DESTINATION The Bahamas

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1 DESTINATION The Bahamas

2 DESTINATION INFO Location Geography Name The Islands Of The Bahamas is a 100,000-sq-mile archipelago that extends over 500 miles of the clearest water in the world. Bimini is a mere 40 miles (80 km) from Florida. The 700 islands, including uninhabited cays and large rocks, total an estimated land area of 5,382 sq miles, and register a highest land elevation of 206 ft. Most notable, however, is that each island has its own diversity that continues beyond geography, carrying through to the heart of The Bahamas, the Bahamian people After observing the shallow sea around the islands, Colombus said "baja mar" (shallow water or sea), and effectively named the area The Bahamas, or The Islands of the Shallow Sea. Population Somewhere over 300,000. Trivia: At the 2000 Summer Olympics in Australia, the results were analyzed on a per capita basis for the first time. It was revealed that with two medals (1 gold and 1 silver), The Bahamas actually won the Games! Language Currency Tipping Government Documentation Time zone Health Safety tips Bahamian English is fascinating mixture of Queen's diction, African influences, and island patois. Unfamiliar sounding words you'll hear on our streets and beaches may be survivors from early English settlement (true Shakesperian English!), echoes of Africa, or local coinages. In The Bahamas, the legal tender is the Bahamian dollar (B$1), which is equivalent in value to the U.S. dollar. Even though The Bahamas mint and circulate their own legal tender, both U.S. and Bahamian dollars are accepted interchangeably throughout the islands.$1 CDN = $0.85 at Jan 20, Tip according to quality of service. Bellboys and porters usually receive $1 per bag, while most other servers (waiters, taxis, etc.) receive 15%. The Constitution of The Bahamas is based on the Westminster Model; Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, The Executive Branch, The Legislative Branch, and Judicial Branch. As a member of the Commonwealth of Nations, The Bahamas recognizes Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II as Head of State. The Governor-General is Her Majesty's representative in The Bahamas and constitutes a symbol of the nation's unity. Passport or birth certificate. Departure Tax: $15 US Eastern Time Zone Few health risks; no vaccinations necessary Normal safety precautions 2007 Chris Robinson Associates Inc. 2

3 CLIMATE General climate The trade winds that blow almost continually throughout The Islands of The Bahamas give the islands a warm, agreeable climate which varies little year round. The most refreshing time is between September through May, when the temperature averages 70-75F degrees. The rest of the year is a bit warmer with temperatures between 80-85F degrees. Today s weather 26 degrees and sunny for Jan 20, 2007 Best time to visit Mid December to Mid April GETTING THERE Flying time Cities Sat flights direct with Air Canada Vacations from Toronto to Nassau; 3 hrs. Sat flights direct with Air Canada Vacations from Montreal to Nassau; 3.5 hrs. Nassau Bay Street; Queen s Staircase: Nassau s most visited attraction. Climb the 65 steps carved out of solid limestone by slaves in the late 18th century. This 102-foot staircase was named in honor of the 65 years of Queen Victoria s reign. Grand Bahama is 120 km east of Palm Beach Florida. 19 Mail Boats connect the islands for those with time! None Distances Ferries Trains Car Rental Major firms; rates start at $60 Buses ACCOMMODATION TYPES Buses: few services except in Nassau private jitneys/minibuses Taxis: To experience knowledgeable, professional Bahamian hospitality as you travel in The Bahamas, look for this Bahamahost decal on taxicabs and jitneys. Driving: British rules apply, so please drive on the left and be extra careful on roundabouts. Visitors may use their home licenses for up to three months. TARGET GROUPS Kids Pirates of Nassau is a world-class pirate attraction in the heart of downtown Nassau. Experience the true story of pirates in an amazing, historically accurate, interactive environment, which will entertain, excite and educate visitors of all ages. Pirate themed pub and Courtyard bar and PLUNDER! The Pirate Gift Shop. TropiKids entertainment centre, the Pirates Of Nassau museum, Ardastra Gardens, Zoo & Conservation Centre, the Crystal Cay Marine Park 2007 Chris Robinson Associates Inc. 3

4 Teens Romance Honeymoons & Weddings Seniors Opportunities abound for shared family adventure and relaxation, including spectacular beaches and reefs, water parks, historical museums, nature and conservation centers. Sandals is perfect for weddings and honeymoons! Next day; $100 license fee A good choice for seniors: easy to get around, comfortable resorts, short flights from Canada, spring-like weather in winter UNIQUES The ratio of flamingos to people on Great Inagua is 61:1. Surprising Cascarilla bark grown in a few Out Islands is used to flavor Campari and Vermouth. History Geography played a crucial role in Bahamian history. In 1492, Christopher Columbus made his first landfall in the New World on the island of San Salvador in the eastern Bahamas. Recent archaeological digs indicate people lived in The Islands Of The Bahamas as early as 300 to 400 AD. These people probably came from Cuba and relied on the ocean for their food. In the 10th century, Lucayan Indians -- a subgroup of the Arawaks settled in The Islands Of The Bahamas. When Christopher Columbus arrived in 1492 on San Salvador (some historians think he landed on Cat Island), there were about 40,000 Lucayans living in The Islands Of The Bahamas. Taking advantage of the people s gentle nature, he enslaved them three years later and shipped them off to Hispaniola to work in his mines. Slavery, disease and other hardships wiped out the entire tribe within 25 years of Columbus arrival. In 1648, a group of dissident English Puritans (known as the "Eleutheran Adventurers") arrived here in their quest for religious freedom. The first English settlers of Eleuthera shipped Braselitto wood to Boston as a thank you for the support given by the people of Massachusetts. The proceeds from the sale of this precious wood went to purchase the land for Harvard College, which eventually became Harvard University. Charles Town on New Providence Island was burnt to the ground by the Spanish in 1684, but later rebuilt and renamed Nassau in 1695 to honor King William III (formerly Prince of Orange-Nassau). The Bahama Islands became the free and sovereign Commonwealth of The Bahamas on 10th July 1973 ending 325 years of British rule. Books Frommer s Bahamas Places to see before you die Andros Island for diving and bone fishing Dolphin Dive, Little Bahama Banks to swim with wild dolphins The pink sands of Harbour Island Shark Rodeo at Walker s Cay to swim with the sharks 2007 Chris Robinson Associates Inc. 4

5 Must Sees Best Beaches: Cable Beach, Cat s Island Beaches Best diving: Exuma, New Providence and Andros Islands SPORTS ACTIVITIES Golf Fishing Horse riding Hiking Cycling Diving Sailing Cable Beach Golf Course - The Radisson Cable Beach Resort s golf course is one of the finest in the Caribbean. It s a challenging, 7,040-yard, par-72 course. Ocean Club Golf Course - This 18-hole, par-72 championship course is designed by Tom Weiskopf and operated by Troon Golf. Deep sea fishing: The Bahamas has produced over 50 record catches. Come for big-game tournaments, deep-sea charters, or to witness the vigorous strike of the bonefish. The flats and deep waters of The Bahamas are suitable for beginners and sportfishing enthusiasts. Bone Fishing: Bonefishing has become a local favorite within The Islands Of The Bahamas. Bonefishing takes place in the flats where guides slowly pole small flat-bottomed boats for anglers, or the truly dedicated quietly stalk these elusive fish by wading through knee-deep water. These quicksilver fighters, weighing up to 15 pounds, inspire both fly fishermen and spin casters alike with their power and speed. Windsor Equestrian Centre on New Providence Island (Nassau) Trails in Lucayan National Park: cavens, mangroves Best on Grand Bahama Island: flat and with better roads Coral reefs. Blue holes. Walls. Caves. Shipwrecks. Sharks. Dolphins. Stingrays. The variety of islands in The Bahamas present a variety of diving experiences. Beginners and experts are welcome. Lessons and guides can be found throughout the islands. The Bahamas has the clearest waters in the world with visibility of over 200 feet. Sea Island Adventures twin hulled catamaran cruises to the reefs CULTURE Music Annual One Bahamas Music and Heritage Festival in November 3 days of music in Nassau and Paradise Island Films Film locations: The Outsider, Silence of the Lambs, Cocoon I & II, Flipper, Thunderball, Splash, Never Say Never Again, Zeus and Roxanne, Jaws the Revenge and Speed 2 Museums Junkanoo Expo: wharfside museum, culture and history of event Historical Museum: Lucayan indians Festivals Junkanoo (which has been compared to Carnival in Rio and Mardi Gras in New Orleans) is a colorful and uniquely Bahamian parade held on Boxing Day and New Year's Day Chris Robinson Associates Inc. 5

6 ATTRACTIONS Highest Point: Mount Alvernia on Cat Island at 206 ft (63 meters) is the highest point on the islands. Beaches The emerald and turquoise waters of The Bahamas archipelago naturally form breathtaking beaches. Seclusion. Activity. Countless meandering miles of sand - white, or pink. Cabbage Beach, Paradise Island is one of the more beautiful beaches on Nassau/Paradise Island. It is ideal for beach walking, swimming or sunbathing. Such water sports as water-skiing, snorkeling and parasailing take place. Wildlife Swim with Dolphins: Blue Lagoon Island close encounter: After an educational talk on our deck, wade into waist-deep water for close-up contact with our dolphins. Swim with the dolphins: Spend approximately 30 unforgettable minutes in the water. More than 80,000 West Indian Flamingos, national bird of The Bahamas, reside in the Inagua National Park, which makes up almost half of Great Inagua Island; Other exotic birds on the island include pelicans, herons, egrets, and Bahama pintail ducks. 109 species of birds breed in the Islands of the Bahamas Several species of whales and dolphins, including blue and humpback whales and spotted dolphin are found in the waters of The Bahamas. Parks National Parks: Abaco NP - This National Park, comprising 20,500 acres in Southern Abaco near Hole In The Wall, has been designated a preservation area by the Bahamas Government and is managed by The Bahamas National Trust. Included are 5,000 acres of pine forest the nesting area and habitat of about 1000 endangered Bahama or "Abaco" Parrots. The Lucayan National Park on Grand Bahama Island is the site of the world's longest known underwater cave and cavern system. Gardens Ardastra Gardens & Conservation Center - More than 300 birds, mammals and reptiles from The Islands Of The Bahamas, the Caribbean, Latin America and around the world are on display among acres of lush tropical gardens. Versailles Gardens - Stroll through these spectacular gardens, a popular spot for weddings. Bronze and marble statues -- like a life-sized Hercules sculpted in Greece in the 12th century -- as well as fountains, reflecting pools and waterfalls are scattered throughout. A lacy gazebo sits high above the boat-filled harbour Chris Robinson Associates Inc. 6

7 Castles/Forts OTHER ACTIVITIES Shopping Markets Nightlife Casinos CUISINE Food Drinks Restaurants MORE INFO Brochures Website Fort Charlotte is by far the largest and covers 100 acres. Located on a hill overlooking the far west end of the harbour, it commands an impressive view of Paradise Island, a good part of Nassau and the harbour. Built in 1788 by Lord Dunmore, this fort has a moat, dungeons, underground passageways and 42 cannons, which have never been fired in an act of aggression. It is one mile west of downtown Nassau, just off West Bay Street. The Bahamas abolished all import duties on 11 categories of items. 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% off US prices. Straw markets reveal foods, spices, ceramics, crafts, art, and music. Da Island Club "Where the grown folks hang out." Presenting the best in Bahamian and Old School music nightly; King Eric's Native Calypso Show - A truly Bahamian treat when you take in "King Eric's Native Calypso Show." The 50,000-sq.-ft. Atlantis, Paradise Island Casino, is a spectacular themed casino bringing the outside in with its panoramic windows and skylights; At the 35,000-sq.-ft. Crystal Palace Casino, slots are open 24 hours. Table games are open 24 hours on weekends. Seafood, callaloo, cassava, tropical fruits, spices, meat pies Kalik Beer; rum, cocktails eg the Tranquil Turtle The Graycliff Restaurant is a five star restaurant situated in a 250 year old mansion in Nassau. It has one of the largest wine cellars in the Western Hemisphere with over 200,000 bottles of the world's finest vintages and also has its own cigar factory BAHAMAS Chris Robinson Associates Inc. 7

8 HOTEL PRIZE PARTNER Sandals Royal Bahamian Resort in Nassau Edwardian England in the Tropics! Voted Top Caribbean Spa Resort by the readers of Condé Nast magazine, this stunning Five Star Diamond Resort provides discerning couples with unmatched opulence, Old World sophistication and, underlying it all, a particularly infectious Caribbean energy. Sandals Royal Bahamian is the flagship of Sandals Signature Spa Collection whose hallmark is unrestrained luxury and the very pinnacle of top-notch service and amenities. Couples only, no children allowed. Location Facilities Accommodation Activities Hurricane Guarantee: In the unlikely event that hurricane force winds (as defined by the U.S. National Weather Service) directly hit the Sandals or Beaches resorts while you are a guest, interrupting the use of all the included activities, Sandals or Beaches Resorts will offer a free replacement vacation to be taken at any Sandals or Beaches Resort of your choice. This replacement stay will be for the same duration as the one originally booked, regardless of how many days were affected by the hurricane. On Cable Beach, Nassau Take a stately ferry ride and discover, just minutes from shore, your own personal island, Sandals Cay. Complete with two powdery white-sand beaches, crystal-clear aquamarine waters, a freshwater lagoon-style pool with swim-up bar and a full-service restaurant specializing in delectable seafood, Sandals Cay truly embodies the ideal island retreat within Sandals Royal Bahamian. 7 swimming pools, 2 swim up bars, fitness centre, spa There is an astounding range of 13 categories of accommodations at Sandals Royal Bahamian, assuring the perfect selection to match your tastes. More than half the resort is comprised of lavish suites, each boasting the finest designer details and graciously accompanied by upgraded amenities and a Concierge staff who possess the uncanny ability to know precisely when and how to please you. Top-of-the-line suites offer the height of personalized "beck & call" luxury; a Sandals Butler and airport transportation in a private Mercedes-Benz. Sailing, kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing, scuba, snorkel, volleyball 2007 Chris Robinson Associates Inc. 8

9 Restaurants AIRLINE PRIZE PARTNER Flight details Few resorts in the world can match the exceptional fine dining selection at Sandals Royal Bahamian's eight specialty restaurants. Each boasts its own authentic ambiance and decor, with a mouth-watering menu from a creatively inspired master-chef. From the heart-warming traditions of Northern Italian fare, and the chic intimacy at an Art Nouveau restaurant serving Five Star Diamond French Cuisine, to a dazzling formal dining room showcasing an authentic period crystal chandelier, and a casual beachside café featuring grilled favorites. For instance at Baccarat Restaurant: Classical French cuisine prepared by an award winning chef served in an Art Nouveau interior overlooking the moonlit pool. Air Canada This winter, Air Canada Vacations offers best-value packages at hundreds of resorts, many all-inclusive, located in some 30 popular destinations serviced by over 340 Air Canada flights per week. Choose from Antigua, Aruba, Bahamas (Nassau), Barbados, Bermuda, Costa Rica (Liberia, San José), Cuba (Cayo Coco & Cayo Guillermo, Cayo Largo, Havana, Holguin, Varadero), Dominican Republic (Puerto Plata, Punta Cana, Santo Domingo), Grand Cayman, Grenada, Hawaii (Kailua/Kona, Honolulu and Maui), Jamaica (Montego Bay), Mexico (Cancun/Mayan Riviera, Cozumel, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, Ixtapa/Zihautanejo), St. Lucia, St. Martin/Maarten and Turks & Caicos. In addition to destinations featured in the brochure, packages are also available this winter to Florida (Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Miami and Tampa), Guadeloupe and Puerto Rico (San Juan). The Air Canada Vacations advantage: Travel advantages with Air Canada Vacations include reliable Air Canada service, spacious seats with more legroom, advance seat selection as well as free larger baggage capacity allowance, in-flight entertainment and headset. All holiday packages include round-trip airfare, accommodation, return airport transfers at destination and Aeroplan Miles. Convenient flexible durations and ultra-convenient weekend departures are also available Chris Robinson Associates Inc. 9

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