When you’re craving tropical weather, scenic coastlines, and sea breezes, plan your next vacation in the Bahamas. This island oasis is picturesque both above and below the sea, as it boasts palm-tree lined beaches and colorful barrier reefs. Book a trip to the Bahamas for a vacation filled with relaxation and adventure.
Geography
The Bahamas are located north of Cuba and southeast of the Florida Keys in the Atlantic Ocean. They include a string of more than 1,000 islands and cays, which are surrounded by crystal-clear water. The Bahamas are also home to the third-longest barrier reef in the world along with the longest underwater cave, Lucayan National Park.
Best and Worst Times to Visit
When it comes to deciding on when to book your flight to the Bahamas, it’s more about your preference and less about the weather. On one hand, the high season runs from December to April and there’s hardly a rainy day. Temperatures linger around 75 and 85 degrees F during this period, but with this heavenly weather comes the crowds. Tourists swarm the islands during this time, causing rates to increase.
On the other hand, there’s the off-season. This period lasts from April to December, and it sees temperatures in the 70s and 80s F. It does tend to be slightly rainier, especially with hurricane season rolling through in June. However, if you’re willing to deal with a little rain, you won’t have to cope with the crowds or high prices.
Lodging
Whether you’re celebrating your honeymoon or traveling with your whole family, you’ll discover the perfect lodging for the occasion right here with Expedia.com.au. Bahamas resorts are a great option when you’re looking for an all-inclusive feel. Many of the resorts are on the larger side and provide all the amenities you need right at your fingertips. Find resorts in the Bahamas with pools, restaurants, beach access, and even water-sport rentals.
There are plenty of no-frill options, too. When you’re just looking for a place to rest your head before heading out to explore the islands, check out our selection of hotels in the Bahamas. These places are in the heart of all the action, but they also provide convenient amenities, such as meeting rooms, fitness centers, and complimentary breakfasts.
Things to Do
First and foremost, go to the beach. White sand and the clearest water make the coast a picture-perfect destination. If you’re looking for you own deserted island, venture to one of the more secluded beaches. Coco Plum Beach and Big Farmer's Cay Sand Bar have reputations for being quiet and tranquil shorelines, where you can find some serenity under a palm tree, without fighting the crowds. When it comes to making a splash, jet ski or parasail around Harbour Island, snorkel around the Rose Island Reef, or scuba dive in the Exumas Cays Land and Sea Park.
If you’d rather stay on dry land, check out the various ecotours. Meet up with travel guides or forge the way on your own. Visit Lucayan National Park, where you can go deep into the caves that were once home to the Arawak Indians, and horseback ride through endangered pine forests to the top of Grand Bahama Island. Marvel at the eclectic variety of birds at the Garden of the Groves, and hike around the 99-acre Rand Memorial Nature Centre to see the tropical flora and fauna.
While the Bahamas’ paradise-like scenery offers more than enough to keep you entertained, take the time to appreciate some of the islands’ history. Visit Cat Island and San Salvador Island, both of which claim to be Christopher Columbus’ first stop in the New World. Controversy aside, discover the archeology sites and 1861 shipwreck location on San Salvador, and visit the 18th-century plantations on Cat Island. And if you’re in Nassau, find your way over to the Queen’s Staircase, which is a 65-step stairway made of limestone in the late 1700s. After exploring the area, rest up at one of the top hotels in Nassau before continuing your adventures.
Culture
From the arts to the music, culture is bright and vibrant on the islands. The sounds of African beats, Caribbean calypso, and goombay fill the streets of the Bahamas. Goombay is a style of music that dates back to the slavery period, when drums were made from goatskin. The Junkanoo parade is perhaps the best representation of Bahamian music, dance, and art all in one place. During this massive procession, dance troupes decked out in elaborate costumes perform routines to live music in the streets. Due to popular demand, the colorful festival now occurs several times a year.
The Fox Hill Day Festival is another one of the largest celebrations in the Bahamas. A freedom festival, this event commemorates the abolition of slavery. During the second weekend of August, Fox Hill Village in Nassau becomes a lively carnival with Bahamian foods, songs, and dances.
The Pineapple Festival is another much anticipated event in the Bahamas. As the name suggests, the festival celebrates pineapple farming. Every year, the town of Eleuthera becomes a pineapple bonanza, with everything from a Little Miss Pineapple Pageant to fruit-themed eating contests.
Food
Much of the Bahamian diet focuses around seafood. Conch, the white meat of a mollusk, is the national food and is incorporated into a number of dishes, including soups and salads. The meat is also used to make conch fritters and cracked conch. Locals also pair peas ’n’ rice with a number of meals, including stew or boiled fish. Furthermore, the islands take their cocktail concoctions seriously. They’re known for creating the Bahama Mama, Goombay Smash, and the Yellowbird, all of which incorporate rum and sweet fruit, like pineapple juice.
Here at Expedia.com.au, we offer a sweet selection of cheap deals on Bahamas hotels and resorts, which are sure to match up with all your preferences and price range. Bundle your Bahamas vacation package with flights and save up to $570. Make reservations today and get ready to splash into the world’s clearest waters.
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