|
BANKING
On Grand Bahama Island, banks are
open from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 9:30 a.m. to
5:00 p.m. on Friday.
BOATING
Grand Bahama Island is a mecca
for boaters. With shallow, clear waters, abundant game fish and excellent
weather throughout the year, boating is considered world class. Boaters must
clear Bahamas Customs and Immigration at the first Port of Entry. A Bahamas
Cruising Permit allows unlimited access to over 600 uninhabited islands and
cays. Lucayan Marina Village, Grand Bahama's finest marina, plays host to boats
from 30 to 150 feet.
CLIMATE
Click here for Grand Bahamas weather information.
CLOTHING
Casual summer wear can be worn
during the day any time of the year; but be sure to bring a jacket or sweater
for cooler evenings from December to February. Though walking the streets in
swim trunks in mid-January might sound irresistible, beach clothing is
inappropriate on the streets, in churches, restaurants and casinos.
CURRENCY
U.S. and Bahamian dollars are
accepted interchangeably throughout the islands.
DRIVING
British rules apply, so please
drive on the left and watch those roundabouts! Visitors may use their home
licenses for up to three months and may also apply for an international
driver's license. Pedestrians should remember to look right before crossing
streets.
ELECTRICITY
Electricity is 120 volts AC.
American appliances are fully compatible.
DIVING AND FISHING
To protect the marine
environment, spear fishing using scuba gear and possession of spear guns are
illegal. 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.
LANGUAGE
The official language of The
Bahamas is English, more British than American, and generally intertwined with
a special Bahamian dialect.
SHOPPING
Perfumes and fragrances,
crystal, leather goods, jewelry, fine linens and tablecloths, watches and
clocks, photographic equipment, china, binoculars, and telescopes are all duty
free. Savings on these items are between 25% - 50% below US prices. The best
shopping is at the Port Lucaya Marketplace and the International Bazaar;
boutiques and gift shops are also found in the downtown area and at most major
resorts. Everything from duty-free products to local arts and crafts, wood,
straw, shell and clothing creations are readily available. A wide variety of
produce and grocery items can be found at local Food Stores throughout the
island. There are a number of American-style supermarkets on the
island.
SPRING BREAK SEASON
Spring break season
runs February 28 - April 10. This is important information, whether you're
aiming to avoid the spring break season altogether or intent upon landing right
in the middle of this month-long youth fest. Beach parties, sports meets, and
musical entertainment lead off the packed Spring Break calendar.
TIME
Eastern Standard Time is used within
The Islands of The Bahama. April to October is Eastern Daylight Time, in
conjunction with US summer hours.
TIPPING
Tip according to quality of
service. Bellboys and porters usually receive $1 per bag, while most other
servers (waiters, taxis, etc.) receive 15%. Most establishments include the
gratuity in their bills. |
