HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE
Ambassadair Travel Club has created this useful information on the Internet to help you plan your trip. If you want to advance to one of the topics listed below, then just use the mouse to click on the topic you want to read. Here is a list of all areas covered in the Web Site Destination Info for Nassau: overview, map, activities, geography, interesting facts, sightseeing attractions, culture, accommodations, optional tours, dining, entertainment, shopping, currency, weather, time zone, getting around, proof of citizenship, language, packing suggestions, and health risks. If you have any suggestions or want to comment about Ambassadair's new destination information, then please email us at: journey@iflyata.com.
The city of Nassau, on the island of New Providence, is the capital of the Bahamas islands. This bustling port town attracts one million visitors annually and is a perennial favorite for Ambassadair Travel Club. Most Club members stay in resorts either on adjoining Paradise Island or Cable Beach, which are both just minutes from Nassau.
Known as the Atlantic City of the tropics, Nassau offers gambling opportunities galore, as well as plenty of Caribbean charm, turquoise waters, powder-soft beaches, and year-round sunshine, all set around pastel-tinted buildings and colorful gardens. Nassau is rich in colonial history and is very friendly to visitors. Nassau was long a vacation haven while Florida's Atlantic Coast was still a swamp. Formerly living under British rule, the people of the Bahamas took charge of their own destiny by claiming independence in 1972. Since then, the Ministry of Tourism has focused on world-class service to tourists. The island of New Providence is situated off the coast of Florida (only a 35-minute flight), and is part of a chain of more than 700 islands.
The architecture of Nassau still reflects its British heritage with the pink government buildings and a picturesque downtown. The four-block business district is worth a stroll for historic perspective, if not just for window shopping. From the days of pirates to the colorful fun of Junkanoo-Nassau offers adventure, excitement, and a paradise setting. With water sports, entertainment, casinos, shopping, and fine dining, you will find enough to invite you to consider Nassau for your next trip.
|
#
|
Key
|
Name of Attraction
|
Category
|
|
1
|
 |
Athol Island
|
Attraction
|
|
2
|
|
Rose Island
|
Attraction
|
|
3
|
|
Stingray City
|
Attraction
|
|
4
|
|
Dolphin Encounters
|
Attraction
|
|
5
|
|
Blue Lagoon Island
|
Attraction
|
|
6
|
 |
P.I. Golf Course
|
Golf Course
|
|
7
|
 |
Cabbage Beach
|
Beach
|
|
8
|
|
Paradise Beach
|
Beach
|
|
9
|
 |
Atlantis Paradise Island Casino
|
Casino
|
|
10
|
 |
Prince George Dock
|
Dock
|
|
11
|
|
Arawak Cay
|
Attraction
|
|
12
|
|
Crystal Cay Marine Park
|
Attraction
|
|
13
|
|
Saunder's Beach
|
Beach
|
|
14
|
|
Cable Beach Golf Course
|
Golf Course
|
|
15
|
|
Goodman's Bay
|
Attraction
|
|
16
|
|
Crystal Palace Casino
|
Casino
|
|
17
|
|
Cave's Beach
|
Beach
|
|
18
|
 |
Lake Nancy
|
Ecotour
|
|
19
|
|
Delaporte Point
|
Attraction
|
|
20
|
|
Orange Hill Beach
|
Beach
|
|
21
|
 |
Gambier Village
|
Village
|
|
22
|
|
Lyford Cay
|
Exclusive Private Residential
|
|
23
|
|
Clarion Resort & Golf Course
|
Golf Course
|
|
24
|
 |
Stuart Cove's Dive South Ocean
|
Dive Centre
|
|
25
|
|
Adelaide Beach
|
Beach
|
|
26
|
|
Adelaide Village
|
Village
|
|
27
|
|
Sun Skiff Divers
|
Dive Centre
|
|
28
|
|
Dive, Dive, Dive
|
Dive Centre
|
|
29
|
|
Nassau Scuba Center
|
Dive Centre
|
|
30
|
|
Botanic Gardens
|
Ecotour
|
|
31
|
|
Ardastra Gardens & Zoo
|
Attraction
|
|
32
|
 |
Fort Charlotte
|
Historical Attraction
|
|
33
|
|
Sun Divers Limited
|
Dive Centre
|
|
34
|
|
Rawson Square
|
Attraction
|
|
35
|
 |
Straw Market
|
Shopping
|
|
36
|
|
Queen's Staircase
|
Historical Attraction
|
|
37
|
|
Fort Fincastle
|
Historical Attraction
|
|
38
|
|
Water Tower
|
Attraction
|
|
39
|
|
Bay Street
|
Shopping
|
|
40
|
 |
Nassau Harbor
|
Harbour
|
|
41
|
|
Potter's Cay
|
Attraction
|
|
42
|
|
Bahama Divers
|
Dive Centre
|
|
43
|
|
Diver's Haven
|
Dive Centre
|
|
44
|
|
The Retreat
|
Ecotour
|
|
45
|
|
Montagu Bay
|
Beach
|
|
46
|
|
Fort Montagu
|
Historical Attraction
|
DIVING & SNORKELING
The waters of the Bahamas, covering more than 100,000 square miles, are so clear and shallow that you can easily see the ocean floor. From reefs to wrecks, there are endless spots to explore underwater. Among the impressive wrecks are Civil War gunships, rumrunners, and boats and planes sunk for movie sets. You will also find wall dives and coral reefs. While you can easily snorkel offshore, you will want to scuba dive with an organized trip. The Bahamas is home to good spots for diving and snorkeling where visibility can often reach 100 feet. Prices vary with operators-a shark dive costs US $115, one-tank dive costs US $40, and two-tank dive costs US $60.
Water Sports Tips:
Water temperatures average 80 degrees (rings slip off easily)
BEST DIVE SITES
BEST SNORKLING SITES
BEACHES
The Islands of New Providence and Paradise have good beaches with clean, white sand and beautiful turquoise water. Some of the more crowded beaches will have vendors seeking your business. If you want to be off the beaten path, you might have to walk, drive, or take a taxi a short distance from your hotel to enjoy more seclusion.
Cable Beach, on the north shore of New Providence Island, is lined with resorts and offers access to restaurants, casinos, shopping, water sports, bars, and golf. The popular beach got its name when the first underwater cable was laid in 1892, linking the Bahamian capital of New Providence to the mainland of Florida. During the 1930s, Cable Beach enjoyed increased awareness because of a nearby racetrack. With jet-skiers and beach vendors active, Cable is not a quiet place. Just west is Rock Point promontory, where the 1965 James Bond film, Thunderball, was made.
Adelaide Beach, at the end of Adelaide Village, sits on the south shore of New Providence Island. This beach stretches to Coral Harbour, and attracts mostly locals. Adelaide Beach is long and secluded enough that you will find a spot where you can easily sleep in the sun.
Cabbage Beach, on Paradise Island, stretches for 3 miles from the Atlantis lagoon to Snorkeler's Cove. Palms and sea grapes line
this sloping beach. The northwestern extension offers boat access and provides a little more solitude. Because this beach is near many resorts, it will likely be very crowded during peak season. Cabbage Beach is one of the most popular on Paradise Island.
Discovery Island access is only available via ferry from the Marriott Resort & Crystal Palace Casino. This small cay was known as Balmoral Island until 1992. It is close enough to shore that you can see it from Cable Beach. The soft sand and walking paths are the draws. The twice-hourly ferry is US $10 per person. 242-327-6200.
Love Beach on the north shore is a snorkeler's favorite. This beach is 9 miles from Nassau (about a 20-minute drive). Beach access is supposed to be limited to residents, but no one is in charge of shooing away the visitors. The beach is on the approach path of Nassau International Airport, so it might be noisy.
Old Fort Beach is on the unpopulated western tip of New Providence Island. This is the least developed major beach near Nassau. The best times to enjoy solitude are weekdays. The beach can be a bit windy during the winter months. The calmest time of the year for waterskiing is during summer.
Saunders Beach, just past the bridge that leads to Crystal Cay, serves locals seeking to avoid the tourists. The beach is sheltered by Coral Island and the water is calm. A cluster of food vendors is nearby. Saunders Beach is excellent for swimming and sunning.
Snorkeler's Cove Beach east of Cabbage Beach on Paradise Island, is deserted most of the time, unless you are there when a booze cruise pulls up and drops off 50 people. To get here, walk north from Cabbage Beach around a rocky point. You cannot reach this beach by road without trespassing.
South Beach, situated on the east end of New Providence Island, is a favorite with the locals who live on this part of the island. On weekdays, you will likely be the only one on this long, slender strand of sand.
Western Esplanade, in downtown Nassau, sweeps west from the British Colony Hotel on Bay Street. The beach has a snack bar, rest rooms, and a changing facility.
FISHING
Nassau is one of the best-known sport fishing regions in the world-the marlin is even captured on the $100 Bahamian bill. With more than 40 annual fishing tournaments in the Bahamas, the local fish are hunted for trophies. Of course Bimini, where the water is deep, was novelist Ernest Hemingway's favorite place to fish. From Nassau, you will find plenty of fishing tour options. The waters teem with barracuda, tuna, amberjack, bonefish, wahoo, marlin, tarpon, and kingfish. The Charter Boat Association can be contacted at 242-363-2335. Numerous operators will offer half-day, full-day, and week-long charters. Half-day boat charter rates range between US $300-$400 and full-day boat charter rates range between US $600-$800.
GOLF
Cable Beach Golf Club. At the Radisson Resort on Cable Beach. This 18-hole course is Par 72. The Cable Beach Golf Club has a snack bar, pro shop, golf pro, and practice facility. Toughest hole 4, easiest hole 7. Winter greens fees for 18 holes are US $95 for hotel guests staying at the Radisson Cable Beach Hotel and US $105 for others. Winter greens fees for 9 holes are US $70 for hotel guests and US $85 for others. Rental clubs are US $25. Carts are included in greens fees. Call for summer greens fees. Open daily 7 am-5:30 pm. Last tee-off at 3:30 pm. 242-327 6000 ext. 6749.
Paradise Island Golf Club. On Paradise Island, owned and operated by the Atlantis. The 40-year-old course is nestled along the ocean with the harbor guarding the south. The 27-hole course is par 72. Restaurant and snack bar, pro shop, golf pro, practice facility and lessons available. Toughest hole 12, easiest hole 15. Winter greens fees for 18 holes are US $109 for hotel guests staying at the Atlantis and US $155 for others. Winter greens fees for 9 holes are US $86 for hotel guests and US $105 for others. Rental clubs are available for US $35. Carts are included in greens fees. Call for summer greens fees. Open daily 7 am-6 pm. 242-363-3925.
South Ocean Golf Club. At Clarion Resort on South Ocean Road. PGA-rated 18-hole championship course, designed by architect Joe Lee. Par 72, pro shop, golf pro, driving range, and putting green. Toughest hole 12, easiest 15. Restaurant and snack bar. Winter greens fees for 18 holes are US $80 for hotel guests staying at the Clarion Resort and US $95 for others. Carts are US $45 per person. Winter greens fees for 9 holes are US $45 for hotel guests and US $50 for others. Rental clubs are available for US $25. Lessons are US $30 for half-hour. Call for summer greens fees. Open weekdays 7:30 am-6 pm. and weekends 7 am-6 pm. 242-362-4391.
The region known as the Bahamas stretches 750 miles across the Atlantic Ocean with the north edge just 40 miles east of Florida and the south edge 70 miles from Haiti. The island chain is divided by the Tropic of Cancer. If all the 700-plus islands that make up the Bahamas were joined together, the land would actually be smaller than the entire state of Connecticut. This is the only Caribbean nation that does not touch the Caribbean Sea. An underwater gouge called the Tongue of the Ocean is one of the deepest ocean canyons known, with sheer, coral-studded cliffs that drop nearly two miles. The canyon separates New Providence Island and the Exumas on the east rim. If the present sea level were to rise 120 feet, all of the islands of the Bahamas would disappear under the sea. If sea level fell by 120 feet, dry land would fill 10 times its present area-forming just two islands for the Bahamas.
The formation of the Bahama Banks mystifies geologists. There is no evidence of any volcanic activity. Gigantic coral reefs have been building up for 135 million years-almost since the Atlantic Ocean was first formed. The mystery is that coral best grows in warm waters 90 feet or less and cannot grow at all below 130 feet-yet drilling samples reveal that the petrified coral limestone of the Bahamas exists at leave 4,000 feet. This means that the banks are sinking into the sea at exactly the same rate that they are building up.
Legend of Atlantis. The Atlantis tale was first recorded by the Greek philosopher Plato. It is speculated that the survivors of the earthquake and flood that destroyed Atlantis traveled 650 miles by boat to become the builders of the ancient Maya pyramid in the Yucatan. Some have believed that the race of clairvoyant humans who lived in Atlantis is the source of all civilization. In 1958 a scientific expedition reported what appeared to be a half-mile-long undersea highway of huge, square, evenly aligned stone blocks in the Atlantic Ocean. Divers confirmed that this exists, and it is now called the Bimini Wall.
The Legend of Blackbeard. The notorious Edward Teach, more commonly known as Blackbeard, is an everlasting legend in Bahamian lore. His fiendish beard twisted in red ribbons and his fierce eyes staring in a wild gaze would drive fear into the hearts of every man, woman, and child. Blackbeard enjoyed his visits to Nassau and for good reason. This island offered the perfect getaway-a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the spoils of his riches. It is said that on this very same island, which has since become known as Blackbeard's Cay, all the pirates would gather for one last party before heading back to work on the high seas.
Ardastra Gardens and Zoo. A five-acre attraction with paths to explore. Native trees and plants are identified with signs. The zoo has native iguanas, parrots, and exotic species from the Caribbean, and Central and South American. The zoo's claim to fame is a flock of trained pink flamingos, which march on parade in response to voice command. Flamingo shows are Mon-Sat at 11 am, 2 pm, and 4 pm. Cost is US $12 for adults, $6 kids 4-12. On Chippenham Road just south of West Bay Street. 242-323-5975.
Bacardi Distillery. The factory was established in 1962. You can sample a wide range of well-known rum products at the Visitors Pavilion. The distillery makes Bacardi Anejo, Bacardi 8 Year Old, Bacardi Select, Bacardi Light, Bacardi Gold, Bacardi Limon, and Nassau Royale. Admission is free. Call to see if public tours are offered during your stay. 242-362-1412.
Fort Charlotte. An 18th-century fort with waterless moat, drawbridge, ramparts, and dungeons. No shots were ever fired from the fort in battle. Admission is free. One mile west of Nassau's West Bay Street on Chippingham Road. Open daily 8 am-4 pm.
Hairbraider's Centre. While one person's art is another person's bad hair day-you can pay to have your hair braided in a do that is sure to get attention back home. The cost varies with the number of braids, typically US $5-$20. This centre was opened after the government banned hair braiders from the Straw Market. The Hairbraider's Centre is between the cruise ship dock and Rawson Square.
Junkanoo Expo. A brightly painted warehouse in downtown Nassau housing a museum dedicated to the Junkanoo celebrations that have been a part of this nation for more than a century. Junkanoo is part parade, part dance performance, part athletic contest held on Boxing Day (December 26) and on New Years' Day. Junkanoo originated from rituals that originated during the colonial days of slavery, when African-born newcomers could legally drink and enjoy themselves only on certain strictly predefined days of the year. The museum displays the colorful customs and masks. In Nassau at Woods Rogers Walk along the waterfront. Cost is US $1. Open daily 9 am-5:30 pm. 242-356-2731.
National Historical Society Museum. A great place to learn about the history of the Bahamas. Exhibits trace the island's people and life before Columbus' landing to today. Admission free. In Nassau on Shirley Street. 242-322-4231.
Nassau Botanic Gardens. More than 600 different species of tropical flora in this lush 16-acre park. It's located at the quarry used to provide limestone blocks for all the government buildings in downtown Nassau. On Chippingham Road near Fort Charlotte. Open Mon-Fri 8 am-4 pm. Sat-Sun 9 am-4 pm. Cost is US $1 adults and US 50 cents children. 242-323-5975.
Pompey Museum. Named after the leader of a slave revolt, this museum contains the historical displays on slavery in the Bahamas. Interesting paintings by well-known Bahamian artist Amos Ferguson. West Bay and George Streets. Admission. 242-326-2566.
Rawson Square. Directly south of Prince George Wharf is this town square, which is a good starting point for exploring downtown Nassau. The Ministry of Tourism office is here-you can pick up a free map, and free guided walking tours of Old Nassau are available. In the center of the square is a bronze statue of Sir Milo Butler, the first governor of the Bahamas after the country gained independence.
Straw Market. In downtown Nassau on Bay Street is the most authentically Bahamian part of this destination-a cornucopia of color, atmosphere, and enterprise known as the Straw Market. The little lanes are packed with vendors' stalls offering a wide variety of goods. Everything is for sale including handbags, hats, and placemats. The woven straw is the fiber from the palm fronds. Straw work is the most widespread handicraft in the Bahamas. To keep up with the tourist demand, vendors now sell goods imported from Asian and Latin America. Bargaining is expected and widely encouraged. Admission free.
The Caves. Large limestone caverns that the waves have sculpted over the years were once shelter for the early Indians. On West Bay Street and Blake Road.
The island people were settlers who originally came from South America. Known as Arawaks, they are also called Lucayans. Columbus, who mistakenly thought he found the East Indies when he dropped anchor in San Salvador in 1492, called them Indians. Then English settlers who left Bermuda in 1647 searching for religious freedom formed the first British colony on the Island of Eleuthera, and started growing crops. The islands attracted many pirates, such as Blackbeard, Henry Morgan, and Anne Bonney, who dominated the islands for seven decades. Their chief occupation was luring unsuspecting ships into the treacherous, shallow waters, then pouncing on and plundering them. Britain, which claimed the islands in 1670, remained powerless against these predations for almost 50 years.
Troubled times in America often meant prosperity for the Bahamas. During the Civil War, the Union blockaded the islands in an attempt to cripple the Confederacy, and Bahamians grew rich running Confederate cotton to English mills and sending military equipment to Confederate rebels. During Prohibition, the Bahamas became a base for rumrunning. During World War II, the islands served as a sea and air base in the Atlantic. Today, there are no hard feelings regarding this history, as Americans flock to Nassau to enjoy the ideal weather and great vacation options.
ATLANTIS
P.O. Box N 4777
Nassau, The Bahamas
242-363-3000
www.atlantis.comThe 650-acre oceanfront complex on Paradise Island offers the world's largest aquarium and a variety of entertainment, including the island's largest casino and a water park with a slide down the side of a Mayan pyramid. The main theme here is water-for swimming, snorkeling, and watching marine life. Atlantis has 3 interconnected towers that offer a great escape. Atlantis is the largest resort in the Bahamas-and many claim there are few anywhere else in the world that match its magnitude. The resort is so huge that you will see a parade of tourists who simply want to enjoy the view. All of Ambassadair's rooms are located in the new Royal Towers-considered the crown jewels of Atlantis. The architecture and décor are very original with unique murals, sculpture, and fountains. The great hall of the Royal Towers has a ceiling with a dome of golden shells standing 70 feet and open on one side to the marina and the other side opens to underwater streets teeming with fish and Atlantean artifacts. The guest rooms have balconies, fully-stocked service bar, iron and ironing board, hair dryer, in-room safes, and either a king-size bed or 2 queen beds.
Atlantis offers the following amenities:
- 14-acre waterscape park with living saltwater habitat
- World's largest aquarium with 3.2 million gallons of water and 13,000 tropical fish
- 100-foot underwater clear tunnel for shark observation
- 90-foot suspension rope bridge and 40 waterfalls
- 2 free-form pools covering more than 120,000 square feet
- Water slides includes Mayan Temple, leap of faith, serpent slide, challenger slide, and jungle slide
- Lazy river ride
- Casino and showroom
- Water sports: snorkeling, windsurfing, sea kayaking, wave runners, parasail, and banana ride
- Sports center with basketball, volleyball, and tennis
- Fitness center open 6 am-7 pm
- Full-service spa with sauna, steam room, massage therapy, and beauty salon
- Fresh seawater thalassotherapy pool overlooking ocean
- 44 acre marine habitat with underwater passages and 100,000 marine animals
- 18 restaurants and 20 bars
- Discovery Channel Camp for kids
BREEZES BAHAMAS
P.O. Box CB 13049
Nassau, The Bahamas
242-327-5356
www.breezesbahamas.comThe all-inclusive resort sits on Cable Beach. Breezes Bahamas is 5 miles (10-minute drive) from the Nassau International Airport and 5 miles from downtown Nassau, known as the shopping mecca of the Bahamas, with duty-free shops. Child age restrictions vary throughout the year. Please call a Travel Counselor for exact age restrictions by date. The 400-room resort has eight stories on the west wing and four stories on the east wing. Rooms have either two double beds or a king-size bed. All rooms are air-conditioned, equipped with satellite TV, direct dial telephone, hair dryer, safe deposit box, coffeemaker, soap and shampoo dispensers, CD player, AM/FM radio, iron and ironing board.
Breezes Bahamas offers the following amenities:
- 3 swimming pools include sip and dip pool, misting pool, and Jacuzzi
- Daily activities including water sports center with windsurfing, kayaks, waterskiing, and sailing
- Scuba diving lessons in swimming pool free of charge
- Motorized water sports available at additional cost
- 3 lighted tennis courts with free instruction
- Beach and pool volleyball, basketball, table tennis, indoor games, and jogging trail
- Health and fitness center, aerobics, and jogging trail
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner served buffet style
- Dinner in casual elegance at Pastafari, a pasta bar (long pants required)
- Snacks available at pool grill midday to early evening
- Hurricanes Disco and Pelican Piano Bar
- Live entertainment nightly 8:30 pm-midnight in lobby lounge
- Special theme nights include Toga party, pajama party, guest and staff talent show, tropical shows, and Junkanoo Jamboree
- Reggae dance contest and classes
- Game room with satellite TV
- Afternoon tea
- Bicycle tours
- Flying trapeze and trampoline clinics
- Valet service and rental car agency
- Handicap accessible
COMFORT SUITESP.O. Box SS 6202
Nassau, The Bahamas
242-363-3680
www.comfortsuites.comThis low-rise garden hotel with 150 rooms is conveniently located next to the Atlantis. Guests receive complimentary breakfast daily and access to all the members-only amenities at the Atlantis. A yellow pass allows entry to Atlantis attractions. The casino, however, is open to the public. The guest rooms have living room area, either 2 double beds or king-size bed, hair dryer, in-room safe, fully-stocked bar, voice mail telephone service.
Comfort Suites offer the following amenities:
- Swimming pool with swim-up bar in tropical setting
- Full access to amenities at Atlantis
- Complimentary breakfast 7 am-10:30 am
- Garden Restaurant open lunch only
- Tour desk
- Guest laundry
- Handicap accessible
British Colonial Hilton Nassau
Number One Bay Street
Nassau, The Bahamas
242-322-3301
www.nassau.hilton.comBuilt on the site of the Old Fort Nassau, this landmark property downtown offers convenience and style. Recently renovated, it’s located on a private white-sand beach and features charming colonial-Caribbean flair. Walk to historic sights, the Straw Market, and the ferry to Paradise Island. Rooms feature cable TV, internet access, iron and ironing boards, air-conditioning, minibars, voice mail, electronic safes, hairdryers, and coffeemakers. Other recreation facilities nearby include a casino, golf course, tennis courts, and horseback riding.
The British Colonial Hilton offers the following amenities:
- Four restaurants and two bars
- Fitness center and spa
- Beach volleyball
- Business center
- Babysitting service
- Concierge desk
- Currency exchange
- Activity desk
- Newsstand
- Gift shop
- Pool
- Watersports center
- Room service
- Handicap accessible
Sheraton Grand Resort
Casino Drive, P.O. Box SS 6307
Nassau, The Bahamas
242-363-3500
www.sheraton.com/paradiseislandPolished features meld with Bahamian flair at this traditional resort on Paradise Island. The hotel shines from a recent renovation, complementing the wide, uncluttered beach. All rooms feature a balcony with ocean view, cable TV, minibar, coffeemaker, hairdryer, iron and ironing board, safe, voicemail, and dataport. The Sheraton is just a short drive or water taxi ride away from duty free shopping and all the excitement of downtown Nassau.
The Sheraton Grand offers the following amenities:
- Four restaurants, two bars
- Tennis courts
- Fitness center
- Concierge desk
- Kids club
- Pool
- Bicycles for guest use
- Watersports center
- Room service
- Gift shop
- Beauty salon
- Laundry service
- Babysitting service
- Car rental desk
Ambassadair Travel Club offers several optional tours in Nassau. We advise you to book these before your trip by calling 800-225-9919. Ambassadair's reservations staff will be able to inform you of the cost. A Travel Director will provide necessary information while you are on site in Nassau. Depending on the length of your trip, optional tours may vary.
Dolphin Encounter is a popular way to see a dolphin sanctuary on a beautiful Blue Lagoon Island, the home of Universal Pictures' Flipper. You will take a 20-minute scenic boat ride to get there. Then you will participate in a talk and learn about the dolphin's life. The intelligent mammals are so close that you can touch and interact with them as you stand in waist-deep water. Bring your towel, swimsuit, sunscreen, a change of clothing, camera, and money for personal expenses. Transfers and gratuities are not included in the cost of this optional tour. Professional personalized photos and videos are available to purchase. You may use your own cameras, but the dolphins do splash a lot.
Snorkeling Tour allows you to visit several shallow spots that were used as locations to shoot the underwater sequences for the films Splash and Cocoon. The depths of the water are between 10 and 25 feet. Snorkeling equipment is included in the cost of half-day optional tour. Gratuities are not included.
Travelers to Nassau and Paradise Island can choose from more than 100 restaurants. Along with Bahamanian cuisine, experience the tastes of Japan, China, England, France, and Italy. Some of the more local dishes include crack' conch, sheep tongue souse, boil' fish, peas 'n rice, Bahamian macaroni and cheese, and chicken souse. Most resorts will offer multiple restaurant choices-so you could spend your entire vacation dining at your resort (especially if you are staying at an all-inclusive one). Food served in Nassau is often imported from the United States.
Dining Tips:
NASSAU RESTAURANTS
$$$=EXPENSIVE (US $40-$100)
$$= MODERATE (US $30-$40)
$ = INEXPENSIVE (under US $30)Nassau Restaurant
Bahamian Kitchen Trinity Place off Market Street Seafood 242-325-0702 $$ Open Mon-Sat 11:30 am- 10 pm. Bahamian seafood, chicken, and soups.
Buena Vista Delancy Street Bahamian seafood 242-322-2811 $$ Open Mon-Sat 7:30-9:30 pm. Historic 1800s mansion, which has been a restaurant since 1946. Extensive wine list. Jackets suggested.
Café Matisse Bank Lane, behind Parliament Square Continental 242-356-7012 $$$ Open daily noon-11 pm. Homemade pasta. Cute courtyard for outside dining. Reservations suggested
Café Skans Bay Street Bahamian 242-325-5536 $ Open breakfast, lunch and dinner 7:30 am-10 pm. Next to Straw Market. Informal. Cheap and fast food.
Cellar and Garden Patio 2 Charlotte Street at Bay Street Bahamian 242-322-8877 $$ Open Mon-Sat 11 am-4 pm. Homemade Bahamian food in turn-of-the-century home.
Chez Willie West Bay Street, west of British Colonial Hilton French/Bahamian 242-322-5364 $$ Open Mon-Sat dinner 7-11pm. Dine in an old Bahamian home with romantic setting. Valet parking.
Crocodiles East Bay Street Caribbean 242-323-3341 $$ Open daily 11 am-10:30 pm. Happy hour 5 pm-7:30 pm. Informal setting with palms and thatched umbrellas. Nice view of harbor.
Conch Fritters Bar & Grill Marlborough Street near British Colonial Hilton Bahamian/American 242-323-8778 $$ Open daily 7 am-midnight daily. Free delivery in downtown area. Satellite TV. Live entertainment Tue-Sun 7-11 pm.
Conch Vendor's Village Off West Bay Street/Near Fort Charlotte Seafood no phone $ Open 11 am-5 pm. Authentic, affordable food. Dine with locals, who stand while eating seafood vendors prepare in stands.
Gaylord's Dowdeswell Street near Victoria Avenue Indian 242-356-3004 $$$ Open daily noon-3 pm and 6:30 pm-11 pm. Valet parking available. Classic atmosphere in historical building.
Graycliff West Hill Street Continental 242-322-2796 $$$ Open Mon-Fri noon-3 pm and nightly 7--10:30 pm. Named best dining in the Bahamas. Reservations required.
Mama Lyddy's Place Market Street at Cockburn Street Bahamian 242-328-6849 $ Open Mon-Thu 8 am-7 pm and Fri-Sat 8 am-8 pm, Sun 8 am-3 pm. Off beaten track-for true Bahamian cooking.
Montagu Gardens East Bay Street Steaks/Seafood 242-394-6347 $$$ Open Mon-Sat 11:30-3 pm and 6-11 pm. Dining room is a walled courtyard and beautiful garden.
Sugar Reef East Bat Street at Deveaux Street Seafood 242-356-3065 $$ Open daily lunch 11 am-3 pm and dinner 6-10:30 pm. Conch, shark, and lobster dishes. A great night view of the harbour.
Sun and …" Lake View Road near Shirley Street French 242-393-1205 $$$ Open Tue-Sun 6-10 pm. Difficult to find, so a taxi is recommended. Reservations, jacket, and tie are required.
The Pink Pearl Café East Bat Street just east of original bridge Caribbean 242-394-6413 $$ Open daily lunch 11:30 am-3 pm and dinner 6 pm-midnight. Great service. Creative cuisine.
The Poop Deck East Bay Street Seafood 242-393-8175 $$ Open daily noon-10:30 pm. Happy hour 5-7 pm daily. Terrace on the water with a nice view of Paradise Island..
Cable Beach
Androsia Seafood Restaurant Cable Beach Shopper's Haven Seafood 242-327-7805 $$$ Open daily 6-10 pm. Nautical atmosphere in German-run eatery. Specialty is peppersteak au Paris. Reservations recommended
Cafe Johnny Canoe Next to Nassau Beach Hotel Bahamian 242-327-3373 $ Open daily 7:30 am-midnight. Live entertainment Thu-Sun 7:30 pm-midnight. Happy hour 2-for-1 cocktails 4 pm--6:30 pm.
Dicky Mo's Next to Radisson Cable Beach Resort Seafood/Steaks/Ribs 242-327-7854 $$$ Closed lunch. Open daily dinner 4:30-11 pm. Friendly staff and live Bahamian music every night except Monday.
Round House Restaurant Casuarinas Hotel American/Bahamian 242-327-8153 $$ Open daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner 6 am-10 pm. Family-run with highly-acclaimed cuisine.
Sole Mare Nassau Marriott Resort Italian 242-327-6200 $$$ Closed lunch. Open 5-11:30 pm. Ocean view with elegant setting. Imported meats and cheeses.
Paradise Island
Anthony's Caribbean Grill Across from Comfort Suites Seafood/Steaks 242-363-3152 $ Open 11:30 am-11 pm breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Specialty is Junkanoo steak/soca tuna. Kid's menu. Happy hour daily 3-6 pm.
Bahamian Club Atlantis Continental 242-363-3897 $$$ Open daily 6-10 pm. Couples can waltz on the dance floor to soft piano music. A clubby British atmosphere.
Villa d'Este Atlantis on Bird Cage Walk Italian 242-363-3897 $$ Open daily 6-10 pm. Classic pasta. Resort casual dress. Reservations required.
Nassau offers a lively nightlife. The entertainment is not confined to the resorts. Numerous bars, dance clubs, and nightclubs are along Cable Beach, Paradise Island, and a few are in downtown Nassau. For those who enjoy dancing and music, the options range from all-night clubs to resort parties for guests only. Most dance clubs do not begin hopping until 11 pm-and mostly on weekends. The drinking age in the Bahamas is 18, but you must be 21 to gamble.
U.S. citizens are entitled to a US $600 duty-free exemption after being away for 48 hours. If you purchase more than $600 worth of goods, the next $1,000 is taxed at 10 percent. The main shopping is in Nassau along Bay Street. Nassau shops bulge with duty-free merchandise where the savings range between 30-50 percent in quality crystal, fine watches, china, perfume, gems, jewelry, porcelain, glass, leather, and of course the local favorites from the Straw Market-where you can haggle for real bargains in straw work, wood carvings, and shell-work. Business hours are Mon-Sat 8 am-6 pm. Many stores are closed on Sundays. When cruise ships are anchored in the harbor, stores often extend hours. There is no sales tax on items purchased.
JEWELRY
Nassau at 284 Bay Street. 242-322-4391.
on fine jewelry with international guarantees. In Nassau on corner of Bay and King Streets opposite of Straw Market. 1-800-661-jewel or 242-322-2214.
ART/ANTIQUES/COINS
something interesting to get your attention. In the International Bazaar. Open Mon-Fri 10 am-6 pm. 242-351-8391.
FOOD/LIQUOR/CIGARS
LUXURY ITEMS
The U.S. dollar is on par with the Bahamian dollar and is accepted all over the Bahamas. If someone offers you a $3 bill, you are not being conned. The rare bill is an unusual souvenir. American currency is always accepted, as are major credit cards. Banking hours are 8 am-noon and 1:30 pm-4 pm Mon-Fri.
Climate
The Bahamas are affected by the tradewind flow generated by high pressure, which makes the climate vary little during the year. From December to May, the average temperature is between 70°-75°F. The rest of the year the temperature hovers between 80°-85°F. It is during this time that Nassau can be hot and humid and prone to tropical storms. The average rainfall is 53 inches a year-even more than Seattle, but 80 percent of the rain comes during May and October. Hurricane season runs from July 1 to November 30, with the most serious storms hitting between August and October. Hurricanes happen less frequently in the Bahamas than in the Caribbean.Time Zone
Nassau is on Atlantic Standard Time all year and does not observe Daylight Savings Time.
RENTAL CARS
The British custom of driving on the left-hand side of the road is practiced here. However, the steering wheel will be on the left side as in the United States. The speed limit throughout Nassau is 25 mph, except in school zones where it is reduced to 15 mph. In order to rent, you will need a valid driver's license. Minimum age varies with each rental agency. During peak seasons, holidays, and spring break, cars are scarce. Here are a few rental car agencies on the island:
BUSES
Nassau offers frequent bus service, the cheapest way to get around. The small buses are known as jitneys. The service runs from 6:30 am-6 pm. Fares cost $1 per person. Bus drivers do not have change available. The buses run on island time, but generally one will pass along the resorts every 10 minutes. You must be standing on the sidewalk next to the bus stop. When you are seeking a bus in Nassau to return to a Cable Beach resort, the buses congregate on Bay Street near the British Colonial Hotel, one block from the Straw Market.
TAXIS
Plenty of taxis are available. The taxi drivers are friendly and informative. Most drivers charge fixed fares for standard routes. Approximate fares are: Airport to Cable Beach-US $12; Airport to downtown-US $18; Airport to Paradise Island-US $21; Cable Beach to downtown-US $8; Cable Beach to Paradise Island-US $12; and Paradise Island to downtown-US $7. A US $1 charge is added to routes to Paradise Island to cover the toll bridge fee. We recommend that you agree on a fare with the taxi driver prior to taking the cab, or ask for the meter to be turned on. Taxis can also be hired hourly for sightseeing tours, which costs about US $23 per hour with a two-hour minimum. Taxi Dispatch 242-323-5111 or 242-323-5555.
WATER TAXI
Operates daily 9 am-5:30 pm at 20-minute intervals between Paradise Island and Prince George Wharf in downtown Nassau. Roundtrip cost is US $3 per person.
During the day, dress in lightweight sport and casual clothing. Nassau is informal. Swimwear is seen in and around the resort areas, but people usually do not wear swimsuits away from the beach. Only a few restaurants require jackets for men and dresses for women. None of the casinos have dress requirements.
WOMEN.Women wear blouses, skirts, slacks, sundresses, shorts, and swimwear. Slacks, shorts, dresses, or skirts are best for shopping in town. You will want to add a sweater or jacket if you are heading for a sunset cruise.
MEN.
Men favor slacks, shorts, sport shirts, and swim trunks.
If you are packing any devices that require electricity, you will be able to use them in Nassau because the electricity is 110-220 volts AC, 60 cycles-the same as the United States.
Entering the Country. Proof of citizenship and a photo ID are required for U.S. visitors. You will need either a valid passport or driver's license and government-issued birth certificate. Plus you will need to present a return ticket. If you do not have the proper proof of citizenship, you will be denied boarding.
The official language is English.
Use plenty of sunscreen. Skin cancer is a risk after overexposure to the sun.
Copyright © 2005
Ambassadair Travel Club
DINING
AND FOOD IN NASSAU
