Caribbean Cottage Guidebook

Renting a car is the best way to explore the whole island. Cars are right-handed & you drive on the LEFT. Free parking at the house! Other options include the bus, also called 'jitneys'. Fare is $1.25 each way and exact change is required. Hail one at a bus stop. Busses run from 6 to 6. Taxis are the most convenient but can get pricey. Be sure to discuss the rate before departing as not all taxis use meters. Typical tips are 15%. Bahama Ride is a local app like Uber.

Visa & Passport requirements may change, especially with Covid regulations. Visit the Bahamas' official page: www.bahamas.gov.bs for the most current regulations.

I have found that downloading & familiarizing yourself with the Map.me app on your cell phone may be beneficial as your existing GPS may not work in the Bahamas. Download the whole map of Nassau while connected to wi-fi and you will still be able to get around if you don't have a connection.

Most Bahamians utilize the WhatsApp messaging app to make long distance and local calls as well as quickly send images and media files for free. Phone cards for calling overseas are available locally. You can dial direct on most cell phones for a fee. For Local Calls: Dial the 7-digit number. Calling another island: (Dial 1-242) and the 7-digit number. Calling the US, Canada & the Caribbean, (Dial 1) first , Calling China, (Dial 011-86) first, Calling UK and other countries (Dial 011) first.

Most people working in the service industry will expect a small tip. Most restaurants charge an automatic 15% gratuity which house staff typically split. If you receive great service, consider leaving a bit extra.

The Bahamas operates on Eastern Standard Time (EST) and observe Daylight Savings Time from March to November annually.

The Bahamas features a sub-tropical climate with an average of 340 sunny days per year and temperatures between 70 to 80 degrees year-round. Be sure to pack or buy cover-ups to wear over your swimsuits in public places. Casual shoes and clothing are appropriate for general use. You may have to dress up a bit more to visit certain high-end restaurants, casinos, nightclubs or events. Sunglasses and sunscreen will be standard for everyday use during sunny days in the Bahamas.

Standard voltage is 120 volts and frequency 60 cycles, which is similar to North America. Check your appliances for the required voltage.

The beaches of Nassau & Paradise Island are some of the most beautiful in the world. Popular local beaches are Love Beach, Cable Beach, Montagu Beach, Paradise Beach (aka Cabbage Beach), Sandyport Beach, Western Esplanade (aka Long Wharf) and Junkanoo Beach.

Atlantis & Baha Mar Casinos are open 24 hours a day!

Atlantis and Baha Bay Resorts both have extensive water parks with slides, rivers and many other water adventures. You can buy individual or group day passes to both of these water wonderlands to enjoy a full day of family fun. Details available on their websites if you want to order tickets ahead.