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The Islands of the Bahamas

HISTORY

Geography played a part 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. After observing the shallow sea around the islands, he said "baja mar" (low water or sea), and effectively named the area The Bahamas, or The Islands of the Shallow Sea.

Island Guide Which island is right for you? Well, you won’t know until you know more about each one. They are as distinct as they are the same. The Bahamas has more than 700 islands. But the most visited by Americans and Europeans are Nassau and Grand Bahama Island.

About Nassau The largest city on New Providence Island, Nassau has become the undisputed resort Mecca of the Bahamas. The capital city conjures up images of white sand beaches, turquoise water, outdoor straw markets and quaint historic sights. Nassau, which blends old world charm with modern sophistication, has also emerged as a center for business and commerce. But make no mistake: tourism is the city's bread and butter. Luxurious resorts, a thriving nightlife and a tropical year-round climate attract countless vacationers each year. Area attractions include the 14th-century French stone Cloisters, the mega resort Atlantis, the Crystal Palace Casino, and the award-winning Cable Beach Golf Club. Another major site is the 18th-century Fort Charlotte, which once guarded Nassau Harbor.

About Grand Bahama Islands Grand Bahama Island is the second most popular tourist destination. Here you will find long stretches of deserted clean-white beaches, inviting hotels, one major casino, night-time entertainment and world-class scuba diving facilities and land and sea sports. Freeport is the resort center of the Island where much action can be found. On the eastern and western ends of the Island are serene and quaint settings and finding hide-away spots is not uncommon. Shopping is also a feature as one can stroll through Port Lucaya and discover duty-free treasures from around the world. Like New Providence, the larger Grand Bahama boasts (more) miles of pearly white beaches, and luxurious hotels. Unlike Nassau, the less populated outskirts of Grand Bahama supply more serene and tranquil surroundings (read deserted beaches) popular amongst those who desire private hideaway spots reminiscent of the Family Islands. According to a census taken in 1990 stated that there are 40,898 persons living in Grand Bahama, of which 12% were non-Bahamians, and 88% were Bahamian. For those into nature, Grand Bahama is also home to one of the oldest underwater cave systems in the world, situated at the Lucayan National Park. Whether your looking for modern luxury or want to get away from civilization, Grand Bahama offers the best of both worlds.

Maintain By Rose Merrick

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