Why take a trip to the Bahamas
Travel to the Bahamas to discover 700 paradise islands, picture-perfect in every way. The beaches range from soft white sand to candy pink, and the sea is just as astonishingly beautiful. Things to do in the Bahamas include exploring the underwater world, which is quite magnificent, with breathtaking coral reefs and numerous shipwrecks.
The islands are lush, with locals ensuring that the tourism impact on the environment is kept to a minimum. Aside from the varied entertainment offerings in the hotels and resorts, there’s a vibrant nightlife to discover in numerous bars and clubs that pulsate to a Bahamian beat. Rum cocktails make the night even more exotic, and dining on the superb seafood here is another treat, which is why a holiday in the Bahamas is such a delight.
Why we love holidays in the Bahamas
- Magnificent coral reefs make it a premier destination for scuba diving and snorkelling.
- There’s something for everyone to enjoy – from golfing to watersports, adventure activities to being pampered at a spa.
- The islands are ideal for families, honeymooners or friends.
- The resorts in the Bahamas are world-class.
- 14 of the islands are considered among the top holiday destinations in the world, including Nassau & Paradise Island, Cat Island, Rum Cay & San Salvador.
- Exploring underwater wrecks and diving with dolphins are just 2 of the numerous unique adventures that await in the Bahamas.
- You can immerse yourself in the fascinating local cultures.
- The islands are a paradise year-round.
Nothing beats relaxing on sparkling beaches, enjoying dining and nightlife that is out of this world, being pampered at an award-winning spa or enjoying an underwater adventure. Bahamas holidays offer all of these experiences and many more.
Things to do in the Bahamas
Your choice of activities and holiday types is as varied as your choice of 700 islands to visit in the Bahamas. Only 30 of the 700 islands are inhabited, so there is plenty to explore. Whatever you choose, you are guaranteed an iconic Caribbean holiday that is unmatched.
Whether you’re lazing on golden beaches, exploring historic attractions, shopping in bustling marketplaces or enjoying numerous fun watersports, there is so much to do on holiday in the Bahamas, it’s difficult to know where to start. Here is a list of exciting things to do on a trip to the Bahamas to help you decide…
Things to do in the Bahamas
- Explore Nassau’s historic sights on a horse-drawn cart.
- Visit the Pink Sand Beach on Harbour Island.
- Go deep-sea fishing in the Abacos Islands.
- Go kayaking in the Lucayan National Park.
- Paddle with pigs on Big Major Cay.
- Savour a rum cocktail at sunset.
- Enjoy a game of golf on one of Grand Bahama Island’s 6 world-class courses.
- Explore the underwater in a personal submarine.
- Go birdwatching in Lucayan National Park.
- Snorkel or scuba dive at Andros Great Barrier Reef.
- Climb the historic Queen’s Staircase in Nassau.
What kind of Bahamas holiday do you want: seclusion and relaxation, or active adventures? There’s something for everyone to enjoy on a trip to the Bahamas. Call us now to book your dream Caribbean holiday.
Know before you go...
When is the best time to visit?
- The best time to visit the Bahamas is in the high season, from mid-December to mid-April.
- Avoid the Bahamas during the hurricane season (June to November).
- Flight duration from Johannesburg to Nassau in the Bahamas with one stopover: 20 hours, 45 minutes.
- There are no regular flights from South Africa to the Bahamas.
- South African passport holders do not require a visa to enter the Bahamas for a stay of up to 90 days.
- If you are flying via the USA, you will require a visa to enter the USA.
- Passports must be valid for 6 months after departure from the Bahamas, and you must have a return ticket.
- The Bahamas is 7 hours behind South Africa.
- Daylight saving is used in the Bahamas. From March to November (winter months), the Bahamas is 6 hours behind South Africa.
- The official currency is the Bahamian Dollar (BSD).
- Both BSD and US dollars are widely accepted in the Bahamas.
- Credit cards are widely accepted & ATMs are prevalent in big towns and resorts.
- Tipping is an accepted custom in the Bahamas – usually 15% of the bill.
- The official language in the Bahamas is English.
- Christianity is practised by the majority of the population. The most popular Christian faith is Protestantism.
- When visiting sacred sites and temples, dress conservatively. (See ‘What to pack’).
- It is safe to drink tap water in the Bahamas, but bottled water is preferred – and readily available.
- Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccinations are recommended, as you will most likely be eating unfamiliar food. Check with your travel clinic before you go.
What should I pack?Â
- Lightweight clothing and beachwear in summer, bring layers for cooler evenings.
- Comfortable walking shoes.
- Sunscreen, lip balm, hat and sunglasses.
- Mini first aid kit and regular prescription medication.
- Hand sanitiser and insect repellent.
- Camera.
- Travel adaptor
Getting around
- In the Bahamas, transport includes rental cars, motor scooters, buses & taxis.
- One of the best ways to discover more remote and unknown areas is to rent a bicycle.
What can I do to be a responsible traveller?
- Wherever possible, buy local food and souvenirs and support local artisans.
- Instead of using plastic bags, take fabric shopping bags with you.
- Respect each other’s cultures and customs and avoid imposing your beliefs.
Safety tips
- Be safety conscious: don’t display cash or valuables. Leave jewellery and expensive watches at home.
- Keep your belongings safe – use the hotel safe for passports and valuables and watch out for pickpockets and bag snatchers when out and about.
What do I do in an emergency?
- If passports or valuables are stolen, report the theft to the hotel/police immediately.
- Contact the Thompsons Holidays 24-hour care line to assist.
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