Tens of thousands of tourists visit The Bahamas every year. The islands are renowned for their hospitality, but it always helps travelers to know what to expect. If a trip to The Bahamas is in your future, these tips will help ensure your visit is comfortable and smooth.
Most visitors can travel to The Bahamas for three weeks with a passport and a ticket for onward travel. US travelers should note that this policy is a change for them, as previously US citizens could travel to The Bahamas for a stay up to eight months with a photo ID rather than a passport.
A visa is required for visitors from some countries. See References below for a link to visa and passport requirements country by country and information about where to apply.
Visitors to The Bahamas must also complete customs embarkation and debarkation forms (provided by your airline) and prove that they have the financial ability to support themselves for the duration of their stay without working.
The Bahamas are made up of 700 small islands, although the tourism industry centers around 15 or so. New Providence Island, which is home to Nassau and Paradise Island, and Grand Bahama Island, where Freeport is located, are the two most visited islands by tourists. However, whether they are the right destination for you depends on the kind of vacation you are after.
The main islands are busy with tourists visiting for an extended stay as well as cruise ship passengers docking for a brief excursion. These islands are filled with hotels, bars and restaurants as well as casinos and shopping. The Bahamas are known for duty-free shopping, and these islands are the places to land the deals.
If you are looking for something a little quieter, one of the outer island might be more your speed. There is decidedly less to do in the outer islands, such as Abaco, Berry Island or Cat Island, but you'll be sharing the space with far fewer people. The dress codes are also more relaxed on the outer islands. Roaming in the town in your bathing suit is not done in Nassau, for example, while this is completely acceptable in the less populated parts of The Bahamas.
If you are really concerned about avoiding crowds, stay away from The Bahamas during spring break, usually approximately late February through April.
The Bahamian dollar is the official currency of the islands and is pegged to the US dollar in a 1:1 ratio. US currency is accepted all over The Bahamas, so if you are coming from the US, there is no need to change your currency. Others can exchange their currency at the airport or at bank branches. Some hotels can also exchange currency.
The average temperature between September and May is between 70ºF and 75ºF, while summer temperatures are about ten degrees warmer on average. Winter visitors may want to bring a sweater, as evenings can get cool.
Tipping is expected in restaurants and in taxis. Approximately 15% is standard. Be aware that many restaurants add the tip to your bill, so check the total before you add an additional gratuity.
