The Bahamas is well known all around the world as one of the greatest travel destinations, and one of the main reasons is because of its pristine beaches and natural wonders. At the Bahamas, you can spend your vacation at the beach sipping tropical drinks or you could dive and discover the marine life that abounds near its shores.

More than five million travelers each year choose the islands as their prime destination for outdoor activities, sun worship, casino gambling and, on some of the slightly more remote spots, eco-tourism.

Located about 1 hour east off the coast of Florida, the Bahamas is one of the most sought after vacation spots in the world. The city of Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas, which is located on the New Providence Island. Paradise Island is nearby to the North. These two islands are the more popular Bahamas Islands.

A warm Atlantic Ocean gulf stream helps to keep the average water temperature at 80 degrees. Clean white sandy beaches along with a variety of water sports help to attract many visitors year after year.

If your vacation in the Bahamas is to simply relax, then pick your favorite beach and do just that. Take along a favorite book and forget about the world around you.

If water sports are more to your relaxation then enjoy activities such as swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling and other water sports. Swimming with the dolphins is a favorite with many.

Anyone planning to visit the Bahamas who wants to enjoy ocean swimming will want to avoid December through March because of cool weather. Visitors also should avoid June through October - and especially June and August - because of rain. The best weather months to visit are April, May and November.


Bahamas Travel Tips

Do negotiate your taxi fare (or ask the driver to turn on the meter) before climbing in.

Don't be surprised if you're called "Darling" or "Honey" in the Bahamas. It's as common a greeting in the Bahamas as "Mon" is in the Caribbean.

Don't plan to sunbathe nude or camp on beaches: These are illegal activities in the Bahamas (though topless bathing is tolerated in some areas).

Don't worry about changing money if you're a U.S. citizen. The U.S. dollar is on par and accepted along with the Bahamian dollar.

Do experience the less touristy side of the Bahamas: Travel between islands on a mail boat. Your companions will be Bahamians (and sometimes their goats and chickens).

Don't expect to find full banking services on all islands. Make sure you have enough cash or traveler's checks if you go beyond Nassau or Freeport/Lucaya.