Seven hundred or so coral based islands situated deep in the Atlantic, with radiant shorelines and in, stackable blue skies, the Bahamas is lavish and gorgeous. The dazzling waters and the crisp weather will make you fall in love. An extremely rich history with an interesting blend of various cultures, this place is made of all and is for all. Here are 10 Bahamas travel tips for everyone who’s visiting the Bahamas for the first time.
Top 10 Bahamas Travel Tips
While you’re here, here are some tips to make sure your trip goes smoothly and perfectly and there are no hindrances to your enjoyment. Hopefully, this leads to a fulfilling trip:
1. Be aware of the timings of the bank
The banking hours are Monday to Thursday 9:30 am to 3:00 pm. ATM machines are set up, usually in casinos and commercial banks. Most islands are equipped with ATM+ Cirrus Systems. The Banking system is quite ideal and convenient. However, to withdraw money and to convert notes, it would always be better to be ready beforehand and stick to the schedule.
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2. Be careful while you’re in the boat
There will be many activities involving boating. Make sure you have sufficient food and supplies, unless you are told otherwise. Make sure the people guiding you have a map or are extremely familiar with the surroundings. Make sure to have a coast guard approved safety equipment, and that the engine and everything else is perfectly maintained and working.
3. Leave your adapter home
The telecommunication services in the Bahamas are some of the best in the entire world. The digital switching system allows you to get in touch with people in the United States and Canada and several other countries from the comfort of your conference center or room. Fax, radio leasing, telex, satellite, Internet, cellular service and private line service are the other services that The Bahamas Telephone Company (BTC) offers. You can also use the Wi-Fi to contact whoever it is you want to with the help of apps like WhatsApp, Google Hangouts and Viber. The Wi-Fi also lets you access Netflix and Amazon if you need some entertainment during road trips. Also, make sure that you contact your cell phone providers and know the best plans for calling before you start traveling.
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4. Pack thermals
Except for the cool evenings that last from December to February, when you’ll need a sweater, you can don your summer clothes for the rest of the time. Flaunt your most stylish blazers or jackets when visiting Bahamas’ famous restaurants and casino in Nassau, Paradise Island, and Freeport and some comfortable beachwear for its pristine beaches. After you are done on the beach, make sure that you cover up your swimsuit with shorts or skirts. While in the area which is less remote, you get to have flexible dress codes.
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5. Exchange money at the exchange office
The Bahamian dollar is equivalent to the US, so you can use either. The places like Nassau and Grand Bahamas Island also accept credit cards and traveler’s checks. Once in the Bahamas, you’ll find some things very familiar. The US dollar is not accepted, however, it is equal in value to a Bahamian dollar.
6. Follow the right-hand driving system
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The roads here follow a right-hand drive system so North Americans might face some difficulty. Instead, you can consider renting cabs or other transport facilities. On some of the major islands like Nassau, Paradise Island, and Grand Bahamas Island, railways are available. Taxis are also available. Make sure you’re well aware of the timetables and pay by meter concept respectively and moving around won’t be an issue at all.
7. Eat local food items
As far as tipping goes, the restaurant receives 15%. Many establishments include the gratuity in the total, so make sure you check your bill to see if it has already been added. Make sure you know the ingredients and dishes well before ordering for many of the dishes will be local hence unfamiliar with. Some of the most authentic and wonderful delicacies are cooked here, the smell wafting through the air, a universe of flavors. Eat to your heart’s content and don’t hold back.
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8. Book a trip in spring
Springtime is the most ideal, not that any other season would obviously hinder or reduce the radiating charm of this place. Springtime in the Bahamas lasts from late February to mid-April. You can spend your evenings on the beach enjoying the various sporting events and musical live entertainment which are organized for the Spring Break calendar. To know more information about the activities happening in your area, you can consult the front desk of your hotel.
9. Follow the Eastern time zone
The Bahamas follow the Eastern Time Zone. In the Bahamas, they have adopted the new Daylight Saving Time Policy since March 2007, which is the same as that in many other developed countries like Canada or the US. Every year, on the second of every Sunday at 2 am in March, the daylight saving time begins and ends on the first Sunday at 2 am in November.
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10. Keep the necessary paperwork handy
Make sure you have all the required documents when traveling abroad. Be prepared with the right forms of identification and the proper currency. Keep the necessary paperwork handy when you are at the customs desk or during check-ins. Also get your passport ready way before your departure date to avoid any kind of issue as getting a passport is a time-consuming procedure. Make sure it’s valid for the six months following the trip. You may be required to show proof that you will be returning home, so make sure you’re prepared to show your return plane ticket when entering The Bahamas.
Further Read: 10 Best Bahamas Nightlife Experiences That You Must Not Miss Out On
The unique sounds and the vibrant colors, the rich delicacies and the heartwarming culture, the heritage of this place is like none other. The Bahamas is authentic and breathtaking. Make sure to book a trip to Bahamas soon. Click the most stunning pictures and have a great time, sunbathing and soaking in all the positivity and chill vibe of this place.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bahamas Travel Tips
What should I avoid in the Bahamas?
One should avoid taking a lift from a stranger and leaving behind valuables by the poolside while swimming during a trip to the Bahamas.
Do you tip in Bahamas?
The staff usually expects a tip in the Bahamas and the tip is usually 15% here.
How many days do you need in the Bahamas?
One should plan a trip of at least 4 to 5 days to enjoy the various places in the Bahamas.
Is the Bahamas expensive to travel?
Yes, the bahamas is one of the most expensive countries in the world to travel to.
Can you drink tap water in the Bahamas?
One can drink tap water in Nassau and Paradise Island and otherwise bottled water is readily available in the Bahamas.
Which is the best time of year to go to the Bahamas?
The best time to visit the Bahamas is from December to April.
Can you use US dollars in the Bahamas?
Yes, US dollars are accepted in the Bahamas and their local currency is Bahamian dollars.
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