these coveted islands at unbeatable, discounted rates.

Destination information is subject to change without prior notice.  Travelers are advised to use extreme caution and common sense when venturing out in any foreign destination. While luxury beach destinations can be quite alluring, remember to keep your guard up when approached by locals in any foreign area. We advise guests to attend the resort orientation upon arrival(if provided) and conduct plenty of research prior to arriving at your destination. The information provided on this site is not comprehensive and we advise travelers to utilize the official tourist board site for each resort area, the CDC, travel.state.gov and other official sources for up to date destination information.

Entry Requirements

All travelers between the U.S. and the Caribbean will be required to carry passports beginning January 1, 2007 as mandated by the United States Department of Homeland Security and the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. We encourage you to begin the passport application processes early to avoid unexpected delays. Travelers should allow a minimum of six weeks between their application submission and receipt of passport. Passports can be expedited for an additional fee. Foreign residents of the United States and all other foreign visitors not holding a US Passport must contact the appropriate government authorities to determine the entry and visa requirements.

A return ticket is required for U.S. visitors staying 8 months or less. Travelers from the United Kingdom and British colonies can enter without passports or visas for a stay of no longer than three weeks- passports are required for longer stays.  The most up to date travel requirements may be found by visiting travel.state.gov

Vaccinations

Vaccinations are not required for travelers from the U.S., England or Canada. A certificate for Yellow Fever vaccination is required for travelers from the following countries: Angola, Benin, Brazil, Bolivia, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Colombia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ecuador, French Guiana, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Peru and Sudan. Vaccination is required at least 10 days prior to entering the Bahamas and a valid certificate must be presented.  Traveler's health information is subject to change and we advise clients to visit www.cdc.gov for the latest information.

Departure Tax

Before leaving The Islands Of The Bahamas a departure tax between $15 and $18 dollars payable in U.S. or Bahamian currency is required. This tax is not applicable to children under the age of six. Departure tax is subject to change.

What to Wear

Summer clothing such as casual shirts and shorts are ideal year round, while a light jacket or sweater may be needed in the winter season on cooler evenings. The majority of hotel restaurants require a collared shirt and long pants for men at dinnertime.  Sundresses or island casual is acceptable at dinner for ladies.  And beach clothing needs to be covered before entering the streets or public venues.

Currency

Both U.S. and Bahamian dollars are accepted and interchangeable in the Bahamas. The exchange rate is the same and both types are equal in value. Instant access to cash is available through the ATM’s  in the major resort areas, and most will accept debit cards endorsed by any major credit card company. Travelers checks and credit cards are accepted by most vendors, but some spots in the Out Islands require cash.

Customs

A verbal baggage declaration is required upon arrival to the Bahamas and all luggage is subject to customs inspections. Travelers carrying dutiable items will need to fill out a Baggage Declaration Form. Customs allowances include: 50 cigars or cigarettes or 1 lb of tobacco and 1 qt of spirits. All personal effects including laptops are duty free.

Driving

British rules mandate driving on the left side of the road. Drivers should take extra precautions on roundabouts and pedestrians should remember to look right before crossing the street. Travelers may use home licenses for up to three months.

Communications

Telecommunication in the Bahamas is current with U.S. and Canadian standards, with a 100% digital switching system and access to over 100 countries. Fax machines and switchboards are available at most hotels. The primary provider of Telecommunications, BaTelCo, has roaming agreements with many U.S. cellular companies, establishing roaming rates of $3.00 a day and 99¢ a minute. To receive calls while in the Bahamas, dial 1-242-359-7626, wait for the second tone and then enter your number. As the primary Internet provider in the Bahamas, BaTelNet offers 24-hour support, local-access dialing, 28.8k modems and access in the major developed areas.

Electricity

The power supply in the Bahamas is identical to the United States, with 120-volt/ 60-cycle AC current. All American and Canadian devices can be used without adapters.

Water

The water in the Bahamas is fine for drinking, bathing, brushing your teeth and anything else you would normally do. Those not comfortable drinking the water have the option of local and imported bottled water, available throughout  the resort areas.

Airports

A variety of scheduled and charter carriers fly into Nassau, Freeport and cities throughout the Out Islands.

Pets

All animals brought into the Bahamas must have a permit from the Ministry of Agriculture, Trade and Industry. Permits are valid for one year and require a $10 application fee. The fee is waived for service dogs. More information can be obtained at the Bahamas Humane Society, Monday through Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Phone: 242-325-6742.

Geography

The Bahamas’ amazing geography is made up of 700 beautiful islands dressed in the charms of verdant foliage, hidden cays and uninhabited beaches. This advanced archipelago hosts record-setting wonders such as the third longest barrier reef, longest underwater cave system and the clearest waters in the world (visibility of over 200 ft.). Five percent of the world’s coral can be found here and 120 plant species call home exclusively to the Bahamas’ soft shores and lush terra firma.

Climate

An average temperature of 70-85 degrees is graciously mingled with the Caribbean’s refreshing trade winds.

Language

English is the official language of the Bahamas, so you should have no problems getting around. Be prepared, however, for a slightly different Bahamian English with flares of Queen’s diction, African influences and island patois.

Government

Gaining its independence in 1964, the Bahamas is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations and is based on the Westminster Model of government. A bicameral Parliament rules with the Governor General, who is recommended by the Prime Minister to represent Her Majesty.

History

Making first landfall on the island of San Salvador in 1492, Christopher Columbus observed the shallow water surrounding these beautiful islands and aptly named them “baja mar,” meaning shallow water- and hence was born the Bahamas. Its close location to Florida and well-traveled shipping channels soon won the attention of explorers, settlers, traders and invaders. Famous pirates such as Blackbeard and Calico Jack have called these islands home. And settlers from England, Spain, America and Africa have poured into this colorful melting pot of the world’s nations. Although the archipelago of the Bahamas shares a general narrative, each island holds it own secrets, sights and personal history to discover.

Cultural Experience

The full Bahamian culture is experienced at the marvelous Junkanoo festival. Prepare for an electrifying display of color, dance, music and art from morning until night on December 26th and January 1st. Unscheduled festivals can be found every night on the street corners, night clubs and hot spots of the Islands. Dance to the rhythms of the Bahamas’ traditional goombay music, sink your teeth into fresh conch and fish, or pick up the distinctive dialect of Bahamian English while mingling with the locals.

Time Zone

The Islands of The Bahamas uses Eastern Standard Time. Eastern Daylight Time is used from April to October in conjunction with the United States' summer.

Destination information is subject to change without prior notice.

Beaches

Formed by the translucent waters of the Caribbean ocean, the Bahamas’ slowly descending beaches are the objects of affection for those fortunate enough to walk them. Treasure Cay beach was voted one of the top ten beaches by readers of Caribbean Travel & Life. Its diamond white sands contrast the lapping emerald waters and stretch right up to the heels of the Abacos’ flora. Harbour Islands’ infamous beach cradles footsteps in warm pink sands and was appropriately rated one of the world’s best by the Travel Channel. These are just a few of the many beaches that seem to run endlessly over active and secluded shorelines, calling travelers to a world framed by pink and white.

Dining

Tapping into the resources of the Caribbean, seafood presides as the foundation for Bahamian cuisine. Firm, white conch and fresh fish are served in a variety of ways and are usually accompanied by pigeon peas and rice (the origin for the Caribbean’s infamous “peas ‘n’ rice”). Other venues serve savory dishes from around the globe and treat patrons to elegant atmospheres and casual seaside tables. The International offerings in the Bahamas will satisfy the most astute and varied appetites.

Excursions

Journey through a mysterious archipelago of rocky cays, wild tropics and elaborate underwater reefs. The vivid landscape of the Bahamas has long fascinated explorers and offers a seemingly endless amount of excursions. Traverse between inlets of striking anchorages and bustling marine habitats at the famous Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park. See the dungeons, underground passages and impressive cannons of Fort Charlotte. Walk through Lucayan National Park, the only place where all six of Grand Bahama’s ecosystems blend together. Or charter your own adventure to any of the Bahamas’ 686 minor islands. Whether it’s guided family tours or thrill-seeking excursions, the possibilities on these islands are genuinely limitless.

The Ocean World

The desirable climate and welcoming geography of the Bahamas make it a natural haven for water sports and ocean recreations. The many cays, coves and marinas seem to attract every type of sea vessel and are ideal for afternoon and weeklong voyages. Just under the waves lies a treasure chest of coral reefs, blue holes, elaborate caves and mysterious shipwrecks for divers to explore. PADI dive centers are located throughout the islands and the great Andros reef (the third largest in the world) offers 140 miles of breathtaking coral, tropical fish and stunning marine wildlife. Fishermen are equally interested in these waters for the finest bone-fishing, reef-fishing and deep-sea fishing in the world. Miles of flats and an impressive barrier reef have made the Bahamas a fisherman’s paradise and big-game tournaments are commonly underway.

In-Land Attractions

Lush greens and sea-level fairways typify the championship golf courses scattered along the Islands of the Bahamas. Many resorts offer golfing packages and are located just footsteps from these beautiful courses. Each island boasts a myriad of historic sites and nature preserves to satisfy the tourist in you. Ancient monasteries, medieval forts and old British lighthouses capture the Bahamas’ long and varied history. Stroll through charming straw markets and barter with the locals for handmade ceramics, intricate crafts, fine artwork and rich spices to take home.

Nightlife

Watch the Bahamian culture blossom as the Caribbean sun fades into the horizon. The major resort islands of Nassau/Paradise Island, Grand Bahama Island and some of the major Out Islands can be seen and heard for miles as glitzy casinos, thumping night clubs, blazing beach parties and signature goombay rhythms exude with jubilee. Join the Bahamians in using any and every reason to celebrate the island culture.

Destination information is subject to change without prior notice.