Where the Bahamas belong to whom? Holidays in the Bahamas
The Bahamas are famous great beaches, beautiful underwater world and unique culture. The archipelago includes about 700 islands, of which only 40 are inhabited. Local resorts perfect for 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 official name- 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 a 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 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, making the underwater world of the Bahamas look very picturesque. Adding to its beauty are numerous 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 rainforests, however, 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 different kinds 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. The most common species are bats, frogs, snakes, lizards, as well as birds - red flamingos, pelicans, herons, etc. Near the coasts there are numerous species of fish - mackerel, barracuda, Atlantic sailfish, etc. Thanks to this, fishing in the Bahamas is very exciting class.
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 customsThe main characteristic of the Bahamians is their leisurely pace; on the islands it is not customary to rush anywhere. Locals They 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.
Concerning culinary traditions, then on Bahamas they are closely related to seafood. Char-baked shells, crabs, shrimp, fish cakes, seafood salads, various variations of dishes with conch snail, reef snapper in tomato or anchovy sauce, soup with lime juice, celery, meat and onions - these delicacies can be found in menus of almost all restaurants in the archipelago. The cuisine of the Bahamas was greatly influenced by the British colonialists, which is why traditional English dishes prepared taking into account local peculiarities. 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 and residents of neighboring islands Caribbean 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, connecting with departed ancestors and spirits the afterlife etc. Followers of the Obeah believe that evil spirits live in the silk cotton plant, 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. International credit cards 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 traveller's checks, so check the terms and conditions before using their services. It is most profitable to use travel checks in US dollars.
FlightFly from Russia to the Bahamas using direct flight it is forbidden. Most the 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 rentTo 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 urban areas.
Our adviceThe tourist areas of the Bahamas are quite safe, but you should follow the usual precautions: do not walk around the outskirts at night, 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 a hotbed of 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 is safe, although it tastes salty, so drinking bottled water is recommended. Water is out of popular tourist areas may be contaminated - you should not drink it. 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.
- a state in the West Indies. Located on 700 small islands and islets and on two and a half thousand coral reefs stretching from the south-west east coast Florida to the east coast of Cuba. About 40 islands are inhabited.
The name of the country comes from the Indian name for “island” - “bahama” and the Indian name for “island” - “bahama”.
Official name: Commonwealth of the Bahamas (Bahamas)
Capital: Nassau
The area of the land: 13.9 thousand sq. km
Total Population: 310 thousand people
Administrative division: The state is divided into 21 districts.
Form of government: A constitutional monarchy.
Head of State: The Queen of Great Britain, represented by the Governor General.
Population composition: 85% are blacks and mulattoes, 12% are whites (British, Canadians, Americans), 3% are Asians and Latin Americans.
Official language: English. Bahamians speak with a local accent and use a number of words derived from the Arawak Indian language as well as African languages.
Religion: 32% are Baptists, 20% are Anglicans, 19% are Catholics, 6% are Methodists.
Internet domain: .bs
Mains voltage: ~120 V, 60 Hz
Telephone code countries: +1-242
Climate
The climate here is subtropical, very mild. This is influenced by the warm Gulf Stream current, as well as the constantly blowing southeast wind from the equator (trade wind).
Throughout the year, average monthly temperatures do not fall below +20 degrees. The coolest month is January, when the temperature drops to +17 degrees at night and reaches +25 degrees during the day. The hottest time of the year is July and August. The average minimum temperature at this time drops to +24 degrees, the maximum reaches +32 degrees.
The driest months are February and March, with monthly precipitation of about 40 mm. The rainiest time of the year is the period from May to October, in which the monthly rainfall ranges from 150 to 220 mm. At this time, tropical hurricanes are possible, characteristic of all Caribbean region.
The water temperature in the coastal parts of the country warms up to +30 degrees from August to October, while in other months it stays at +25...+27 degrees.
Geography
The Bahamas is located in the west Atlantic Ocean, at the latitude of the Northern Tropic, near the American continent (100 km from the Florida Peninsula). These are about 700 islands, with a total area of 13.9 thousand sq. km., and only 30 of them are inhabited. Most of the islands are coral reefs.
From the east the Bahamas are washed by warm current Gulf Stream. The islands are raised relative to sea level from a few meters to approximately 60 meters. The highest point of the country - 63 m, is located on Kat Island. The relief of the islands is flat.
On the shores facing the ocean, a series of marine terraces can be traced. On the west coast there are many salty lagoon lakes, as well as karst lakes and swamps. In some places along the coast there is a strip of sandy beaches. There are no rivers in the archipelago.
Flora and fauna
Vegetable world
Coconut palms, bananas, agave, oranges, and pineapples grow on the islands. Natural vegetation on the drier eastern islands is xerophytic, dominated by cacti and aloes.
Most of the islands were originally dominated by tropical forests. Currently, many of them have been removed, and low-growing shrubs are growing in their place. Where forests have been preserved (on the islands of Andros, Great and Little Abaco, Grand Bahama), valuable broad-leaved tree species such as redwood (mahogany), logwood and ironwood, as well as Caribbean pine, are common.
In broad-leaved forests, bougainvillea, jasmine, orchids and other plants with beautiful and delicately scented flowers grow in abundance. On some islands, artificial plantings of casuarina, mahogany and a number of tropical conifers have been created.
Animal world
The fauna of the Bahamas is poor. There are very few mammals, of which bats are the most numerous. Among the amphibians there are many frogs, and among the reptiles there are lizards and snakes.
The most numerous birds in the fauna of the islands are birds, including migratory birds from North America (ducks, geese, etc.), which remain for the winter. In the swamps and within the lagoons there are flamingos (more than 50 thousand red flamingos nest in the national park on Great Inagua Island alone), pelicans, spoonbills, herons and other waterfowl. Termites, mosquitoes and other insects are abundant.
In the coastal waters, near the reefs, there are many species of fish, including Atlantic sailfish, barracuda, mackerel, etc. There are sea turtles (on Great Inagua Island there are oviposition sites for the green turtle), and numerous mollusks and sponges.
Attractions
Scattered over a vast area, washed by the warm waters of the Gulf Stream, the Bahamas have long been considered a symbol of luxury and relaxation.
Christopher Columbus first set foot on the islands of San Salvador in 1492. British settlers began to explore the islands in 1647, and already in 1783 the islands became a colony. With independence in 1973, the Bahamas began to intensively develop tourism and banking.
One of the richest countries in the region, as it is often called, the “Switzerland of the Caribbean”, a large offshore center (there are more than 400 banks on the islands), today the Bahamas is one of the largest resort areas in the Western Hemisphere.
Banks and currency
The official currency is the Bahamian dollar. Its value is equal to the American dollar.
1 Bahamian dollar = 100 cents. In circulation are banknotes in denominations of 1, 3, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 dollars and coins in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 15, 25 and 50 cents and 1, 2 and 5 dollars.
Banks are open throughout the working week: from Monday to Thursday until 15:00, on Friday until 17:00.
It is better to change currency in banks. It is advisable to take American dollars with you on a trip; they circulate freely here.
Useful information for tourists
The traditional culture of the Bahamas is far removed from the heavily American-influenced urban centers of Nassau and Freeport. The island's folk art is reflected in a large number of fairy tales, natural medicine, music and religious rituals brought here by slaves from Africa. The islands have formed a distinctive musical culture.
The country has adopted a tipping system for services provided. The receptionist expects to receive 1 dollar for each suitcase delivered to the room, 2 dollars per day you can pay the maid for additional service, for example, for a washed and ironed shirt or blouse. In most cases, tips for taxi drivers, waiters, and servants amount to 15% of the cost of services (in the most luxurious restaurants - 20%).
Bahamas- a state located on the archipelago of the same name in the Atlantic Ocean, 90 km southeast of Florida and approximately the same distance northeast of Cuba. It extends for 970 km from northwest to southeast, occupying an area of about 259 thousand square meters. km (land area is about 13.9 thousand sq. km). The capital is Nassau (New Providence Island).
The archipelago includes about 700 islands (of which only 30 are inhabited) and more than 2,000 coral reefs.
Climate
The climate is tropical trade wind in the north and subtropical in the south. average temperature in summer +26..+32°C. In winter, the average temperature is +18..+22°C, coolest on the northwestern islands. The average water temperature is usually +27°C in summer and around +23°C in winter.
The best time to visit the country is considered to be the cool season from September to May.
In winter, rain is rare, usually falling in the form of short but powerful downpours. From May to November, hurricanes and tropical storms are possible, bringing heavy rainfall and hurricane-force winds.
Last changes: 06/18/2010Population
Population of the Bahamas- 307,552 people (2009). Over 80% of the islands' population are Africans and mulattoes, up to 12% are of European origin, and about 3% are emigrants from other countries of the Caribbean and Asia.
By composition: Baptists 35.4%, Anglicans 15.1%, Catholics 13.5%, Pentecostals 8.1%, Church of God 4.8%, Methodists 4.2%, other Christians 15.2%, atheists and undecided 2.9%, others 0.8% (2000 census).
Some, especially in the southern and eastern islands, practice obeah, a religion similar to voodoo. Voodoo itself is practiced exclusively by immigrants from Haiti, Cuba, Dominican Republic and Jamaica.
The official language is English, immigrants from Haiti use their own dialect (based on French).
Currency
The Bahamian dollar (B$, BSD), equal to 100 cents, is firmly pegged to the US dollar.
In circulation there are banknotes in denominations of 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 3 and 1 dollar (in total there are more than 40 different bills of all denominations in circulation), as well as coins of 1 and 2 dollars, 50, 20, 15, 10 and 5 cents
American coins and banknotes also circulate freely.
Currency can be exchanged at bank offices, hotels and large stores. The Bahamian dollar is tightly pegged to the US dollar, but exchange rates can vary widely between institutions. The most stable exchange rate is in the offices of international banks in Nassau and Freeport; changing money in tourist areas is most unprofitable.
All types of credit cards are accepted for payment. Travel checks can be cashed in the same place where you can change currency - in bank offices, hotels and large stores. Some hotels, restaurants and exchange offices charge large fees for check cashing, so it's always best to check the terms and conditions in advance.
Last changes: 06/18/2010Communications
Telephone code: 1 - 242.
Internet domain: .bs
Rescue service: 911.
How to call
To call from Russia to the Bahamas you need to dial: 8 - dial tone - 10 - 1 - 242 - subscriber number.
To call from the Bahamas to Russia you need to dial: 011 - 7 - area code - subscriber number.
Landline communications
The communication system on the islands is quite modern and well developed. Payphones that can make international calls are located throughout the country and operate on calling cards from the national telephone company, Batelco, which are sold at post offices, telephone company offices, hotels and supermarkets. You can also make a call from a payphone through an operator.
Many hotels provide a telephone in each room from which you can make an inexpensive local call (seven-digit numbers) or go through an operator to international line(usually the cost of a call is from hotel room 10-15% more expensive than from a pay phone).
International calls can also be made from the post office.
mobile connection
Cellular communications of the GSM 900 standard cover all the islands and are quite well developed. The operator Batelco (Bahamas Telecommunications Company Ltd) - www.btcbahamas.com - provides full coverage of the country. Handsets from foreign operators must be registered with Batelco.
Internet
Network technologies and means of servicing them are developing quite intensively on the islands. The BaTelNet provider - www.batelnet.bs - provides almost all types of network services. Internet cafes (usually open seven days a week) can be found in the capital and other major cities on Grand Bahama. The connection cost is usually about $5 per hour.
In the Bahamas, only Bahamian ones are valid stamps. In Nassau and Freeport, post offices are open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and until 12:30 p.m. on Saturdays. On the outer islands, post office hours may be shorter. There is a philatelic bureau at the main post office in Nassau, which is located on East Hill Street.
Mail, however, travels slowly from the Bahamas, so for prompt delivery of correspondence, use the services of international commercial postal services.
Last changes: 06/18/2010Shopping
The country has abolished all duties on the import and export of perfumes, leather goods, jewelry, watches, photographic equipment, porcelain, and so on. Therefore, prices for the mentioned goods are 25-50% lower than in the USA. And in many areas that have the status of free trade zones, their cost is still 15 percent lower, so the Bahamas are considered one of best zones for shopping in the mid-Atlantic.
Shops are usually open from Monday to Saturday from 09.00 to 13.00 and from 15.00 to 17.00. Many shops close for lunch at 12.00 and open their doors again only at 14.30-15.00. Despite the fact that the government insists on shops being open on Sundays, very few establishments follow this rule. Therefore, Sunday is usually a quiet day in trading.
The center of trade in the Bahamas is the world-famous Bay street. There you can buy everything at very competitive prices - watches of famous brands, jewelry, porcelain, crystal, leather bags, perfumes.
Last changes: 06/18/2010Where to stay
The hotels are very diverse: there are large high-rise complexes and small but cozy establishments. The local all-inclusive system is recognized as the best in the Caribbean.
Sea and beaches
Beaches in the Bahamas are municipal and free. However, hotels are assigned separate sections of the beach, which are diligently guarded.
Last changes: 09/01/2010Story
The first settlers in the Bahamas are considered to be the Lucayan, a branch of the Arawakan tribe who arrived here around the 9th century. The islands were discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1492. One of the islands of the archipelago is Watling Island (San Salvador) - the first land of the New World, discovered on October 12, 1492. Three years later, the first Spanish colonists settled in the archipelago.
It is believed that by the time the islands were discovered by Europeans, up to 40 thousand people lived here, who settled the islands in the period from the 7th to the 12th centuries. The Spaniards exported local residents to Hispaniola (Haiti) as slaves, and after 25 years, almost all the Indians died and the Spaniards left the settlement.
For another century, the islands remained sparsely populated and unclaimed, until King Charles I of England handed them over to the attorney general. In 1650, a few English settlers from Bermuda arrived here and created settlements on the island of Eleuthera. At the same time, pirates began to settle in the Bahamas, creating bases for recreation and ship repair on several islands of the archipelago. The pirates were driven out of the Bahamas by the British in 1718.
The Bahamas became a British colony in 1718, but remained sparsely populated until about 8,000 loyalists arrived here at the end of the 18th century, exiled to the islands along with their slaves from the independence of the United States (from New York, Florida and Northern and South Carolina). After American War for Independence, English loyalists began to bring thousands of people to the islands and in three years increased the population many times over. In addition, they contributed to the introduction of slaves and cotton to the islands, which shaped the future of the islands. Plantations were built here according to the American model, but since the soil was not so good, most of the plantations ceased to exist in the first years.
In 1781, the islands were captured by Spain and returned to Great Britain in 1783.
When the slave trade was banned in Britain in 1807, the Royal Navy began intercepting slave ships and freeing slaves in the Bahamas. Many loyalists left the Bahamas after the abolition of slavery, often leaving their lands to former slaves who began to live a meager existence without their masters, engaged mainly in fishing and farming. Although equality and political rights were conditional, power on the islands belonged to the white minority. The 19th century saw the rise of smuggling in the agricultural economy. Also important for the future of the islands was the fact that rich people appeared in the United States, ready to spend money on vacation in a tropical paradise. By the end of the 19th century, Florida had become tourist region and the Bahamas received a small additional income.
In 1920, money poured into the country like a river, after the adoption of Prohibition in the United States, and smugglers became more active in Nassau. The Bahamas was an ideal platform for illegally supplying the United States with alcohol, and Nassau soon became a huge rum warehouse. The city invested huge amounts of money in construction, and a huge number of hotels appeared.
The repeal of Prohibition in the United States in 1933 led the Bahamas to the Great Depression.
Just like in the USA Second World War marked the end of the economic downturn. During the war, a lot of American military personnel came to the islands for recreation, which significantly improved the economy of the Bahamas.
After the war, wealthy Americans began to come to the islands for recreation, encouraged by the governor and his wife, the Duke and Duchess of Windsor. The Duke and Duchess made a major contribution to the development of tourism, as they believed that this was a great way to pull the Bahamas out of post-war devastation, and after the Cuban Revolution in 1959, the islands found themselves in advantageous position, due to the fact that many Western travelers were forced to abandon the resorts of Cuba. The American Air Force base in Nassau was expanded to accommodate international flights, the port was updated, and an active advertising campaign began. The rise in prosperity provoked the development of party politics and the exacerbation of ethnic tensions, as the white elite received huge income from tourism, while the black majority remained below the poverty line.
In 1964, in accordance with the new Constitution, the islands were granted internal self-government.
The Progressive Liberal Party, supported by the black population, came to power in 1967 and ended white supremacy. The country has embarked on the path to independence.
On July 10, 1973, the Bahamas became an independent state within the British Commonwealth.
Attempts at PLP reforms led to a decline in real estate values and a halt in economic growth. Party leaders were mired in corruption, some of them were involved in the international drug trade.
After the assistance provided by the United States to stop the drug trade in the 1980s. and the election of an administration representing the interests of the business community, the Bahamas began to gradually revive.
In 1999, hurricanes Dennis and Floyd tore through the islands, destroying homes, roads, reefs and resorts. By 2001, the damage was repaired, and the Bahamas again attracted the attention of tourists.
Last changes: 06/18/2010Spearfishing using underwater guns and other devices is prohibited on the islands. Sport fishing is permitted, but a fee must be paid for one trip to the sea, provided that no more than six reels of line are installed on the vessel. Independent archaeological work on sunken ships is also prohibited. Violation of these rules can result in a substantial fine and deportation from the country.
In addition, local laws regarding drug trafficking are very strict: selling or even simply using drugs can easily result in a long prison sentence.
A separate danger is posed by regular outbreaks of conjunctivitis, which, although easily treated, still causes a lot of inconvenience in the local climate.
Tap water is usually chlorinated and is relatively safe, although it is often salty, so drinking bottled water is recommended. Drinking water outside major cities it may be contaminated and not recommended for consumption.
The pace of local life, despite the strong American influence, is leisurely and calm. Even numerous entertainment venues are famous for their relaxed atmosphere and strict opening hours.
The Bahamas is the center of the gambling business. All casinos are open 24 hours a day. The largest casino in the Caribbean is located here (at the Atlantis Hotel).
Last changes: 03/07/2013How to get to the Bahamas
There are no direct flights from Russia. The best time-consuming travel option is to fly with British Airways with a transfer in London (flights five times a week, travel time from 13 hours).
Another option is to fly to the USA, followed by a connection on American airlines to Nassau. However, this option requires an American transit visa. A flight from Miami to Nassau will take about 35 minutes, from New York - 2.5 hours, from Philadelphia - 2 hours 45 minutes, from Toronto (Canada) - 3 hours.
Another means of connecting the United States with the Bahamas is ferries departing daily from Fort Lauderdale, Florida (travel time 5 hours).
The Bahamas also has air connections with other countries in the Caribbean region, including Cuba (direct Aeroflot flights from Moscow to Havana operate five times a week, travel time is about 13 hours).
Last changes: 04/10/20171) arch. in the Atlantic Ocean, in the West Indies. Local name islands Bahama (eng. Bahama Islands) ; it is believed that this is an Indian name, but its etymology has not been established. Cm. also San Salvador.
2) Commonwealth of the Bahamas, state in the West Indies. Named after the islands on which it is located.
Geographical names of the world: Toponymic dictionary. - M: AST. Pospelov E.M. 2001.
Bahamas
(Bahamas), Commonwealth of the Bahamas , state in West Indies, (Central America), on the islands of the same name in the Atlantic Ocean. They extend for 1200 km from the northwest. to the SE. from the Florida Peninsula to the islands of Cuba and Haiti. They are separated from Florida by the Florida Strait, and from Cuba by the Old Bahama Strait. They count approx. 700 islands folded into the base. coral limestone, and more than 2,300 coral reefs and rocks. Pl. 13.9 thousand km²; OK. 298 thousand people (2001). The largest o. Andros, the most populous of New Providence, where the capital is located Nassau . Since 1783 it has been a colony of Great Britain, and independence was declared in 1973. Member of the British Commonwealth. The head of state is the Queen of Great Britain, who is represented by the Governor General. Parliament consists of the Senate and the House of Assembly. 85% of the population are blacks and mulattoes, whose ancestors were taken by the British from Africa. Official English language. Most believers are Protestants. 3/4 of the population lives in cities. The climate is tropical, trade wind, with a rainy period from May to October. Thickets of thorny evergreen bushes and pine forests predominate; on the coast there are groves of coconut palms. Less than 40 islands are inhabited. The island of San Salvador from the group of the Bahamas was the first land discovered by X. Columbus in the New World on October 12, 1492. Refining of imported oil (some petroleum products are exported), cement. and pharmaceutical, food (production of cane sugar, rum, tomato juice, canning of pineapples, lobsters) industry. Pineapples, citrus fruits, bananas, tomatoes, agave (sisal), sugar are grown. reeds, mangoes, melons, etc. Fish and marine fishing is developed (tuna, white marlin, lobsters, sea turtles, oysters). Harvesting valuable tropical wood. Intl. airport near Nassau (connections from Miami). The basis of the economy is foreign tourism (in 1996 - 1.7 million people), providing more than half of the state. income. Large hotels, beautiful sandy beaches, water parks. Cash unit – Bahamian dollar.
Dictionary of modern geographical names. - Ekaterinburg: U-Factoria. Under the general editorship of academician. V. M. Kotlyakova. 2006 .
Bahamas
an archipelago of numerous low-lying islands in the Atlantic Ocean. The state of the same name is located here. Pl. 13.9 thousand km², extending 1500 km from the north-west. to the south-east from the Florida Peninsula to the islands of Cuba and Haiti. They are separated from Florida by the Strait of Florida, and from Cuba by the Old Bahamas Strait. Counts approx. 700 islands folded into the base. coral limestone, and more than 2,300 coral reefs and rocks. The largest islands: Andros, Great Abaco, Great Inagua, Great Bahama. The surface of the islands does not rise above 60 m, karst is developed. The climate is tropical, trade wind, with a rainy period from May to October. Average month temperatures from 21 to 32 °C, precipitation 1000–1600 mm per year, hurricanes are frequent. There are many salt lakes connected to the sea; there is a shortage of fresh water. Thickets of thorny evergreen bushes and pine forests predominate; on the coast there are groves of coconut palms. National parks: Inagua, Exuma. In fact, only a little more than 20 islands are inhabited. The island of Samana from the Bahamas group of islands was the first land discovered by H. Columbus in the New World on October 12, 1492
Geography. Modern illustrated encyclopedia. - M.: Rosman. Edited by prof. A. P. Gorkina. 2006 .
The Commonwealth of the Bahamas, an independent state on the archipelago of the same name in the Atlantic Ocean, comprising approx. 700 islands, of which 40 are inhabited, and approx. 2000 reefs.
The archipelago extends approximately 1,500 km from northwest to southeast between the islands of Grand Bahama and Great Inagua and is separated from Florida (USA) by the Strait of Florida, and from Cuba by the Old Bahama Strait. The total area of the islands is 13,940 square meters. km, including inhabited ones – approx. 11,400 sq. km. The largest islands are Andros (4.1 thousand sq. km), Great Abaco (2 thousand sq. km), Great Inagua, Grand Bahama (1.1 thousand sq. km), New Providence (with the capital of the state - Nassau), Eleuthera, Kat, San Salvador, Long Island, Great Exuma, Crooked Island, Acklins, Mayaguana.
Nature. The islands of the archipelago are areas of a vast submerged limestone plateau protruding above sea level. The thickness of the limestone deposits is approx. 4500 m. In the east, the plateau drops steeply towards the North American basin of the Atlantic Ocean. The archipelago is separated from the Florida Peninsula by the shallow Strait of Florida, and from the island of Cuba by the Old Bahama Strait. The water areas between the islands are shallow, but the surface of the underwater plateau is dissected by deep cracks, which are associated with fairways. Numerous coral reefs, as well as ferruginous layers in the limestones create an unusually colorful picture of the underwater world.
The islands are raised relative to ocean level from a few meters to about 60 m. The highest point of the country, Mount Alvernia (63 m), is located on Cat Island. The relief of the islands is flat. On the shores facing the ocean, a series of marine terraces can be traced. TO west coast The islands are home to numerous salty lagoon lakes and mangrove swamps. In some places along the coast there is a strip of sandy beaches. Karst phenomena and landforms are widespread on the islands. Therefore, there are no rivers in the archipelago, but there are many karst lakes. There are very few sources of fresh water.
The climate is tropical trade wind. Winters, due to the influence of the Gulf Stream, are milder than on the North American continent. Average temperatures in winter months are 22–24° C, in summer – 29–30° C. Average annual precipitation is 1000–1500 mm (in some places in the east - only 750 mm). They fall mainly in May-June and September-October. Tropical hurricanes often occur. Since the islands are scattered large area, the destructive effects of hurricanes on each island occur on average once every 12 years.
In some places, limestones exposed to the surface are devoid of soil cover. In the depressions of the relief in the interior regions, solonchaks and saline soils are common, while in other areas fertile red-brown soils predominate.
Natural vegetation on the drier eastern islands is xerophytic, dominated by cacti and aloes. Most of the islands were originally dominated by tropical forests. Currently, many of them have been removed, and low-growing shrubs are growing in their place. Where forests have been preserved (on the islands of Andros, Great and Little Abaco, Grand Bahama), valuable broad-leaved tree species such as redwood (mahogany), logwood and ironwood, as well as Caribbean pine, are common. In broad-leaved forests, bougainvillea, jasmine, orchids and other plants with beautiful and delicately scented flowers grow in abundance. On some islands, artificial plantings of casuarina, mahogany and a number of tropical conifers have been created.
The fauna of the Bahamas is poor. There are very few mammals, of which bats are the most numerous. Among the amphibians there are many frogs, and among the reptiles there are lizards and snakes. The most numerous birds in the fauna of the islands are birds, including migratory birds from North America (ducks, geese, etc.), which remain for the winter. In the swamps and within the lagoons there are flamingos (more than 50 thousand red flamingos nest in the national park on Great Inagua Island alone), pelicans, spoonbills, herons and other waterfowl. Termites, mosquitoes and other insects are abundant. In the coastal waters, near the reefs, there are many species of fish, including Atlantic sailfish, barracuda, mackerel, etc. There are sea turtles (on Great Inagua Island there are oviposition sites for the green turtle), and numerous mollusks and sponges. The Exuma Keys National Park contains protected marshes, mangroves, and coral reefs.
The range of minerals in the Bahamas is limited to limestone and aragonite (pure calcium carbonate). The world's largest deposit is located on the shelf of the Bahamas.
Thanks to the mild warm climate, sandy beaches, clean coastal waters and unlimited possibilities Spearfishing in the Bahamas has become internationally recognized winter resort.
Population and society. In 2003, 297.48 thousand people lived in the Bahamas, with more than half of them living on New Providence Island. 28.8% of the population belongs to the age group under 15 years, 65.4% is from 15 to 65 years old and 5.8% is over 65 years old. The birth rate is estimated at 18.57 per 1000 population, mortality - 8.68 per 1000, emigration - 2.67 per 1000. Population growth in 2003 was 0.77%, infant mortality - 26.21 per 1000 births. Due to the spread of AIDS in the islands, there is an upward trend in mortality, lower life expectancy and lower population growth rates. In 1999, an estimated 6,900 people in the Bahamas were infected with AIDS, and 500 people died from the disease.
The main component of the emerging Bahamian nation is African Americans and mulattoes, making up more than 3/4 of the total population. There are diasporas of people from Haiti, Jamaica and the Turks and Caicos Islands. The share of Europeans and North Americans is small. This is mainly a contingent of wealthy elderly citizens from the USA, Canada, and Great Britain who settled in the Bahamas after retirement.
Protestants predominate among believers, including Baptists, Anglicans, Methodists, ca. 19% are Roman Catholics, part of the population adheres to African cults.
The Bahamas has introduced free and compulsory education for children aged 5 to 14 years. Behind last years the number has increased significantly educational institutions, and on the larger islands most children have the opportunity to attend secondary school. About 20% of school graduates receive vocational training in several vocational schools, pedagogical and technical colleges. The Bahamas does not have its own higher education institutions, but since 1964 the government has established ties with the University of the West Indies in Jamaica and a year later opened its correspondence department in Nassau. Some Bahamians get higher education at universities in the USA, UK and Canada. 98% of the Bahamas population is literate.
Healthcare is at a high level. Local doctors managed to completely defeat most tropical diseases. In 1965, the government launched a low-income housing project and approved a system of mortgage sales of low-cost housing. State benefits are paid only to elderly people (old age pensions) and disabled people.
State structure. The Commonwealth of the Bahamas achieved limited internal self-government in 1964 and full self-government in 1969. On July 10, 1973, the independence of the Bahamas as part of the Commonwealth, led by Great Britain, was declared. According to the 1973 constitution, the head of state is the Queen of Great Britain, who is represented by the Governor General.
Legislative power is exercised by a bicameral parliament consisting of the Senate and the House of Assembly. The 16 members of the Senate are appointed by the Governor General (9 on the recommendation of the Prime Minister, 4 by the leader of the opposition and 3 by agreement between the leaders of the ruling and opposition parties). The Senate has the right to delay the adoption of laws (with the exception of those related to finance). The House of Assembly consists of 40 members elected by universal suffrage. The term of office of both chambers is 5 years, but early dissolution of parliament is possible. Executive power is vested in the government, headed by the prime minister, usually the leader of the party with a majority in parliament. The government is responsible to the House of Assembly.
The judiciary consists of the ordinary courts, the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court.
The Bahamas is a member of the international organizations: UN, Organization of American States, Caribbean Community, etc.
ECONOMY
The Bahamas is a developing country whose economy is largely dependent on foreign tourism and offshore banking. In 2000, GDP amounted to 4.5 billion dollars, or 15 thousand dollars per capita. In 1999, tourism accounted for 60% of GDP, other services – 30%, industry – 7%, Agriculture– 3%. Stable GDP growth (3% in 1998, 6% in 1999 and 4.5% in 2000) ensures an increasing flow of tourists and a boom associated with the construction of hotels, residential buildings and the development of resorts. The labor force is estimated at approximately 156 thousand people (40% are employed in the tourism business, 50% in other services, 5% in industry, 5% in agriculture). Do not have a permanent job approx. 9% of the economically active population.
Even before World War II, Nassau became a small tourist destination. In the post-war period, the number of hotels in the city increased many times. Hotels have also been built on most of the most populated and some sparsely populated islands. The Bahamas are also famous for their casinos. Every year the country receives more than 2 million tourists. Many hotels, restaurants and casinos are owned by foreign companies.
Tax benefits and ensuring the secrecy of deposits make the Bahamas attractive to businessmen and financiers, which is why the islands are one of the leading international financial and business centers. Hundreds of banks, financial institutions and companies from the USA, Canada, Great Britain and other countries have their branches in Nassau and Freeport.
Industry. Mining in the Bahamas is carried out by American companies and is limited to the development of an offshore aragonite deposit (used in the production of glass, reinforced concrete and fertilizers) in the western part of the archipelago and the evaporation of salt from sea water on the islands of Long Island and Great Inagua.
In 1955, a private American company leased south coast Grand Bahama Island - a plot of 20 thousand hectares for the construction of a deep-sea port, industrial construction and the creation of the necessary infrastructure. In return, it was provided with a tax-free regime until 1990 and duty-free import of capital goods until 2054. In 1963, the city of Freeport grew here, gradually turning into the largest industrial center of the country with an oil refinery (owned by American companies) operating on imported raw materials, and several dozen other industrial enterprises . Among the large enterprises in Freeport, there are a cement and two pharmaceutical plants, also owned by foreign companies. The second most important industrial city is Nassau, where enterprises in the food, clothing, textile and chemical industries are concentrated. On Great Abaco Island there is a plant for the production of wood pulp, built by an American company, operating on the basis of local Caribbean pine. This semi-finished product is used to make paper at the company's plant in Florida.
Agriculture. Agriculture in the country is limited by the lack of suitable areas in densely populated islands(only 1% of the land is cultivated) and provides approximately 25% of the country's food needs. Small semi-subsistence farms mainly grow vegetables, while larger ones grow pineapples, bananas, mangoes, sugar cane, citrus fruits, and coconut palms. Poultry farming is developed. In coastal waters there is a small fishery for lobsters, sea sponges and pearls.
Transport. Length highways on the islands - approx. 2700 km, more than half of them are paved. Coastal shipping and air traffic are developed. There are three main seaports in the Bahamas: Nassau, Freeport and Mathew Town. The main port of Nassau can accommodate large ocean-going vessels and also has a large natural harbor, protected from wind and waves, and many anchorages for yachts and small boats. An oil port has been built in the vicinity of Freeport to receive supertankers, which is used for the transit of Middle Eastern and African oil and the shipment of petroleum products to the United States. Ocean-going ships, including transit ones, are refueled in the same port. The Bahamas merchant fleet consists of 1,049 vessels (each over 1,000 gross register tons) with a total tonnage of over 30 million gross register tons. Trade ships from approximately 40 countries fly the flag of the Bahamas.
There are 65 airports in the country. The local airline provides connections between the islands of the Bahamas archipelago, as well as with the British-owned Turks and Caicos Islands. Nassau International Airport offers flights to Europe, the Caribbean and North and South America. Second international Airport is located in Freeport.
Foreign policy. The economy of the Bahamas is dependent on foreign investment. Large foreign, mostly American, financial and industrial companies operate on the islands.
The structure of exports is dominated by industrial products, mainly petroleum products, medicines and cement. The Bahamas also exports rum, wood pulp, seafood and, in small quantities, tropical vegetables and fruits. Export earnings are constantly increasing. The main export partners are the USA, Switzerland, Great Britain, Denmark.
The structure of imports is dominated by raw materials, in particular oil (mainly from Saudi Arabia) for its further processing, food, consumer goods, cars, electronics. The main import partners are the USA, Italy, Japan, Denmark.
The Bahamas are a transit point for drug trafficking to the United States and Europe.
Budget and monetary circulation. Most government revenue comes from customs duties, casino revenue, land sales, postal fees and utilities. There is no income tax in the country. State budget expenditure items include education, social Security And public Works. Currency unit– Bahamian dollar = 100 cents.
STORY
The original inhabitants of the Bahamas archipelago were the Sibonean Indian tribes. In the first centuries AD, the islands were invaded by Taino tribes who spoke Arawak languages. The Taino grew yams, corn, cassava and cotton. Among them were artisans who spun, weaved and made pottery.
On October 12, 1492, Columbus first set foot on the New World, landing on the island of San Salvador in the Bahamas archipelago, which the local Indians called Guanahani. Taking with him six Indians from this island, Columbus sailed further to the island, which he gave the name Santa Maria de la Concepcion (now Rum Key), then to Fernandina Island (Long Island). Many Indians - the indigenous inhabitants of the Bahamas - were enslaved by the Spaniards and taken to work on plantations and mines on the island of Hispaniola (Haiti). As a result, the archipelago became depopulated. From the middle of the 16th century. Spain's enemies, primarily the French, used these islands as a base to attack Spanish ships. Thus, for 200 years, the Bahamas have established a reputation as a haven for pirates.
In 1629, the Bahamas were granted by Charles I to one of his ministers, who, however, did not even attempt to create settlements on them. In 1647, a company called Eleutheran Adventurers was formed in London to colonize the Bahamas. Settlers from England, Bermuda and the British colonies of North and South Carolina North America, originally settled on the island of Eleuthera, the right of ownership of which was granted to them by Oliver Cromwell. However, after the Restoration, Charles II transferred this right to the Lords Proprietors of North and South Carolina, which officially remained until 1787. In 1689, the Eleutheran Adventurers company founded the settlement of Charlestown on the island of New Providence, which was soon renamed Nassau (Nassau) in honor of Prince William of Orange -Nassausky. In 1703, Nassau was destroyed by the Spaniards, which significantly strengthened the position of pirates on the island. In 1718, Captain Woods Rogers was appointed royal governor to restore order in the Bahamas. By the time of his arrival, 2,000 pirates were supposedly hiding on New Providence Island. In 1720 the Spaniards attacked the island again. To protect the colony, the governor had to enter into an alliance with the pirates. In 1776, the US Navy captured the fortified Fort Montague, which protected Nassau Harbor, and held it for several days.
In 1781, the Spaniards captured the colony and remained there for more than a year, but already in 1783, according to the Treaty of Versailles, the power of the British was restored and remained until the independence of the Bahamas was declared. At the end of the War of Independence of the English colonies in North America (1775–1783), approx. 3,000 American Loyalists who remained loyal to the British Crown, as well as their slaves. During the early stages of settlement in the Bahamas, cotton was grown. For this purpose, slaves were imported into the archipelago from Africa and the former North American colonies. After slavery was abolished in 1838, the colony's economy declined and many residents left the islands.
The revival of economic activity in the Bahamas occurred during the American Civil War in 1861–1865, when a fleet exporting cotton from the southern states of the United States was based on the islands. The colony's income was generated mainly from customs duties on cotton trade. During the period of Prohibition in the United States from 1920–1933, the Bahamas became one of the transit points for the smuggling of alcoholic beverages into the United States. Customs duties on the import and export of alcohol brought significant income to the colony and were partially invested in the tourism business, which later became the basis of the country's economy. In the 1920s–1930s, US capital began to penetrate all spheres of the colony’s economy (tourism, banking and business activities, etc.).
In January 1964, the Bahamas received internal self-government, and on July 10, 1973 they were declared an independent state within the Commonwealth, led by Great Britain. In October 1973, the Bahamas was admitted to the UN. The country's economic prosperity is greatly enhanced by its reputation as a major tourist, banking and financial center. Oil refining and transportation also generates considerable income.
The country's first prime minister (after independence) was the representative of the Progressive Liberal Party, Linden Oscar Pindling; he retained his post until August 19, 1992, when his party gave way to the Free National Democratic Movement, led by Hubert Ingraham. This party received a majority of votes (34) in the 1997 parliamentary elections, which allowed H. Ingraham to form a one-party government. There are dozens of industry trade unions in the country, the largest trade union associations are the Trade Union Congress of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas and the National Trade Union Congress.
Several large newspapers are published in the Bahamas: Nassau Guardian (founded in 1844, circulation 14.1 thousand copies), Nassau Daily Tribune (founded in 1903, 12 thousand copies), Freeport News (founded in 1961, 4 thousand copies). The government weekly Official Gazette is also published. Radio and television broadcasting is carried out by the government company Broadcasting Corporation Bahamas.
LITERATURE
Aksenov L., Fetisov A. Outlying Islands of the West Indies. M., 1984
Encyclopedia Around the World. 2008 .
BAHAMAS
COMMONWEALTH OF THE BAHAMAS
Independent state in the West Indies. The country is located on 700 small islands and islets and almost 2.5 thousand coral reefs, which stretch 1200 km from the southeastern coast of Florida to the eastern coast of Cuba. Only about 40 islands are inhabited. Area - 13935 km2.
The population (as of 1998) is 279,800 people. Ethnic groups: black - 85%, white (British, Canadian, American) - 15%. English language. Religion: Baptists - 32%, Anglicans - 20%, Catholics - 19%, Methodists - 6%. The capital is Nassau. Largest cities Nassau (171,542 people), New Providence (171,000 people), Freeport (25,000 people). The government structure is an independent commonwealth. The head of state is Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain, represented by Governor General O. Turnquest (since 1995). The head of government is Prime Minister Hubert Ingram (since August 21, 1992). The currency is the Bahamian dollar. Life expectancy (as of 1998): 69 years - men, 78 years - women. The birth rate (per 1000 people) is 21.0. The mortality rate (per 1000 people) is 5.4.
The Bahamas is a member of the UN, World Bank, IMF, WHO, British Commonwealth of Nations and Organization of American States.
Bahamas - worldwide famous resort, famous for its beaches, tropical vegetation and the so-called Paradise Island (Paradise Island) in Nassau harbor. Among the attractions of the country's capital are the Parliament House and the Courthouse; Government House (built 1801) is the official residence of the Governor General. Tourists are also attracted by the "sea gardens"; Fort Charlotte (1789); Fort Fincastle (1793); Botanical Garden"Adastra Gardens", where many tropical and subtropical plants are presented; Jumby Village is a reconstruction of an 18th century British settlement.
Encyclopedia: cities and countries. 2008 .
The Bahamas (Commonwealth of the Bahamas) is a state in the Bahamas archipelago, in the western Atlantic Ocean in the West Indies, southeast of the Florida Peninsula. There are about 700 islands in total, of which only 30 are inhabited. Area - 13.9 thousand sq. km, population - 305.6 thousand people (2006). The capital is the city of Nassau (172 thousand) - located on the island of New Providence. The nominal head of state is the Queen of Great Britain (cm. Great Britain), presented by the Governor General. The official language is English.
One of eastern islands archipelago, called San Salvador by the Spaniards, became the first land open expedition Columbus in 1492 in the New World. The fate of the local Arawaks Indians is tragic - the Spaniards took them to Cuba (cm. Cuba) and Haiti. Until 1629, when the islands became a colony of England, they remained uninhabited. In 1973, the Bahamas gained independence. US naval bases are located here (cm. USA). Over 80% of the population of the Bahamas are mulattoes and blacks.
In 1946, a “tourist boom” began in the Bahamas, which especially intensified in the late 1950s. The Bahamas has become a winter resort in the United States and Europe. Large hotels and casinos have been built here. Attracted by tax incentives, many companies have established offices and banks here. Naturally, the Bahamas are distinguished by flat terrain and extensive shallow waters - banks near the coast, which provide excellent beaches. The climate of the Bahamas is tropical, trade wind, with a rainy period from May to October. Average temperatures in January are 20 - 23 °C, in July - about 28 °C. Savannas or thickets of thorny bushes predominate. There are many pine forests. Grand Bahama Island is often called the "New Riviera" due to its attractiveness to tourists.
Encyclopedia of tourism Cyril and Methodius. 2008 .
Synonyms:
See what "Bahamas" is in other dictionaries:
Bahamas. City of Nassau. BAHAMAS (Commonwealth of the Bahamas), a state in the West Indies, in the Bahamas. Area 13.9 thousand km2. Population 264 thousand people, mainly blacks and mulattoes. The official language is English.... ... Illustrated Encyclopedic Dictionary
BAHAMAS- (Bahamas), Commonwealth of the Bahamas, a state in the West Indies, located on 700 about you. archipelago (of which 30 are inhabited) in the Atlantic. OK. Pl. 13.9 t. km2. The largest islands: Andros, Great Abaco, Great... ... Demographic Encyclopedic Dictionary
Basic moments
The extensive archipelago covers an area of 250,000 km² and consists of 2,700 islands and coral reefs covering only 13,878 km². Humans inhabit thirty of them. The island territory is united into a state - the Commonwealth of the Bahamas, which is home to 391,232 people (2016). The most populated islands are New Providence, where the country's capital is located, and the island of Grand Bahama. The population is 3/4 African-American and mulatto. A small proportion of Bahamians are older, wealthy North Americans and Europeans who have settled on the islands after retiring.
Among the believers in the Bahamas, the majority of Christians are Protestants, Methodists, Baptists and Roman Catholics. Some local residents, and especially descendants of African American slaves, adhere to African cults.
The Bahamas is popular with travelers from all over the world, and the islands' economy is heavily dependent on tourism. People come here for beach holiday. In addition, the Bahamas attracts diving, surfing and yachtsmen.
In recent years, medical tourism has been actively developing in the Bahamas. The level of medical care here is based on the standards adopted in the USA and is rated very highly. There are more than twenty modern medical institutions on the islands, whose specialists work in all types of healthcare. Most popular destinations are joint surgery, heart surgery and plastic surgery.
History of the development of the Bahamas
The first to settle on the tropical islands were the Native Americans - the Lucayans (Arawaks), who sailed here in the 5th century with Antilles, Cuba and Hispaniola (now the territory of the Republic of Haiti). In 1492, the expedition of Christopher Columbus landed in the Bahamas. Three years later, Spanish colonists settled on the archipelago. For 30 years, the local inhabitants have practically died out. The reasons for this were diseases brought by Europeans and slavery. The colonists took a large number of Lucayans to Hispaniola to harvest pearls and work in the mines.
Soon the Spaniards also left the Bahamas, and for about 130 years this region remained unclaimed. Then British settlers from Bermuda came to Harbor Island. In addition to them, pirate bases arose on several islands, where sea corsairs rested and repaired their ships. Only in 1718, thanks to the British army, were the pirates driven out of the Bahamas. Since then, the islands have been assigned the status of a British colony.
Local population began to grow rapidly from the end of the 18th century. The reason for this was the eviction of eight thousand loyalists from the United States to the Bahamas, along with whom their slaves arrived. The new settlers tried to organize cotton plantations on the islands in the manner of those they were forced to leave in America. However, due to infertile soil, this venture failed. In 1807, Britain banned the slave trade and the Royal Navy freed slaves in the Bahamas.
A large influx of money to the islands occurred in 1920. At this time, Prohibition was adopted in the United States. Smuggling began to grow in the Bahamas, and the city was turned into a rum warehouse. During World War II, American military personnel vacationed in the Bahamas, and in the post-war period, the tourism industry began to develop on the islands.
Since 1973 in island state There is a democratic political regime, the Constitution is in force. According to the form of government, the Bahamas is a parliamentary monarchy, when the British Queen is considered the head of state, and her interests in the islands are represented by the Governor General. Legislative functions are performed by a bicameral parliament, and executive power is exercised by the government. Administratively, the Bahamas are divided into 31 districts.
Sights of the Bahamas
All attractions of the Bahamas
Climate Features
It is no coincidence that the Bahamas is called a paradise. Their Northern part lies in the zone of tropical trade wind climate, and the southern one - in the zone of subtropical climate. The average temperature in the summer months ranges from +26°С to +32°С, and in winter – from +18°С to +22°С. Summers in the south are warmer than the central part of the archipelago, while winters are cooler in the northwestern part of the Bahamas.
Sea water all year round suitable for swimming. Its temperature, depending on the season, ranges from +23°C to +27°C.
It is believed that the best time to come to the Bahamas is from September to May, when it is cooler. At this time of year there is almost no rain, and if precipitation does occur, it falls in the form of heavy short showers, after which the sun immediately comes out. From May to mid-November, the tropical storm and hurricane season begins in the Bahamas. There is heavy rainfall on the islands, and large waves rise in the coastal zone.
Nature of the islands
The land area of the Bahamas covers an area of 10,070 km². All islands are composed of coral limestones. The surface is mostly flat, but there are also karst landforms. The highest part is on Cat Island. This is Alvernia Hill, which rises 63 m above sea level.
Frequent hurricanes and soils poor in mineral salts are the reason that there is no lush vegetation in the Bahamas. Here you can find thickets of evergreen thorny bushes and savannah. Coconut palms grow in abundance along the coast, and pine forests grow further inland.
The Bahamas is home to many birds, iguanas, bats and agoutis. In the Great Inagua Island National Park, there is the largest flamingo colony on the planet, in which over 50 thousand birds have found shelter. The coastal waters surrounding the islands are home to a variety of fish, crustaceans and molluscs.
Today, more than 25 have been created in the Bahamas protected areas having rich flora and fauna. In local national parks you can see rare birds and animals. The most popular among nature lovers are Great Inagua Island, the northeastern part of North Andros, and Embrister Creek on Cat Island.
Beaches
Almost every island in the archipelago has excellent beaches. Pure snow-white sand, easy access to the water and warm water attract millions of travelers to the Bahamas.
The beach areas of New Providence are considered the most luxurious, especially Cable Beach. Here you can sunbathe and swim. If you wish, you can visit the local casino or cross the original bridge to Paradise Island.
Grand Bahama offers vacationers Gold Rock Beach, surrounded by coconut palms, Paradise Bay and Tiger Beach. On the outlying islands, many beaches are adjacent to fishing villages. They attract lovers of a more secluded holiday, as well as fans of diving and sea fishing. The beaches of Andros Island are often used for wedding ceremonies. National-style weddings are popular here, and hotels on the island offer special “wedding packages.”
Bahamas for active holidays
Not only fans of a relaxed beach holiday come to the Bahamas. Most sports centers and places to do things aquatic species Sports, located in New Providence, Harbor Island and Grand Bahama. There are places to play golf and tennis, as well as motorcycle rides. From marine entertainment Windsurfing, surfing, kiting, water skiing and scooters are popular.
Lovers of sea fishing go to the islands of Bimini, Berry and Andros, and those who want to feel the power of the sea waves and explore the coast from board a yacht, go to the islands of Long Island and Exuma. These places are considered a real paradise for yachtsmen, and the sailing season here lasts most of the year.
The clear waters of the Atlantic and the rich underwater world attract diving enthusiasts to the Bahamas. On most islands there are dive centers that organize training for beginners and underwater expeditions for experienced divers. Coral reef diving is practiced on the islands of Eleuthera and Abaco. In many places, travelers can swim with dolphins and even take part in feeding sharks.
Cities and resorts of the Bahamas
Most of the residents of the Bahamas live in the capital of the archipelago - the city - 274,400 people (2016), which is built on the island of New Providence. This city has a large sea port. Many come to the city for the lively nightlife, shopping and to see picturesque examples of colonial architecture. Tourists love to visit the “straw market” of the city, where they sell interesting crafts made from straw. Located not far from the center unique corner tropical nature - the luxurious Adastra Gardens and Zoo.
Grand Bahama is often called tropical paradise. The island is covered in lush forests of Cuban pine and is home to three national parks. Travelers come here to see beautiful large caves with stalagmites and rare tropical flowers.
Long Island gets its name from its elongated shape. It stretches for almost a hundred kilometers and is up to 5 km wide. Long Island is covered in low hills. It has beautiful beaches and steep headlands falling straight into the sea.
Eleuthera is known as a luxury vacation destination. The resorts of this island contain the most luxurious hotels, beaches and clubs in the Bahamas.
Island restaurants and local cuisine
The Bahamas has many great restaurants and bars. In most places, tourists are offered dishes of British, North American or Caribbean cuisine. Lunch in a budget cafe costs $12-15, and in a reputable restaurant – $30-35. Fast food establishments are represented by world famous brands - McDonalds and KFC.
Livestock farming is poorly developed on the archipelago, so the daily menu of local residents is dominated by rice, shrimp, fish and cereal, potatoes and macaroni and cheese. Fishing is the main craft for the islanders, and Bahamian cuisine is rich in seafood. Previously, turtle soup was considered a signature dish on the islands. But time passed, the number of turtles decreased, environmentalists sounded the alarm, and such soup is no longer prepared here.
Bahamian delicacies include seafood salads, grilled conch, crab and shrimp, and red grouper cutlets. You should definitely try the boiled lobsters and reef perch fillets, which the chefs fry or bake in tomato sauce.
Restaurant menus also include meat dishes, which are served with rice or peas as a side dish. Everywhere they serve bacon and scrambled eggs, steaks, schnitzel and onions, fried chicken and French fries. A mixture of rice and peas forms the basis of most local soups. A special place in the island menu is occupied by soup, which is made from meat, water acidified with lime juice, onions, peppers and celery. This popular soup is very quick to prepare and tastes great.
For dessert in the Bahamas, it is customary to eat tropical fruits or pudding made from guava. Locals and tourists also favor coconut crumb cakes, Caribbean johnny cakes and gingerbread.
Non-alcoholic drinks on the islands include English-style tea, as well as strong brewed Brazilian or Colombian coffee. In addition, they drink a lot of fruit juices and different types sparkling water.
In the Bahamas, you can try the local Nassau Royal rum. It tastes good and is inexpensive. A large amount of rum is produced at the Bacardi distillery, which is located south of the capital of the Bahamas. Local beer “Kalik” is also popular. It is produced in three types. Kalik Light light beer contains a small amount of alcohol. “Kalik regular” is appreciated for its refreshing soft taste. And “Kalik Gold” is the strongest of all varieties, the amount of alcohol in it reaches 7%.
Transport
Between large islands Airplanes from Bahamasair fly to the Bahamas. Flight prices are quite high, so it is often more profitable to charter a small plane privately.
New Providence has the longest and most extensive road network - 1000 km. There are 209 km of roads on Eleuthera, and 156 km on Grand Bahama. In the cities of Freeport, private minibuses also pick up passengers.
There is no public transport system, so travelers use taxis or rent cars, motorcycles or bicycles. To travel between the islands or along the coast, you can rent a boat or boat.
In the Bahamas, you drive on the left and there is heavy traffic. In densely populated areas, traffic jams occur every now and then. In addition, the road network is often submerged during floods. Along some roads there are no sidewalks; people walk directly on the sides, so those who rent cars or bikes should be extremely careful.
Safety
The Bahamas is considered safe for travelers, and established there tourist centers enjoy a good reputation. However, there are cases of pickpocketing and theft from hotel rooms. All tourists, and especially women, are advised to refrain from walking alone on the outskirts of cities, and especially at night.
If tourists go sport fishing, they must pay a fee of $20. In this case, there should not be more than six reels of fishing line on the boat. Spearfishing with any equipment is not permitted in the Bahamas. Prohibitions also apply to independent underwater archaeological research. These violations result in hefty fines, including expulsion from the country.
The use and distribution of narcotic drugs is punished especially severely in the Bahamas. Local laws in this area are even more severe than European or North American ones, so those convicted of drug crimes always receive long terms conclusions.
Particular threats in the Bahamas may arise from natural disasters. The Bahamas are part of the Caribbean region and are in the zone of hurricanes and typhoons. Those travelers who find themselves in the Bahamas from June to November are advised to monitor the weather forecasts. Hurricanes are usually accompanied by floods. It should also be borne in mind that during severe typhoons in the Bahamas, airports are closed and tourists are not able to leave the country.
Tiger sharkAlthough tap water in the Bahamas is considered safe for health, you should not drink it from the tap. Every Bahamian resort sells bottled water. Due to the possibility of contracting infectious diseases, swimming in freshwater bodies of water is not recommended on the islands. The exception is hotel pools, the water in which is regularly disinfected.
To travel to the Bahamas, you should register health insurance, which provides for payment for air evacuation. The most qualified medical care can be obtained in New Providence and Grand Bahama. On small islands there are few hospitals and they are not open every day. True, on most inhabited islands you can use first responder services, which are supervised by volunteers. With the help of such services, the sick person is quickly transported to the nearest hospital.
Cancellation of currency and settlements
The Bahamian dollar (BSD) is the local currency in which all payments take place on the islands. It is strictly pegged to the US dollar, however the exchange rate may vary depending on the hotel or bank. In addition, American dollars are accepted for payment anywhere in the Bahamas.
You can exchange currency in many places - in hotels, bank branches and large shopping centers. Traveler's checks are also cashed here. As is usually the case, the most unfavorable rates are offered in areas where the largest number of people stop foreign tourists. The most convenient way to change currency is at bank branches in the capital of the country and the city of Freeport. From Monday to Thursday they start work at 9.00-9.30 and finish at 15.00. On Friday, bank branches are open until 17.00. It should also be taken into account that in remote places banks may not serve customers every day.
Large hotels and shopping centers accept cards for payment. In other places, cash payments are preferred.
Tipping is accepted in the Bahamas. As a rule, hotel doormen, tour guides and porters expect $1 from a grateful visitor, and room maids expect $1-2. In most establishments, the tip reaches 15%, and is immediately included in the bill. In addition, many hotels add an additional government tax of 8-10% to the bill.
Useful information for tourists
- To visit the Bahamas, Russian citizens do not need to apply for a visa. This rule applies if the trip is a private visit and does not exceed 90 days.
- When passing through customs, there are no restrictions on the import and export of another country's currency. You are allowed to import 200 cigarettes or 0.45 kg of tobacco duty-free into the Bahamas, as well as up to 0.94 liters of strong alcohol and the same amount of wine.
- In order to export agricultural products, any plants or wood carvings from the islands, a special permit will be required.
- To accommodate tourists in the Bahamas, huge hotel centers and small cozy hotels operating on an all-inclusive system have been built. Some travelers prefer to rent rooms and guesthouses from the local population.
- Bay street, famous outside the Bahamas, is considered the shopping center. All goods sold there are exempt from taxes.
How to get there
There are no direct flights from Russia to the Bahamas. The best option is a flight with a transfer in London. Without taking into account the transfer itself, this will take about 13 hours. Another option is to fly through the USA. In this case, you need to apply for a US transit visa.
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