Planning a Vacation to the Bahamas

Years ago, The Bahamas had the slogan “It’s better in the Bahamas.” And after visiting a few times, I’d have to say it is just one of those phrases that really sticks. These travel tips will help you plan your vacation to the Bahamas and make you see why “It’s Better in the Bahamas.”

Paradise Island
A definite must-see while in the Bahamas. Once in Nassau, cross the bridge or take a water taxi to Paradise Island for an unforgettable adventure.
While there, you must pay a visit to Atlantis Resort. A few highlights:

• Dolphin Cay is very popular with guests and those staying elsewhere who love to have a close encounter with dolphins.
• The Dig is the only place where you can explore the lost underwater city of Atlantis.
• And don’t miss the famous water park. Imagine taking a leisurely pass through a clear acrylic tunnel submerged in a shark-filled lagoon. This is just one of the many slides Atlantis has to offer. Enjoy marine life up-close and personal and go diving or snorkeling. The concierge desk at Atlantis or Delta Vacation’s transfer company, Majestic Tours, can set you up in advance or after you arrive.

Explore Colonial Nassau
If you want to explore colonial Nassau on your own, here is a walking tour that is also recommended by the NY Times: Avoid the afternoon heat and crowds with an early self-guided tour that avoids the kitschy museums and duty-free shops on Bay Street. A good place to start is the Christ Church Cathedral (George and King Streets) with a stunning interior and impressive stained glass that belies its simple facade. Then head up Market Street to Trinity Place, stopping into Bahamian Kitchen (242-325-0702) for sweetened sour-orange juice ”lemonade” before entering the pink colonial buildings of Parliament Square. Walk past the Senate and the Supreme Court building to the square’s north end, where you can climb the stairs in the octagonal former jail, now a public library. Head uphill one block to East Hill Street and veer right toward the grounds of Government House, the official residence of the Bahamas’ governor-general, where you will be greeted by epaulet-decorated guards. Continue on West Hill Street to Graycliff Cigar Company and find a dozen or so industrious hand-rollers and a dimly lighted, well air-conditioned smoking lounge.

Straw Market
Another popular tourist attraction is the Straw Market on the waterfront in Nassau. Try to arrive on a day when the cruise ships are not in port. Be ready to negotiate and remember, never pay full price!

Getting around Nassau
Taxi’s are a great way to get around Nassau and to get to and from Paradise Island. There is also a public bus for $1 – $2 that will take you around Nassau if you want another cultural experience but the bus does not go to Paradise Island. You need switch to a taxi at the entrance to the causeway to get to and from the island. Also keep in mind, if you go from Atlantis to downtown Nassau on your own, in addition to the price of a taxi, there is a $3 – $5 fee to go over the causeway between Paradise Island and downtown Nassau.
Bahamas best food and drink
Conch is a must try in the Bahamas. You will find Conch Fritters, Conch Chowders, Conch Salad, Scorched Conch and it is all quite tasty. The national beer of the Bahamas is Kalik. If you prefer a fruity drink, you may also want to try the Goombay and the Bahama Mama. Here are some Recommended Restaurants in Nassau:

• Bimini Road- Bahamian Food and great service though you will need Reservations
• The Dig – Upscale seafood at Atlantis and you can watch the giant fish swim by
• Messa Grill Bobby Flay’s Restaurant
• Graycliff Restaurant in Nassau is an icon of gourmet and Caribbean standards

Compass Point Hotel
This is a popular place in Nassau to hang out and enjoy a cocktail and the beach with gorgeous colorful rooftops and an amazing view.

People to People program
If you want an immersion into Bahamian local culture, the People to People program, sponsored by the Bahamas Tourist Board, is wonderful program where you are paired with a Bahamian Ambassador.

And did you know, Bahamas is home of two of the most popular beaches? Check our top 5 Caribbean beaches.

Tell us why you think it is Better in the Bahamas!

- Libby from Delta Vacations

(Add Your Rating!)

 Loading ...