BAHAMAS
If you’re dreaming of white sandy beaches and waters in sublime shades of blue, you’re probably dreaming of the Bahamas. With 700 islands and over 2,000 small cays sprinkled across the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, this tropical paradise lies a mere 80 kilometres from mainland Florida. New Providence Island, home to the nation’s capital Nassau, and Grand Bahama are abuzz with resorts, shops and restaurants while, further east, the Out Islands cluster in groups, each with their own character and charm. The Abacos 60
and Exumas remain firm favourites with visiting superyachts, a vast paradise of secluded beaches and coral reefs awash with marine life – a draw for divers and snorkellers alike. Add to this sport fishing in Bimini, swimming pigs at Staniel Cay, regattas, carnivals and delicious local fish, lobster and crab, and the Bahamas are hard to beat. The best time to visit the Bahamas is between mid-December and mid-April, and if you’re planning a trip around Christmas, don’t miss the drums and colourful costumes of the Junkanoo Festival, an annual celebration of Bahamian culture.
