Your Questions Answered: Bahamas Vacation
Wondering where in the world to book your next trip? For many reasons, a Bahamas vacation is the perfect solution for your dilemma. If this is your first departure to the Bahamas, here are a few key tidbits of information that will ensure smooth sailing at your destination.
Where is it?
The Bahamas are over 700 islands stretching from near the Florida coast across about 500 miles of the Caribbean Sea. Paradise Island and the Nassau area are the most heavily populated—and where you’ll find the major resorts. The low-key “Out Islands” are home to amazing beaches and the crystal clear turquoise waters that the Caribbean is known for.
What is there to do on a Bahamas vacation?
The Bahamas is a beach-lover’s paradise with Harbour Island's spectacular pink beach, white sandy shores on Cat Island and a hundred other beautiful choices. The Atlantis resort is one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean. Their Aquaventure waterpark on Paradise Island has something for everyone no matter their age or ability.
Also read: Why You Should Get Travel Insurance for All-Inclusive Resort Vacations
What can I put on my Instagram?
Bring a waterproof camera—most of the Instagram-worthy Bahamian photo ops are in or near the water. Take a selfie at the top of the faux Mayan temple at the Atlantis resort; right before you slide into (OK, through) the shark tank! Thunderball Grotto is an otherworldly sight. Be sure to document your visit with a snap of your snorkeling adventure.
Are there unique Bahamian eats?
You’ll want to sample some of the famous Bahamian dishes like conch fritters and stone crab claws. Fresh local seafood is on most menus. And you might try the local lager, Kalik or the classic Bahamas original cocktail, the Goombay Smash, which is a mixture of dark rum, coconut rum, apricot brandy and pineapple and orange juices.
Where should I stay?
Finding accommodations is easy with a wide range of choices from family-run inns in Exuma to boutique hotels and mega-resorts on Paradise Island. Whether you’re going on a Bahamas vacation as a romantic retreat, a family vacation or a gals or guys get-together, you are sure to find fabulous accommodations where you can kick back and relax.
What else is special about the Bahamas?
The annual Junkanoo festival sees thousands of people in colorful costumes and headdresses dancing in the streets to Bahamian music on December 26th and New Year’s Day. History buffs may trace the steps of explorer Christopher Columbus who landed in the Bahamas in 1492. Legendary pirate Blackbeard is said to have visited the Bahamas and many shipwrecks have become popular dive and snorkeling sites.
What’s the downside?
Bahamian driving on the left-hand side of the road can be a tricky adjustment for American visitors. Don’t get yourself into a sticky situation with U.S. Customs. Tourists on a Bahamas vacation for less than 48 hours may bring home no more than $200 in purchases.
Also read:
• Your Questions Answered: Traveling to Costa Rica
• Tips for Traveling to St. Lucia: From Resorts to Rainforest
• Best Caribbean Beach Resorts: Jamaica, Bahamas, Turks and Caicos and Beyond
For many travelers, the Bahamas offers a very accessible vacation destination with numerous activities – whether you’re visiting a lively high-end resort or going completely off the grid on a tiny island. You’ll discover amazing world-class beaches and unique food and drinks, with a touch of Bahamian culture. And, when it comes to any vacation—whether domestic or abroad—we highly recommend you help protect your non-refundable, pre-paid trip costs with a Standard, Preferred or Premium travel insurance plan from Generali Global Assistance.
The Bahamas made the list of the 10 Most Popular Trips Covered by Travel Insurance. Find out why.
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