Visiting The Bahamas For The First Time, Here Is What You Should Know

Around 6 million Americans visit the beautiful beaches in the Bahamas every year. They’re great place to vacation and a great place for the family. Miles of sandy beaches, sunshine, and drinks with umbrellas in them. What’s not to love? As they say on the islands: It’s all better in the Bahamas. There are, however, some ways to spend your time in the Bahamas that are better than others. So, if you’re visiting the Bahamas for the first time, here is what you should know.

If you want to visit the Bahamas, we can help. It’s only a short trip by boat from Miami or Ft. Lauderdale to the beautiful Bimini Islands, which is one of our most popular vacation destinations. Keep reading to find out more of what you need to know before visiting the Bahamas for the first time.

Bring Your Passport

Passport processing can take some time. If you don’t have a passport make sure that you give yourself enough time before you leave to get one. Trust us, you don’t want to get caught in customs, or worse, have to go home after not having the proper documentation.

Don’t Worry About Currency Exchange

The days of needing to exchange your U.S. currencies are over. Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and most debit cards are widely accepted throughout Nassau, Paradise Island, and most of the Bahamas. Some credit card companies may charge small international transaction fees, so it’s best to check with your provider before leaving home. It’s worth noting that most medical centers in the Bahamas only accept cash, so it’s not a bad idea to keep some on-hand in case of an emergency.

Bring Proof Of Your Return Ticket

You may be required to show proof that you will be returning home. This is rare, but it’s better safe than sorry! Make sure you’re prepared to show your return plane ticket when entering the Bahamas and yes, you do eventually need to go home

Use Wi-Fi

With Viber, Google Hangouts and WhatsApp there are more ways than ever to talk, text, and keep in touch with your friends and family. You no longer need to worry about skyrocketing phone bills. Luckily for you, you don’t need to worry about this when you’re traveling with The Advantaged because It all comes included.

Negotiate Your Taxi Fares

Even with Uber taking over the world, the Bahamas is still pretty dependent on classic, yellow-cab-style taxis. The problem is that most taxis in the Bahamas don’t use meters like they do in other major cities around the world. This can sometimes complicate things when you arrive. So make sure to settle your agreed upon fair beforehand. Otherwise, you could find yourself in a screaming match when you should be relaxing on a beach chair somewhere.

Stay Off Of New Providence Island

You’ve probably realized by now that we love the Bahamas. But the country does have its share of problems. And, sadly New Providence Island (which includes Nassau) is listed as a critical threat to tourists on most travel advisories. Criminal activity has spiked in recent years so to play it safe, it’s advisable to book your stay in The Outer Islands.

To book a trip to the Bahamas or to find out more please feel free to check out our website theadvantaged.com or give us a call at (786) 481-1357.