The Bahamas is a popular vacation destination because it is a short trip from the United States and offers beautiful beaches. Many tourists visit the Bahamas on a cruise ship or private boat. Other visitors fly into one of the 3 international airports in the Bahamas and stay in one of the many resorts on the islands.
Geography
The Bahamas is a chain of over 700 islands located in the Caribbean Sea. Many of the islands are uninhabited, and some are just large rocks. The islands are approximately 5,382 square miles of land area. The highest elevation is 206 feet, on Cat Island. The third largest barrier reef, the Andros reef, is located on the east side of the Andros Island. The Andros Island is located between Andros and Nassau.
History
Christopher Columbus landed in the Eastern Bahamas in 1492. He called the area "baja mar," which means "shallow water." This name was eventually turned into the Bahamas. Over the next several hundred years, the Bahamas were colonized by both Spain and Britain. The Bahamas became an independent country in 1973.
Considerations
The Bahamian dollar is the official currency in the Bahamas and is equivalent to the U.S. dollar. You can use both U.S. money and Bahamian money interchangeably on the islands. If you are going to drive in the Bahamas, be sure to drive on the left side of the road. When packing for the trip, bring casual summer clothes for the daytime. If are you visiting during December and February, bring a sweater for the evenings. Some restaurants and casinos require jackets for men and have a dress code for women for the evening. U.S. citizens must have a passport to travel to the Bahamas by air. If you are traveling by boat, check with the Department of Homeland Security for current requirements.
Timing
Features
The Bahamas are home to beautiful beaches and world-class resorts. The popular Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island offers over 20 restaurants, beautiful gardens and a casino. There are several championship golf courses located in the Bahamas, including the Reef Course in Freeport and the One and Only Ocean Club in Paradise Island. Snorkeling and scuba diving are popular activities on the many reefs located off the islands.
Resources
Official Tourism Website of the Islands of the Bahamas
By: Jennifer Gregory
Jennifer Gregory has over 14 years professional writing experience. She has traveled around the United States and Europe. Her favorite vacation was taking her children to Maui, Hawaii.
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