Everything you need to know for Bahamas
Geographical position and Climate of Bahamas
The Bahamas is an archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean. Situated to the north of Cuba and Hispaniola (Haiti and the Dominican Republic), northwest of the Turks and Caicos Islands, and southeast of the United States state of Florida, it comprises over 700 islands, cays, and islets.
The climate in The Bahamas is classified as a tropical savannah climate. It features consistent hot and sunny weather throughout the year with more rainfall from May to October, which is considered the wet season. The dry season spans from November to April, bringing slightly cooler temperatures. Despite its location within the hurricane belt, fully developed hurricanes are relatively rare, though tropical storms can be more common, particularly between June and November.
Brief History of Bahamas
The Bahamas has a rich history that dates back to the indigenous Arawak-speaking Taíno people, who inhabited the islands when Christopher Columbus first made landfall in the New World on San Salvador Island in 1492. Over the following centuries, the native population declined due to disease, slavery, and other factors.
In the 17th century, the islands became a haven for pirates and privateers, most notably Blackbeard and Calico Jack. The British first settled on the island of Eleuthera in 1648, and The Bahamas became a British Crown colony in 1718 when the British clamped down on piracy.
Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, The Bahamas prospered from loyalist settlers relocating after the American Revolutionary War, the development of plantation agriculture, and the transatlantic slave trade. After the abolition of slavery in the British Empire in 1834, many freed Africans settled in The Bahamas.
The country remained under British rule until it gained self-governance in 1964 and full independence within the Commonwealth on July 10, 1973. Since then, The Bahamas has developed into a prosperous nation largely based on tourism and finance.
Religion of Bahamas
Christianity is the predominant religion in The Bahamas, with Protestant denominations being the most widespread. Among these, the Baptist denomination is the largest, followed by Anglicans, Roman Catholics, Pentecostals, Church of God, Methodists, and other Christian denominations. There is also a small but present community of non-Christian faiths, including Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, and Bahá’í, among others.
Language of Bahamas
The official language of The Bahamas is English. This reflects the country’s history as a British colony and its status as a member of the Commonwealth. English is used in government, education, media, and for everyday communication. Additionally, many Bahamians speak a creole language known as Bahamian Creole or Bahamian dialect, which is an English-based creole with influences from African languages, which is often used informally among locals.
Tourism is a vital sector of The Bahamas’ economy, attracting millions of visitors each year drawn by its warm climate, clear turquoise waters, and beautiful sandy beaches. The archipelago is renowned for its rich marine life, coral reefs, and world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities. Nassau, the capital, offers historical sites, cultural experiences, and vibrant nightlife, while the Out Islands provide a more secluded and tranquil escape. The Bahamas also boasts luxury resorts, cruise ship ports, and a variety of water sports, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Places to visit in Bahamas
Before you visit Bahamas
Travel to Bahamas
Travelers can get to The Bahamas primarily by air or sea:
By Air:
- Nassau’s Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS): The main international gateway into The Bahamas with flights from the USA, Canada, the UK, and other international destinations.
- Grand Bahama International Airport (FPO) in Freeport: Also receives international flights, particularly from the Eastern United States and Canada.
- Smaller airports on other islands like Exuma, Abaco, and Eleuthera accommodate regional and sometimes international flights.
By Sea:
- Cruise Ships: Many cruise lines include The Bahamas as a key stop on their Caribbean itineraries, often docking in Nassau or at private islands owned by the cruise companies.
- Private Boats: Yachters and sailors can make their way to The Bahamas, with numerous marinas throughout the islands welcoming private vessels.
- Ferries: Services operate between Florida and Grand Bahama Island, as well as between Fort Lauderdale and Bimini.
Visas for Bahamas
Visitors to The Bahamas generally need a passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of departure. Visa requirements vary depending on the traveler’s nationality:
Visa-Exempt Countries:
- Citizens of the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and several other countries do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days.
Visa Requirements:
- Nationals from countries that are not visa-exempt must apply for a Bahamian visa at a Bahamian diplomatic mission or consulate prior to their arrival.
- Cruise ship passengers who arrive at and depart from a Bahamian port on the same vessel may not require a visa for short visits.
On Arrival Visas:
- Some nationalities may be eligible to obtain a visa upon arrival, but this should be confirmed before travel.
Best time to visit Bahamas
The best time to visit The Bahamas is typically during the dry season, from mid-December to mid-April. This period offers the most pleasant weather with less rainfall and warm temperatures, ideal for beach activities and water sports. It’s also the peak tourist season, so while the weather is favorable, expect larger crowds and higher prices.
For those looking to avoid the crowds and potentially find better deals, late April to early June can be a good time to visit, just before the wet season begins in earnest. The weather is still relatively warm and the risk of hurricanes is low.
Travelers should generally avoid hurricane season, which peaks from August to October, as this can bring unpredictable weather and potential travel disruptions.
Important Information
Capital – Nassau
Territory – 13,943 km2
Currency – Bahamian dollar (BSD) / United State dollar (USD)
Time Zone – UTC-5 (EST)
Population – 412,628
Demonym – Bahamian