A green turtle and tropical Bahamas island shoreline

 
Bahamas Q&A

This quick reference answers some of the most common questions about The Bahamas

Travel to The Bahamas

What are the Bahamas entry requirements?
Visitors must bring a valid passport AND a return ticket. IMPORTANT: A PASSPORT IS NOW REQUIRED for U.S. citizens of all ages returning from the Bahamas, and a Birth Certificate or Certificate of Naturalization will NO LONGER be accepted by U.S. immigration! For information on how to obtain or renew a passport please visit: http://travel.state.gov/passport.
Do I need to get medical shots before entering The Bahamas?
No, vaccinations are not required for visitors to The Bahamas, unless arriving from an infected area.
Can children under 10 travel to The Bahamas?
Yes, children under the age of 10 can travel to The Bahamas, accompanied by a parent or guardian. Children need valid passports to enter or return from the Bahamas.

Leaving The Bahamas

Do I need a passport?
A current passport is required for U.S. citizens of all ages returning from the Bahamas.
Is there a departure tax?
Yes, a $15 per person departure tax is included in the price of most commercial airline tickets. Children under six years, with proof of age, are exempted from payment of departure tax.

About The Bahamas

Why is the ocean so beautiful in The Bahamas?
The Bahamas archipelago has some of the most beautiful waters on earth. The waters are virtually free of pollution, making them among the clearest and most colorful to be found anywhere. The sandy bottoms, depth of the water, coral heads and sunlight are ultimately responsible for its incandescent colors.
How large is The Bahamas?
The Bahamas comprises 700 low-lying islands and cays that stretch over 100,000 square miles of the Atlantic Ocean between the southeastern tip of Florida and northern Hispaniola. The island of Bimini is just 25 minutes by plane from Florida. Nassau is the capital city, located on the island of New Providence. Other islands include Andros, Abaco (Home of The Bahama Beach Club Resort), Eleuthera & Harbour Island, Grand Bahama Island, Long Island, Cat Island and Bimini.
Is Crime a problem in The Bahamas?
As in any country, there is some crime. Fortunately, crime is kept to a minimum in Treasure Cay, where many residents still refuse to lock their doors. Bahamians are a warm and friendly people, but as with anywhere, exercise the usual measure of caution.
Is The Bahamas an independent country?
Yes. The Bahamas is an independent country and a member of the British Commonwealth of Nations.

Bahamas Culture

Is The Bahamas politically, socially and economically stable?
Bahamians have enjoyed political, economic and social stability for more than 250 years. Tourism in The Bahamas has flourished because of our warm, friendly people, political freedoms and temperate climate.
What are the holidays in The Bahamas?
We celebrate:
New Year’s Day (January 1)
Good Friday (Friday before Easter)
Easter Monday (Monday after Easter)
Whit Monday (8th Monday after Easter)
Labour Day (1st Friday in June)
Independence Day (July 10)
Emancipation Day (1st Monday in August)
Columbus Day (October 12)
Christmas (December 25)
Boxing Day (December 26)

Bahamas Weather

What clothing can I wear in The Bahamas?
Summer clothing in The Bahamas can be worn year-round. However, a sweater or light jacket may be desired for some early mornings and evenings in the winter. All Abaco area restaurants allow casual dress.
Where is the average temperature in The Bahamas?
For the latest information on weather in The Bahamas please consult The Bahamas Department of Meteorology website. The Bahamas has a temperate climate ranging from 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit with high humidity in the summer months to 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter. Night-time temperatures are generally cooler by 5-7 degrees. Sea surface temperatures vary between 74 degrees in February and 84 degrees in August.
When is the rainy season in The Bahamas?
For the latest information on weather in The Bahamas please consult The Bahamas Department of Meteorology website. The Bahamas has a temperate climate ranging from 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit with high humidity in the summer months to 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter. Night-time temperatures are generally cooler by 5-7 degrees. Sea surface temperatures vary between 74 degrees in February and 84 degrees in August.
Should I avoid visiting The Bahamas in the hurricane season?
The months of June through November constitute the hurricane season. The weather does influence travel decisions and inaccurate reporting of information on hurricanes results in needless cancellations by U.S. travelers.

Bahamas hoteliers, including The Bahama Beach Club Resort, have instituted a Hurricane Hotel Policy for vacationers which states that visitors who cancel a Bahamas vacation during a hurricane will receive an immediate refund with no penalties. If caught on-island during a hurricane, they would be extended the lowest possible rate and all possible courtesies.

Money in The Bahamas

Can I spend U.S. dollars in The Bahamas?
Yes. The United States dollar is on par with the Bahamian dollar.
Are things more expensive in The Bahamas?
Prices in The Bahamas are comparable to other destinations. Prices vary in relation to the product. Some luxury items, for example liquor, perfume, watches, or photography equipment, can be more reasonably priced than in the Unites States. “Breadbasket” items tend to be a bit more expensive than in the United States.

Age Requirements

What is the legal age for drinking in The Bahamas?
The age of legal majority in the Bahamas is eighteen.
Are things more expensive in The Bahamas?
Prices in The Bahamas are comparable to other destinations. Prices vary in relation to the product. Some luxury items, for example liquor, perfume, watches, or photography equipment, can be more reasonably priced than in the Unites States. “Breadbasket” items tend to be a bit more expensive than in the United States.

Treasure Cay

What churches hold services near Treasure Cay?
The Anglican, Catholic, Assemblies of God and Baptist Churches are minutes from the Bahama Beach Club, as is the nondenominational Treasure Cay Community Center Church.
Are there any casinos near Treasure Cay?
No, there are no casinos near Treasure Cay.

Getting Around

How can I get to Treasure Cay?
Convenient regularly-scheduled airline service and charter flights are available. The Bahama Beach Club is just 7 miles from the Treasure Cay Airport (Airport code: TCB) and about 21 miles from the Marsh Harbour Airport (Airport code: MHH). See Getting Here and our Guest Guide for more information.
What is the approximate taxi fare to or from Treasure Cay Airport or Marsh Harbour?
All taxis are government controlled. Accompanied children under three years ride free.

To / from The Bahama Beach Club and Treasure Cay Airport: approximately $30.00 for the first two persons and $3.00 for each additional person.

To / from The Bahama Beach Club and Marsh Harbour Airport: approximately $85.00 for the first two persons and $3 for each additional person.
What are my transportation options around Treasure Cay, Abaco or neighboring islands?
Cars, golf carts, and bicycles can be rented by contacting The Bahama Beach Club’s front desk. Taxis are readily available at all times. Boats can be rented, and you can travel by regularly-scheduled ferry boats to New Plymouth on Green Turtle Cay and to Hopetown on Elbow Cay. This service to the out islands is provided through the mailboats. Although principally outfitted for freight, they offer passage to travelers for a minimal fee.

Food

What food can I bring to The Bahamas?
Anything except fresh fruits, vegetables and dairy products can be brought into The Bahamas. All meats must be canned or frozen.
What foods are available in local markets?
Since The Bahama Beach Club provides fully-equipped kitchens, you may want to shop at local stores. They sell a range of familiar foods, beverages and drugstore items, along with local fruits and vegetables in season.
What is Bahamian food like?
Bahamian food is high in carbohydrates but very flavorful. Some of our staples include peas ‘n’ rice, macaroni, boiled or fried fish, steamed conch and Johnny Cake. A favorite among visitors is the conch, an aphrodisiac, which is served as chowder or a salad. Tropical drinks include Rum Punch, Bahama Mama, Goombay Smash and Yellow Bird.
Is the drinking water OK?
The water is drinkable, but we recommend bottled water for drinking. It’s readily available locally and at our resort.
How much food and liquor can bring into The Bahamas?
A visitor can bring a quart of alcoholic beverage, a quart of wine, two hundred cigarettes or 50 cigars.
What is the common tipping policy?
Most restaurants in the Bahamas include a 15% gratuity in the bill.

Appliances & Electronics

What appliances are supplied at The Bahama Beach Club?
Central air conditioning, color television (with premium cable service), telephones and fully-equipped all-electric kitchens are standard in all units at The Bahama Beach Club. Also supplied are steam irons and ironing boards. Full-sized washing machines and dryers are conveniently located inside each rental condominium at the Bahama Beach Club.
What is the electrical voltage in The Bahamas?
The electrical voltage is the same as that of the United States (120 voltage 60 cycles). The Bahama Beach Club has standard U.S.-style electrical outlets.
Can I bring my laptop computer to The Bahamas?
Yes. On arrival, you will have to fill out a Declaration of Value form and Bahamas Customs will make note of the make, model and serial number of the computer. Free high speed wireless internet service is available at the Bahama Beach Club.
Will my cellphone work in The Bahamas?
Many cell telephones registered with US or other foreign carriers work in The Bahamas. Some do not. If you wish to use your cellphone while in The Bahamas you should first register it with The Bahamas Telecommunications Corporation. You can call them at tel: (242) 394-4000 or by fax at (242) 394-3573.

However, additional charges may occur if International Roaming is turned on in The Bahamas. Check your carrier for options.

Your room phone provides complimentary calls to the U.S. and Canada.

Special Services

Are there tax incentives for meetings or special groups in The Bahamas?
The “How do U.S. Planners Deduct The Cost of A Meeting Held in The Bahamas” guide provides answers to questions regarding tax incentives for special groups visiting the country. Call toll-free 1(888) GROUPS1 for more information.
Whom do I contact if I have a complaint about my Bahamas vacation?
Complaints can be forwarded to the Visitor Relations Units of The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism in Nassau / Paradise Island, Grand Bahama Island or to the local tourist offices in Abaco, Andros, Bimini, Eleuthera, Exuma or Harbour Island, or you can contact the help line at (242) 326-4357.

Shopping

What are the duty-free shopping policies?
U.S. residents, including minors, can take home duty free purchases up to $600 providing they have been out of the U.S. for 48 hours.

Items, which must be purchased from duty free stores, include crystal, liquor, linen, leather, jewelry, porcelain and souvenirs.

United Kingdom residents are allowed 2 liters (67 oz) of spirits, (one of which must be manufactured in The Bahamas or Caribbean) 200 cigarettes or a half pound of tobacco, and duty free exemption on other goods up to a total value of 145 pounds.

There are three categories for Canadian residents:
A 24-hour visitor — $50.00 duty free on return.
A 48-hour visitor — $200.00 duty free.
A Canadian visitor staying longer than 48 hours — $500 duty exemption. The $500 exemption is allowed only once per year.

Pets

Can I bring my pet to The Bahama Beach Club?
Sorry, we do not allow pets.

Weddings & Honeymoons

Is The Bahama Beach Club available for weddings and honeymoons?
It’s a perfect spot for honeymooners and for a Bahamas wedding, and our Wedding Planning Services are always free!
What's necessary for foreign nationals to marry in The Bahamas?
Couples can be married after residing in The Bahamas for 24 hours. Both parties must bring birth certificates and photo IDs. Persons who are divorced must bring along their final divorce decree (original or certified with raised seal).

U.S. residents only are required to make a sworn declaration either at the U.S. Embassy in Nassau / Paradise Island (a $50 fee) or at the office of a Bahamian Notary Public (a $15 fee) if they have never been married.

Other nationals (both parties) are required to bring sworn affidavits in English stating that the parties concerned were never married. No blood tests required.

For more information, please call toll-free at 1(888) NUPTUAL, or contact the Ministry of Tourism’s People-to-People / Weddings Department at tel: (242) 356-0435 or call the Registrar General’s office at (242) 322-3316, or contact The Bahamas Tourist Office nearest you.
BOOK NOW
CALL TOLL-FREE FROM THE USA & CANADA