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If you’re looking for sun drenched, white sandy beaches enclosed in acres of azure sea and surrounded by incomparable natural beauty, then the Islands of the Bahamas are, without doubt, the place to go. An archipelago, comprising 700 islands and more than 2,000, oft-deserted cays (small, low-lying islands, located on the surface of coral reefs), the Bahamas are situated in the Atlantic Ocean, south east of Florida and the United States. Cited as the most popular Caribbean destination, the islands are visited by millions of travellers each year, keen to experience their exotic culture and witness the spectacular scenery, with its tropical backdrops and varied wildlife. In 1998, the Bahamas received the Crystal Palm Award for Excellence by the Caribbean Hotel Association. This highlighted the efforts made by the Bahamian government, which invested $1 billion in the development of hotels and tourism infrastructure that year, on top of a $2 billion investment in the islands’ infrastructure in 1992. As a result, the islands’ tourism industry employs, directly or indirectly, around 50 per cent of the Bahamian workforce and accounts for approximately half of its Gross Domestic Product. This has helped secure tourism as an economic mainstay. The summer months are the most popular time to visit, with September and October offering the best opportunity to avoid the crowds. With such a unique offering, the Islands of the Bahamas cater to most people’s idea of a dream destination. For those interested in exploring the main islands, such as Grand Bahama and New Providence, there is plenty to see and do. The bustling capital of Nassau, found on New Providence Island, provides a perfect example of the Bahamas’ rich colonial architecture, colourful artwork and exotic shops. Every September, Nassau also plays host to the Culinary Classic, an event which draws together top chefs from hotels from all the major islands, to compete to produce dishes based on indigenous ingredients. Those who come looking for rest and relaxation are not disappointed either, with holiday resorts located near the capital, meaning you don’t have to leave the side of the pool in order to experience the friendliness of the local people, whilst soaking up the sunshine and tranquil atmosphere. Many of the surrounding islands, including Abaco, Cat Island, Mayaguana and San Salvador, also offer ideal destinations to escape the hustle and bustle. For the intrepid explorer chasing action and adventure, the Bahamas offer a diverse range of outdoor holidays, ideal for both land- and water-based pursuits. Whether you want to enjoy the uninhabited cays and pristine reefs found on the North Islands, which are perfect for diving opportunities, go island hopping in the hope of finding a deserted beach and fishing for exotic seafood, or hiking through the national parks, there is an almost endless list of activities to do for even the most energetic. With so much to see and do, holidays in the Bahamas are becoming increasingly popular, with the islands maintaining one of the fastest growth rates in the region. Disclaimer: The information contained within this article is the opinion of the author and is intended purely for information and interest purposes only. It should not be used to make any decisions or take any actions. Any links are included for information purposes only.
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