Bahamas. Location, recreation and tourism in the Bahamas
Bahamas- a fabulous corner of our planet, which, probably, every tourist dreams of visiting. The Bahamas are an archipelago in the middle of the blue surface of the Atlantic Ocean, which is the center of world tourism. The Bahamas is washed by the warm Gulf Stream, thanks to which a mild climate reigns here all year round. The structure of this state includes two and a half thousand reefs and seven hundred islands, although only thirty of them are inhabited. Bahamas coast, pleases sophisticated tourists with hundreds of kilometers of white beaches, beautiful coral reefs, crystal clear coastal waters and picturesque Caribbean nature. We will tell you about an amazing vacation in the Bahamas in our article.
Prices for tours and flights to the Bahamas... Holidays in the Bahamas are elite, therefore, you need to be prepared that the tours will be expensive. When choosing travel packages on the Internet, please note that many travel agencies offer tours to the resorts of the Bahamas, without the cost of air travel. Approximately, a week-long tour to the Bahamas for two adults will cost from eight hundred euros. The price will include accommodation in a three-star hotel, breakfast included, and transfer from the airport to the hotel and back. All-inclusive food, so beloved by Russians, is a rarity in the Bahamas. It is very convenient that a visa to the Bahamas is not needed for our compatriots planning to rest there for less than ninety days. It is quite possible to buy relatively cheap air tickets to the Bahamas, just be aware that ticket prices vary from the time of year, the city of departure, the availability of promotions and discounts from this airline at that time. It is most profitable to purchase an air ticket to the Bahamas from Moscow or St. Petersburg, then an economy class one-way ticket will cost you about fifty thousand rubles. But you can find even more profitable options, for example, with Delta airline a one-way flight will start at twenty-three thousand rubles, and with Transaero airline, with a flight from Vnukovo, you can go to the paradise islands in twenty-eight thousand rubles. But there are practically no direct flights to Freeport Airport, you still have to make one or two transfers. Most of the transplants take place in or in the United States.
When and where better rest be in the Bahamas? For the Bahamas, there are two main seasons: summer, when the air temperature warms up to thirty-three degrees, and the water temperature to twenty-eight, and winter, when the temperature outside is twenty-five degrees, and the water temperature is twenty-three degrees. Prices for tours to the Bahamas are always higher in winter, the more they increase on holidays, but also during summer holidays, the cost of the tour will also rise. Although, at this particular time, you can find a lot of last minute deals to the Bahamas with significant discounts. When choosing a vacation spot, it is worth knowing that the northwestern islands of the archipelago are cooler. The hottest islands in the Bahamas are the southern ones: Big and Small Inagua, Mayaguana. In winter, it rains here, but very rarely, and winds, high waves, hurricanes on these islands are also very rare. That is why, it is winter that is more preferable for a holiday in the Bahamas. But in the period from May to October, the season of rains, typhoons and storms begins here. In all hotels, at the reception desk, they post warnings about all weather disasters predicted for the day. It is quite romantic to have a rest in the Bahamas in summer, because it is during this period that bright tropical flowers begin to bloom on the islands and shrubs bloom, everything is green, exotic birds and insects flutter.
Resorts of the Bahamas. It is clear that all the islands of this archipelago are divided into resort zones, and each of them is attractive in its own way, here everywhere tourists are offered a lot interesting excursions and a variety of entertainment. Each resort has several restaurants, bars, cabarets, casinos, shops.
New Providence Island resorts and beaches- This is the most populous Bahamas, where the capital is located - the beautiful city of Nassau, which combines all the best that the local nature has given. Calm - during the day, and capable at night, turn anyone, even the most passive tourist, into an untethered reveler. In the city, you can trace a vivid mixture of style trends of architecture: colonial, modern - and this can be explained by the fact that this sea harbor has always been an area of someone's interests and each people who took possession of it contributed to the urban architectural component.
Connoisseurs of white beaches and a clean ocean, who are not ready to leave civilization and find themselves alone with nature, prefer to rest in Nassau. It is worth noting that along the entire coast of the resort of Nassau there are hotel complexes, shopping centers and parks that make tourists' rest more eventful and interesting. And yet, Nassau is a real paradise for connoisseurs of excellent shopping. The most luxurious boutiques and numerous duty free shops are located here. The city of Nassau is one of the world's largest offshore centers, where four hundred banks and trust funds are located, it is not for nothing that it is called the "Zurich of the Tropics". The islets located near New Providence are the location of fashionable hotels intended for elite vacation in the Bahamas, there are a lot of upscale restaurants and the "Crystal Palace" casino. The most popular beaches of New Providence Island are: Cable Beach - the best beach in the Caribbean islands, as well as opposite resort islands, with Long Cay Beach and North Cay Beach.
Resorts and beaches of Grand Bahama Island- the largest island with international airport, accepting flights from America and Europe. Connoisseurs of noise and fun come to rest on this Bahamas, because music does not stop here, there is a lot entertainment centers, discos, nightclubs, and in every shopping center there is a duty-free point. The island has excellent infrastructure. The main natural advantages of this island are long white beaches and huge pine forests. The most popular resort in the Grand Bahamas - Freeport or Lucaya - modern city, with free morals. And the best beach is Gold Rock, with romantic palm trees leaning towards the water, grape bushes around and beautiful lush orchids. For those who love to tickle their nerves, we advise you to get to Tiger Beach - the habitat of tiger sharks, and then, you will have enough impressions for a lifetime. A very popular holiday destination in the Grand Bahamas is the gorgeous Paradise Bay Beach, which is photographed on many brochures advertising an exclusive vacation in the Bahamas.
Resorts and beaches of Andros island- this is the most uninhabited Bahamas, with centuries-old pine groves, fragrant needles, beautiful mangrove thickets and palm trees located along the snow-white sandy beaches, smoothly disappearing into the turquoise sea surface. Supporters of the laid-back come here to relax. beach holiday in the lap of nature, with pleasure, strolling along the turquoise ocean, to the melodic accompaniment of bird chirping: ibises, flamingos, spoonbills, hummingbirds, Bahamian parrots. Weddings or honeymoons are often held here. But this island is no less popular among eco-tourists, amateur kayakers, bird watchers, snorkelers, divers, and just fishing enthusiasts. The three main resorts of Andros Island: Nicholls Town, Andros Town, Congo Town. But due to the small population of the island, there is almost no developed infrastructure and public transport, and traveling by taxi will cost you a pretty penny. The most popular beach in Andros is Somerset Beach. By the way, many local hotels, knowing that newlyweds are trying to come to this particular Bahamas for their holidays, offer a “wedding package”.
Resorts and beaches of Eleuthera island- This is the fourth largest island in the Bahamas, and a place of elite vacation, with the most expensive and luxurious hotels and restaurants. It is only two kilometers wide, but it stretches for one hundred and eighty kilometers in length. The locals live on generous seafood and rich pineapple plantations, and, of course, tourism.
Eleuthera Island is a quiet but well-developed resort with picturesque nature: high cliffs extending into the bright blue sea surface, numerous mysterious caves and grottoes, beautiful coral reefs, wide beaches with pink sand. The water here is very clean and clear, and the entrance is shallow. The main beaches: "French Leave Beach", "Lighthouse Beach", "Surfers Beach", "Winding Bay Beach" - are very popular among tourists on this Bahamas. Divers who have long appreciated its wonderful underwater world love to rest on the Eleuthera Island.
Resorts and beaches of the island of Great Abaco Is the second largest island in the Bahamas, and favorite place recreation of people who are crazy about sailing. Yachtsmen from all over the world meet here, in the “sailing season”, which begins with the arrival of spring and lasts almost until the end of autumn. Travelers vacationing here will certainly delight the local coast with cozy bays and beautiful reefs, clear turquoise sea water, by the way, local waters are calm and rather shallow, with a gentle entrance. Most Popular sandy beaches: Ocean Beach, Tahiti Beach, Guana Cay Beach, Abaco Beach Resort, Sandy Point Beach. Abaco offers excellent fishing, as the local coastal waters are teeming with fish. For lovers of eco-tours, we recommend visiting the picturesque National park Abaco.
Long Island resorts and beaches- the most picturesque Bahamas, where there are very few tourists, but many natural places, completely untouched by civilization. The island stretches in a long, narrow strip along the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean. It is divided in two by the ridge of an ancient reef, therefore on Long Island there are completely different shores, on the one hand, high cliffs and deep caves, washed by raging ocean waves, prevail, and on the other hand, these are ideal white-sand beaches with a gentle entrance to calm and calm waters. ... It is this contrast that makes the vacation on this Bahamas more interesting and exciting. The main resort town here is Stella Maris, from here all boat trips and other tours around the island begin. At the northern tip of the island is the most beautiful Cape Santa Maria in the western hemisphere.
Exuma Island resorts and beaches- This is an archipelago of three hundred and sixty-five coral reefs and small islets, the largest of which are Big Exuma and Small Exuma, they are washed by the sapphire waters of the Atlantic Ocean. On the island of Big Exuma, tourists will find a lot of opportunities for interesting rest, since there are great resorts, with hotels offering high quality service, but you can also rent a modest fishing lodge, thus saving on accommodation. Local cozy bays, quiet bays and harbors attract numerous yachtsmen and sports fishing fans. Here since 1957, the most famous in the world was created marine park- "Exuma Case Land and Sea Park". The most popular beaches among tourists on Exuma Island are Tropic of Cancer Beach, Three Sisters Beach, Jolly Hall Beach, Coco Plum Beach, Hamburger Beach. No less beautiful beaches are Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, Staniel Cay, Saddle Cay, Stocking Island - all of them are sandy with a gentle entrance to the clean sea water.
Bimini island resorts and beaches- a picturesque archipelago of several islands, the largest of which are North Bimini and South Bimini. This picturesque archipelago is located on the edge of a powerful sheer underwater cliff, immersed in the sea abyss for thousands of meters. The Bimini Islands are a very attractive place for people who are interested in the unusual and unknown, because it is here that there are several unique places on the planet and natural monuments, the properties of which have not yet been solved and explained by scientists. The most controversial place is the "Bimini Road" - "Bimini Road", about which, back in the forties of the twentieth century, spoke the famous predictor Edgar Cayce, who said that in 1968, here they will find the ruins of one of the lost cities of the sunken Atlantis. And so it happened: in September 1968, near the shores of Paradise Point, in North Bimini, they found neatly laid out huge limestone blocks, seven hundred meters long, which were named "Bimini Road". Long-term underwater archaeological expeditions and research began, after which it was concluded that these megaliths were really laid by people - representatives of the long extinct highly developed civilization, but there were other opponents who argued that it was just marine sediments - coastal rock.
Another very controversial place in Bimini is the "Fountain of Youth" - a rejuvenating source that Juan Ponce de Leon was looking for, who heard a story about him from representatives of the Arawak people, akin to the Taino Indians. Many indigenous inhabitants of the island say that their distant ancestors passed on from mouth to mouth the legend that this miraculous fountain is located in the shallow backwaters of South Bimini. Following mysterious place islands - "Healing grotto", located in the backwaters of the mangrove forest covering North Bimini, this place is the end of the mysterious labyrinth of underground tunnels, through which, at low tide, cool fresh water, rich in mineral salts - lithium and sulfur, which is why it has a powerful healing effect. After bathing here, people experience physical rejuvenation and phenomenal mental clarity.
The main resort of the Bimini Islands is Alice Town, with the best restaurants, shops, hotels. Fans of fishing, as well as fans of eco-tourism often come here, who are happy to get acquainted with the natural beauty of the islands, observe the numerous representatives of the sea and air fauna that live here. Flocks of dolphins and giant turtles swim right to the shores of the island. The most popular beaches of Bimini, with clear sea water, white-sandy shore and a gentle entrance: Radio Beach, Blister Beach, Spook Hill Beach, Tiki Hut Beach.
Greater Inagua resorts and beaches- the southernmost island of the Bahamas, the third largest, with several lakes and a large bird sanctuary, home to eighty thousand species of birds. The main resort of the island is Matthew Town, and the most popular beach in Inagua is Iron Badge Beach. Fans of eco-tours, divers, as well as just supporters of a calm contemplative vacation will really like to rest on the island. Here you can observe life in the natural environment of pink flamingos, swim with dolphins.
Harbor Island resorts and beaches- a small island, five kilometers long and a kilometer wide, with the only resort town - Dunmore Town. Here is the famous pink sand beach - "Pink Sands Beach", which, thanks to coastal reefs, protects vacationers from huge waves. Harbor Island is considered the best Caribbean island and the most elite vacation spot in the Bahamas for the richest people in the world. Rest here is calm, since there are no noisy entertainment centers on the Harbor; lovers of silence and solitude in the bosom of picturesque nature will like it. It is home to some of the finest villas and luxury holiday homes in the Bahamas.
Berry Islands Resorts & Beaches- here you will find the most economical vacation in the Bahamas. This cluster of thirty small reef islands is located southeast of Bimini. They are completely covered with greenery, there are many beautiful sandy, snow-white, like flour, beaches. Due to their gently sloping entrance, these beaches are ideal for families traveling to the Bahamas with children. So, seven miles of the best sandy beaches await you: Dannenberg Beach, Queen's Beach, Sand Dollar Hil, Shark Creek, Shelling Beach, Sugar Beach, The Ship Yard Beach There are also completely uninhabited islets with virgin nature and beautiful sea depths, which have long been chosen by divers and snorkelers.
Paradise Island Resort- is located northeast of New Providence, and is connected to this island by a bridge. Paradise is home to a huge Atlantis hotel complex, with amazing beaches, white sand and palm trees on the shore, excellent golf courses, a huge park water entertainment, casinos, and numerous shops. Mental rest and entertainment for every taste awaits you here.
The Bahamas are essentially one great resort and a place for an elite beach holiday. Most resort places there is a well-developed infrastructure and a lot of entertainment for vacationers is presented, here you can go diving, fishing, snorkeling, yachting, and get acquainted with interesting sights.
The Bahamas are located in the west of the Atlantic Ocean, at the latitude of the Northern Tropic, near the American continent (100 km from the Florida Peninsula).
These are about 700 islands, with a total area of 13.9 thousand square kilometers, and only 30 of them are inhabited. Most of the islands are coral reefs. From the east, the Bahamas are washed by the warm Gulf Stream. The islands are elevated in relation to sea level from a few meters to about 60 meters. Highest point - 63 m, located on Cat Island. The relief of the islands is flat. On the shores facing the ocean, a series of marine terraces can be traced. On the west coast, there are many salty lagoons as well as karst lakes and swamps. In some places along the coast there is a strip of sandy beaches. There are no rivers in the archipelago.
CLIMATE
The climate is subtropical and very mild. The influence of the warm current of the Gulf Stream, as well as the constantly blowing southeast wind from the equator (trade wind), affects. Throughout the year, the average monthly temperatures are not lower than +20 degrees. The coldest time is in January, when at night the temperature drops to +17 degrees, in the daytime it reaches +25 degrees. The hottest time of the year is July and August. The average minimum temperature at this time drops to +24 degrees, the maximum reaches +32 degrees. The driest months are February and March, where the monthly rainfall is about 40 mm. The wettest time of the year is from May to October, where monthly precipitation ranges from 150 to 220 mm. At this time, tropical hurricanes are possible, typical for everything Caribbean... Water temperature in coastal parts from August to October it warms up to +30 degrees, in the rest of the months it is kept at the level of +25 ... + 27 degrees.
Best time to visit:
The most favorable time to visit the Bahamas is from November to May. At this time, the least amount of precipitation falls and it is not so hot.
TYPES OF TOURISM
Beach vacation.
Most tourists go to the Bahamas to simply lie on sandy beaches stretching for hundreds of kilometers and protected from cold winds by coral reefs, swim in the clear waters of the ocean, and enjoy the greenery of coconut trees. The most popular resorts are located on the islands of New Providence, Paradise and Grand Bahama.
Diving.
Diving is suitable for divers of all skill levels. Visibility - 18-37 m. Most of the islands offer divers shallow reefs from 3 m to 15 m, as well as reefs at great depths from 30 m. ocean depths south of the Bahamas, the Gulf Stream begins, which rushes north, carrying marine life from the Caribbean Sea to the Atlantic. The Gulf Stream is a barrier that protects the Bahamas from Florida river sediments and runoff. Thanks to him and the ocean trenches, in the depths of which sediments are deposited, excellent visibility is provided. You can get acquainted with various types of underwater inhabitants on the Bahamas Bank, which rises from the depths of the ocean in some places up to 6 m from the surface. These are sharks, dolphins, rays, reef fish, angelfish, moray eels.
Scuba divers are also attracted here by the so-called "blue holes". These places get their name from the fact that they appear dark blue when viewed from above. A mass of underwater tunnels, passages and coral reefs, as well as sunken ones from the time Civil war The ships, which are inhabited by lobsters and octopuses, allow a combination of reef diving and cave diving, and are also of interest to underwater photographers. On the islands located to the south, due to higher temperatures, night diving is common, you can admire sleeping sharks.
The best season for diving on the islands is November - May.
Popular places active rest are: the islands of Andros, Berry, Bimini - fishing, described by E. Hemingway ("Islands in the Ocean"); islands Abakos, Eluthera - diving in coral reefs; Exuma Islands, Long Island - sailing trips; Inagua Island - Swimming with dolphins and watching exotic iguanas and pink flamingos.
Fishing - thanks to the Gulf Stream, catches are record high.
The excursion program is not of great interest. The main attractions of the Bahamas are sandy beaches, tropical vegetation and a rich underwater world. Among the sights of the capital of the country, one can distinguish the parliament building and the courthouse, the Government House (built in 1801) - the official residence of the governor-general. Tourists are also attracted by the "sea gardens", Fort Charlotte (1789), Fort Fincastle (1793), the botanical garden "Adastra Gardens", where many tropical and subtropical plants are presented, Jambi Village - a reconstruction of a British settlement of the 18th century.
The Bahamas is a major gambling center. All casinos are open 24 hours a day. The largest casino in the Caribbean is also located here.
VISAS, ENTRANCE RULES, CUSTOMS REGULATIONS
Russian citizens need a visa to visit the Bahamas.
Tourists traveling in transit can stay in the Bahamas without a visa for 3 days, if they have a ticket to the country of destination.
The visa is issued at the British Consulate General. There is a fee of around £ 70 for this.
To obtain a visa, you must provide:
- completed and signed questionnaires;
-a valid passport. It must be valid for at least 6 months after the visa is issued;
-2 photos 3x4;
-confirmation of booking , or an invitation.
- documents confirming the availability of funds.
A written customs declaration is not required from Russian tourists. Customs duty is not subject to: personal belongings of 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars, or 1 pound (~ 0.450 kg) of tobacco, 1 liter of alcoholic beverages.
The import of Bahamian dollars is prohibited, the export must not exceed $ 70.
WHAT TO SEE
organized for tourists are mainly associated with acquaintance with the islands of the archipelago, with their pristine nature, flora and fauna, as well as with the rich underwater world of the Atlantic Ocean.
In addition, you can get to know the capital of the Bahamas, Nassau, at the sightseeing in the city. This is the historical part of the city, where Fort Charlotte and Parliament Square are located, old buildings and buildings of recent years, in includes a walk through the straw market. You can visit the Atlantis complex - one of the largest open-air aquariums.
Excursions to the Adastra Gardens Botanical Gardens, Garden of the Grows, Rand Memorial Park, Preacher's Cave and an excursion to the International Bazaar in Freeport are of great interest.
A trip to an artificial coral island will leave a lot of impressions, because this is a real marine reserve.
Good for relaxation along the coastal waters and lagoons of New Providence. Arrivals are provided to uninhabited nearby islands, where you can swim, sunbathe, snorkel, etc.
HISTORY
Back in 1492. the great navigator Christopher Columbus discovered the Bahamas. At that time they were inhabited by the Arawak Indians. However, the Spaniards took them out and used them as labor. Until the 17th century, the islands were deserted, only pirates found this place an excellent shelter. In 1787. The Bahamas became a British colony. Black slaves were brought here. For three centuries, the territory was fully owned by the British Empire. In 1964, the Bahamas received internal self-government. On July 10, 1973, the independence of the Bahamas was proclaimed as part of the Commonwealth, led by Great Britain. The Bahamas is a member of a number of international organizations: the UN, the Organization of American States, the Caribbean Community.
EMBASSY
Bahamas, Embassy in Moscow
Smolenskaya emb. ten
Tel .: (+7 095) 956-7200
Fax: (+7 095) 956-7420
Bahamas, embassy website: http://www.britemb.msk.ru/
Bahamas, Russian Embassy in
:
Immigration Department: P.O. Box N-831, Nassau, The Bahamas.
RELIGION
Among believers, Protestants predominate, including Baptists, Anglicans, Methodists, approx. 19% are Roman Catholics, part of the population adheres to African cults.
TRANSPORT
In the capital of the Bahamas - Nassau - there is a shuttle . , a motorcycle, a scooter and even a bicycle can be rented. For rent vehicle(except for a bicycle) you must have a driver's license with you. The driving experience must be at least one year, and the driver's age must be at least 21 years. Traffic on the islands is left-hand. Ferries and boats run between the islands.
FLORA AND FAUNA
The islands are dominated by tropical vegetation. There are red and iron trees, colorful orchids and jasmine.
The Bahamas is famous for its beautiful flamingo birds. Many reptiles live here. The coastal waters are full of a variety of fish species. Turtles lay eggs here.
MINERALS
The Bahamas is home to the world's largest aragonite deposit.
BANKS
Banks are open throughout the working week: from Monday to Thursday until 15:00, on Friday until 17:00.
MONEY
The official currency is the Bahamian dollar. In value, it is equal to the US dollar.
1 Bahamian dollar = 100 cents. There are banknotes in denominations of 1, 3, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 dollars and coins in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 15, 25 and 50 cents and 1, 2 and 5 dollars.
It is better to change currency in banks. It is advisable to take American dollars with you on your trip, they are freely circulated here.
POLITICAL STATE
On July 10, 1973, the independence of the Bahamas was proclaimed as part of the Commonwealth, led by Great Britain. According to the 1973 constitution, the head of state is the Queen of Great Britain, who is represented by the Governor General. Legislative power is exercised by a bicameral parliament, consisting of the Senate and the House of Assembly. The government is headed by the prime minister, usually the leader of the party with the majority in parliament.
POPULATION
In 2003, 297.48 thousand people lived in the Bahamas, more than half of them on New Providence. The main part of the Bahamian nation is blacks and mulattoes, who make up more than 3/4 of the total population. There are diasporas of people from Haiti, Jamaica and the Turks and Caicos Islands. The proportion of Europeans and North Americans is small. This is mainly a contingent of wealthy senior citizens from the United States, Canada, Great Britain, who settled in the Bahamas after retirement.
Language:
Official language Bahamas - English. Almost the entire population of the country speaks it.
KITCHEN
Most of the Bahamian cuisine menu is made up of all kinds of seafood. From the first courses, fish soup from sea bass, delicious turtle soup, and conch clam chowder are in demand. In general, conch shellfish are used to prepare both first courses and salads, pies, snacks and main courses. There are even confectioners. Another sea dweller whose meat is widely used in Bahamian cuisine is the spiny lobster. Dishes from it are not cheap.
But the local menu is famous not only for seafood delicacies. They love the dish of peas and rice with a spicy sauce. From the cuisines of other countries, the chefs borrowed dishes from various types of meat.
A local delicacy is guava pudding. This is a favorite dessert. The selection of fruits is also varied.
Rum is the most popular beverage. All kinds of cocktails are made from it.
CONNECTION
Telephone, facsimile, telegraph and telex communication is possible with the whole world.
international telephone code Bahamas -1242.
EMERGENCY PHONES
The general telephone number for the police and fire brigade is 919.
Ambulance in Nassau - 322-21-21.
USEFUL GOODIES
To use electrical appliances brought with you from Europe, as well as to recharge cameras, an adapter is required, which is almost impossible to buy in the Bahamas. Therefore, it is better to worry about this in advance.
Spearfishing is prohibited in the Bahamas, but sport fishing is allowed, which must be paid for.
THE SHOPS
The trade center is the world famous Bay Street. Here you can buy watches of famous brands, jewelry, porcelain, crystal, leather bags, perfumes at a bargain price. All these goods are duty free.
TIPS
Service personnel in
it is customary to tip about 1–2 Bahamian dollars per day. In restaurants, their size ranges from 15 to 20% of the amount indicated on the invoice.
NATIONAL FEATURES
The traditional culture of the Bahamas is far removed from the heavily American-influenced urban centers of Nassau and Freeport. The island folk art is reflected in a large number of fairy tales, natural medicine, music and religious rites brought here by slaves from Africa. Despite the fact that the Bahamas does not yet give birth to writers gaining worldwide fame, and visual art is also developing slowly, the islands have formed a distinctive musical culture. In this
Several traditional forms of music have evolved with a characteristic guitar sound, accordion and rattles made from the pods of the Poinsiana tree.
Bahamian children enjoy playing basketball. They literally live on a basketball court, and most townships have their own small basketball court with makeshift baskets. The Bahamas are following the American basketball (and baseball) teams with great zeal.
ELECTRICITY
127V, 50Hz;
HEALTH CARE
No vaccinations are required to enter the Bahamas, but a medical
... Rendering medical care in urgent cases free of charge. The doctors are highly qualified. Hospitals are located in Nassau, Freeport and Out Island.
The Bahamas are famous for great beaches, beautiful underwater world and distinctive culture. The archipelago includes about 700 islands, of which only 40 are inhabited. Local resorts are perfect for a leisurely vacation 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 an official name - the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. The state is in Atlantic Ocean on an archipelago that stretches for 1,500 km, and is separated from Cuba by the Old Bahamas, and from the United States by the Florida Gulf. The total area of the islands is about 14 thousand square meters. km. The largest of them are Andros, Big Abaco, Grand Bahama, Big Inagua, New Providence, Big Exuma, Eleuthera and a number of others.
Capital: Nassau.
Population: 377,374 people (according to 2013 data).
Government: constitutional monarchy led by the Queen of Great Britain, represented in the Bahamas by the Governor-General.
Language: English, patois (Creole) is widespread among immigrants from Haiti.
Religion: Most of the population is Christians, mostly Baptists (35%). Popular beliefs are also widespread ("oba").
Time: behind Moscow by 8 hours in summer and by 9 hours in winter. On the last Sunday in March, the time is moved forward one hour (valid until the first Sunday in November).
Climate
The climate in the Bahamas can be characterized as subtropical (in the south) and trade wind (in the north). In summer, the air temperature here reaches +32 ° С, in winter - +22 ° С. It is always cooler in the central part of the archipelago than on 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 the precipitation on the islands falls from May to October, during the same months severe storms and hurricanes are possible. Based on this, the best time to relax in the Bahamas is considered to be the period from late October to early May.
Average daily temperature in the resorts of the Bahamas, ° C
| Resorts in Bahamas | Jan | Feb | March | Apr | May | June | July | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
| Nassau | +25 | +25 | +26 | +27 | +29 | +31 | +32 | +32 | +31 | +30 | +28 | +26 |
| Nassau, t water | +25 | +25 | +25 | +26 | +27 | +28 | +29 | +29 | +29 | +28 | +27 | +26 |
| Andros | +25 | +25 | +26 | +27 | +29 | +31 | +31 | +32 | +31 | +29 | +27 | +26 |
| Andros, t water | +23 | +23 | +23 | +24 | +25 | +27 | +28 | +28 | +28 | +27 | +26 | +24 |
| Abaco | +25 | +25 | +26 | +27 | +29 | +31 | +31 | +32 | +31 | +29 | +27 | +26 |
| Abaco, t water | +23 | +23 | +23 | +24 | +25 | +27 | +28 | +28 | +28 | +27 | +26 | +24 |
| Grand Bahama | +25 | +25 | +26 | +27 | +29 | +31 | +31 | +32 | +31 | +29 | +27 | +26 |
| Grand Bahama, t water | +23 | +23 | +23 | +24 | +25 | +27 | +28 | +28 | +28 | +27 | +26 | +24 |
| Eleuthera | +25 | +25 | +26 | +27 | +29 | +31 | +31 | +32 | +31 | +29 | +27 | +26 |
| Eleuthera, t water | +23 | +23 | +23 | +24 | +25 | +27 | +28 | +28 | +28 | +27 | +26 | +24 |
| Bimini | +20 | +21 | +22 | +24 | +26 | +27 | +28 | +28 | +28 | +26 | +23 | +21 |
Bahamas Map
Nature
The Bahamas are stretches of limestone plateau protruding above the ocean. Its underwater part has deep cracks and ferruginous layers, thanks to which the underwater world of the Bahamas looks very picturesque. Numerous coral reefs, blue holes and long tunnels connecting deep underwater caves add to its beauty. All this makes the islands of the archipelago very attractive for divers.
Previously, the entire territory of the Bahamas was covered with tropical forests, but today they have survived only on the islands of Grand Bahama, Abaco and Andros. On their territory you can see valuable species of wood - red iron and log wood, Caribbean pines, as well as various types of exotic flowers - orchids, jasmine, bougainvillea, etc. Often on the islands you can find artificial plantations with conifers, casuarins and mahogany.
The fauna in the Bahamas is not very diverse. The most common are bats, frogs, snakes, lizards, as well as birds - red flamingos, pelicans, herons, etc. Numerous fish species are found near the coasts - mackerel, barracuda, Atlantic sailboat, etc. Thanks to this, fishing in the Bahamas is very exciting class.
Another feature of the Bahamas' nature is the beautiful sandy beaches with fine sand, which attracts many travelers who want to soak up the sun and swim in the cleanest coastal waters.
Traditions and customsThe main feature of the Bahamians is their slowness; it is not customary to rush somewhere on the islands. The locals 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. V resort areas shorts are also quite suitable; in cities, frankly 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 far as culinary traditions are concerned, in the Bahamas they are closely associated with seafood. Charcoal-baked shells, crabs, shrimps, fish cakes, salads with seafood, various variations of dishes with conch snails, reef perch in tomato or anchovy sauce, soup with lime juice, celery, meat and onions - these delicacies can be found in menu of almost all restaurants in the archipelago. The British colonialists had a great influence on the cuisine of the Bahamas, so traditional English dishes prepared with local characteristics in mind are common here. Popular desserts include Caribbean coconut pies, rice puddings and fruit salads. In the bar's card, you will definitely see the Nassau Royal rum, the famous Bahamian Calic beer, as well as various imported drinks.
Culture and architectureThe culture of the Bahamas was influenced by Africans, the inhabitants of the neighboring Caribbean islands and the colonists. An important part of national folklore is the oba rituals, which are reminiscent of the santeria rites in Brazil and Cuba, as well as voodoo from Haiti. The practice provides for an appeal to white and black magicians, communication with departed ancestors and spirits of the underworld, etc. The followers of both believe that evil spirits live in silk cotton, and with a 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 striking aspect of the Bahamas' culture is music, which combines the traditions of colonialists and African slaves. Down-home styles (music played on accordions, guitars and maracas) and gumbay, which combine English folk songs with calypso melodies, are especially popular.
Dance art is also common in the Bahamas. In special halls or on the street, you can see real dance performances, in which ritual African dances, classical ballet and modern choreography are combined in a whimsical way.
There are also architectural sights in the Bahamas. Most of them belong 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, which is equal to 100 cents. Both coins and banknotes of various denominations are in circulation. US dollars are in free circulation. Credit cards of international systems are accepted almost everywhere.
You can exchange currency in the Bahamas at shopping malls, hotels and banks, which are usually open on weekdays until 15:00. The most favorable exchange rate is at international banks located in Freeport and Nassau. There are a lot of ATMs in popular tourist areas, which cannot be said about the peripheral islands, where withdrawing money is quite problematic. Hotels, restaurants and exchange offices can charge quite a large commission for cashing tourist checks, therefore, before using their services, find out about all the conditions. It is most beneficial to use traveller's checks in US dollars.
FlightYou cannot fly from Russia to the Bahamas using a direct flight. Most the best way- British Airways flight with a connection in London (operates five times a week), which takes about 13 hours. You can also fly to the United States, and from there, with the help of American airlines, to the capital of the Bahamas - Nassau. The disadvantage of this option is that it requires an American transit visa... You can also take a ferry from the US to the Bahamas (the journey takes about 5 hours).
ElectricityMains voltage - 110V, 60 Hz. Sockets American type.
Car rentTo 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 in airports, large hotels and in central urban areas.
Our TipsThe tourist areas of the Bahamas are quite safe, but you should follow the usual precautions: do not walk on the outskirts at night, watch your wallet, leave valuables in the safe.
You do not need to do 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 get immunized against tuberculosis, diphtheria and hepatitis B. You should also avoid swimming in local fresh waters.
Tap water in major cities is safe, although it tastes salty, so we recommend bottled water. Water outside popular tourist areas may be contaminated - not worth drinking. Dairy products, meat, poultry, vegetables and fruits can be eaten without fear - their safety is monitored.
For protection from the sun, it is worth using special creams, since the level of sun exposure in the Bahamas is very high. On excursions, it is advisable to wear light clothing that covers the shoulders.
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It's no secret that the Bahamas have long been a popular holiday destination with tourists from all over the world. And even Russians fly there to rest. The truth frightens many of the distance. 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 paradise for relaxation on earth. Here is everything you need and even what you never dreamed of! If you look at the Bahamas on a world map, you will see where they are. And they are in the Atlantic Ocean.
And if you look closely, you will see that the Bahamas is 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 by people and they are inhabited. Why are the other islands empty? Some are too small to build on them. And some islands are constantly flooded by water, so you can't build there either.
But there are separate islands where you can go on an excursion. You will be a modern Robinson Crusoe, and this journey will be remembered for a long time.
The Bahamas is washed by the ocean on all sides. But the islands have no rivers at all! But there are lakes that are connected with the ocean and they contain salt water. Mountains are also almost absent. They just have nowhere to take, because there is so little space.
But the islands are full of green vegetation. And it is always 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. Therefore, there are nature reserves and parks everywhere, where you can hide from the sun and watch the animals.
See where the Bahamas are located on the world map. And then you definitely want to fly here.
Bahamas is a word that only makes everyone feel good. What could be better than relaxing on the islands, where it is always warm, and the gentle sea invites you to frolic and forget about all the sorrows? Meanwhile, the Bahamas is a whole archipelago, which includes about seven hundred islands and thousands of reefs. Some of them are inhabited, others are of little use for life. The most popular among tourists are the islands of New Providence, Abaco, Grand Bahama, Andros, Long Island and Eleuthera.
The archipelago is located in the Atlantic Ocean off the east coast of North America. The coast of Florida is located 90 km from it, and Cuba is located in the southwest. The archipelago itself covers an area of about 250 thousand kilometers, and its length is almost a thousand kilometers. The capital of the Bahamas is the city of Nassau, which is located on the island of New Providence.
The weather in the Bahamas varies depending on their location. In the north, it is due to the tropical trade wind climate. In summer, the air atmosphere is kept within + 26- + 32 ° С. In winter - in the region of + 18- + 22 ° С, even on the northernmost islands (Small Abaco) it does not drop below + 15 ° С. The southern part of the archipelago is slightly warmer. In summer, the air warms up to + 40 ° С, however, thanks to the trade winds blowing from the sea, the climate here is quite mild, the heat is not felt so much. The hottest months here are June, July and August. The water temperature in summer is about + 27 ° С, in winter - + 22 ° С. The humidity on the islands varies with the season. The rainy season lasts here from May to October, but it is not pronounced, so it does not annoy vacationers. But hurricane winds and storms during this period are a serious obstacle to rest. In winter, there are powerful tropical showers from time to time, however, they do not last long.
Tourism in the Bahamas
Many people associate the Bahamas, first of all, with relaxing on golden beaches. Meanwhile, it also has its own attractions. Despite the fact that the main income of the island is derived from tourism, not all places here are explored and open to the public. In the Bahamas, large cities with a frantic pace of life and developed infrastructure are interspersed with corners of wildlife. All this creates an indescribable atmosphere.
The most popular city among tourists is the capital of the Bahamas - Nassau... This is a large bustling city, there is always something to see. Sightseeing should start from the northern part, the historical center of the city. Here, in Rawson Square, there are buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Then the Bahamas was still a colony of Britain, so lovers of English architecture, spiced with South American flavor, should definitely take a look at this. It is never quiet here; artists, bankers, sailors, hawkers and tourists filled this small square a hundred years ago. The famous Jonkonu festival is also held here. In order to look at the colonial medieval architecture, it is worth going to Parliament Square. Here are the buildings of the Colonial Administration, Parliament, Supreme Court and Assembly House, the construction of which dates back to the years 13-18 centuries. History buffs will love the Pompeii Museum, housed in the auction house. It contains many exhibits that tell about the history of slavery on the islands. The colorful Straw Market, Woods Rogers Wolf Promenade and Harbrader Center are nearby.
In the southern part of the city, in the Hillside area, there is the Public Library and the City Museum. The building of the museum itself is of interest, as it has the shape of an octagon at the base. Previously, there was a city prison. The Royal Victoria Gardens are nearby. This place is definitely worth a visit. More than 300 species of tropical plants are collected in one place, and the atmosphere in the gardens gives a sense of calm and tranquility.
Also of interest are Fort Fincastle and the 85-meter Water Tower. There are wonderful views of the harbor from here. And to the east of the tower is the Royal Staircase, which the slaves carved right into the limestone rock. The construction of this impressive structure took 16 years, and about 500 people worked on it.
Other islands are less visited by tourists. But if vacationers want something unusual, then it is worth looking for exotic things outside New Providence. Wildlife lovers should visit Grand Bahama Island. Here is the Rand Memorial Nature Center. It includes parks where more than 5 thousand species of exotic plants are collected, as well as the Grand Bahama Museum. In the western part of the island is the picturesque village of Jack Thur. Pirates and underground fighters once lived here.
Literature lovers should visit the tiny islands of Bimini. Here, in the city of Ellis Town, the famous writer Ernest Hemingway lived and worked. It was here that the novel "To Have or Not to Have" was written. Also on the islands it is worth looking at the Bimini Wall and Bimini Road. Locals claim that these sights are parts of the legendary Atlantis, which sank many thousands of years ago.
Holidays in the Bahamas
There is everything for a vacation in the Bahamas - wonderful hotels for every taste, clear sea, golden beaches, conditions for active recreation. On the island of New Providence, Cable Beach is very popular, which is located next to Nassau. It is a huge beach with many hotels, restaurants, casinos and sports complexes... There is also the elite Delapor Point Beach with luxurious Venetian-style villas. The island's surroundings provide excellent conditions for fishing and water sports. Divers love the southern part of the island with its quaint coastline and beautiful Coral Bay. Fishing and snorkelling lovers usually rest on the west coast. Here, in the shallow waters, there is a very rich underwater world, the water is literally teeming with various marine inhabitants. There are several yacht clubs in the vicinity of Nassau.
Fans of a noisy city life with a lot of entertainment should go to the Grand Bahama Island, to the city of Freeport. This is a paradise for lovers of active recreation. There are tennis courts, golf courses, fishing and diving centers. The city itself is a fashionable resort, founded only half a century ago. Shopping and nightlife lovers will love the Mull area, which is home to many shops, restaurants, casinos and nightlife. And, of course, you need to know the places where you can eat deliciously. In Freeport, this is the Le Chicken Snack restaurant, where barbecue chicken is prepared in such a way that even gourmets admit that this is the best chicken in the world.
There is a place in the Bahamas that is not very popular among tourists, but beloved by extreme divers. It is the largest island in the Bahamas archipelago - Andros. The nature here is almost not spoiled by civilization. Divers love the island for its huge barrier reef that stretches along one of the shores. But lovers of eco-tourism will also like it here. Dense mangrove and pine forests are so dense that locals there is still talk of the Chikcharniz, the little red-eyed elves who live in these forests and have not the best feelings for people.
