Handsome, decked-out Bahamian policeman in downtown Nassau; credit Bahamas
Nassau Travel Tips
Facts
Official Language: English
Currency: Bahamian Dollar
Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time
Est. Population: 300,000
Cruise Port: Nassau
Travel Tips
The island’s tropical climate averages 80 degrees. As a result, the “dress code” is always “island casual.” Anytime is a great time of the year to travel here. Hurricane season is June to November. With the island’s tropical climate, brief showers can come at any time.
U.S. Dollars and credit cards are also accepted by most establishments.
You can make phone calls from phone booths around the island. Get a local phone card for the best rates.
Banks are open from 9:30 am-3 pm (Monday-Thursday), and 9 am-5 pm (Friday). Most stores are open 9 am-5 pm (Monday-Saturday).
Passports are required for U.S. citizens.
Drink bottled water when available.
Bring sunglasses, a hat and plenty of sunscreen lotion.
Electricity is the same as in the U.S.
The major holidays in the Bahamas are New Year’s Day, Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Easter Monday, Whitmonday, Labor Day Independence Day, Emancipation Day, Discovery Day, Christmas, and Boxing Day.
The crime rate is less than a major metropolitan city, but visitors should use common sense when out and about. Women should be careful when walking alone at night.
Unlike America, drive on the left side and be careful on the roundabouts! Visitors may use their home license for up to three months. But if driving on the left makes you squeamish, there are plenty of taxis in Nassau.
Spearfishing and spear guns are illegal in The Bahamas. Cruising boats must clear customs at the nearest port of entry before beginning any diving or fishing activities. A permit is required for visiting vessels to engage in sports fishing. See the Bahamas Fishing Regulations.
There are n import duties on perfumes, leather goods, jewelry, crystal, china, watches, photographic equipment, binoculars, or telescopes.
