Bahamas

Graced with extensive beaches bleached white by the year-round sun and surrounded by sparkling turquoise waters filled with varied and colourful sea life, the islands of Bahamas are a major destination for divers, sailors and sun-worshippers alike. Although often thought to be part of the Caribbean, the Bahamas is actually an archipelago of 700 islands with thousands of small 'cays' strung out in the ocean starting 55 miles (89km) from Miami in the Atlantic Ocean.

The islands' first inhabitants were the Lucayan Indians who lived there from the 9th century until after Columbus discovered the islands in 1492, his first step into the New World. The resulting exploitation led to the native population being virtually wiped out. For two hundred years until independence in 1987 the Bahamas was a British Crown Colony and a strong British influence can still be seen in the architecture and culture.

The population of the Bahamas now consists mostly of Bahamians of African descent, who are mainly descended from freed slaves. The strong African cultural influence is evident in everyday life, and in events like Junkanoo, a traditional street festival held every year on Boxing Day. There is also a strong American cultural influence, particularly in the capital, Nassau.

Due to its proximity to the US, the Bahamas has become an offshore banking and financial centre. Tourism however remains its most important industry. The long stretches of empty beaches, clear waters and excellent facilities have made the Bahamas a popular destination throughout the year and the varied attractions of each of the islands ensure that there is something for everyone.

Climate

In general the weather is good all year and the trade winds ensure that the temperatures remain relatively mild. The rainy season extends from May to November when there is a slight chance of hurricanes. Peak season is between December and April. Generally the northern and western islands are cooler while the southern islands can get very hot in summer.

Money

The official currency is the Bahamian Dollar (BSD), which is divided into 100 cents. The Bahamian Dollar is equal in value to the US Dollar and both currencies are accepted throughout the islands. Currency can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change and many hotels. There are ATMs in the main tourist centres and credit and debit cards are widely accepted in all the big resorts. Travellers cheques can be changed at all banks, although those in US Dollars receive the best rates. Banks tend to be open from 9.30am to 3pm (Monday to Thursday) and 9.30am to 5pm (Fridays).

Passport Visa

All visitors must be in possession of a return or onward ticket, plus proof of funds, and with the exception of nationals of Canada and the US, all visitors must hold passports which are valid at least six months after entry. Cruise ship passengers must hold a ticket for their ship. As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers travelling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean region are required to present a passport or other valid travel document to enter or re-enter the United States. If departing from the USA a valid passport will be required by immigration authorities.

Entry Requirements

• United States passport holders must have a valid passport or a Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) compliant document, or a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, as well as proof of citizenship, such as an original or certified birth certificate. A visa is not required for travel to the Bahamas for visits not exceeding eight months. Those with passports issued outside of the US may stay for up to three months without a visa.
• UK nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to eight months. A passport is required, valid for six months after entry, or some form of official photo identification with a birth certificate and/or citizenship card. Passports endorsed as British Overseas Citizen may stay up to three months without a visa.
• Canadians should take a passport or other form of government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, as well as proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate. Canadians may stay in the Bahamas for up to three months without a visa; if travelling with other identification documents the maximum stay without a visa is 21 days. Extensions may be granted.
• Australians do not require a visa for a stay of up to three months, but a passport valid for a minimum of six months is necessary.
• South African nationals must hold a valid passport, but no visa is required for a stay of up to three months.
• Irish nationals require a passport valid for at least six months, but no visa is needed for stays of up to three months.
• New Zealanders do not require a visa for a stay of up to three months, but a passport valid for at least six months is necessary.

Health

A yellow fever vaccination is required by travellers aged more than one year arriving from infected areas, and Hepatitis A immunisation is recommended for visitors over two years. There is a risk of malaria and travellers should take precautions before travel. Food and water is considered safe, though it is advised not to eat fruit or vegetables unless peeled or cooked. Visitors should note that some types of fish, including tropical reef fish, are poisonous to eat even when cooked. Medical facilities are good in Nassau and Freeport, but expensive and usually require payment in cash on treatment. Medical insurance is advised. Princess Margaret Hospital in Nassau, where most emergency surgery is performed, is experiencing a chronic shortage of blood so those with rare blood types are advised to know the names and locations of possible donors in the event of an emergency. The Lyford Cay Hospital has a hyperbaric chamber for treatment of decompression illness.

Embassy Consulates

• Bahamian Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 319 2660.
• High Commission for The Bahamas, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0)20 7408 4488.
• High Commission for The Bahamas, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 232 1724.

Foreign Embassies

• United States Embassy, Nassau: +1 242 322 1181.
• British High Commission, Kingston, Jamaica (also responsible for The Bahamas): +1 876 510 0700.
• Canadian High Commission, Kingston, Jamaica (also responsible for The Bahamas): +1 876 926 1500.
• Australian High Commission, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago (also responsible for The Bahamas): +1 868 822 5450.
• South African High Commission, Kingston, Jamaica (also responsible for The Bahamas): +1 876 620 4840.