While the capital city of Nassau, neighboring Paradise Island and picturesque Grand Bahama Island are the most popular islands in the Bahamas, there are 12 other smaller islands that are just as lovely. They are: The Abacos; Acklins/Crooked Island; Andros; The Berry Islands; Bimini Island; Cat Island; Eleuthera/Harbour Island; The Exumas; Imagua; Long Island; Mayaguana; and San Salvador/Rum Cay. While not as well-known, they all have their own special nuances that make a visit worthwhile. Because traveling to each island may need some advanced reservations, it's best to plan your vacation itinerary before your visit to the Bahamas.
If you plan to visit more than one island, you will need to decide how to get to each one--inter-island ferries, commuter planes, or hop on a mail boat.
The islands of the Bahamas have an assortment of accommodations, ranging from luxury resorts to affordable family hotels. Accommodations vary by island, with timeshare villas, B&Bs, inns, rustic lodges, cottages and cabins among the choices. Many have online deals and packages. Advanced reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak season.
Temperatures in the Bahamas are similar to other Caribbean islands. Summer brings hot and humid weather, so plan on packing light clothing. Winter and fall temperatures are generally around 75 degrees. Rainy season in the Bahamas runs through summer and fall, with hurricane season spanning from June 1 to Nov. 30.
Remember to bring your passport and if you're traveling with prescription medicine, you need to show an official prescription for the drugs to Bahamas customs. It is also recommended to file a Certificate of Registration with U.S. Customs before leaving if you plan on taking expensive laptop computers, cameras, watches and digital devices with you. Otherwise, you could be required to pay duties on them when re-entering the United States.
When in the Bahamas, live like the Bahamians. British English is the official language, although different accents and dialects are evident reflecting the Irish, Scottish, African and Creole heritages of island residents. Like the locals, use the traditional greeting of Darling or Honey and always be courteous. It's safe to drink the water, but it's a bit on the salty side.
When shopping, you can use Bahamian money or U.S. currency. Be sure to keep receipts of everything you buy in the Bahamas and keep them accessible when returning to the United States. Or you can mail your purchased goods to your home address before leaving the islands to take advantage of duty-free limits.
If you plan to rent a car, you'll be driving on the left side of the road. Pedestrians should keep in mind that motor vehicle traffic comes from the right. When hailing a taxi, it's expected that you negotiate your fare before getting in.
One thing that many U.S. visitors won't have to change when visiting the Bahamas is the time on their watch. Like the U.S., the Bahamas is on Eastern Standard Time and also participates in Daylight Savings Time.
