Getting Around Nassau
The Bahamas in actuality is in the Atlantic Ocean not far from the southern coast of Florida, although a lot of us has a perception that the islands are in the Carribbean. To be found on the New Providence Island, Nassau presents major historic tours and opportunities to visit a lot of attractions. There are also several finest restaurants, casinos, world-class shopping and the chance to experience every water sport imaginable.
Nassau is in the center of the cluster of over 700 islands. Those who have found home in this island are the Spanish conquerors, British colonists, Amerindians, pirates and rumrunners for the period of the Prohibition in the United States. There are about 210,000 people living in Nassau, which is approximately sixty percent of all of the Bahamians.
Two very large casinos are to be found in Nassau. On Paradise Island, there is the “Atlantis Resort and Casino” and on Cable Beach, it’s the “Crystal Palace Casino”. The gaming tables are only open from 10 am to 4 am, although you can play the slot machine at anytime of day or night.
You can have your own expedition around Nassau if you want, but then all of the cruise lines offer a variety of shore excursions to Nassau, which can also be an option for you. One way to get a swift tour of Nassau is taking a ride on the horse drawn surreys waiting for passengers at Rawson Square. Ensure to visit the statue of Queen Victoria that can be found in the Government buildings, which was established around the 1800s. You will notice British-style “Bobbies” directing traffic, and you will surely adore them. Also, take the time to look at all the tempting shops on Bay Street, maybe you’ll be able to see something that you will bring home as souvenirs.
Other means of transportation comprise of buses, motorbikes, rental cars, bicycles, taxis and limousines. Taxis are accessible all the time. Government controlled Jitney buses run from downtown to Cable Beach. From the port to Paradise Island, water taxis also make the trip.
When it is time for lunch…
You will stumble on ethnic foods from different parts of the world. There are also some fastfood chains which may seem familiar , which can be found in the Bahamas, for example Wendy’s, Pizza Hut etc., however don’t miss out on trying a few of the local dishes. From a local bakery you might try a slice of guava duff, which is a kind of pastry. A shell dwelling creature Conch is a local staple and is scrumptious once cooked properly. The clawless variety of Bahamian lobster is fairly appetizing. Other local delicacies are fried fish and johnnycakes. You will come across a lot of places where you can have lunch. You can find pretty much any sort of food you might be craving for. All served with a Bahamian twist.
When it is time for some shopping…
It’s overwhelming. If it is precious stone or jewelry you’re looking for, you will be able to find two shops along Bay Street bearing the green awning of Colombian Emeralds. These shops are where stones and jewelry are in all shapes, sizes and colors.
Famous for fragrances, jewelry and watches is the Little Switzerland. You will also be able to come across the local stores as well as the chains together with Solomon’s Mines. Everywhere there are liquor shops. You might want to get a bottle of a local liquor Nassau Royale for a souvenir. Batik cotton clothings from the island of Andros are available at Androsia, while hats, purses, bags and dolls are sold at the Straw Market.
For some attractions…
Once known as “Hog” Island, Paradise Island is currently one of the Bahamas’ largest tourist attractions in some way because of the “Atlantis Resort and Casino”. Atlantis was created by an African developer Sol Kerzner and his company Sun International. “Discover Atlantis” Tours are also available, although you can get a hold of a better deal through your cruise line.
For some recreational activities…
If you are a golfer, you can get hold of a round at the 18-hole golf course available at Cable Beach. On some of the world’s best beaches like Cable Beach and South Ocean Beach, you can do water sports like scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, boating, para-sailing, windsurfing, shark diving, or just swimming. You can be taken by any cab driver to any beach you would like to go or to whichever water excursion you might be longing to try.
The last time I was in Nassau I visited the pirate museum. It's a really nice thing. I don't know how authentic it is but it's interesting.
The last time I was in Nassau was 1973 and even though I live a boat ride away from the Bahamas, I still haven’t gotten over there since we moved here about 5 years ago.
What’s the scuba diving like at Cable Beach and South Ocean Beach? I heard that Nassau wasn’t as good as some of the other islands but it would be so convenient to be able to just fly over there and scuba dive – not to mention those other great attractions like casinos and shopping
.
Bahamas scuba diving is an excellent pick for diving on vacation. The waters are clear; and there is abundant fish, plant life and wrecks to see. You can see lush coral, sharks, sea turtles, and more. I
Bahamas scuba diving is an excellent pick for diving on vacation. The waters are clear; and there is abundant fish, plant life and wrecks to see. You can see lush coral, sharks, sea turtles, and more.
Best,
Chuck