| Official Name: | Commonwealth of the Bahamas |
Government: | Constitutional monarchy with a Senate and House of Assembly |
Capital: | Nassau |
Size: | 13,940 sq. km (5,382 sq. mi.) |
Languages: | English and Creole |
Currency: | Bahamian Dollar |
Airports: | Lynden Pindling International Airport is 20 minutes from Nassau and Grand Bahama International Airport is near Freeport. |
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The Bahamas encompasses 700 islands and about 2400 cays. Columbus did visit The Bahamas, but by 1690, they had been claimed by Britain. Famous for pirates in the 17th century, it seems that piracy of a modern sort was occurring with the collapse a long standing government in 1992.
This does not stop tourists - 3.6 million in one year in the mid-90s. The reason for it is likely the amazing choices of islands. Bimini is known as the gateway to the Bahamas due to its proximity to the USA. Grand Bahama is known as the Big Island. Nassau is on New Providence island. Other notable Bahamian islands include: Abaco, Acklins, Cat Island, Crooked Island, Eleuthera, Exuma, Great Inagua. Andros Island (largest island), Long Island, Mayaguana, and San Salvador Island. All the islands are low and flat, based on limestone and with limited fresh water. Mount Alvernia on Cat Island is the highest point in the country at 63 m (210 ft.).
The water activities in the Bahamas are unending with lying on the beach, boating/sailing, diving, fishing, snorkelling, windsurfing, kayaking and more.
The on land you can bird-watch, enjoy casinos, golf, take advantage of spas, take nature hikes and more.
Bahamas hotels and Bahamas resorts are listed and will help you plan your vacation.
Image courtesy of Bahamas Tourist Office.
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