Grand Bahama Island

Grand Bahama island is the closest major island to the United States. It is one of the most northern islands in the Bahamas and is a popular tourist destination because of the great weather and scenic beaches. Contrary to popular belief, Grand Bahama island is only the fourth largest island in the Bahamas.

Grand Bahama island is a paradise destination for any traveler with a great relaxing atmosphere throughout. There are 4 important cities on the island. If you arrive by cruise ship like so many other holiday makers you will land in Freeport. Freeport is the location of the commercial shipping harbor and international airport. You will find many pristine ocean and canal front properties in Freeport with property prices being up to 20% lower than on the Florida coast.

Beautiful beaches and several luxury hotels can be found at Lucaya. The most popular 5 star hotel is the "Our Lucaya" hotel chain that consists of the Sheraton and Westin hotels and the Lanai Suites located at Lighthouse Point. Each of these hotels is 5 star luxury with numerous heated swimming pools and spa facilities.

Although many people believe Freeport to be the capital, it is actually West end. Recent investment in the area has led to many hotels and luxury resorts being built around this western most area of the island as well as a complete refurbishment of the docks area and many new canals being cut for luxury homes and condos.

The entire island is a paradise in the sun with some of the best beaches in the world. Activities on the island can be as relaxing or as energetic as you like. If you love to sit on the beach then there are miles of glorious sun drenched beaches for you to enjoy. If you prefer something a little more energetic then there are the world class scuba diving areas as well as every water sport imaginable. Grand Bahama island contains one of the worlds largest under water cave systems. Para gliding and jet skiing are common place around the islands beaches and mariner.

At night time the island doesn't simply go to sleep. There are casinos and bars scattered throughout the resorts and hotels on the island and world class restaurants around every corner.

A few travel tips.

1. The banks are open Monday to Thursday 9.30 - 3.30 and Friday 9.30 - 5.00.

2. The island temperatures are warm all year around. 85F - 90F, Although there are winds that blow most of the year this is still a tropical climate so plenty of sun cream and summer clothing.

3. The official currency is the Bohemian Dollar but both US and Bohemian dollars are accepted throughout the island.

4. Each adult visitor is allowed to bring 50 cigars, 200 cigarettes or one pound of tobacco, one quart of spirits, and a variety of personal effects (personal radio headsets, bicycle, two still cameras, etc.). Purchases up to a value of one hundred dollars are permitted by all arriving passengers.

5. All visitors must pay $18.00 departing tax when leaving the island.

6. British rules apply to driving so drive on the left and expect the pesky roundabouts.

7. Spear fishing using scuba gear and possession of 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 at a cost of $20 per trip or $150 per year for vessels on which not more than six reels will be used.

8. The official language on Grand Bahama island is English....United Kingdom English, which will sound a little strange if you are used to American English.

9. There is no import duties on Perfumes and Fragrances, Crystal, Leather Goods, Jewelry, Fine Linens and Tablecloths, Watches and Clocks, Photographic Equipment, China, Binoculars, and Telescopes, therefore they are all duty free!

10. Grand Bahama island is on Eastern standard time.

Grand Bahama is a great Vacation destination for anybody. The beaches are spotless and the sea is crystal clear and warm. The weather is great and the people are so friendly. Its hard to imagine anybody not wanting to visit Grand Bahama island.