Bahamas Travel Guide. Essential travel information — emergency numbers, safety, currency, visas, customs and getting around.
Emergency Numbers
How safe is Bahamas?
- Very Safe
- Generally Safe
- Exercise Caution
- High Risk
- Dangerous
Exercise increased caution due to high rates of violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assault, particularly in areas like New Providence and Grand Bahama.
Advisories (6)
Scams
- Unlicensed taxi services overcharging tourists.
- Timeshare presentation scams near tourist hubs.
- Overpriced tour operators on public beaches.
Warnings
- Avoid walking alone at night, especially in non-tourist areas.
- Be aware of surroundings in downtown Nassau.
- Exercise caution when using water sports equipment provided by unlicensed vendors.
Practical Info
Currency
Bahamian Dollar (BSD)
Power Plug
A and B
See the sockets
Tipping
15 percent is standard at restaurants; hotels and taxis often include a gratuity.
SIM / Data
Local SIM cards are available from Aliv or BTC; Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels and major resorts.
Visa
Visa-free entry for many nationalities for up to 90 days; check official government requirements based on citizenship.
Driving Side
Left
How do you get around Bahamas?
Public Transport
Public buses (jitneys) are the primary mode of transit in Nassau; they are inexpensive and cover most tourist areas.
Ride-hailing
- Uber is not available; use local taxi services or pre-arranged shuttles.
Intercity
Inter-island travel is primarily via domestic flights or the Bahamas Fast Ferries service.
Culture and customs
Customs
- Greetings are polite and often include a handshake.
- Dress conservatively when away from the beach.
- Respect local privacy and avoid loud behavior in public.
Dress Code
Casual and light for the day; smart-casual or formal for evening dining and upscale resorts.
Religious Etiquette
Sunday is a day of worship; modest dress is expected when entering churches.
Common Phrases
- What's happenin'?How are you?
- Ya sure?Are you sure?
Highlights
Sports & Recreation
Cricket and Basketball
Sports are a huge part of social life, with strong participation in sailing, swimming, and basketball.
National Festivals
- December 26 and January 1
Junkanoo
A vibrant street parade featuring colorful costumes, dance, and rhythmic music.
- July 10
Independence Day
Celebrations featuring parades, fireworks, and cultural performances marking the nation's independence.
Cities in Bahamas
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