The Bahamas

Introduction to The Bahamas

The Commonwealth of The Bahamas is an independent English-speaking nation in the West Indies. An archipelago of 700 islands and cays (which are small islands), the Bahamas is located in the Atlantic Ocean, east of Florida in the United States, north of Cuba and the Caribbean, and west of the British dependency of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Cultural notes about The Bahamas

Bahamanian culture is a hybrid of African, European and indigenous forms. Perhaps its most famous export is a rhythmic form of music called junkanoo.

The music is associated primarily with junkanoo, a celebration which occurs on Boxing Day (December 26) and again on New Year's Day (January 1). Parades and other celebrations mark the ceremony. Groups like The Baha Men, Ronnie Butler and Kirkland Bodie have gained massive popularity in Japan, the United States and elsewhere.

Official Canadian government advisories for travelling to, in and around The Bahamas

Most Canadian visitors to Bahamas do not experience problems. Crime, usually not violent, occurs in Nassau and Freeport; tourists increasingly have been the targets of robberies. Do not carry large sums of cash or wear expensive jewellery. Ensure personal belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times. Avoid deserted beaches and do not walk alone, particularly after dark. Criminal activity is minimal on the outlying islands.

There have been a number of demonstrations in Nassau in recent months related to tension between the Haitian immigrant community and Bahamians. The Government is trying to ameliorate this problem, but visitors should be alert to possible protests in parts of Nassau and New Providence. Canadian citizens in Bahamas should exercise caution, avoid large gatherings and demonstrations, and monitor local news reports.

Water sports equipment should be rented from reputable operators only. Inquire about insurance coverage and insist on proper training before using the equipment.