When traveling to any new place, it is always best to know some basic information about your destination in order to make your visit as stress-free and enjoyable as possible. Here is some general information about traveling to Nassau, Bahamas before booking Nassau tours.
Money
The Bahamian Dollar is the official currency, but it is equivalent to the U.S. Dollar. The U.S. Dollar is widely accepted, as are most credit cards, and traveler"s checks. ATM"s are common and conveniently located around Nassau and Paradise Island. Banks operate in Nassau on Monday - Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Getting there and getting around
The Bahamas is the most popular port-of-call for Caribbean cruise lines, especially Nassau.
The Nassau International Airport services many regular flights from the U.S., Canada, and across the pond. Nassau is also a hub to all other islands in the Bahamas.
There are no buses to and from the airport, and few resort offer shuttle services, so you most likely will need a taxi. The government fixes the rates, so you won"t need to bother haggling for a cheaper rate. For getting around Nassau, taxis are plentiful, as well as water taxis for going between Nassau and Paradise Island. There are frequent buses running as well. If you choose to rent a car to get around, keep in mind that they drive on the left side of the road in the Bahamas!
Getting into the Bahamas
In order to enter Nassau and the Bahamas, you will need to show one of these forms of identification:
- A valid U.S. passport
Customs
For U.S. citizens, if you are out of the country for 2 or more days, you are allowed up to $600 of duty-free merchandise, including 32 oz. or less of tobacco products, and 2 liters or less of alcohol.
Canadian citizens out of the country for more than 7 days are allowed up to $300 in duty-free merchandise, including 16 oz. or less of tobacco products, and 40 oz. or less of alcohol products.
Communications
The Bahamas offers direct-dial phone service worldwide. And many resorts offer high-speed Internet access, if you wish to check your email, or upload pictures of your adventures.
Miscellaneous facts and tips
The average temperature year-round in the Bahamas is between 70 - 80°F during the day, and the water temperatures range from 74°F in the winter to around 82°F in the summer.
Hurricane season lasts from June through November of every year.
The Bahamas uses the same standard voltage for electrical appliances as the U.S. and Canada. Any electric appliances that you bring, such as a hair dryer or shaver, will work just fine without needing an adapter.The islands of the Bahamas operate on Eastern Standard Time (EST).
Visiting Nassau and Paradise Island will likely be an adventure you won"t soon forget. This information is intended to make your stay as relaxed and pleasurable as possible.