Capital of the Bahamas : Nassau

Population (Estimated July 2012): 316,182

Area: 13,878km² or 5,358mi²

Currency: Bahamian Dollar (BSD)

Official Language: English – Bahamian Dialect

Political Information: Parliamentary Democracy and Constitutional Monarchy

Official Religion: No Official Religion (approximately 67.6% of the population are Protestant, 13.5% are Roman Catholic, 15.2% have other Christian beliefs, 0.8% have other religious beliefs and 2.9% have no or unspecified religious beliefs)

Highest Mountain: Mount Alvernia at 63m or 206ft

 

GDP Official Exchange Rate (OER is more precise at gauging a countries economic power)

(Estimated 2011): $8.1 billion (US$) or £4.86 billion(GBP)

GDP (OER) Per Capita (per member of the population estimated 2011): (US$) or (GBP)

 

GDP Purchasing Power Parity (PPP is good for gauging living conditions and use of resources but not as accurate as OER. This data has been calculated based on the sum value of all goods and services produced in the country valued at prices prevailing in the United States)  

(Estimated 2011): $10.81 billion (US$) or £6.486 billion (GBP)

GDP (PPP) Per Capita (per member of the population estimated 2011): $30,900 (US$) or £18,540 (GBP)

Time Zone (GMT/UTC): – 5:00

Districts:

Acklins Islands, Berry Islands, Bimini, Black Point, Cat Island, Central Abaco, Central Andros, Central Eleuthera, City of Freeport, Crooked Island and Long Cay, East Grand Bahama, Exuma, Grand Cay, Harbour Island, Hope Town, Inagua, Long Island, Mangrove Cay, Mayaguana, Moore’s Island, North Abaco, North Andros, North Eleuthera, Ragged Island, Rum Cay, San Salvador, South Abaco, South Andros, South Eleuthera, Spanish Wells, West Grand Bahama

 

Sources: CIA World Fact Book, Encyclopaedia Britannica,

The Bahamas is a popular tourist destination located in the Caribbean region. It is an archipelago consisting of more than 700 islands and cays, with a total land area of approximately 13,878 square kilometres. The country is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life. It attracts millions of visitors each year who come to enjoy its natural beauty, warm weather, and friendly hospitality.

History of The Bahamas: From Pirates to Independence

The history of The Bahamas is rich and diverse, shaped by its colonial past and the influence of pirates. The islands were originally inhabited by the Lucayan people before Christopher Columbus arrived in 1492. The Spanish ruled over the islands for several decades before the British took control in the 17th century.

During the 18th century, The Bahamas became a haven for pirates who used the islands as a base for their operations in the Caribbean. Infamous pirates such as Blackbeard and Calico Jack were known to frequent the area. The British eventually cracked down on piracy in the region, leading to a decline in pirate activity.

The Bahamas gained independence from Britain in 1973 and became a sovereign nation. Today, it is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations and has a stable democratic government.

Geography and Climate of The Bahamas: Sun, Sand and Sea

The Bahamas is located in the Atlantic Ocean, southeast of Florida and north of Cuba. It is made up of over 700 islands and cays, with the largest island being Andros Island. The country’s geography is characterized by white sandy beaches, coral reefs, and shallow turquoise waters.

The climate in The Bahamas is tropical, with warm temperatures year-round. The average temperature ranges from 24°C (75°F) in winter to 32°C (90°F) in summer. The country experiences a wet and dry season, with the wet season occurring from May to October. The Bahamas is also prone to hurricanes, with the hurricane season typically running from June to November.

The country is blessed with abundant natural resources, including salt, aragonite, and timber. The waters surrounding the islands are teeming with marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts.

Culture and Traditions of The Bahamas: Junkanoo and Bahamian Cuisine

Bahamian culture is a vibrant mix of African, European, and indigenous influences. The people of The Bahamas are known for their warm hospitality and friendly nature. The country’s culture is celebrated through various festivals and traditions.

One of the most famous cultural events in The Bahamas is the Junkanoo Festival. It takes place on Boxing Day (December 26th) and New Year’s Day and involves colourful parades, music, dancing, and elaborate costumes. Junkanoo is deeply rooted in Bahamian history and is a celebration of freedom and cultural identity.

Bahamian cuisine is a fusion of African, Caribbean, and European flavours. Seafood plays a prominent role in Bahamian dishes, with conch being a popular ingredient. Conch salad, conch fritters, and cracked conch are all traditional Bahamian dishes. Other popular dishes include peas and rice, johnnycake (a type of bread), and guava duff (a dessert made with guava fruit).

Top Tourist Attractions in The Bahamas: Beaches, Resorts and National Parks

The Bahamas is renowned for its stunning beaches, which are among the most beautiful in the world. Some of the top beach destinations include Paradise Island, Cable Beach, and Pink Sands Beach on Harbour Island. These beaches offer pristine white sand, crystal-clear waters, and a range of water sports activities.

In addition to its beaches, The Bahamas is home to several world-class resorts and hotels. Atlantis Paradise Island is one of the most famous resorts in the country, offering a range of amenities including a water park, aquarium, and casino. Other popular resorts include Sandals Royal Bahamian and Baha Mar.

The country also boasts several national parks and wildlife reserves, which are perfect for nature lovers. The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park is a protected area that offers opportunities for snorkelling, diving, and wildlife spotting. The Andros Island National Park is another popular destination, known for its diverse ecosystems and mangrove forests.

Sports and Recreation in The Bahamas: Diving, Fishing and Sailing

The Bahamas offers a wide range of sports and recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. With its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, diving is a popular activity in the country. There are numerous dive sites around the islands, including coral reefs, underwater caves, and shipwrecks.

Fishing is another popular activity in The Bahamas, with both deep-sea fishing and bonefishing being popular options. The waters surrounding the islands are teeming with fish such as marlin, tuna, and snapper. Bonefishing, which involves catching bonefish in shallow waters, is particularly popular in the islands.

Sailing is also a popular pastime in The Bahamas, thanks to its calm waters and favourable winds. The Exumas and Abacos are particularly popular sailing destinations, offering beautiful anchorages and secluded coves to explore.

In addition to water sports, The Bahamas also offers opportunities for golfing, tennis, and other land-based activities. There are several golf courses throughout the islands, including the Ocean Club Golf Course on Paradise Island.

Shopping and Nightlife in The Bahamas: Straw Markets and Casinos

Shopping in The Bahamas is a unique experience, with straw markets being a popular destination for tourists. These markets offer a wide range of handmade crafts, souvenirs, and local products. Visitors can find items such as straw hats, bags, and baskets, as well as wood carvings and jewellery.

The Bahamas is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with casinos being a major attraction. The Atlantis Casino on Paradise Island is one of the largest casinos in the Caribbean, offering a wide range of table games and slot machines. Other popular casinos include the Baha Mar Casino and the Crystal Palace Casino.

In addition to casinos, The Bahamas offers a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Visitors can enjoy a night out dancing to Caribbean rhythms, listening to live bands, or simply relaxing with a cocktail on the beach.

Education and Healthcare in The Bahamas: Access and Quality

The Bahamas has a well-developed education system that provides access to education for all its citizens. Education is compulsory for children between the ages of 5 and 16. The country has both public and private schools, with the majority of students attending public schools.

The healthcare system in The Bahamas is also well-established, with both public and private healthcare facilities available. The government provides free healthcare to its citizens through the public healthcare system. Private healthcare facilities are also available for those who prefer to seek private medical care.

Economy and Business in The Bahamas: Tourism and Financial Services

The economy of The Bahamas is heavily reliant on tourism and financial services. Tourism is the largest sector in the country, contributing significantly to its GDP and providing employment opportunities for many Bahamians. The country attracts millions of tourists each year who come to enjoy its natural beauty, beaches, and resorts.

The financial services sector is another important industry in The Bahamas. The country is known for its offshore banking services and has become a popular destination for international businesses looking to establish offshore accounts. The financial services sector contributes significantly to the country’s economy.

Other industries in The Bahamas include agriculture, manufacturing, and construction. The country produces a range of agricultural products, including citrus fruits, vegetables, and seafood. Manufacturing is focused on industries such as food processing, textiles, and pharmaceuticals.

Challenges and Opportunities in The Bahamas: Hurricane Season and Sustainable Development

The Bahamas faces several challenges, including its vulnerability to hurricanes and the impacts of climate change. The country is located in the Atlantic hurricane belt and is prone to severe storms during the hurricane season. These storms can cause significant damage to infrastructure and disrupt the tourism industry.

However, The Bahamas also has opportunities for sustainable development. The country has a wealth of natural resources that can be harnessed for renewable energy production. Solar and wind power have the potential to reduce the country’s reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

In conclusion, The Bahamas is a Caribbean paradise that offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. From its stunning beaches and resorts to its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone in this tropical paradise. However, it is important to remember the challenges faced by the country, including its vulnerability to hurricanes and the need for sustainable development. By practising responsible tourism and supporting sustainable initiatives, visitors can help preserve the beauty of The Bahamas for future generations to enjoy.