The Bahamas Travel guide 2021

THE BAHAMAS TRAVEL GUIDE

WELCOME TO PARADISE SUSTAINABLE

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A GUIDE TO TRAVELING IN THE BAHAMAS. IMPORTANT INFORMATION. WHERE TO STAY. WHAT TO DO & SEE. PLUS MUCH MORE. SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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TRAVEL GUIDE: THE BAHAMAS

A NATURELOVER’S HAVEN WELCOME TO THIS SPECIAL TRAVEL GUIDE FOR THE BAHAMAS, A PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN THE BAHAMAS MINISTRY OF TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE.

As a country, The Bahamas is incredibly resilient. In 2019, we experienced the most unprecedented hurricane in our history, Hurricane Dorian. Two years later, having come through COVID-19, and put protocols in place to protect the health and safety of our citizens, residents, and visitors, we’re making a fierce comeback.

With travel restrictions easing, tourism is opening. Today, some 70% of visitors to our country are vaccinated. I’m excited for what’s in store for The Bahamas.

Here in The Bahamas, we’re proud of what we have in abundance: our pristine environment, with its 700 islands, and over 2000 cays. Visiting our seas is like embarking on a marine safari experience. The Exumas, one of our many national parks, prides itself on coral reefs, mangroves, sea grasses and a wide range of wildlife. In Bonefish Pond National Park, we have the last remaining tidal mangrove ecosystem on the shores of southern New Providence. Visit, soak in and appreciate the wonders of The Bahamas.

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TRAVEL GUIDE: THE BAHAMAS

This May, the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism became a member of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. It’s an honour that allows us to continue to enhance our commitment to sustainable tourism, to protect our ecosystems and preserve their biodiversity. The Council is currently working with several of our Out Islands, helping with workshops and programming as part of their ongoing effort towards driving higher global standards of sustainability within travel and tourism.

In Andros, work is currently underway on two programs: the Flat Fishing Empowerment Program and the Birding and Nature Guide Certification Program, each designed to train young men and women across The Bahamas on how to become flat fishing, birding and nature tour guides.

Additionally, as part of our work with

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the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, we’re establishing councils across various islands to rally communities and implement grassroots leadership, as we look to capitalize on the opportunities of delivering authentic and environmentally responsible tourism to visitors from across the world.

Just recently, the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Agriculture signed a memorandum of understanding to launch a new initiative: one that aims to develop a viable and visible linkage between local farmers and fishermen, and our hospitality industry. Here in The Bahamas, we fish exclusively freshlycaught, a principle that’s greatly appreciated among our visitors. We offer opportunities to engage in agro-tourism, with culinary tours – such as those in Eleuthera’s pineapple fields – giving visitors an opportunity both to learn

about how pineapples are farmed, and to indulge in eating what we believe to be the finest pineapples in the world.

At the Ministry of Tourism here in The Bahamas, we actively promote 16 islands, but there are so many reasons to visit. Our national bird is the flamingo, and our southern island of Inagua is home to more than 80,000, not to mention 140 species of native and migratory birds – a watcher’s paradise, replete with a selection of eco-friendly resorts. It’s a natural haven, and – like all our islands – delivers a unique experience for everyone and anyone who travels here. c

Joy Jibrilu Director General of the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Aviation & Investments

WHERE TO START YOUR EXPERIENCE THE BAHAMAS KEY FACTS Capital:

Nassau

Population:

393,244 (2020)

Language(s):

English

Currency:

Bahamian dollar

Time zone:

EDT (GMT-4)

Dialling code:

+1 (242)

Tourist season:

December - April

Annual visitors:

7.25m (2019)

Annual tourism earnings:

3.6 billion US$ (2019)

Avg. temperature: 86 °F (day),

75 °F (night) Highest point:

Mount Alvernia. 63m

N O R T H AT L A N T I C OCEAN G R E AT B A H A M A BANK

KEY ATTRACTIONS IN THE BAHAMAS Beaches

Pirate Republic Brewery

Blue Lagoon Island

Pirates Of Nassau Museum

Bone Fishing

Queen’s Staircase

Cigar Making

Restaurants

KEY REGIONS

Cocktails

Rum Tour

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Abaco

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Inagua

Dive With Sharks

Scuba / Snorkeling / Diving

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Acklins

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Long Island

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Andros

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Mayaguana

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Berry Islands

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New Providence

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Bimini

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Nassau (capital)

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Cat Island

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Paradise Island

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Crooked Island

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Ragged Island

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Eleuthera

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Rum Cay

Flamingos

Shopping

Forts Of Nassau

Swim With Dolphins!

Historical Tour Of Exuma

Swimming Pigs Of Exuma

Horseback Riding

Historical Society Museum

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Exuma

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San Salvador

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Grand Bahama

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Spanish Wells

Nassau Heritage Museum

Versailles Gardens

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TRAVEL GUIDE: THE BAHAMAS

WHAT TO DO IN THE BAHAMAS...

G R E AT A BA C O A ND GRA ND BA HA MA LOSE YOURSELF IN THE GARDEN OF THE GROVES Over 60 species of indigenous and migratory birds, including white-cheeked pintails, Cuban emeralds and la sagra’s flycatcher, can be found in this 12-acre slice of paradise. A certified Wildlife Habitat with the U.S. Wildlife Federation, operators meet the four basic elements – food, water, shelter, and breeding grounds – needed for biodiversity to thrive.

Explore this luscious environment along discreet trails, passing waterfalls, fountains, a meditative labyrinth and chapel as you go.

The Garden shops are also worth a visit, as 6 | SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

is the Cafe and Bar, with its fine selection of salads and wraps. You can bet the kids will enjoy the expanded playground!

SPLASH YOUR WAY AROUND GREAT ABACO ISLAND There’s plenty of fun to be had on Great Abaco. If you happen to be staying at the Abaco Beach Resort, sailboats and sea kayaks are available for free at Marsh Harbour, with windsurfing also popular in the area. Further south, you can find the Abaco Club on Winding Bay, where the presence

l ee R Keepin it

R E S T, R E L A X , & R E J U V E N AT E A classic Bahamian getaway that captures the true essence of the Bahamas out-island spirit.

The resort is a destination for leisure travelers, honeymooners, destination weddings, incentive and corporate groups, boaters, fishermen, adventurers, and those simply looking for an authentic Caribbean escape.

Two Pools • Restaurants & Bars • Full Service Marina • White Sand Beach • Free WiFi • Kids Club Non-Motorized Water Sports & Fitness • Activities Concierge • Banquet & Meeting Rooms • Helipad

by the ocean

Enjoy our Paradise With white sand beaches, crystal-clear water and the best fishing in the Bahamas. Swain’s Cay Lodge on Andros Island is a true escape to peace and tranquility. Located on a beautiful fishing flat on Mangrove Cay, just a 15-minute flight from Nassau with the option of Free Roundtrip Tickets. While you’re here, you can experience the best bonefishing in The Bahamas, snorkel the reef or take a bike ride around Mangrove Cay. SNORKELING / SCUBA / KAYAKING / BIKE HIRE / FISHING

877-533-4799 / 242-367-2158

info@abacobeachresort.com

abacobeachresort.com

of a coral reef provides sheltered, clear water. Whether you’re a professional, or a complete amateur, it’s the perfect place for snorkeling, paddle boarding, or Hobie Cat sailing! Club staff are on hand to get you set up – if you’re lucky, they’ll even fill you in on where to find the tropical fish. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a guided tour, Abaco Tours & Activities offers a 5-hour trip hiking and kayaking trip, inspired by the founder’s childhood free-diving.

Also in Great Abaco and Grand Bahama…

• Explore the underwater caves at Lucayan National Park.

• Get to know the fish at Stingray City, Great Harbour Cay. • Drink like a local at the Bahamian Brewery.

ANDROS AND NASSAU ENJOY THE TASTE OF NASSAU You won’t be short on things to do and places to explore in The Bahamas’ capital, and its busiest tourist destination. The delights of the city’s street vendors are endless: sugar apples, kenèp, hog plum fruits, fresh coconut milk, and jelly – they’re all worth a try! Other typical delicacies include the tropical conch salad, Switcha, a non-alcoholic citrus drink, and duff – a firm dessert favorite. Spend a day at Aquaventure, a water park with an Atlantis theme, and stop off at Queen’s Staircase, a commemoration to Queen Victoria’s efforts to abolish slavery that was 16 years in the making. For the perfect end to the day,

Swains Cay Lodge Mangrove Cay, Andros Island, Bahamas +1 242-422-5018 / 369-0296 fish@swainscaylodge.com

swainscaylodge.com

relax in the 4-acre Ardastra Gardens, home to the Caribbean flamingo, the Bahamian national bird.

TAKE A WALK ON THE OCEAN FLOOR It’s not every day that you get the chance to explore Earth’s third largest coral reef.

But you can do just that on Andros, The Bahamas’ largest island, with its underwater caves formations, wrecks and the U-shaped trench known locally as ‘Tongue of the Ocean’ (TOTO) all accessible, and teeming with exotic fish like the mahi-mahi, tarpon and snappers. Diving conditions are largely predictable, the product of a warm yearround climate. Like most coral reefs around the world, however, these are under constant threat from global warming. Get your diving certification before adventuring into the protected deep and pelagic-filled currents.

Just remember: currents range from mild to strong, and divers and snorkelers, beginners or otherwise, are advised to consult with local professionals.

Also in Andros and Nassau…

• Enjoy the mystery of Thunderball Grotto.

• Revel in the boat ride to Blue Lagoon Island.

• Brush up on your history at the Pirates of Nassau Museum.

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TRAVEL GUIDE: THE BAHAMAS

ELEUTHERA BECOME ONE WITH NATURE AT THE LEON LEVY NATIVE PLANT PRESERVE Operated by the Bahamas National Trust, this 30-acre preserve doubles as an environmental educational center and a facility for the propagation of indigenous plants and trees. Here you can learn about traditional bush medicine, and the importance of native vegetation to the biodiversity of The Bahamas’ tropical islands. Visitors have a choice of four trails, weaving through the Mangrove Wetland, Display Beds, Weather Station, Edible History Garden, and much more. Insect life can be found in abundance, providing 8 | SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

vital food for preserve’s bird and bat species – including an entirely new species of insect discovered in 2013: a cricket-like species with a distinctive song, known locally as the ‘blue-faced’ katydid!

PLAN YOUR VISIT TO LADY DI’S PINEAPPLE FARM As Eleuthera’s most known produce, you won’t want to miss trying some Bahamian sun-ripened pineapples. Mrs. Diane Thompson, nicknamed ‘Lady Di’, is one of Eleuthera’s best farmers, having worked in the pineapple fields since 1974! Growing

her pineapples in Eleutheran rich clay soil, Lady Di’s dedication is an inspiration to the country’s next generation of farmers to plant and preserve this indigenous fruit, and will happily offer an educational tour.

To make the most of the experience, time your visit with the annual Pineapple festival, held in Gregory Town!

Also in Eleuthera…

• Unwind in the Queens Baths.

• Go swimming with the iconic Bahamas pigs.

• Venture to Glass Window, where Caribbean Sea meets Atlantic Ocean!

HARBOUR SIDE RENTALS SPANISH WELLS, BAHAMAS

paradise JUST ANOTHER DAY IN

A T S PA N I S H W E L L S

EVERYTHING THAT YOU NEED IS ON THIS LITTLE ISLAND PERCHED IN A QUIET CORNER OF THE IDEAL VACATION DESTINATION A lilting accent, part proper British and part rhythmic Caribbean, drifts on the breeze as the ferries chug in and out of the picturesque harbor. Golf carts clog the roads while the sun sets spectacularly over the surface of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s nothing special—just another day in the life on the island called Spanish Wells.

Best thing about renting these beach vie vacation rentals Spanish wells, for your vacations stay is you can get to access to the best of amenities and at reasonable prices. Spectacular water views at the times of sunrise and sunset make these accommodations popular among travelers APARTMENT RENTALS GOLF CART HIRE GIFT SHOP

Spanish Wells, Bahamas | +1-242-333-5022 | rentals@harboursidebahamas.com

www.harboursidebahamas.com

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TRAVEL GUIDE: THE BAHAMAS

EXUMA AND LONG ISLAND EXPLORE EXUMA CAYS LAND & SEA PARK Founded in 1958, the Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park was the first of its kind in the world, and later became the first in the Caribbean to prohibit fishing within its territory. It was Ilya Tolstoy, grandson of author Leo Tolstoy, who first set about assembling a group of Bahamian and American conservationists to protect the Exuma Cays. Today, it’s one of the most successful marine parks globally, with renowned biodiversity throughout its various coral reefs, mangroves, seagrasses, beaches and hiking trails. At a size of 176 square miles, the park’s pristine marine environment makes it a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are 10 | SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

also opportunities to feed endangered iguanas and spot the native hutia (a type of large Caribbean rodent) along with a variety of bird and fish life! If you’re visiting by boat, be aware that you’ll have to pay an anchorage or moorage fee.

WITNESS THE MAGIC OF LONG ISLAND’S PINK SAND The secluded 80-mile stretch that is Long Island is one of The Bahamas’ most scenic spots, and is great for a touch of sunbathing! The pink color of the island’s sands is caused by the shell pigment of microscopic organisms known as foraminifera, mixed with corals and calcium carbonate.

For a more adrenaline-inducing activity, try Dean’s Blue Hole – a large underwater sinkhole, and the venue for the annual Vertical Blue freediving competition. With no queues and entrance fees, it’s worth it!

Alternatively, Hamilton Cave is a historian and naturalist’s paradise. Home to Lucayan Natives in 500AD, The Bahamas’ largest cave system is teeming with lizards, bats, and crabs!

Also in Exuma and Long Island…

• Dip your toes at Coco Plum Beach.

• Going between islands? Hitch an Elvis Water Taxi!

• Shelter from the sun in Long Island Museum.

Toll Free: 800.272.1492 Direct Line: 242.331.2631 Fax: 242.331.2020 reservations@RidingRock.com

www.ridingrock.com

Come & explore a new world Leave your worries behind...

Riding Rock Resort & Marina is one of only two resorts located on the scenic San Salvador oceanfront. Built, owned and operated by the William’s family since the 1960’s, the resort is and always has been dedicated to the comfort and convenience of water sports enthusiasts.

Enjoy an all-inclusive vacation to Grand Lucayan. At Lighthouse Pointe, we merge the authenticity of the Bahamas with the ease and affordability of an all-inclusive resort. Guests to our award-winning resort will enjoy spacious rooms, exclusive access to our four restaurants and exceptional crowd-free amenities, including The Reef Golf Course, a "Top 100" course. Paradise awaits.

BOOK YOUR BAHAMIAN TRIP TODAY.

www.GrandLucayan.com | 1-800-252-9079 / 1-242-373-1333

INAGUA GO FLAMINGO-WATCHING ON LAKE WINDSOR As the country’s national bird, flamingos were once widespread across The Bahamas, but today almost solely inhabit the small and southernmost island of Great Inagua. With little-to-no human disruption, approximately 80,000 flamingos thrive on the island, which is protected by The National Trust of The Bahamas. Accessible with a guide, visitors to Inagua also have the opportunity to spot roseate spoonbills, wild hogs, horses, and donkeys. Nearby, green turtles are raised at Union Creek Reserve – albeit not yet accessible to the public, owing to the turtles’ endangered status.

CATCH SALT-CRYSTALS IN THE MAKING Inagua’s mostly dry climate has made it a hub for salt production since the late 1930s, when the arrival of the three Erickson brothers kickstarted the island’s mechanized salt operation. The facility was purchased by the Morton Salt Company in 1954, and today produces around one million pounds of salt annually from the 300,000-acre site, making it the second largest saline operation in North America. Sun and wind offer a natural energy supply for evaporation, leaving behind the concentrated brine. Reservoirs then help to remove any impurities, contributing to the growth of an algae mat. This in turn prevents the seawater from drying up, and encourages shrimp growth – an essential food source for the flamingos and shorebirds. Book a tour to see the solar salt crystallizing facility in action!

Also in Inagua…

• Visit the historic lighthouse at Matthew Towns.

• Gorge on seafood at the Inagua Heritage & Salty Festival.

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TRAVEL GUIDE: THE BAHAMAS

THE EXTRAORDINARY

EXUMA CAYS

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Comprising of 365 islands, stretching from Shroud Cay in the north, to Bell Cay in the south, Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park is oneof-a-kind. At 176 square miles, it became the first park of its kind anywhere in the world upon its founding in 1958. Fast forward another 25 years, and the Exumas was the first in the Caribbean to prohibit all fishing throughout its territory.

It was Ilya Tolstoy, grandson of Leo Tolstoy, who in the 1950s first set about assembling a group of Bahamian and American conservationists to protect the Exuma Cays, including key Bahamian officials, members of the National Audubon Society, and environmentalists John Randall, Carelton Ray, Don Squires, and Dan Beard. His efforts led to the founding of the Bahamas National Trust in 1959, in a bid to prevent developers purchasing the outstanding Cays.

Winner of the Platinum Global Ocean Refuge Award in 2018, the park has established a precedent for parks around the world with marine research and protection, and has played a key role in the replenishing of local fish stocks. A now-famous refuge for wildlife, the Exumas are renowned for their immense biodiversity across numerous coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass meadows, and beaches.

Visibility is excellent throughout the Exumas, a credit to the park’s pristine marine environment. As a result, the Exumas have become a popular spot for both scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. The critically endangered hawksbill sea turtles, reef sharks, and eagle rays can be seen amid the coral reefs, with populations of Nassau grouper, queen conch and spiny lobster SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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TRAVEL GUIDE: THE BAHAMAS

MARINE LIFE ACCOUNTS FOR MUCH OF THE EXUMAS’ APPEAL, BUT NOT ALL THE INTRIGUE LIES BENEATH THE SURFACE.

all thriving since the establishment of the no-take reserve – a move that has allowed stocks to spill-over into outside areas.

Marine life accounts for much of the Exumas’ appeal, but not all the intrigue lies beneath the surface. Visitors here will get the chance to spot the hutia, a large but shy rodent native to the Caribbean.

Introduced to the Exumas in 1973, it is the only terrestrial mammal native to The Bahamas. The Allen Cays rock iguana is one of several rare iguana species to call the Exumas home, and birdwatchers are also in for a treat – with terns, whitetailed tropicbirds, yellow warblers, and an

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Audubon’s shearwater colony among the Exumas’ nesting birds. It’s no accident that the park has been designated an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International.

Private development continues to pose a threat to the Exuma Cays. A booming tourism industry has been only partially halted by the pandemic, with offshore channeling and dredging, water pollution, and overharvesting of fish and other marine species soon set to return to pre-2020 levels. There are fears that without proper management the Exumas will soon see an increase in private and commercial boat traffic, at the expense of vital vegetation

and causing irreparable coral reefs. Despite this, work continues to protect the Exumas’ wildlife. Funds are raised through fees on anchorage, beach setup, diving, film and photography, kayaking, and camping – an opportunity to contribute to this more than worthy cause.

Visit https://bnt.bs/explore/exuma/exumacays-land-sea-park/ for more information.

Due to the park’s remote location, contacting the office can sometimes be a challenge. c Visit https://bnt.bs/explore/exuma/exumacays-land-sea-park/ for more information.

www.bahamas.com

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THE BAHAMAS T R A V E L

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