What to Expect When You Visit the Bahamas

You’ve heard their slogan for years…It’s Better in the Bahamas! But is it really? If you’re looking for postcard views everywhere you turn and a fun-relaxing-vibrant-luxurious vacation, then this gem in the Caribbean is your spot.

It’s actually an archipelago that includes over 700 islands, but Grand Bahama and Paradise Island are the ones that are most visited. According to Geographia.com, an estimated $1.3 billion is spent annually by more than 3.2 million visitors each year.

Tourists visit the Bahamas over and over again for obvious reasons. The food, culture, music, scenery, and luxurious resorts are absolute perfection. If you’re looking for a guaranteed fabulous Caribbean experience, look no further!

1. Blue Waters – Its shallow waters are some of the most famous in the world. But how does it get to be that vibrant color of turquoise? The sunlight reflects off the sand and coral on the ocean floor, giving the water that brilliant shade. The warm, calm ocean is just perfect to dip into after a long day in the hot Caribbean sun.
2. Feelin’ Hot, Hot, Hot! – Did we mention it’s hot? Although the average summer temperature is just 85 degrees, the high humidity makes it feel much hotter. The sun can also feel incredibly strong, so load up on lots of SPF. Seek plenty of shade if you have skin that’s prone to burning.
3. It Rains…Then it Doesn’t – If it’s raining upon your arrival to the Bahamas, never fear! Storms go out as quickly as they come in. One minute you’ll be basking in the sun, and the next you’re in the midst of a downpour. But before you run for cover, it’s over! More often than not, the showers are welcomed and refreshing.
4. Shop Til’ You Drop – Native Bahamian goods are really something special. Clothing, jewelry, perfumes, and handbags are not only beautiful, but wonderful quality and something you won’t find anywhere else. Tacky shot glasses and ashtrays? Not in the Bahamas! If you visit the small markets, colorful Junkanoo art is sold by local artists and you can often see women weaving straw bags which is one of their most popular souvenirs.
5. You’re Always Welcome – Native Bahamians are legitimately some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet. Since they’re quite used to guests coming in and out of their country, sincere hospitality is their specialty. People are helpful, courteous, and always quick to offer a smile. Be sure to ask someone, “What da wybe is?” That’s “How’s it going?” in Bahamian Creole.
6. Vibrant Culture – Traditional clothing in the Bahamas is as bright and colorful as the rest of their culture. Native music, called Goombay, is celebratory and full of story-telling. They have Junkanoo parades that you won’t find anywhere else made up of brightly colored costumes and raucous music. Food ranges from spicy to fruity, with seafood being an obvious specialty. Conch, crabs, and rock lobster are a delicacy!

Warm breezes, calm waters, and welcoming people keep tourists coming back to the Bahamas year after year. If you just can’t get enough of that turquoise ocean, booking a cruise is the best way to enjoy it! So, grab a “switcha (lemonade)” and “spilligate (go out on the town)!”