Bahamas Holidays
Overview
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Bahamas holidays are perfect for romance, relaxation and excitement, and boast more than 200 sandy white beaches - each having something special. For a peaceful escape, head for the skies on a helicopter tour or keep your feet firmly on the ground with a swift round of golf at one of the many world-class golf courses. Holidays to the Bahamas are perfect for families, couples and singles alike: from water sports and swimming with dolphins to fabulous shopping along Bay Street in the capital of Nassau and a wealth of fine restaurants. The Bahamas also offers a unique stylish evening vibe with its casinos and nightclubs.
Bahamas Highlights
Beaches: The beaches in the Bahamas truly are a sight to behold and because there are over 700 islands which make up the Bahamas you're sure to find a beach to suit your holiday requirements. For a wide variety of water sports, a buzzing atmosphere and an array of beach bars, restaurants and activities make sure you head to cable beach, just one of Nassau's picture perfect beaches with its turquoise blue waters and white sands. Whether you're honeymooners searching for rest and relaxation on a secluded stretch of shoreline or a family seeking the more fun packed action filled beach with activities a plenty, the Bahamas has a beach for every occasion.
Cuisine: Bahamian cooking has been highly influenced by the South of America. Food in the Bahamas is never bland, always subtly spiced and fresh. Of course if staying at an all inclusive resort you will have a wide variety of local and international cuisine available but for a real taste of the Caribbean make sure you head to a local restaurant or two. Seafood is king here with conch as the main speciality, prepared minced, marinated, grilled or fried in batter. Lobster, crab, grouper and snapper are regular menu features, usually served with fried plantains, pumpkin and sweet potato.
Wildlife: For the nature lovers amongst you the Bahamas have a variety of land and sea wildlife for you to discover. In the warm Caribbean waters you will notice sharks, lobster, sea turtles, octopus and even dolphins. Whilst on land the Bahamas boasts snakes, lizards, an abundance of different bird species including the endangered Bahamian parrot, and of course well worth a visit is the swimming pigs near Staniel Cay in the Exumas. These pigs were brought to the island by Spanish explorers and now run wild in the islands forest. The pigs are now more accustomed to human presence and you will find they swim up to your boat without hesitation in search of food.
Nightlife and Entertainment: If you are more of a night owl, Nassau and Paradise Island have a superb array of bars, night clubs and casinos for you to explore. Nassau features hip clubs such as Club Waterloo, a spacious mansion with two dance floors, several bars and a pool, or for the only beachfront club on Nassau, head to Charlie's on the Beach/Cocktails and Dreams. For glitz, glamour, and a chance to air that cocktail dress or party suit you've never had the chance to wear take a trip to Paradise Island. Atlantic on Paradise Island is where you will find most of the night time entertainment including a variety of casinos, bars and elegant clubs.
Sports & Activities: The Bahamas is well known for its vast array of activities and sports on offer. From the more laid back pursuits such as golf, fishing, shopping and spa and wellness centres, to the more active adventures such as jet skiing, kayaking, kite-boarding, para-sailing and water-skiing. Other popular options include snorkelling and diving at a variety of popular spots like Rose Island Reefs or the Gambier Deep Reef with options for beginners right through to the more with options for beginners right through to the more experienced, for the truly brave amongst you how about a shark dive at one of various shark dive sites giving you the chance to get up close and personal to one of natures most feared species.
Bahamas Factfile
When to go
Temperature Range: 21°C - 32°C
Most popular: Mid December - mid April
Best value: End May, June, September, October and November.
Best weather: December - April
Travel Information
Direct flights: British Airways.
Indirect flights: British Airways and American Airlines
Visa information: None for British citizens.
Health information: Hepatitis A, Polio and Typhoid recommended.
Time Difference: GMT -5 hours.
When To Go
Best Value
The best value time to visit the Bahamas is during the summer months of May to October, accommodation prices, tours and excursions can be reduced by up to 60% during these months as this is the islands off peak time. You may however find that during these months there are slightly less tours operating, depending on demand, but restaurants and hotels will generally be less crowded making it an ideal time for families and those looking for a tranquil break away.
Best Time to Go
The climate is mild year round, but the Bahamas is best visited in the drier months from mid December to Mid April as the island experiences the most comfortable temperatures without being too hot. During these months the island will usually have a lot more on offer in terms of activities and excursions ideal for those looking for an island adventure.
Most Popular
Most people chose to visit the Bahamas during the European and American winter holiday months of mid December to mid April. Temperatures during these months are usually around 24°C making it a perfect escape from the harsh cold climate of back home. Hotels, shops and restaurants during these months are a lot busier giving the island a real buzz of life.
Hottest
The Hottest time to travel to the Bahamas is during the summer months from May to September and sometimes into October. This is also the Bahamas rainy season meaning you will usually experience short, sharp showers. These showers however, are quickly overcome and are somewhat a relief from the constant heat as a result though humidity will also be slightly higher during these months.
Climate
The Bahamas generally have a slightly cooler climate than other Caribbean islands due to its proximity to North America, usually meaning they benefit from a cool breeze year round. Average temperatures range from 27-32°C during the summer months and 21-27°C during the winter months. The rainy season lasts from May to October and hurricane season from June to November. Although the Bahamas is within the hurricane belt many storms circle below this chain of islands rather than hitting them direct and with the advanced technology readily available, a hurricane is usually early detected so don't let this deter you from travel during these months.
Bahamas Travel Information
Etiquette and Customs
Swim and beach wear is considered improper attire for anywhere other than the beach and is somewhat frowned upon.
Avoid wearing expensive jewellery or watches, as it may draw unwanted attention and could provoke criminal acts.
The legal drinking age in the Bahamas is 18 years.
Penalties for the possession, trafficking or use of illegal drugs is severe. Offenders of such activities can expect long prison sentences and heavy fines.
Although homosexuality is not illegal, it is still quite taboo in the Bahamas. It is therefore generally advisable to refrain from same sex displays of affection in public.
Tipping
Tipping in the Bahamas is very similar to the UK and USA; you should tip around 15% for waiters and taxis depending on service. Some restaurants will automatically include gratuity on the bill so double check before hand. You should tip bell boys around $1 per bag and maids around the same per day.
Flight information
There two main carriers offering flights to Nassau in the Bahamas from the UK.
Direct Carriers: Direct carriers from the UK are British Airways from London Heathrow up to 5 times per week.
Indirect Carriers: British Airways offer flights from most other regional airports such as Manchester, Glasgow and Edinburgh with a connection via London Heathrow, and American Airlines from most regional UK airports going via the States.
Visa information
British Passport holders do NOT require a visa to enter the Bahamas for tourist stays up to 1 month however your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from the date of return.
