In the Atlantic Ocean between Cuba and Florida there is an archipelago of more than seven hundred islands, whose total area is about 14 thousand square kilometers.
These are famous for their white sandy beaches without strong waves (thanks to the protection of coral reefs), clear turquoise waters of lagoons, green coconut palms and a mild tropical climate. The most favorable period to visit Bahamas- from November to May, at this time rains and tropical hurricanes are extremely rare here.
The capital of the Bahamas is Nassau- is located on the largest of them, New Providence Island. On this island, 11 kilometers wide and 34 kilometers long, there is almost best beach Caribbean Islands - Cable Beach. The island itself is replete with boutiques and duty free shops, restaurants and bars, casinos and cabarets. But it is famous not only for the entertainment industry - more than 400 banks and trust funds have located their offices here, which is why Nassau is sometimes called the Zurich of the tropics.
Since Columbus discovered the Bahamas in 1492, they managed to visit a refuge for pirates, an English colony, and an independent state. The islands are currently part of the British Commonwealth. No more than 300 thousand people permanently live on the islands, with about 200 thousand living in Nassau. The official language here is English, but in everyday life there are many borrowed words from African and Indian languages.
Russians do not need to enter the territory of the Bahamas apply for a visa (if their visit lasts no more than 90 days), and no vaccinations are required. But we must admit that this place is very attractive to tourists from all over the world. The Bahamas is a major gambling center. Numerous casinos here operate 24 hours a day. Shopping lovers' first stop is the world-famous Bay Street, where a variety of tax-exempt goods are sold, and only genuine ones - no fakes. Diving enthusiasts love diving into the calm, clear coastal waters here. In addition, the islands have excellent fishing.
Tourists from all over the world vacation in the Bahamas, but there are more Canadians and Americans here than others. There are numerous hotels on New Providence Island. The main attraction of the island is Parliament Square in Nassau. Small pirate towns remain on the western coast of the island. Worth a visit too Fort Charlotte, Garden of the Groves, Rand Memorial Reserve And Coral island, as well as famous underwater caves. All these attractions are the pride of the Bahamas, as is the complex Atlantis, the largest open-air aquarium.
As already mentioned, there are more than 700 islands in the Bahamas archipelago, but only 30 of them are inhabited. Paradise Island is connected to New Providence Island by bridges. They play golf on the island of Grand Bahama and go fishing to the islands Bimini, Bury And Andros, divers prefer islands Eleuthera And Abacos. Children will be very interested in the pirate museum, where you can see a real pirate ship, pirate clothes and other paraphernalia.
The Bahamas are especially attractive to beach lovers. There are incredibly clean sandy beaches here, striking in their whiteness and tranquility. There are private villas and hotels along the coastline, where guests can use sun loungers, beach umbrellas and hammocks.
In addition to a luxurious beach holiday, numerous educational excursions are organized in the Bahamas, because the locals are passionate about their history and willingly talk about it. The Bahamas is a unique combination of natural beauty and well-organized tourism infrastructure.
The Commonwealth of the Bahamas is an island archipelago, in which out of 700 islands, 30 are inhabited. The Bahamas are located 90 km from Florida in the Atlantic Ocean. In the Caribbean, these islands are located in the very north. The islands of Abacos, Andros, Acklins, Exumas, Berry, Biminis and some others are considered the largest in the archipelago. The total area of the state is approximately 14 thousand square meters. km. The capital is Nassau. This is the largest city in the country, which is both its cultural and commercial center.
Population of the Bahamas
The number of inhabitants of the Bahamas is approximately 366 thousand people. Blacks and mulattoes make up more than 80% of the population.
Nature in the Bahamas
Hundreds of kilometers of white sand beaches, 2,500 coral reefs, clear coastal waters heated by the Gulf Stream have long been associated by most vacationers with the concept of “chic vacation.” The untouched nature of most of the islands attracts crowds of tourists. Inagua Island is home to rare pink flamingos and iguanas.
Climatic conditions
The Bahamas has a humid subtropical climate. The rainy season begins in May and lasts until October. Thanks to the soft wind from the equator, winter is very warm with a temperature of +15°C, and in summer due to trade winds the temperature does not exceed +32°C. The warm Gulf Stream, washing the Bahamas from the west, warms the sea water to approximately +25°C throughout the year.
Language
In the Bahamas, the only official language is English. The entire population of the country speaks it fluently.
Kitchen
The cuisine in the Bahamas consists of fruits and all kinds of fish, crab and seafood dishes. The main ingredient in most dishes is the conch shellfish. It is a well-known aphrodisiac and is widely used here. In the Bahamas they like to cook very spicy dishes, combining them with lime juice. And coconuts are even used in ice cream.
Currency of the Bahamas
The national currency is the Bahamian dollar. It is equivalent to the US dollar, and therefore US currency is also freely used in the Bahamas.
Religion
In the Bahamas, the island population is Christian, but belonging to other religious denominations is not condemned, thanks to complete freedom of religion.
Holidays
Boxing Day is celebrated in the Bahamas on December 26th. This very solemn and colorful event is considered traditional for all former colonies of Britain. The holiday is very colorful, in the form of a colorful carnival, which begins at midnight on Bay Street.
Major resorts in the Bahamas
The most visited resorts in the Bahamas are on the islands of Paradise, Grand Bahama and New Providence. The island of Grand Bahama has a golf course, tennis courts, and you can go underwater fishing and diving. On the island of Inagua you can swim with dolphins.
Attractions
In the center of the capital of the Bahamas is the famous Parliament Square, where in the 19th century the buildings of Parliament, the Supreme Court and the Colonial Administration were built around the statue of Queen Victoria.
The Nassau Underwater Aquarium, Retreat Gardens and the beautiful beaches of Cable Beach are perfect for nature lovers. Not far from the center of the capital is Fort Charlotte, which was built back in 1788. Tourists will not be left indifferent by the labyrinth, which resembles the ruined Atlantis. Unique tunnel, which passes under water and amazes with the beauty of the underwater world, has no analogues in the world. "Sea Gardens" is a place where you can get acquainted with the rich flora and fauna of the underwater world. Souvenirs are very popular all over the world. self made, created by local craftsmen from clay, straw and shells.
But the main attraction of the islands is unique nature. Walking to the reefs, visiting natural areas where flamingos live, observing the underwater world of the Atlantic will be an interesting pastime for all tourists.
The Bahamas are famous for its excellent beaches, beautiful underwater world and distinctive culture. The archipelago includes about 700 islands, of which only 40 are inhabited. Local resorts are perfect for both a leisurely holiday in complete unity with nature, and for extreme diving, as there are many underwater tunnels and “blue holes”.
Information about the Bahamas
The Bahamas have an official name - the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. The state is located in the Atlantic Ocean on an archipelago stretching for 1,500 km, and is separated from Cuba by the Old Bahama Strait and from the United States by the Gulf of Florida. The total area of the islands is about 14 thousand square meters. km. The largest of them are Andros, Great Abaco, Grand Bahama, Great Inagua, New Providence, Great Exuma, Eleuthera and several others.
Capital: Nassau.
Population: 377,374 people (as of 2013).
State structure: A constitutional monarchy headed by the Queen of Great Britain, who is represented in the Bahamas by the Governor General.
Language: English, “Patois” (Creole) is common among Haitians.
Religion: most of the population are Christians, mostly Baptists (35%). Folk beliefs also spread (“obeah”).
Time: 8 hours behind Moscow in summer and 9 hours in winter. On the last Sunday in March, time is moved forward one hour (valid until the first Sunday in November).
Climate
The climate in the Bahamas can be described as subtropical (in the south) and trade wind (in the north). In summer, the air temperature here reaches +32 °C, in winter - +22 °C. The central part of the archipelago is always cooler than the southern islands. The water temperature in the resorts of the Bahamas is about +27 °C in summer and +23 °C in winter.
Most of the precipitation on the islands falls from May to October, and strong storms and hurricanes are possible during these same months. Based on this, best time The period for holidays in the Bahamas is from the end of October to the beginning of May.
Average daily temperature at the resorts of the Bahamas, °C
| Resorts in the Bahamas | Jan | Feb | March | Apr | May | June | July | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
| Nassau | +25 | +25 | +26 | +27 | +29 | +31 | +32 | +32 | +31 | +30 | +28 | +26 |
| Nassau, water t | +25 | +25 | +25 | +26 | +27 | +28 | +29 | +29 | +29 | +28 | +27 | +26 |
| Andros | +25 | +25 | +26 | +27 | +29 | +31 | +31 | +32 | +31 | +29 | +27 | +26 |
| Andros, water t | +23 | +23 | +23 | +24 | +25 | +27 | +28 | +28 | +28 | +27 | +26 | +24 |
| Abaco | +25 | +25 | +26 | +27 | +29 | +31 | +31 | +32 | +31 | +29 | +27 | +26 |
| Abaco, water t | +23 | +23 | +23 | +24 | +25 | +27 | +28 | +28 | +28 | +27 | +26 | +24 |
| Grand Bahama | +25 | +25 | +26 | +27 | +29 | +31 | +31 | +32 | +31 | +29 | +27 | +26 |
| Grand Bahama, t water | +23 | +23 | +23 | +24 | +25 | +27 | +28 | +28 | +28 | +27 | +26 | +24 |
| Eleuthera | +25 | +25 | +26 | +27 | +29 | +31 | +31 | +32 | +31 | +29 | +27 | +26 |
| Eleuthera, t water | +23 | +23 | +23 | +24 | +25 | +27 | +28 | +28 | +28 | +27 | +26 | +24 |
| Bimini | +20 | +21 | +22 | +24 | +26 | +27 | +28 | +28 | +28 | +26 | +23 | +21 |
Map of the Bahamas
Nature
The Bahamas are stretches of limestone plateau jutting out from the ocean. Its underwater part has deep cracks and ferrous layers, thanks to which the underwater world of the Bahamas looks very picturesque. Numerous things add to its beauty coral reefs, blue holes and long tunnels connecting deep underwater caves. All this makes the islands of the archipelago very attractive for divers.
Previously, the entire territory of the Bahamas was covered with tropical forests, but today they are preserved only on the islands of Grand Bahama, Abaco and Andros. On their territory you can see valuable types of wood - red ironwood and logwood, Caribbean pine trees, as well as various types exotic flowers - orchids, jasmine, bougainvillea, etc. Often on the islands you can find artificial plantings with coniferous trees, casuarinas and mahogany.
The fauna in the Bahamas is not very diverse. Most common bats, frogs, snakes, lizards, as well as birds - red flamingos, pelicans, herons, etc. Numerous species of fish are found near the coasts - mackerel, barracuda, Atlantic sailfish, etc. Thanks to this, fishing in the Bahamas is a very exciting activity.
Another natural feature of the Bahamas is its beautiful sandy beaches with fine sand, which attracts many travelers who want to soak up the sun and swim in the clear coastal waters.
Traditions and customsMain feature Bahamians are leisurely; on the islands it is not customary to rush anywhere. Local residents are generally calm and friendly, but sometimes they can express their emotions quite violently.
The dress code on the islands is informal. In most cases, a shirt and long trousers will be enough for men. In resort areas, shorts are fine; in cities, overtly beachwear should be avoided. In the evening and on holidays, a long dress with ethnic patterns is considered good form for women, and a light suit for men.
As for culinary traditions, in the Bahamas they are closely connected with seafood. Char-grilled shells, crabs, shrimp, fish cakes, seafood salads, various variations dishes with conch snail, reef snapper in tomato or anchovy sauce, soup with lime juice, celery, meat and onions - these delicacies can be found on the menu of almost all restaurants in the archipelago. The cuisine of the Bahamas was greatly influenced by the British colonialists, so traditional English dishes prepared taking into account local characteristics are also common here. Among the desserts, Caribbean coconut pies, rice puddings and fruit salads are very popular. In the bar menu you will definitely see Nassau Royal rum, the famous Bahamian beer Kalik, as well as various imported drinks.
Culture and architectureThe culture of the Bahamas was influenced by Africans, inhabitants of neighboring Caribbean islands, and colonists. An important part of the national folklore are obeah rituals, which are reminiscent of the rites of Santeria in Brazil and Cuba, as well as voodoo from Haiti. The practice involves turning to white and black magicians, communicating with departed ancestors and spirits of the underworld, etc. Followers of obeah believe that evil spirits live in silk cotton, and with special skill their power can be controlled. Voodoo rituals are also common in the Bahamas, especially among immigrants from Cuba, Haiti, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic.
Another bright side of Bahamian culture is music, which combines the traditions of colonialists and African slaves. Particularly popular are down-home styles (music performed on accordions, guitars and maracas) and goombay, which combines English folk songs with calypso melodies.
Dance art is also widespread in the Bahamas. In special halls or on the street you can see real dance performances, which intricately combine ritual African dances, classical ballet and modern choreography.
There are also architectural attractions in the Bahamas. Most of them date back to the colonial period and are located in the capital of the state, the city of Nassau.
Main currency
The main currency on the islands is the Bahamian dollar, equal to 100 cents. Both coins and banknotes of various denominations are in circulation. US dollars are in free circulation. Credit cards international systems are accepted almost everywhere.
You can exchange currency in the Bahamas at shopping centers, hotels and banks, which are usually open on weekdays until 15:00. The most favorable exchange rates are available at international banks located in Freeport and Nassau. There are a large number of ATMs in popular tourist areas, which cannot be said about the peripheral islands, where withdrawing money is quite problematic. Hotels, restaurants and exchange offices may charge quite a large commission for cashing travel checks, so be sure to check their terms and conditions before using their services. It is most profitable to use travel checks in US dollars.
FlightYou cannot fly from Russia to the Bahamas using a direct flight. Most best option- British Airways flight with a transfer in London (operates five times a week), taking about 13 hours. You can also fly to the USA, and from there, with the help of American airlines, to the capital of the Bahamas - Nassau. The disadvantage of this option is that such a trip requires an American transit visa. From the USA you can also get to the Bahamas by ferry (the trip takes about 5 hours).
ElectricityMains voltage - 110V, 60 Hz. American type sockets.
Car rentalTo rent a car in the Bahamas you need an international driver's license, passport and credit card. The driver must be at least 21-23 years old (depending on the rental company). Car rental offices are located at airports, large hotels and in central city areas.
Our adviceThe tourist areas of the Bahamas are quite safe, but you should follow the usual precautions: do not walk on the outskirts of the dark time days, watch your wallet, leave valuables in the safe.
You do not need to have any vaccinations to enter the country - they will only be needed if you are arriving in the Bahamas from an outbreak infectious diseases. It is advisable to be immunized against tuberculosis, diphtheria and hepatitis B. You should also avoid swimming in local fresh water bodies.
Tap water In the main cities it is safe, although it has a salty taste, so we recommend drinking bottled water. Water outside popular tourist areas may be contaminated and should not be drunk. Dairy products, meat, poultry, vegetables and fruits can be eaten without fear - their safety is monitored.
To protect yourself from the sun, you should use special creams, since the level of insolation in the Bahamas is very high. On excursions, it is advisable to wear light clothing that covers your shoulders.
The full name of the state is the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. The state consists of more than 3,000 islands, reefs and islets. The Bahamas is located north of Cuba and Haiti and close to Florida.
Originally settled by the Lucayans, originally from the Arawak tribe, the Bahamas became the first stop of Christopher Columbus back in 1492. Although the Spanish never colonized the Bahamas, they did send the Lucayans into slavery in Haiti, leaving the islands virtually deserted by 1513. In 1648, English colonists from Bermuda landed on the island of Eleuthera, and in 1718 the Bahamas became a crown colony.
Today, a constitutional monarchy remains the state's form of government, with Queen Elizabeth II represented by a governor general. The Bahamas has a parliamentary system of government, in which power is in the hands of a bicameral Parliament.
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Constitutional monarchy |
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Bahamian dollar |
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The religious composition of the population of the Bahamas is diverse: 35.4% are Baptists, 15.1% Anglicans, 13.5% Catholics, 15.2% of the population belong to other Christian denominations, another part are Methodists, Pentecostals, the Church of God, are atheists or undecided.
The state's economy is based on tourism. It accounts for more than 60% of GDP. In addition, the tourism sector provides employment to more than half of the country's working population.
Climate and weather
The north of the Bahamas has a tropical trade wind climate, while the south has a subtropical climate. It is formed by the warm Gulf Stream, the influence of which is dangerous, as it provokes hurricanes in the summer. Precipitation falls in the form of rain from May to October.
Temperatures in summer range from +26...+32 °C. On the southern islands the temperature can reach +40 °C, but thanks to the trade winds the heat is easily tolerated. In winter, the temperature is between +18…+22.
You can go on vacation to the Bahamas at any time of the year, but in the summer it can be very hot on the southern beaches.
Nature
By geological structure The Bahamas archipelago is a limestone plateau. Average height above sea level is 30 m, and the highest point of the Bahamas is Mount Alvernia on Ket Island, rising 63 meters above sea level. Due to the outcropping of salt-laden limestone, many of the islands have mangrove swamps, salt lagoon lakes and sandy beaches. There are practically no rivers on the islands, so there is very little fresh water.
The flora of the Bahamas is not very diverse and represented low growing bushes, cacti, aloe. Orchids and jasmine are growing.
The fauna is also not very diverse. In the Bahamas there are snakes, frogs, bats, and flamingos in the swamps and salt lagoons. In addition, a large number of migratory birds flock here to spend the winter.
But the underwater world of the Bahamas is simply amazing. The corals on the ocean floor are home to many species of fish that divers love. In the lagoons and creeks you can find mackerel and barracuda. There are sea turtles. The reefs are home to a huge number of corals, mollusks, and sponges.
Attractions
The Bahamas are considered the richest country in the region. Each island of the archipelago has that zest that will attract any tourist.
The Bahamian capital of Nassau has many interesting places to visit. For example, you can stroll along Bay Street, a street with numerous shops and boutiques; or visit the Adastra Gardens, the Retreat Gardens reserve, an underwater aquarium or the famous Cable Beach - an area of sandy beaches, hotels, and casinos. The heart of the city is the central square with the buildings of the Supreme Court, Parliament, and Colonial Administration. The visiting card of the city is the Atlantis Hotel. The most visited places by tourists are the old water tower with beautiful view overlooking the city and Queen Victoria's Staircase with 66 steps carved into the rock.
The city of Freeport is suitable for lovers of water sports, active recreation, playing golf and tennis. It is also worth visiting the Garden of the Groves, monuments ancient culture Arawak Indians, Rand Memorial Park.
In the city of New Bight on the island of Ket there is a unique architectural monument - the Hermitage, built on the top of Mount Alvernia. The Hermitage was built by an apostate priest in 1939. The work of Father Jerome includes the Church of the Savior on the same island and many beautiful monasteries and temples built on other islands of the archipelago.
Nutrition
Seafood is the basis of Bahamian cuisine. The national ingredient of the Bahamians is the conch sea snail. All kinds of salads, appetizers, and soups are prepared from this snail.
It is impossible to imagine local cuisine without rice and pea dishes. Spiny lobster is the most expensive dish. Very for a long time a variety of dishes and soup from sea turtles, which led this species of reptiles to extinction. It's worth trying the dish from sea bass, served with a sauce of mushrooms, onions, spices and white wine.
Dessert is usually served with fruits (melons, pineapples, papayas, mangoes), drinks whose key ingredient is rum, and the famous Bahamian johnny cake. Non-alcoholic drinks include tea, coffee, and Pepsi-Cola.
Bahamian cuisine borrowed a lot from British, American and African cuisine, but adapted it to local conditions and opportunities.
Large cities have a large number of restaurants, cafes and bars. On average, the bill per person in an inexpensive cafe will be $10-15. At the height of the tourist season, many cafes and restaurants are crowded, so you should take care in advance so as not to be left without dinner, for example.
Accommodation
In the Bahamas there is no classification system for hotels and inns, so the assignment of a “star” level here is made either by the owner of the rental premises or by the tour operator. Holidays in the Bahamas are considered very prestigious and expensive, which is why most hotels operate on an all-inclusive basis.
As a rule, guesthouses are located on the coast, which are mainly rented out to divers and surfers. Service in guesthouses may not always be perfect top level, but corresponds to its prices.
There are also hotel complexes consisting of bungalows. There are eco-hotels that use only natural products for food and get electricity from solar panels.
If staying in a hotel is not part of the tourist’s plans, there is always the opportunity to rent a room from the local population.
Entertainment and relaxation
Most people go to the Bahamas for beach holidays, diving and surfing. The coastal area of the archipelago is replete with beautiful sandy beaches, the most famous and popular of which is Pink Beach on Harbor Island. The most expensive beach holiday destination is the island of Eleuthera.
A large number of shallow reefs attract beginner divers. There is something to see underwater - sunken ships, underwater caves. Underwater feeding of sharks on the Abaco Islands, New Providence, and Long Island is very popular. Those who like a less extreme holiday will be offered swimming with dolphins.
Most hotels include water sports in the price, while some offer them for an additional fee. There are a large number of water sports centers concentrated on the islands of New Providence, Harbor Island and Grand Bahama.
The Jonkonu Festival is held twice a year in the Bahamas. Colorful processions are accompanied by musical performances and fireworks. Freeport hosts the National Windsurfing Championships every January. The Music Fest festival takes place in the last week of May. July 10 is Independence Day. The Bahamian Wine and Food Festival takes place at the end of September.
Nassau and Freeport have a large number of bars, restaurants, and clubs for nightlife lovers.
Purchases
Shops in the Bahamas are open Monday to Saturday from 9:00 to 13:00, followed by a lunch break and reopening from 15:00 to 17:00.
The world famous shopping street Bay Street is located in the old part of Nassau, and next to it is the Straw Market. In these places you can buy various goods, ranging from fashionable clothes world brands and ending with exquisite jewelry, accessories and handmade souvenirs.
The second popular shopping destination is the small island of Paradise. Here, avid shopaholics will find everything their heart desires at affordable prices.
It's best to go shopping in the morning weekday, since at this time they have the least number of people.
Prices for goods in the Bahamas are comparable to those in the United States. Lovers of the beautiful life will have to shell out about $200 a day. Those who are more modest in their needs will settle for $70-150 per day. And don’t forget that the Bahamas has a duty-free system.
Transport
The Bahamas has two major international airports - Lyndell Pindling International Airport in Nassau and Grand Bahama International Airport in Freeport. In addition to these main ones, the Bahamas has about 60 smaller airports. Nassau, Freeport and Mathew Town have seaports.
Railway connections, as well as public transport, not in the Bahamas. Transportation is carried out by cars, motorcycles, and bicycles, which can be rented. There are taxis in the capital. The fare is regulated by the government. So, the cost for a quarter mile when traveling in a taxi will cost $2, then the rate will be 30 cents per quarter mile.
Communication between the islands is carried out by ferries and boats.
The length of roads is 2,700 km, half of which are paved.
Connection
The communication system in the archipelago is well developed. Payphones are found everywhere, you can make international calls from them, and payment is made using a calling card. The rooms of almost every hotel have a telephone from which you can make local calls or make an international call through an operator, although this will be 10-15% more expensive than from a payphone.
Mobile communications are also well developed. Local telecom operators provide 100% coverage of the state territory.
Internet provider BaTelNet provides almost all types of services. The average connection cost is $5 per hour.
Safety
When traveling to the Bahamas, it is not necessary, but it is advisable, to be vaccinated against hepatitis B, diphtheria and tuberculosis. The widespread prevalence of HIV and AIDS in the region should also be taken into account.
Customs control is quite democratic. There are no restrictions on import and export foreign currency, but the export of local funds exceeding $70 must be accompanied by permission from the Central Bank of the Bahamas. The import ban applies to drugs, explosives, and weapons (without special permission).
The local population is quite friendly and ready to help if necessary. However, there are some restrictions and prohibitions. Not allowed fishing using underwater guns and other devices for these purposes.
Local authorities are waging a tough fight against drug trafficking: even drug use can result in imprisonment.
Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and theft are quite common in the Bahamas, so you need to be careful. It is not advisable for girls and women to walk alone after dark.
There is virtually no government oversight of local firms offering services active species sports, which entails frequent accidents and deaths during underwater fishing, diving, and surfing.
Road traffic in the Bahamas is on the left.
Business climate
The Bahamas are considered a paradise for businessmen. It is possible to register any offshore companies here. But it is worth keeping in mind that buying real estate imposes a ban on doing business. However, it is very profitable to invest in business real estate. There are benefits for hotel owners.
Doesn't exist in the Bahamas income tax, corporate tax, inheritance tax, property tax.
Real estate
Foreign citizens have the right to purchase both development land and other types of real estate in the Bahamas: villas, apartments, townhouses. There is a restriction on the area of real estate purchased by foreign citizens - it should not exceed 2 hectares, otherwise a special permit is required. The application for permission to purchase real estate must contain information about the buyer and seller, a description of the property and the purpose of its acquisition. After selecting an object in in writing A purchase offer is drawn up and an advance payment is made.
It is best to entrust the registration of real estate to a lawyer. The presence of the parties is not required. The purchased property is subject to mandatory insurance and registration with the Investment Council.
Average cost of 1 sq.m. comfortable housing in the Bahamas is $7,000. Buying a bungalow will cost $300,000-500,000, a villa will cost $500,000 or more, and a penthouse will cost $1,000,000-3,000,000.
To travel to the Bahamas you need to apply for a visa at the British Embassy. The visa is issued for a period of up to 90 days, unless it concerns employment.
Despite the high cost of services, you can save money in the Bahamas. Many hotels offer guests discount cards for entry to nightclubs for $5. This is a very advantageous offer, considering that on weekends entrance to the club costs from $50.
Prices for imported alcoholic drinks are very high, so if you want to save on alcohol, it is better to order local drinks, such as rum and beer.
Please note that tips in the Bahamas range from 10 to 15%, and some restaurants and hotels include this in the bill in advance.
The Commonwealth of the Bahamas is a state in the Atlantic Ocean located between the Florida Peninsula and the island of Cuba. The archipelago with a total area of 14 thousand kilometers and a population of 360 thousand people consists of 700 small tropical islands, only thirty of which are inhabited. The capital of the Bahamas is the city of Nassau, located on the large island of New Providence. The government system is a constitutional monarchy.
Bahamas on the world map
The state of the Bahamas is divided into 31 districts, the major cities are Nassau, Stella Maris, Andros Tau, Freeport. The bulk of the population is concentrated on the large islands of New Providence, Andros and Grand Bahama.
Tropical islands, washed by the warm Gulf Stream, annually attract thousands of vacationers to their snow-white sandy beaches. It is an international center for tourism and diving, a major offshore center and the richest state in the region. The islands themselves are made of coral and reef limestone. There are extensive shallow waters, the largest of which is the Grand Bahama Bank, which stretches for 530 kilometers.
The surface of the island is mostly flat; karst phenomena are observed, leading to the appearance of underground and underwater caves. The coast of the islands is replete with sandy beaches and many salt lakes that connect to the ocean. There are practically no rivers in the Bahamas, so there are problems with fresh water. Clean fresh water has to be obtained from deep karst wells.
Map of the Bahamas in Russian
The vegetation on the islands is represented by evergreen shrubs, cacti and mango thickets; a significant part of the territory is occupied by savanna. Evergreen tropical forests grow on the large islands, and along the coasts there are coconut trees.
The climate of the Bahamas is trade wind, tropical, there is almost all year round- summer. Even in January the temperature does not drop below +22°C. Winters are dry and short, and summers are hot and rainy. The rainy season lasts from May to October, and hurricanes occur frequently.
We can talk endlessly about the sights of the Bahamas. These are famous national parks and nature reserves, historical, natural and architectural monuments, luxury hotels and casinos with vibrant nightlife. It is interesting to visit ancient churches and relax in modern tourist complexes, visit magnificent botanical gardens and go down into the underwater kingdom to meet its inhabitants, see unique coral reefs and underwater caves. Photo materials used from Wikimedia © Foto, Wikimedia Commons
