About The Bahamas

The Bahamas are a well-known and well-loved tourist destination, mainly for the three "S's": surf, sun, and sand. While the Bahamas do have plenty of all three, the country has a lot more to offer as well. Whether you just want to relax on beautiful beaches or have a more "off the beaten path" vacation in mind, the Bahamas can provide it.

There are two main islands in the Bahamas: Paradise Island and Grand Bahama Island. There are also myriad smaller islands, cays, and islets, collectively known as the "Out Islands." Interestingly, the Walt Disney Company owns one of these islands, known as Castaway Cay, for the exclusive use of the guests they bring on their Disney cruises to the area. The vast majority of the country's population (approximately 70%) live on Paradise Island, in the capital city of Nassau. Nassau is also the home of the famous Junkanoo, a street parade and celebration that happens in late December or early January of every year. It has a carnival-like atmosphere, with music, dancing, and brightly colored costumes. Although other cities also have Junkanoo celebrations, Nassau's is the largest.

With a tropical climate, weather is beautiful year round, with a high of 77F (25C) in January and a high near 90F (32C) during the late summer months. With weather like this, you don't need to worry about scheduling your vacation during a certain time period; you can go year round and enjoy weather perfect for anything the Bahamas has to offer.

The country's economy is very dependent on its tourism industry, which provides jobs for approximately half of the local population. Bahamians are also extremely friendly people, a trait that prompted the government to launch the "People to People" program. You can sign up online for a fun, and completely free, hosted activity with a local. This can include everything from a traditional meal in the host's home to touring the island by sea.

The program currently has 500 hosts, and it's recommended you sign up at least two weeks in advance. The program will even let you correspond with your host before you arrive. Wondering about the Bahamas' best restaurants? Most popular nightlife attractions? Where the locals go to shop? This is a perfect opportunity to find out about the Bahamas' lesser known can't-miss attractions, straight from the locals.

Popular tours can be found regardless of the age or interest of the individuals on your trip. If you're interested in learning more about your vacation spot, educational tours combine seeing the sights and learning about such varied topics as the country's history, the island's ecosystems, or unusual wildlife. Action-minded travelers might like a tour of deserted cays via powerboats, windsurfing or checking out the wild iguanas on some of the islands. If you're just looking for something that's completely unique, you might like to visit the famous swimming pigs of the Bahamas. They also like to lounge on the beaches, which can make for a great photo opportunity.

It's clear that everything about the Bahamas makes it a great vacation destination. Whether you're going with your family or as a romantic getaway, no one is going to be bored or at a loss for words when asked what they did on their trip.

Article Source: TravelFreeGuides.com

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by: chickie maxwell

Total views: 0 Word Count: 559 Date: Mon, 10 Oct 2011 Time: 3:41 AM - 0 comments

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