Destination Abaco Volume 16 - July 2011 - Feb 2012 by Destination Abaco - Travel Guide

Destination Abaco

284 Bay Street, Nassau, Bahamas (242) 302-2800 Marina Village, Paradise Island * Crystal Court at Atlantis Marsh Harbour, Abaco * Harbour Island * Bimini Bay, Bimini Port Lucaya Marketplace Freeport, Grand Bahama

Destination Abaco

The Premiere Full Service Resort and Marina

in the Abacos For those with a passion for the Boating & iSland liFeStyle.

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198 Slips for vessels up to 200’ 89 room ocean front resort Complimentary Wi-Fi access Ample shower and laundry facilities 24/7 Security On-site Customs and Immigration

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Two fueling stations Private beach Entertainment 7 days a week World class and casual dining Bahama Buddies kids camp Luxury Condominiums now on the market

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800-468-4799 • 242-367-2158

888-999-5468 • 242-367-2585 3

Destination Abaco

Unlock Life WHERE YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS. Less than 200 miles from Floridaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coast, The Bahamian island of Abaco is home to the village of Treasure Cay and our laid-back resort of the same name. More than three miles of sleepy white sand beach anchor a genuine Caribbean paced experience; reminding guests of a truly relaxed way of life.

Served by multiple daily direct fights, Treasure Cay is home to a highly regarded 150-slip marina and a 6985 yard classic Dick Wilson golf course. Guests enjoy the choice of three restaurants/bars, fishing, scuba, boat rentals and more. Accommodations range from standard rooms to deluxe rooms to one, two or three bedroom suites offering full kitchens and a living area with private balcony. *No surcharges on credit card fuel purchases.

1-800-327-1584 or 242-365-8801 www.treasurecay.com 4

Destination Abaco

Barefoot Cottage Ref. No. 5351 GUANA CAY, ABACO

HOPE TOWN 242.366.0163

MARSH HARBOUR 242.367.5046 TREASURE CAY 242.365.8500 ext. 1009

GUANA CAY 242.359.6885

Destination Abaco

ELBOW CAY 242.366.0035

Insider’s T

Guide

he island of Abaco formula for the classic unwind is: grab a towel, stretch out on the warm, white sand and breathe in the sea breezes. When you are ready, take a stroll along where the sand meets the surf and feel the warmth of the sun on your skin. For the more active there are opportunities for golf, bird watching, snorkeling, diving, deep sea fishing and bonefishing. There are regular ferry services to all the cays and on the mainland an excellent highway links Crown Haven with Sandy Point and all the settlements in between. Abaco has many fine restaurants in all price categories and many are handily accessed by boat. Shopping in Marsh Harbour or any of the cays ranges from native art to beach gear, from the practical to the luxurious. Abaco has many attractions and Destination Abaco is designed to be your guide so you can get the most out of your vacation experiences. Keep Destination Abaco handy in your car or in your tote bag. You’ll be glad you did, especially after you’ve checked out all the valuable information on what to see, where to go and what to do. It’s our way of welcoming you to our slice of paradise! Ruth Saunders Publisher 2011

Destination Abaco

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LUXURY HOMES • PRIVATE ISLANDS • BEACHFRONT PROPERTIES • RENTALS • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT • APPRAISALS

Marsh Harbour • 367 5454 Green Turtle Cay • 365 4191 Hope Town • 366 0700 sales@hgchristie.com www.HGChristie.com 7

Destination Abaco

In Every Issue

Visitor’s Service.......................... 12 Calendar of Events..................... 14 Ferry Schedule............................ 17 Activities...................................... 30 Local Shopping........................... 54 Guide to Marinas....................... 48 Accommodations....................... 84 Area Dining................................. 63 Visitor’s Information.................. 99

Features

Island Beat................................... 23 Coral Caverns & Tunnels.......... 46 Artist - Harmony Williams....... 52 Ahh.. The Abacos....................... 71 Publisher Ruth Saunders, Execuprint Ltd. Contributing writers Kristin Pearce Canishka Alexander Jennifer Hudson Kay Politano Photography Rhonda Pearce Kay Politano Colette Bootle Len Bucko

Sales, Marketing and Research Melanie Lenaghan Art & Graphic Design Ruth Saunders Nicolette Russell Cover Credits Provided by Colette Bootle Published bi-annually by Execuprint Ltd. For advertising rates and information: Tel (242) 367-3202/1 or 367-2107 US (305) 394-8274 Fax (242) 367-3201 http://www.destinationabaco.net Email: destinationabaco@gmail.com Destination Abaco is published by Execuprint Ltd. ©Copyright 2011 by Execuprint Ltd. P.O.Box AB-20968, Marsh Harbour, Abaco, The Bahamas. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission of the publisher is prohibited.

Destination Abaco

to Abaco It is a great honour to welcome you to the Abaco Islands, as we begin to see positive signs of the end of the global recession. We are happy to report that in spite of some challenging times, a stable economy was sustained. Special thanks to our many repeat visitors and in particular the second homeowner market, which continued to support the destination, thus, keeping many Abaconians employed. We have also maintained the confidence of foreign investors with the introduction of new projects, such as the Sand Banks Development and the Sand Bar Spa & Boutique at Treasure Cay; the Leeward Yacht Club and Marina on Green Turtle Cay; Fire Fly Resort, Hope Town and ongoing work at Schooner Bay Development, Serenity Point and Baker’s Bay Golf and Ocean Club. The Abaco Islands is a region within itself, made up of many surrounding cays with nine of them fully developed with amenities such as resort-based accommodations, restaurants, shops and other activity-driven establishments, all available to fulfill the basic needs of the vacationer. Actually, the wonderful diversity within the destination is noted, as visitors speak of the many different experiences available at most of these little islands. Access is easy for the pleasure boater or persons interested in renting a boat and exploring on their own. Also, organized, scheduled transportation is facilitated between cays by professionally operated ferry services. In fact, the destination boasts of two of the most reliable and safe ferry services in the Islands of the Bahamas, namely, the Green Turtle Ferry and Albury’s Ferry. For general interest, the Ministry of Tourism has developed a calendar of cultural events and activities in addition to working very closely with the various communities, in producing and growing local cultural initiatives, which take place throughout the Abaco Islands. While visiting attendance at one of these many events is highly encouraged for those persons who are interested in learning about Abaco’s culture and heritage in the form of music, dance, food, craft and history. Some of the recommended activities you may participate in include ‘Sojer’ Day on Man-O-War Cay, Goombay Summer Festival in Hope Town, Island Roots Heritage Festival on Green Turtle Cay, Barefoot Man Concerts on Great Guana Cay, North Abaco Summer Festival & Power Boat Race in Treasure Cay and the Junkanoo Summer and Abaco Christmas Festivals in Marsh Harbour, just to name a few. For further information, please feel free to visit our website at www.bahamas.com. On behalf of the Ministry of Tourism, Abaco, we extend best wishes to all visitors and sincerely thank you for choosing this destination. Should you require additional information, please feel free to stop by the Abaco Tourist Office which is located at the Memorial Plaza, Queen Elizabeth Drive, Marsh Harbour. Have an enjoyable stay with us.

Ms. Wynsome Ferguson Manager, Abaco Tourist Office

Destination Abaco

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Marsh Harbour, Abaco • 242.367.2473 284 Bay Street • 242.302.2800 Marina Village, Paradise Island • Mall at Marathon • Harbour Bay LPIA Departures Lounge • Dunmore Town, Harbour Island • Emerald Bay, Exuma 11

Destination Abaco

Visitors Services Airline & Charter Services

Sea Star Rentals.............................. 367-4887

Abaco Air Ltd. ............................... 367-2266 American Airlines /American Eagle US Reservations............... 1-800-433-7300 Air Gate Aviation (MH)............... 367-3636 Reservations...................1-407-585-3545 Bahamas Express................1-954-356-1540 Bahamasair Marsh Harbour Airport............ 367-2095 Treasure Cay............................. 365-8601 Cherokee Air Ltd. Aviation...................................... 367-1900 Continental Connection/ Gulfstream International Marsh Harbour Airport............ 367-3415 Treasure Cay Airport................ 365-8615 US Reservations...............1-800-231-0856 Craig Air Center Marsh Harbour......................... 367-3522 IBC (MH)......................................... 367-1336 Lynx........................................1-954-772-9808 Regional Air MH............................................. 367-0446 TC............................................... 365-8945 Sky Bahamas.................................. 367-0996 Reservations..................1-242-377-8993 Treasure Coast Airlines.......1-772-781-0031 Twin Air Calypso Marsh Harbour.......................... 367-0140 Treasure Cay.............................. 365-8660 Western Air..................................... 367-3722 Yellow Air Taxi Service Marsh Harbour Airport............. 367-0032 Treasure Cay Airport................. 365-8522

Banking & ATMs

Commonwealth Bank........ 367-2370 - ATM First Caribbean Int’l Bank Marsh Harbour................... 367-2166 - ATM Royal Bank of Canada Marsh Harbour.............. 367-2420 - ATM Treasure Cay.................. 365-8119 - ATM Scotiabank (Bahamas) Ltd.367-2141 - ATM Fidelity/Western Union (MH)...... 367-3135

Car Rentals

A & P Auto Rentals........................ 367-2655 Bargain Car Rentals....................... 367-0500 Cash’s Resort Carts ........................ 365-8771 Cornish Car Rentals....................... 365-8623 Rental Wheels................................. 367-4643

Directory Assistance

US & CANADA....1-(Area Code)-555-1212

Embassies/Consulates

United States Embassy........1-888-247-2262 Canadian Consulate.............1-800-433-7300

Emergency Services ‘919’

Royal Bahamas Police Force......... 367-2560 Fire Department (MH).................. 367-2000 Fire Department (TC).................... 365-8919 Bah Air Sea Rescue Assoc............. 366-0280

Long Distance Services

AT&T USA Direct.................1-800-872-2881 Canada Operator..................1-800-463-0501 MCI Customers.................... 1-800-888-8000 Sprint Customers.................1-800-389-2111 UKOperator.......................... 1-800-389-4444

Medical Services

Abaco Family Medicine................ 367-2295 Auskell Advance Medical............. 367-0020 Chiropractor - Dr. Lewis.............. 367-0020 Corbett Medical Center................. 365-8288 Health Therapeutic Massage......... 375-8416 Government Clinics Marsh Harbour........................... 367-2510 Cooper's Town............................ 365-0300 Green Turtle Cay........................ 365-4028 Hope Town.................................. 366-0108 Sandy Point................................. 366-4010 Marsh Harbour Medical................ 367-0050 Out Island Chiropractor................ 367-2584 Agape Family Dental Centre........ 367-4355 Diamente Dental Clinic................. 367-4968

Travel Agencies

A & W Travel Agency . ................... 367-2806 Travel Spot...................................... 367-2817

Visitors Info

Ministry of Tourism...................... 367-3067 People-to-People............................. 367-3067 Chamber of Commerce................. 367-6279 Post Office....................................... 367-2571 Administrator’s Office................... 367-2343 Time...........................................................917 Weather.......................................VHF CH 68 Tours (Abaco Express)........... 242-646-7072

Destination Abaco

CALENDARof events

For more information contact The Abaco Tourist Office at (242) 367-3067

2nd - 9th

July

36th Annual Regatta Time In Abaco (Contact Dave & Kathy Ralph, Phone: (242)-367-2677)

and games.

30th - Aug 1st

Black Wood Community Home Coming, Blackwood

The Regatta Time sailing event is hosted between the American and Bahamian Independence celebrations linking both important commemorations. This event that involves primarily American sloops brings dozens of sailing enthusiasts to the Abacos for a fun-filled and exciting racing series. The regatta is in its 36th year and is an important promotional event for Abacos.

(For further information, Phone: (242)-367-3067)

7th

(For further information, Phone: (242)-367-3067)

Junkanoo Summer Festival Sea Spray Resort, Hope Town

A Bahamian Street Festival that captures several elements of our culture on a single stage for a dramatic one-night experience. This is repeated over several weeks of the summer. Authentic Bahamian cultural encounters; native music, food, dance, and arts and crafts are presented.

A local community ‘homecoming’ weekend of celebrations; the public is invited to join family and friends in food, drink and entertainment.

August

19th - 21st

Moore’s Island Home-Coming, Moore’s Island This event will encourage a return of indigenous folks and other visitors to share in community activities, food, drinks, worship and entertainment. Activities will add to the promotion and development of local culture and financial support to these communities.

September

30th - Oct 1st

Abaco Open Water Swim Race, Marsh Harbour

10th

Bahamas Independence Celebrations

(Contact the Abaco Tourist Office, Phone: (242)-367-3067)

(Contact Administrators, Office phone: (242)-367-2343)

The Bahamas will celebrate 38 years as an independent nation. Events are planned across the Abacos in commemoration of this significant event in the life of our nation.

23rd - 25th

6th Annual North Abaco Summer Festival & Power Boat Race,Treasure Cay (Contact Cliff Bootle, Phone: (242)-475-3275)

A huge crowd of supporters turn out to cheer on their pick for the fastest boat on sea. Contestants travel from throughout The Bahamas to vie for this title and bragging rights. A golf tournament is also included of this event, which is held at Treasure Cay Beach Resort. Bahamians and visitors are also able to indulge in cultural activities during the three-day event which includes native music, foods

This swim race is a 5k triangular course located in the waterway of Marsh Harbour. Bahamian world-class swimmers, locals and visiting competitors swim for the gold or just for fun.

5th

November

Guy Fawkes & Bonfire Celebrations, Green Turtle Cay (Contact Abaco Tourist Office, Phone: (242)-367-3067)

Featuring the historical Guy Fawkes Competition, where judging of the Best Guy and Dancing of the Guy will be the highlight of the night. Also included in the celebrations are native food, drinks, music and a Junkanoo parade. Hosted by the Island Roots Heritage Festival Committee.

25th

11th Annual Arts & Crafts Festival, Hope Town

(Contact Hope Town Harbour Lodge, Phone: (242) 366-0095)

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Destination Abaco

CALENDARof events This daytime event features paintings, jewelry & crafts from local and international artists. While viewing the fine and unique pieces that will be on display, satisfy your palete with fine wine, cheese and other gourmet items that will be available for purchase.

24th

Green Turtle Cay Christmas Festival of Lights Green Turtle Cay (Contact Abaco Tourist Office, Phone: (242)-367-3067)

3rd Annual Green Turtle Cay Christmas Festival of Lights will begin early evening at Settlement Point with a Thanksgiving Dinner and an exciting stage program ending with our Torchlight Procession. Come and see our quiet village transformed into a fairyland.

26th

Hope Town Big Hill Box Cart

Derby, Hope Town

(Contact Abaco Tourist Office, Phone: (242)-367-3067)

Box carts of all descriptions are designed and constructed by local Elbow Cay contenders and other patrons in time to participate in the annual Big Hill Box Cartâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; challenge and fun day. Participants can compete in the junior or senior category which officially begins at 12 noon at the Hope Town race site. Proceeds go towards youth sports development.

26th

Holiday Golf Cart Parade, Green Turtle Cay (Contact (242)-36365-4395 or 365-4192 or 4120)

Watch or participate in our Holiday Golf Cart Parade and Jingle Bell Trot. Mouthwatering native Bahamian soups are on the menu - Pea Soup and Dumpling and Conch Chowder and Johnny Cake to name a few. Share a mug of hot chocolate under the glow of Christmas lights. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss

Destination Abaco

CALENDARof events our spectacular fireworks display!

27th

Holiday Family Fair, Green Turtle Cay

(Contact (242)-36365-4395 or 365-4192 or 4120)

Have an exciting fun-filled family day at the fair. Starting at noon on Settlement Point, the Gong Show, the Newlywed Game, bouncing castle, clowns, arts and crafts booths, bingo tent, and various interactive programs will fill the day. At 4 p.m. steak and chicken dinners can be purchased and for the kid in all of us, hamburgers, hot dogs and conch fritters will be available.

TBA

December

4th Annual North Abaco Christmas Celebration

(Contact the Abaco Tourist Office, Phone: (242) 367-3067)

Although just recently introduced to the

Abaco community, this celebration has all of the ingredients of a well seasoned Bahamian event. The event consists of a variety of live entertainment, an assortment of native dishes, a Junkanoo rush out, arts & crafts, games, free toys and an atmosphere that is guaranteed to put you in the Christmas spirit.

3rd

8th Annual Abaco Christmas Festival, Marsh Harbour

(Contact the Abaco Tourist Office, Phone: (242) 367-3067)

The Ministry of Tourism with business and service clubs of the Abacos host the annual Abaco Christmas Festival. General activities are a taste of Abacoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest cuisine, visit with Santa & free toys and games for all Tots, Arts & Crafts Bazaar, Choirs, Quartets, Soloists, Marching and Calypso Bands, Junkanoo Parades, all day Live Entertainment, and spectacular fireworks.

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CALENDARof events 10th

Lite the Boat Parade, Green Turtle Cay

(Contact Phone: (242) 365-4395, 365-4120)

Join us for the Lite the Nite Boat Parade. The route will take the boats from Black Sound, White Sound, Settlement Creek and ending at the Main Dock at Settlement Point. Santa and his elves will be at the Festival Site passing out gifts to the young people. Bunce, Hail’em gal and a Junkanoo rush will be performed tonight as well as another late night of Bingo that night.

1st

January

New Year’s Day Junkanoo, Green Turtle Cay

(Contact the Abaco Tourist Office, Phone: (242)-367-3067)

Mid-morning community-based Junkanoo parade & food festival officially begins the New Year. It is an annual reunion and heritage event for hundreds

of residents and visitors alike. Junkanoo is the celebrated street festival in the Bahamas; however, this Green Turtle event blends the traditional music and dance of Junkanoo with local variants making for unique entertainment.

27th - 29th

Art for the Parks, Marsh Harbour (Contact Abaco Beach Resort, Phone: (242)-367-2158)

The Bahamas National Trust, Abaco Beach Resort, local Artists and corporate supporters come together to provide an opportunity for residents and visitors to Abaco to view and purchase the works of over 30 talented Bahamian artists on January 28, 29, 30, 2012. The event features artists who work in all mediums with a number of high-end jewelry and craft artisans participating. Saturday and Sunday features a variety of food, an interactive children’s crafts area and local musical talent. All fund-raised at the event go to

Destination Abaco

CALENDARof events supporting the six Abaco national parks and conservation education initiatives on Abaco. Contact BNT office in Marsh Harbour at 242-367-6310.

TBA

February

Inaugural Wahoo Championship, Marsh Harbour

The wonderful evening under the stars is a fundraising event for the annual Island Roots Heritage Festival. The event begins at 6:30p.m. and continues throughout the evening until 10pm at the Green Turtle Club. Various selections of wines will be offered as well as Bahamian entertainment and delicious hors dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oeuvres.

13th

(Contact Abaco Beach Resort, Phone: (242)-367-2158)

Making its first appearance in the Abacos chain of fishing tournaments is the Wahoo Champion where the only fish being sought after is the Wahoo. Coordinators anticipate this to be a family fun tournament where participants and their guests will be hosted to offshore and onshore activities.

6th

Annual Man-O-War Craft & Trade Fair, Man-O-War Cay (For more information contact Phone: (242) 365-6049)

Local crafts, general items, food and drinks are featured at this popular fair that directly benefits the Man-O-War School.

19th

Junior Junkanoo, Marsh Harbour

(Contact the Abaco Tourist Office, Phone: (242)-367-3067)

7th Annual Wine Tasting Event, Green Turtle Cay

(Contact the Abaco Tourist Office, Phone: (242) 367-3067)

Local schools are brought together to compete in The Bahamasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; most celebrated street festival, Junkanoo. Creating the music, the costumes and dance for this street festival are the youths of Abaco.

20th

Senior Junkanoo, Marsh Harbour

(Contact the Abaco Tourist Office, Phone: (242)-367-3067)

This is a celebration of Bahamian heritage and culture for hundreds of residents and visitors alike to enjoy. This competitive event evokes the passion of Bahamians in the traditional music, costumes and dance of our junkanoo celebration with local senior groups competing for supremacy on this uniquely Bahamian stage.

25th

People to People/Winter Residents Reception, Marsh Harbour

(Contact the Abaco Tourist Office, Phone: (242)-367-3067)

This event presents an opportunity for local People to People Volunteers, facilitated by the Ministry of Tourism, Abaco Office, to meet and interact with visitors and Winter Residents in an annual get together. Bahamian music, food and other cultural expressions are highlighted.

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Island Rhythm “Feel the Beat”

Pulsating deeply within the hearts of great men who write, produce and perform popular Bahamian songs is a sensational feeling that can only be experienced by the local and international audiences they captivate. Indeed, music is alive and well in the Abacos, and it is here that veteran musicians have contributed more than 30 years of spellbinding entertainment and performances.

Caniskha Alexander

THE GULLY ROOSTERS

ake, for instance, the talent found on Green Turtle Cay. Having secured the title of the nation’s No. 1 band for the past 33 years, Kevin McIntosh, lead vocalist and guitarist of the Gully Roosters, confidently expressed that the band has a few more contributions to make before exiting the music scene. In fact, there are plans to release a new album at some point, but that’s as much as Kevin would reveal for the time being. Naturally gifted as a musician and singer, he was compelled to remember his childhood, which was how

he became involved in the music industry. “My mom and dad inspired me,” he recalled. “My dad used to play on the island long before I knew I could play. Also my Mom taught me my first three chords, and I eventually picked up on my own. From then on, I could play the

Destination Abaco

guitar, the keyboard and the bass.” Likewise, popular Bahamian music artists like Kirkland Bodie, who is known as K.B., and Ronnie Butler have served to motivate the Gully Roosters during their performances. “We love playing their sweet music, and the people began loving it as well,” he admitted. Known for their popular hits like “Let’s Go - Go to Abaco,”“Rooster Jam,” “Sweet as a Plum”and “Sandra, My Love,” the lively band is made up of four other members whose long-term partnership and success has also been credited to Godfrey “Gully” McIntosh, keyboardist; Brent Curry, drummer; Earklin McIntosh, bass; and Vernal Cooper. The band’s performances incorporate a smooth blend of Bahamian, reggae and soca music to lure dancers to their feet as they dance to a rhythm that virtually touches the soul. Although they’ve had opportunities to travel and perform at weddings and private events across the United States, they are more attuned to tourists visiting Abaco and reminding them, “Don’t stop playing that sweet Bahamian music.” The Gully Roosters perform regularly at the Green Turtle Club Resort, Bluff House Resort, Abaco Inn, Hope Town Harbour Lodge, and within the Marsh Harbour and Guana Cay communities.

MATHERSON COOPER AKA “BROWN TIP”

atherson Cooper, better known as Brown Tip remembered the Gully Roosters all too well when he relocated to Green Turtle Cay in the 1980s. Listening to the five-piece band perform awakened a talent that lay dormant in him until then, but it was enough to spur him into action. He rounded up a saw, goat-skinned drum and a pair of maracas seeking to make his own contributions to the growing industry through rake n’ scrape music. Growing up on Delectable Bay, Acklins, Brown Tip and his siblings observed their father playing the eight-stringed mandolin, and whenever he performed, they were glad to be a part of the show. After leaving Green Turtle Cay, Brown Tip’s next stop was Marsh Harbour where he teamed up with another Bahamian rake n’ scrape artist called T-Time for a brief stint. Brown Tip went on to provide entertainment and subsequently increase the number of customers dining in at the Jib Room and Sapodilly’s Restaurant. “The music was hot and people put so much spunk into it that it encouraged me,” he said as he released a jovial laugh. “They tell me that they’ve heard so much about me, they love me and ask where I will be next. It has encouraged me to stay in Abaco because tourists

Destination Abaco

show so much respect to me, and I show it back to them. If that’s what it takes for them to come back to you, then that is what you need to do.” Eager to demonstrate how sweet the music truly is, Brown Tip quickly collected all of the necessary instruments that completed his one-man getup and began singing Stevie S’s popular hit “Hold Your Head.” Caressing the knife’s blade back and forth along the jagged edges of the saw, it emitted a zipper-like sound that burst with rhythm and kept in tone with the notes of the song as he emphatically swung his body from side to side as though holding a lover in his arms. Settling down from his sample performance, he said; “That’s why I love dealing with the tourists because they encourage us to do what we are supposed to be doing in The Bahamas. Everyone who sees it wants to come back, and I have Bahamians lined up who want to join with me, too.” For the past four years he has

worked along with Christian Sawyer to create a two-piece band. “What I do with a twopiece band is just as live as if you have a six piece. It’s hard work, but where I grew up everything had to be done by muscle, so the people today have it good. If I could make it through the hard times in Acklins Island and I’m in the city now, I should be looking pretty and smiling. And that’s what I’m doing because it is beginning to get easier to me.” Brown Tip has developed an eye for engaging his audience and knowing just the right song to play. Once he entertained a grandfather and his eight-year-old granddaughter. The young girl had toured the world with her grandfather and always refused to dance. Not only did Brown Tip have her dancing to the hypnotic beat, she joined him onstage with the maracas! He even recalled an 85-year-old woman throwing down her walking cane to dance to Ronnie Butler’s, “Age Ain’t Nothing but a Number.” “I make sure that I find a song that touches everyone - that’s Bahamian music. Why should I hit you with a Jamaican song when I can get you up with a Bahamian song? Every year I can look forward to seeing the same people I entertain again,” he remarked. “You don’t need to worry about Dr. Phil on the television - just come to the Brown Tip show. I hope to be like this until the

Destination Abaco

day I die. I’m not going to lose this for no city; I am going to keep the island in the city.” Brown Tip performs on a weekly basis at the Abaco Club on Winding Bay, the Great Abaco Beach Resort and in Hope Town; however, he is longing for the opportunity to travel to the United States for a month’s period because he believes it will give him the chance to accomplish much of what he has in the past 30 years in The Bahamas.

band routine, Ossie has engaged both young and old audiences for years with a classical voice that serenades the senses. Nevertheless, he is always surprised to hear the youth commenting on and appreciating his style of music. “Music is a talent that is embedded in the soul of a musician… because when called upon to perform it gives you that lift and that extra energy,” Ossie surmised. Over the years he has been compared to other prominent artists, and he has been given the opportunity to travel to New York, Chicago, Florida, Detroit and Vermont. The latter holds a special meaning for him. “There are always guests that come up to you during your break time and tell you that you sound just like a certain artist, and sometimes they ask if you would travel out of the country to do parties. At

OSWALD PARKER “OSSIE”

hen there’s the short visit to Treasure Cay’s Spinnaker Restaurant that is well worth it for dinner and a live music performance by the legendary Oswald “Ossie” Parker. Showcasing a one-man

Destination Abaco

one time in 1982, a night club owner from Vermont booked me in his club for four weeks -things like that keep you going on.” It is this innate ability to connect with people through his music and warm personality that sets this outstanding musician apart. “I look on my music as a gift because whatever I choose as an instrument it is not a problem for me to learn that piece. I play the guitar, draws, bass, key board, and a little flute. When he’s not entertaining the masses with his soothing voice and giving them a good dose of love ballads or slow island music, Ossie is content with constructing private and commercial buildings as president of Abaturk Ltd. Construction Company. Nonetheless, he’s always led back to his music, and he is currently fulfilling a lifelong goal of producing an original CD. In 1978 Ossie appeared on a television show in New York called Jersey Side with Howard Klausner. Although he looks upon the music industry as a rewarding career, it takes a lot of hard work. He made a suggestion that he felt could lighten their load a little plus sharpen the talent of the island’s musicians. “I think if we come together about twice a year and sponsor a night of local talent, it can promote not only me but many of the artists on the island and give the club owners and restaurant owners a chance to see what’s there is to choose from as far as music is concerned.”

ESTIN SAWYER: “THE MUSIC MAN”

stin Sawyer - “The Music Man” - readily agreed with Ossie Parker’s suggestion regarding the promotion and recognition of local music artists because he also believes that The Bahamas is filled with stars. He and Ossie once performed together as members of a band called Deltones. Throughout his music career Estin found himself a part of at least three more bands. However, it was a man by the name of Redwin Miller from Grand Cay who played in a program known as “The Concert,”who inspired him

Destination Abaco

early on. He has been grateful for the support of people like Barbara Smith of Wally’s Restaurant and MP for South Abaco Mr. Edison Key, who have helped him to become what he is today. Ranked among the best of our island’s musicians, this great Bahamian cultural icon believes that his music is a stepping stone for the younger generation. He has represented The Bahamas in Germany, London, Chicago and Pennsylvania. Once he was given an offer to perform aboard a cruise ship for three months, and during his six-week visit to Germany, no one wanted him to leave. “I played Bahamian music at different hotels, but I had to play slower so they could understand. I was well accepted and treated like a celebrity,” he reminisced as his eyes reflected the life-sized posters adorned with his face that decorated the streets of Germany. He travelled to London twice to promote The Bahamas for the Ministry of Tourism, and it was there that he spotted the Queen. There was also a visit to New Jersey that was arranged by Phyllis Fairbanks, and another to Toledo, Ohio, where he and his band members were hired by Gail Aster to perform at the Patch of Maiden Restaurant. While performing, Estin prefers a mixture of Bahamian, American, Jamaican and calypso, but he leans more to a smooth blend of what he calls Bahamian calypso or a slow ballad calypso.

“I will continue making contributions to the music industry until I can’t make them anymore,” he said matter-of-factly. “I’ve written at least 25 original songs that I’ve got under my belt. I want to do some more recording, and I did a CD two years ago. “You know I’m not a loud player or singer, so you have to listen to hear me. People think I’m a record, but I say feel me, I’m not a record. My wife can attest to the fact that I get up in the wee hours and practice until day clean. I can’t read music, but I can read sound and that’s important – to be able to ear sound.” “The Music Man” was the first musician to play at the Great Abaco Beach Hotel in the late 1950s; he played for 20 years at Wally’s Restaurant, 16 years at Abaco Towns, another 12 years of entertainment at the Treasure Cay Beach Hotel, and he performed at Mangoes Restaurant for four years. Nowadays, he performs at private functions held at Baker’s Bay Golf & Ocean Club, Bahama Beach Club, Hope Town Harbour Lodge and Great Abaco Beach Hotel.

GLADSTONE “STONE” MCEWAN

ike “The Music Man,” most of Gladstone “Stone” McEwan’s life has been about music. Begin-

Destination Abaco

ning his musical career with the late George Moxey at 13, he then went on to become a member of four bands – two of which he formed. As a member of the “A National Willpower,” the group recorded its first single “Say What You Like.” The band continued to mesmerize its audiences with world-class entertainment before Stone moved on to Grand Bahama in the 1980s and formed the band “Force.” He later joined “Swain and the Citations.” It wasn’t until 1992 that Stone began to perform as a one-man band, and five years later he moved to Abaco. In 1999 he released his first CD single “Throw It Out,” which was followed by the release of his first solo album called “Hangin’ Out In Abaco” in 2000. His second album “Don’t Touch It if You Can’t Handle It” was released three years later. Undoubtedly, Stone is lauded as a top performer on Abaco, and by

extension, The Bahamas. In 2003 Stone formed “Thunder.” The band includes Wesley “Mr. Wess” Cornish as bass player and Herbert “Milo” Knowles on electronic percussions, and they perform at Grabbers every Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. Rallying his audiences to connect to a wide range of music selections and styles as far back as the 1950s, he is described as the “one-man sensation.” For Christmas 2007 Stone performed a song he had written for the second grade students at the St. Francis de Sales School’s Annual Christmas concert. That’s not all. Within a year of working as the public relations manager for The Abaco Club on Winding Bay, Stone organized a 100-person cultural contingent to perform in Providence, Rhode Island, and it became the largest non-government sponsored exportation of Bahamian culture to date. Despite all of his accomplishments, Stone is looking to make 2011 another golden year for him. He is scheduled to release the first two singles on his label “777 Productions” with video tracts following after the tracts debut. “It is my intent to elevate Bahamian music, motivate and encourage younger Bahamians to become interested in our music once again and modernize the overall presentation and production of the same.“

Destination Abaco

Activities

Out and About

Eco-Adventures Mangroves

There are four types of mangroves native to The Bahamas. The red mangroves are more prolific and actually grow out into the water sending their root system deep into the underwater ground cover. They are much larger systems and in some areas kayaks can be maneuvered under the vast canopy of leaves and branches. The black mangroves have a much smaller leaf and grow more on the land sending their root system through the soil and up through the water in order to provide the necessary air and nutrients which promote its growth. The white mangroves and the buttonwood mangroves grow up even further on the land. These mangroves are natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s way of protecting the land from erosion and the coral reefs offshore from pollution. They protect the island from erosion caused when torrential rains drop millions of gallons of water on the land from the run-off that would erode the structure of the island. Mangroves protect the reefs by slowing down the landâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rain run-off and permitting more of a gradual dilution of the rain into the salt water. Corals cannot survive drastic changes in salinity because of their inability to recover from these rapid pH fluctuations. Another benefit of the mangroves is that they are the nursery for embryonic crab, fish and lobster young. Mangrove root systems provide shelter and protection for these young until they grow large enough to fend for themselves in the open water. 30

Blue Holes

The Abaco Islands sit on a calcium carbonate structure with a myriad of underground caves and caverns throughout the island. On occasion while gliding over the surface, ocean caves called blue holes may be observed. One of the reasons fish live near these ocean blue holes is because of the cracks and crevices along the walls of the cave. Many of these blue holes force large amounts of water in and out from a link to the deep ocean. This high volume of water also helps attract fish by providing a larger concentration of food. While kayaking, the water clarity will differ according to location, and in some places you will be able to see the ground structure and animal life below your kayak. Occasionally, you may want to snorkel to get a better view of what is under you. You may actually be able to see some of the young crabs, fish and lobsters swimming under and around the extensive root systems. In the trees and along the shoreline various bird life, orchids, airplants, mosses and grasses can be observed. Some of the birds that can be found in trees are hummingbirds, ospreys, mockingbirds, warblers, Bahama woodstar, swallows and more, depending on the season.Your Bahama Host certified tour guides will be able to identify many of the local birds that you may see. Kayak tours are offered in Hope Town, Treasure Cay and Marsh Harbour areas. For your eco-adventures in Marsh Harbour and Treasure Cay, call Abaco Dive Adventures Tel: (242)

Destination Abaco

Activities

Out and About

367-2213 or Cell: (242) 475-1232. For your eco-adventures in Hope Town call Abaco Eco: Phone: (242) 366-0398 Cell:(242) 475-9616. Abaco Adventures in Treasure Cay with Ozzie at 365-8749 or 375-8123.

Captain Plug’s Adventure

Stafford Patterson, also known as Captain Plug is owner and operator of Sea Horse Boat Rentals. Stafford will guide you around Central Abaco and assist you with your boating wishes, either on board one of his rental boats, his 24-foot Grady White, or on your own craft. Stafforf has boating experience on the Sea of Abaco for 40 years. Would you like some instruction or familiarization to boating in our area? How about a nice family outing with a visit to some cool beaches or to see some of our beautiful settlements? Take the kids or the missus to find some shells? No problem. Dad wants to wet a fishing line and perhaps bring something home for dinner? Is bar hopping your passion? Stafford know 31

them all! You will enjoy your time with him. He will guarantee you that.

WildLife

With over 65 species of birds on The Abacos, it truly is a bird-watcher’s paradise. It is one of the few places in The Bahamas where you can find the green Abaco or Bahama parrot, mainly in south Abaco near Hole-In-The-Wall. There are many other things you can discover about the bird population here. Surrounded by beautiful scenery, some of the birds you’ll encounter are the Bahama yellow-throat, the Cuban emerald hummingbird, the Bahamas woodpecker, the red-legged thrush, and the olive-capped warbler. The Abaco National Park comprises 20,000 acres in Southern Abaco near Hole-in-the-Wall. It has been designated a preservation area by the government of The Bahamas and is managed by The Bahamas National Trust. Included are 15,000 acres of pine forest, the nesting area and habitat of about 1000 endangered Bahama or “Abaco” parrots. The parrots once

Destination Abaco

Activities

Out and About

lived on as many as seven islands in The Bahamas, but now only exist on Abaco and Great Inagua. The Bahamas National Trust reports that there are now fewer than 3,000 Bahama parrots remaining in The Bahamas. These birds are protected under the Wild Bird (Protection) Act, and it is illegal to harm, capture or offer these birds for sale. For more information call the Abaco Tourist Office or Friends of the Environment.

Abaco Wild Horses

Support the Abaco Wild Horses www.arkwild.org Tel: 242-367-4805 Give them a call to arrange a tour to view the horses while on Abaco. As with all charitable efforts, funds are needed to improve the infrastructure of the preserve, to help maintain fire breaks, to keep the fence lines

clear, and for long overdue medical support, etc. All funds go directly to Arkwild or to WHOA for the direct benefit of the horses.

Abaco Gal Island Adventures

is a tour operation run by Tanique Pratt, offering Kayak Tours & Rentals, Charter boat tours including spear fishing, snorkeling, island hopping

Historical Tour - Loyalist Villages Bird Watching - Abaco National Park Nature Tours - Guided Tour of Abaco, Cave Exploration, Wild Horses or Blue Holes Museum Tours - Alton Lowe Museum (original art painting, Green Turtle Cay) Wyannie Malone Museum (shipwrecking artifacts, Hope Town) Boat Building Capital - Man-O-War Cay City Tours - Marsh Harbourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first jailhouse, Castle in the sky, Abaco Neem Factory Lighthouse Tours - Hope Town Lighthouse and Hole-in-the-Wall South Abaco Snorkeling - Mermaid Reef (swim amongst tropical fish around beautiful coral reefs) Peteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pub & Gallery - Bronze Sculpture Gallery Lumber Camp Ruins - Wilson City built in 1908 Beaches - White sandy Treasure Cay Grand Bahama Day Tour - Industrial Capital Nassay Day Tour - City Tour Native Settlements - Cultural experiences, Junkanoo Rushout, Conch Salad, Bahamian Food and Home-made pies

The Great Abaco Express - Glender Archer - Knowles 242.367.0200 367.2165 Cell: 242.646.7072 thegreatabacoexpress@yahoo.com 32

Destination Abaco

Activities

Out and About

and island tours of Abaco sights.

Great Abaco Express

The Great Abaco Express with Glender Knowles offers a wide selection of tours on the mainland of Abaco, Man-O-War Cay, and Hope Town as well as Nassau and Grand Bahama. Glender, a Cacique award winner – the highest national honor for persons working in tourism and hospitality – is a knowledgeable and engaging guide who works diligently to ensure her guests have an educational and enjoyable visit, whether at local museums, viewing wild horses, bird watching, beaching and snorkeling, boat building, lighthouses, or native settlements where you mingle with local residents and enjoy native food and cultural experiences. thegreatabacoexpress@yahoo.com

Abaco Nature Tours led by veteran environmentalist Ricky Johnson offers tours to the Abaco parrots and other birds, and the Blue Holes of Abaco. He also facilitates history tours, hiking and eco-tourism presentations. He is a certified tour guide through the Ministry of Tourism, Abaco Tourist Office and encourages anyone to come prepared to experience Abaco. He allows guests, visitors, and locals to experience the diverse eco-system, birdlife and to engage in the rich history of the Abacos and The Bahamas.” Ricky is a passionate and informed guide who will ensure you get lots of pictures and a diverse environmental and cultural experience. www.abaconature.com

Destination Abaco

Activities

Out and About

Museums

cal pottery and ships’ china recovered by wreckers, and household antiques are housed here. Extensive genealogy records are available for Bahamian families. Man-O-War Museum is located on

The Albert Lowe Museum on Green Turtle Cay charts the history of Abaconians from the Loyalists of the 1780s through the modern day development of Abaco. It also features handcrafted ship models and paintings by local artists. Once a home, this 150-year-old structure was transformed by artist Alton Lowe in memory of his father. Tel: (242) 367-4094 The Wyannie Malone Historical Museum at Hope Town exhibits the

The Queen’s Highway in the heart of the settlement. The recently opened Museum holds artifacts, photos and family treasures of yesteryear. The building itself is one of the oldest on the Island at 100+ years. And like all older buildings, it has its challenges. Donations are being taken for the roof restoration project. Go to www.mowmuseum.com To bring things up to the 21st Century and stay updated on the progress of the Museum, you can “like” them on Facebook .

Abaco’s Lighthouses

cay’s history from the 1780’s to the present and is named after the Hope Town founder from South Carolina. The museum is crammed with manuscripts, photographs and artifacts. Lo34

Hole-In-The-Wall Lighthouse Built in 1836, but with its original mechanism dismantled, the lighthouse now has an automated light. Some interested residents hope to restore the beauty of this once proud beacon of light to ships that sailed in our beautiful waters of the Atlantic. The Elbow Cay Lighthouse Probably the most recognizable

Destination Abaco

landmark on the Abacos. This 89-foot high candy-striped edifice was built in 1863 and is one of three handwound kerosene-burning lighthouses still operational left in the world. It is worth the viewing.

Out Island Excursions

Bahamas Fast Ferries - Take a trip to

our nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capital, Nassau, in under four hours on Bahamas Ferriesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; stateof-the-art, air-conditioned high-speed ferry. Stroll world-famous Bay Street or visit Government House. The ferry departs Nassau on Friday and Sunday at 3:30 pm and Sandy Point at 8 pm. Adults: $90 round trip and $50 one way. Cars, trucks and cargo

Destination Abaco

Activities

Out and About

are also permitted. Call Sandy Point on Abaco at 366-4119, Marsh Harbour 367-5250 and Nassau 242-323-2166. Pinder’s Ferry Service offers passenger service between Abaco and Grand Bahama. The ferry leaves Crown Haven, Abaco, for McLean’s Town, Grand Bahama, daily at 7am and 2:30pm. Ferry departs McLean’s Town for Crown Haven daily at 8:30am and 4:30pm. Fare: $40 one-way and $80 round trip. Children travel half fare. For more information call Grand Bahama 365-3093 or Abaco 365-2356. A bus service is available on Abaco as well as Freeport and McLean’s Town. Rental automobiles are available at both terminals.

Regatta Time In Abaco

Regatta Time In Abaco is a five-race series held each year incorporating the American and Bahamian Independence Day holidays. Its primary focus is to encourage cruising sailboats to compete. The races are held on the waters off different towns from Green Turtle Cay to Hope Town. The shore activities include street parties, Junkanoo and hosted parties at a different location each night for the ten-day event.

Homecomings

Every year various settlements or towns throughout Abaco host local homecomings. These homecomings give residents, past and present, an opportunity to showcase their community spirit, and give visitors a chance to enjoy the festivities. Some of the communities that stage such homecomings are Sandy Point, Blackwood, Cedar Harbour, Moore’s Island and Murphy Town.

North Abaco Boat Race

The North Abaco Summer Festival and Power Boat Race has been held at the Green Turtle Cay ferry dock for the past four years. Recently Abaco boats have competed in the races that had previously consisted of boats only from Grand Bahama. It is a popular three-day event, which draws food vendors and local partygoers as well as visitors from around The Bahamas.

Man-O-War Cay’s Independence Day

Every July locals and visitors participate in a variety of old-fashioned games and activities in celebration of Independence Day on Man-OWar Cay. Swimming events are held along with popular games that are giving rewards for all participants. A traditional cookout concludes the day’s events.

“Sojer” Day

Every other year residents of ManO-War Cay celebrates their Heritage Day called Sojer Day – in recognition of the residents who are nicknamed “Sojers.” Throughout the day locals 36

Destination Abaco

Activities

Out and About

acknowledge their history and rich heritage through food, skits, musical selections, artifacts, tours and booths that reflect the cay’s reputation as The Bahamas’ boatbuilding capital. The next Sojer Day is schedule for 2013.

Hope Town Box Cart Derby

Every November Hope Town becomes the venue of a major event called the Big Hill Box Cart Derby. The competition consists of junior and senior categories, and the selection of homemade box cars entered vary in design, size and colours. The event is a popular one drawing those with competitive spirits and scores of spectators. Food and beverage stands are set up. Earnings from the event assist in youth sports development in the community, particularly the Taylor Park Ballfield and the Abaco Junior Sailing Program.

Sandy Point Conch Fest

During the first weekend of June, the Sandy Point Development Association presents the annual Sandy Point Abaco Homecoming and Conchfest. The event highlights the Bahamian sloop sailing regattas and showcases cultural activities, games, food, drinks, and a church service. The Conchfest also includes performances by Bahamian musicians.

Junkanoo

The Junkanoo Parade, the traditional Bahamian dance with elaborate costumes, is held in Marsh Harbour for two nights in February and several weekends in June and July. Green Turtle Cay has an annual Junkanoo Parade on New Year’s Day. Listen to 37

the sounds of the horns and whistles and feel the pulsating rhythms of the goatskin drums and cowbells. Join in a rushout with local groups like the Spring City Rockers, Supreme Dancers, Green Turtle Cay Rockers and LA Conquerors.

Annual Christmas Festival

The Christmas Festival is held the first weekend in December in Marsh Harbour and in Treasure Cay the second weekend in December. This event involves the community with a family day with lots of games, music, Bahamian food, various local talents and live entertainment. It showcases community spirit to bring in the Christmas cheer with visitors having a chance to enjoy the culture of the Bahamian people.

Island Roots Heritage Festival

2012 Green Turtle Cay will join its Sister City, Key West, for their 30th anniversary of the Conch Replublic in April. They look forward to hosting their 9th festival in 2013. Please check the website for updates on their activities throughout the year. For

Destination Abaco

Activities

Out and About

more information contact The Abaco Tourist Office at 367-3067, or Karen McIntosh at 365-8489. www.islandrootsheritagefestival.com

3rd Annual Green Turtle Cay Christmas Festival of Lights, Fair and Boat Parade

The event will begin early evening at Settlement Point with a thanksgiving dinner and an exciting stage program ending with a torchlight procession. Come and see our quiet village transformed into a fairyland and experience the cart parade and jingle bell trot. Later join us for the Lite the Nite Boat Parade. The route will take the boats from Black Sound, White Sound, Settlement Creek to the Main Dock at Settlement Point. Bunce, Hailâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;em gal and a Junkanoo rush will be performed that night as well as another late night of bingo. This event will begin Thursday November 24th and end on Saturday December 19th, 2011, three weekends of fun. Contact Erin Albury 365-4395 or Marilyn Saunders 365-4120 for more information.

5th Annual Cancer Society Art Show and Auction

everything that is truly Bahamian. Local residents and visitors alike get to taste the flavour of the islands. In addition to the variety of Bahamian dishes and drinks, there are performances by the world famous Royal Bahamas Police Force Band and local Junkanoo and dance groups. Fire dancing, limbo, hair braiding and native crafts are also displayed.

Art For The Parks

The Bahamas National Trust, Abaco Beach Resort, local artists and corporate supporters have come together to provide an opportunity for residents and visitors to Abaco to view and purchase the works of over 30 talented Bahamian artists on January 27th- 29th, 2012. The event features artists who work in all mediums with a number of high end jewellery and craft artisans participating. Saturday and Sunday features a variety of food, an interactive childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crafts area, and local musical talent. All funds raised at the event go to supporting the six Abaco national parks and conservation education initiatives on Abaco. Contact the Bahamas National Trust at bnt@bnt.bs. BNT office in Marsh Harbour is 242 -367-6310 Painting by Anthony Morley

Held in Green Turtle Cay at the Green Turtle Cay Club. Local art, jewelry, sculpture and much more. For more infomation email: abacocancersociety@gmail.com or 367-3744.

Junkanoo Summer Festival

Summertime on Abaco means Junkanoo Time. This festival, staged by the Ministry of Tourism throughout the summer months, highlights 38

Destination Abaco

Activities

Out and About

Galleries

Lovely Island Tings

Is a working studio and gallery of fun things. It offers the finest in handmade products such as art quilts, table decor, silk paintings and so much more. Androsia and Bahama Handprint fabric are available. All crafts are handmade by Kim Roberts. Tel: 367-4648 www.bahamadawn.com

Abaco Ceramics

Bahama Dawn Design

Blue Sky Gallery

Offers fine Bahamian art, prints, professional framing & photography by Tuppy Weatherford. Displayed artwork of Lou Lihou, Anne Ray, Fritz Keck, Beth Sweeting and Zyandric Jones are found here. This store is located on Don MacKay Blvd. in Marsh Harbour. Tel: 367-0579

Specializing in straw work. Fine items such as straw bags, wallets, handbags and hats. Household items like mats, cushions and bath accessories with so much more. Located on Queen Elizabeth Drive in Marsh Harbour. Tel: 367-4297/551-7453 Established in 1983, Abaco Ceramics continues to offer a wide range of beautifully hand-painted functional and decorative ceramics created in its workshop located on the road into Treasure Cay. Open Monday through Friday 9am to 4pm.

Abaco Island Artists

Brigitte Bowyer Carey, Joann Bradley, Lillian Cash, Leanne Russell, Donna Spadafora, Marjolein Scott,

Destination Abaco

Activities

Out and About

Bob Zwickel, Tim Higgs, Donnie Wood, Jeep Byers, Zyandric Jones, Attila Feszt, Louis Schneider and Colyn Rees. Their work can be found at Mangoes Boutique and Palm Cottage in Marsh Harbour These friends are loyal supporters of the Abaco Cancer Society’s Art Shows. The group believes in the artistic talent of The Bahamian youth and encourages and mentors aspiring local artist. abacoislandartists@gmail. com. Tel: 367-3744

Pete’s Pub & Gallery

Located in Little Harbour. The Johnstons produce bronze art in their foundry. Clients and visitors are welcome to tour the foundry, then

visit the Gallery where the finished sculptures are available. Open December through August - 11am. Call 366-3503

Edna’s Straw Work

Edna’s Handicraft features works of art fashioned from material exclusive to Abaco’s environment and located on Forest Drive in Marsh Harbour. Edna Kemp’s collection boasts sand-blasted vases, shell floral arrangements, beaded coconut, Abaco glass jewellery, hair accessories, and colossal mirrors delicately outlined in an exquisite display of native shells. Tel: 554-9905.

www.destinationabaco.net

Destination Abaco

Diving & Fishing

Photo by Len Bucko. www.LenBuckoPhoto.com

The experienced diver is bound to discover a perfect match in the Abacos when it comes to diving activities. Home to the world’s fourth largest barrier reef system, diving options are endless and may include wreck diving, reef or cave diving or beach-access diving that offer an unparalleled underwater experience for divers. There’s also room for a private shark feeding dive if you wish or perhaps the exchange of wedding vows – underwater, of course! Added to the extensive range of diving experiences are NITROX dives, full cave certification, blue hole exploration, wall and night dives along with a full slate of instructional courses. Whatever your choice, we’d like to invite you to explore, experience and be entertained by an undersea world that’s waiting just for you. 41

Destination Abaco

Above and Below Marsh Harbour, 367-0350

Brendals Dive Center Green Turtle Cay, 365-4111

Dive Abaco

Marsh Harbour, 367-2787

Dive Guana

Guana Cay, 365-5178

Froggies Adventure Hope Town, 366-0431

Treasure Divers

Treasure Cay, 365-8465

Certification

Traiing courses

Tanks

# Boats

Instructors

Blue Holes

Walls

Reefs & wrecks

Snorkeling

Shark Encounters

Dive Information

Night Dive

Diving & Fishing

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3 30 8 8

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3 80 8 8

8 -

2 48 8 8

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8 1

captain keith’s dive abaco temporary relief from reality since 1978

catch some rays...

scuba . snorkeling . lessons . certiﬁcations padi . naui . bsac . cmas . universal referrals accommodations . packages . resort boutique island tours . sunset cruises . private charters guides . air ﬁlls . sales . rentals . repairs conch inn resort & marina . marsh harbour abaco . bahamas . 242.367.2787 . 800.247.5338 . vhf 16

Destination Abaco

diveabaco.com

Destination Abaco

Diving & Fishing Bonefishing Guides

Cherokee Sound Maxwell Sawyer.................366-3058 Marty Sawyer......................366-2115 Noel Lowe...........................366-2107 Will Sawyer.........................366-2177 Randy Sawyer....................366-2284 Coopers Town Alexander Rolle..................365-0532 Edward Rolle......................365-0024 Green Turtle Cay Ronnie Sawyer....................365-4070 Abaco Fly Fish....................365-4261 Hope Town Maitland Lowe....................366-0234

Marsh Harbour Jay Sawyer...........................367-3941 Danny Sawyer....................367-3577 Buddy Pinder.....................366-2163 Justin Sands.........................359-6890 Sidney Albury.....................477-5996 Terrance Davis....................375-8550 Richard Albury...................367-0367 Jody Albury........................375-8068 Mount Hope Herbert Thurston...............365-4205 Pedro Thurston...................365-2405 Sandy Point Rickmon’s.................. 366-4139/4477 Pete’s Guest House.............366-4119 Patrick Roberts....................366-4285

Brendal’s Dive Center Established 1985

International Scuba Instruction Dive with The Bahamas’ legendary Brendal - over 25 years experience!

Awarded Bahamas Tourism Cacique Award for Sustainable Tourism Finest

Platinum Pro Instructor Over 5000 Divers Taught

242-365-4411 Direct VHF 16 WHITE SOUND, GREEN TURTLE CAY ABACO, BAHAMAS www.brendal.com Email: brendal@brendal.com 44

• P.A.D.I. International Resort • S.S.I. Teaching Facility • S.D.I. Teaching Facility • Universal Referral Location – NAUI, YMCA, NASDS, IDEA, PDIC • Adventure Specialty Trips • Dive, Snorkel, Fresh Seafood Picnic Hand feed the Sting Rays! • Reef Trip & Wild Dolphin Encounter! • Island Hopping & Private Charters • Sailing Cruises • Dive “Original Tarpon Dive” Discovered by Brendal • Dive Historic Wrecks, Reef, Catacombs, Mini walls, swim throughs Coral Caverns, Night Dive • Discover Scuba through Asst. Instructor Certifications • Kayak & Bike Rentals • Full Service Dive Center, Store & Shop

AS FEATURED ON CNN TRAVEL AND DISCOVERY CHANNEL Destination Abaco

Diving & Fishing Spring City Edmund Williams..............367-7123 Treasure Cay Carey McKenzie.................365-8313

Lubbers Quarters Michael Schreiner...............366-3143 Treasure Cay Clark Burrows....................375-3543

Deep Sea Fishing Guides Bareboat Boat Charters Casuarina Point Junior Albury......................366-3058 Green Turtle Cay Rick Sawyer.........................365-4270 Eddie Bodie.........................357-6784 Hope Town Robert Lowe........................366-0266 Ira Key..................................366-0245 Truman Major.....................366-0101

Charter a boat that will help you experience beautiful Abaco and its surrounding cays. The Moorings (MH)...............367-4000 Florida Yacht (MH)................367-4853 Abaco Bah Charters(HT).......366-0151 Abaco Multihull (HT)............366-0552 Abaco Gal (TC).......................365-8571

Conch Salad TV

There is a new way to explore The Bahamas: (www.conchsaladtv.com) Conch Salad TV provides the first online video magazine for visitors and Bahamians. While most websites cover current events, where to stay and what to do, Conch Salad TV will go off the beaten path and dive into the culture, natural beauty and national issues of The Bahamas. Every two weeks a different video will be posted on the site with popular videos thus far have included the series The Great Conch Race, which matches up conch cleaners from around The Bahamas to see who can clean a conch the fastest; a three part Lionfish Documentary; Steven Burrows, An Artist Profile and How Do You Like Your Crabbie?, a look at crabbing in Andros. The website aims to cover a variety of topics, from historical, cultural, and na45

tional issues to diving under the water to interact with our diverse marine life all with a sense of humor. By visiting the site you can explore the history and culture of these islands. Other upcoming topics include: Lighthouses of The Bahamas, a visit up close and personal with the Abaco Parrots, the new Fowl Cay Marine Park, Bush Medicine remedies and a look at wooden boat building. Loggerhead Productions, an Abaco based production company, will be providing much of the early content, but Conch Salad TV is initiating relationships with other production companies and individuals to ensure that stories about all parts of The Bahamas are told. So whether you are a resident, visitor or soon to be visitor, this site is for you... check it out and enjoy!

www.conchsaladtv.com

Destination Abaco

Abaco’s

Coral Caverns & Tunnels

baco’s reefs are famous for their amazing coral caves, tunnels and caverns. Some of our most magnificent dive sites have absolutely gigantic caverns and tunnels with many large openings leading to the outside of the reef. These passages and chambers are usually well lit with laser-like rays of sunlight coming through small openings in the top of the reef. On a clear, sunny day the illusion of “disco” lights dancing on the sandy floor of the caverns can be magical for divers. During the summer months the caverns and tunnels are inhabited by millions of small silversides. They are sometimes so thick that a diver swimming though them can be lost to those following when schools of silversides part to allow the diver passage and then close in behind. On the outside of the cavern, huge, beautiful “waterfalls” of swirling silversides spill out of every opening attracting a whole food chain of other fish in ascending sizes. One of the largest, a 12 ft. Tiger Shark, was cruising along the reef one summer; just checking out the local menu. (He had no interest in the divers swimming nearby.) Coral caves, caverns, and tunnels are formed over time by ridges of 46

coral growing and extending outward, making bridges over open areas and enclosing the space beneath. Some of these caverns have wide entrances leading to a single chamber or “room.” Others have smaller entrances that open to huge rooms and extensive tunnel systems. Some of the largest chambers resemble ballrooms or cathedrals and are 30 feet or more in width and height. Extensive systems of tunnels in some of our reefs connect large and/ or small chambers with other chambers and can go on for hundreds of feet in extremely complicated mazelike patterns. Some of these more extensive systems of coral tunnels and caverns can be considered true “caves” where no light from outside the reef can be seen through direct, passable entrances or exits. These systems can be dangerous! Divers who are not cave certified and who are not wearing the appropriate cave gear should not venture beyond the point where it is easy to see a direct, passable opening to the outside of the reef! And, although some of Abaco’s coral tunnels and caverns may be well lit from small openings in the top of the reef they can be difficult to navigate.

Destination Abaco

THE MAZE The Maze located in the barrier reef near the middle of Scotland Cay has more than 8 long passages. Most of these passages are more than 15 feet wide, 15 feet tall and up to 100 feet long. Each is well lit with many, large, easy-to-see openings to the outside of the reef. The maximum depth is 25 feet. Upon entering a particular chamber, with no visible exit to the outside, the diver may become confused and not recognize which of the many openings leading out of the chamber goes toward an exit or was the one from which he or she entered. Additionally, light seen in one end of a cavern or at the end of a tunnel may not provide a passable opening to the outside, but may instead be from an opening only a few inches in diameter. When in doubt it is always better for a recreational diver to dive with a professional dive leader who knows the reef and does not exceed open water diving limits. A few of Abaco’s Dive Sites that feature beautiful caverns and tunnels are the following: THE CATHEDRAL The Cathedral, located in the barrier reef in line with the north end of Scotland Cay, is a beautiful dive with about 3 large, open chambers that are easy to navigate. The maximum depth is 40 feet. Another beautiful dive site also called “The Cathedral” (sometimes called “Cuda Alley”) is located in the barrier reef at the north end of Guana Cay. There is a beautiful cavern at the far north end of a long stretch of reef. The main opening is quite large with silversides spilling out of every nook and cranny all summer long. This dive site has a mooring ball. The maximum depth is 45 feet. 47

GUANA CORAL CAVENS Guana Coral Caverns located off the north end of Guana Cay is in a horseshoe shaped reef. There are numerous gigantic “rooms” in this reef connected by smaller tunnels. Some of the largest caverns have large, visible openings to the outside of the reef. However, this reef has extensive systems of caverns and tunnels that can go on for hundreds of feet without a direct, passable opening to the outside of the reef. The maximum depth is 25 feet. TARPON TUNNEL Tarpon Tunnel located in the barrier reef just off the northeast tip of Guana Cay is a wonderful dive with several gigantic caverns that are well lit and have large openings to the outside of the reef. Tarpon like to hide in these caverns, especially when they are filled with silversides in the summer. The maximum depth is 60 feet. THE FISH BOWL The Fish Bowl located near Tarpon Tunnel off the northeast tip of Guana Cay is a spectacular dive. Large well-lit tunnels, caverns, cuts in the reef, coral bridges and cliffs make this dive a favorite. However, some of the openings in the reef lead to a series of tunnels and caverns that do not have direct openings to the outside of the reef. Divers should only enter places that are well lit with a direct view and easy access to the outside of the reef. Story and Photos by Kay Politano Above and Below Abaco

Destination Abaco

Golfing

Out and About

Golfing Info Par

Yards

Food Pro Bar Shop

Golf Pro

Designer

Holes Tough Easy

Bakerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bay Golf and Ocean Club

7,327

Tom Fazio

Treasure Cay Resort and Marina

6985

Dick Wilson

The Abaco Club on 72 7,183 X X X Winding Bay

Tom Wilson

Donald Steel

Great Guana Cay Tel: 365-5802/577-0117

Treasure Cay Tel: 365-8250

Cherokee Sound Tel: 366-0077/366-3820

Destination Abaco

Marinas

Photo by Colette Bootle

Customs Procedures Upon entering The Bahamas, the

captain of a vessel must take the vessel to an authorized port. The vessel must first clear customs prior to any crew coming ashore or the unloading or loading of any cargo.

Immigration Procedures No person is to land in The Baha-

mas from a foreign territory without permission of an immigration officer. All vessels must be landed at an authorised port of entry. The boat’s Temporary Cruising

Permit is for one year from date of entry and may be renewed for up to two further years if desired by written application to Bahamas Customs, Nassau, prior to expiration and payment of $500 per year. To leave your boat in the Bahamas permanently, you must pay an import duty of 27% for vessels under 30 ft. or 6% for vessels 30-100 ft. Since there is no income tax in The Bahamas, there is usually a 35% duty, plus shipping costs, added to most consumer goods. If you experience anything contrary to this, call Comptroller of Customs in Nassau at 242-302-3302.

The Ofﬁcial Gameﬁsh Chart of The Bahamas Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Excellent

Good to Excellent

Good

June

July

Aug.

BLUE MARLIN WHITE MARLIN SAILFISH BROADBILL SWORDFISH DOLPHIN WAHOO KINGFISH MACKEREL ALLISON TUNA BLACKFIN TUNA OCEANIC BONITO BLUEFIN TUNA BONEFISH PERMIT TARPON AMNERJACK GROUPER SNAPPER BARRACUDA SHARK

Destination Abaco

Fair

Occassional

None

Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec.

Abaco Beach Resort & Boat Harbour Marina (MH) ... 367-2158 192 Bakerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bay Marina (GC)................. 365-5802 158 Bluff House Marina (GTC)............. 365-4247 38 Conch Inn Marina (MH)................. 367-4000 72 Green Turtle Club (GTC)................. 365-4271 40 Guana Hideaways Marina (GC).... 365-5070 37 Harbour View Marina (MH).......... 367-3910 40 Hope Town Inn & Marina (HT)..... 366-0003 17 Hope Town Hideaways (HT)......... 366-0224 12 Leeward Yacht Club (GTC)............. 365-4191 28 Lighthouse Marina (HT)................. 366-0154 6 Mangoes Marina (MH).................... 367-4255 29 Man-O-War Marina (MOW)........... 365-6008 28 Marsh Harbour Marina (MH)........ 367-2007 62 Orchid Bay Marina (GC)................. 365-5175 66 Other Shore Club (GTC)................. 365-4226 15 Sea Spray Marina (HT).................... 366-0065 60 Spanish Cay Marina......................... 365-0083 81 Treasure Cay Marina (TC).............. 365-8250 150

Destination Abaco

Wi-Fi

Restaurant

Laundry

Groceries

Showers

Ice

Electricity

Water

Fuel

Slips

Marinas

O O O O O - O O O - O O - O - - O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O - O O O O O O O O O O O O - O - O - - - - O O O O O O - O O O - O O O O - O - O O O O O O O O O O - O O O O - O O O O O O O O - O O O - O O O O - O O O O O O O O - O O O O O O O O - O O O O O O O O - O O O O O O O O O - O O O O O O O - O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O O

Destination Abaco

by Jennifer Hudson

Young Abaco Artist

Harmony Williams

ixteen-year-old Harmony Williams is a very unassuming young lady who does not like to be in the spotlight and always downplays her artistic skills. However, when one sees her artistic work, one cannot help but be impressed and full of praise. Her portfolio contains mostly portraits as that is what she has especially enjoyed perfecting over the past few years. Harmony, who is a tenth grader at Cyber Learning Centre, first developed an interest in drawing at the age of ten. “I first started drawing dresses as I liked the idea of designing clothes,” she says. “It all began when my aunt bought me a sewing machine and I

began experimenting with making pieces.”

armony’s initial interest in designing clothes led to a passion for drawing people which then developed into her special love of faces. Although she begins by tracing the actual outline, she then works for hours on perfecting all the details of the features and hair with shading techniques producing impressive results. While Harmony uses several different mediums including pen, graphite pencils and coloured pencils to achieve her amazing results, the tool she really likes to work with is black ink pen as she finds this the

Destination Abaco

best medium for creating smooth, sharp lines. When asked about the fact that with pen it is not possible to erase one’s mistakes she replied, “It was scary in the beginning but I got over it and now I don’t think about the fact that I cannot erase anything.” Harmony has recently branched out into drawing the human body from sight which she finds challenging and enjoyable.

his talented young lady has received no lessons in her craft but has developed her skill by admiring and studying other artists’ work, especially on the internet. She admits to being an avid watcher of speed drawing on You Tube. “I am surprised I have got to this point,” she says humbly. Although she has never sold any of her pieces except to family, Harmony says that she has considered entering her work in art shows but never got around to it..

hile she still has a couple more years in school, Harmony has not decided yet on her future career. “I want to be so many things,” she says. She

does not see herself going into art as a career although at one point she says that she did want to be an artist. Her family is urging her to stick with her art and she says that she will probably keep it as a hobby. Family members have given Harmony a set of oil paints, brushes, and an easel. This is encouraging her to take up painting. Harmony is also very good at crochet and cooking and likes the idea of sculpting.

y brothers and my whole family are artistic,” says Harmony. “My daddy draws well and I have uncles and aunts who paint. The family also has musical talents so they all encourage me.” Her parents, Louise and Jackie Williams, are very proud of their daughter and feel that she has lots of potential. Harmony, whose artistic name is Kisko Blue, feels that her timidity is holding her back from reaching her full potential as she basically fears success but this is a young lady who certainly should not hide her light under a bushel.

Harmony Williams - “Kisko Blue” http://sensatis.deviantart.com

Destination Abaco

Local Shopping Abaco Souvenirs

Abaco Ceramics (TC) . ............365-8489 Abaco Treasures (MH) ...........367-3460 Albury’s Sail Shop (MOW) ....365-6014 B’s Sunrise (MH)………..…….367-4822 Bahamas Outfitters (MH)........367-3312 Buds n Blooms (MH)...............367-2837 Ebb Tide (HT) ..........................366-0088 El Mercado (HT).......................366-0661 Fantasy Boutique (HT) ...........366-0537 Golden Reef (GTC)...................365-4511 Hope Town Harbour Lodge...366-0095 Iggy Biggy (HT) . .....................366-0354 Iggy Biggy (MH) .....................367-5121 Java Coffee Shoppe (MH).......367-5523 Joe’s Studio (MOW) ................365-6082 Kemp’s Souvenirs (HT) ..........366-0423 Lighthouse Marina (HT).........366-0154 Monkey’s Uncle (MH).............367-3223 Native Creations (GTC) .........365-4206 Nippers Gift Shop(GC)……...365-5143 Pete’s Pub & Gallery (LH).......366-3503 Sand Dollar Shoppe (MH) .....367-4405 Sea Spray Marina (HT)……….366-0065 Sunset Souvenirs (MH) ..........367-2658 Sun Dried T’s (HT)...................366-0616 T’zers Gift Shop (MH) ............367-2158 The Harbour Shoppe (TC)….365-8757 The Painted Fish (MOW)…...365-6013 Triple J Gift Shop (TC)………365-8761 Tropical Souvenirs (MH).........367-2431

Shear Dynamics (MH).............367-3623 Hubert’s Cut & Curls (GTC)...365-4100 Restoration Salon & Spa (MH).367-5882 Snazzie’s Beauty Salon (MH)..367-4781 The Chopping Block (HT).......366-0052

Books & Magazines

Abaco Treasures (MH)............367-3460 Bellevue Business MH)............367-2701 Ebb Tide.....................................366-0088 Educational Depot(MH)..........367-5757 Fruit of the Vine Christian Bookstore (MH) . ........................................367-3288 Joes Studio (MOW)..................365-6082 Kemp’s Souvenir (HT).............366-0423 Lighthouse Marina (HT).........366-0154

Bicycles, Scooters

Brendal’s Dive Center (GTC)..365-4411 Cycle’s Unlimited (MH)..........367-2453 Jack’s Bikes (HT)……………..366-0635 Rental Wheels (MH) ...............367-4643

Bakeries

Island Bakery (MH).................367-2129 Da Best Yet Bakery (MH)........367-3616 Florence Café (TC)...................458-7358 Java Coffee Shop (MH)............367-5523 Lola’s Bakery (GTC).................365-6073 McIntosh Bakery (GTC)..........365-4625 Simply The Best (TC)...............365-8258 Art Café & Bakery (GGC).......365-5154 Vernon’s Groceries (HT).........366-0037

Beauty Supplies

Abaco Beauty Sup (MH).........367-2386 Shear Dynamics (MH).............367-3623

Beauty Salons

Bahama Waves (MOW)...........365-6310 54

Destination Abaco

Local Shopping Sun Dried T’s (HT)...................366-0616 Seaside Cart Rentals (GTC)....365-4147 Wendals Bicycle Rentals (TC).365-8687

Boat Rentals & Charters

Abaco Dorado Rentals(MH)...367-1035 Blue Wave Boat Rentals (MH).367-3910 C & C Boat Rentals (TC)..........365-8582 Captain Plug’s Adven. (HT)....366-0023 Cat’s Paw Boat Rentals (HT)...366-0380 Concept Boat Rentals (MH) ...367-5570 Conch Pearl Rentals (MOW)..365-6059 Dive Guana (GC)......................365-5178 Donnie’s Boat Rentals (GTC)..365-4119 Florida Yacht Charters (MH)..367-4853 Island Marine Rentals (HT) ...366-0282 J.I.C. Boat Rentals (TC) ...........365-8582 John H Rentals(US).......... 772-287-6842 Man-O-War Marina (MOW)...365-6008 Rich’s Rentals (MH) ................367-2742 Rainbow Rentals (MH) . .........367-4602

Reef Boat Rentals (GTC)..........365-4145 Roberts Hardware (GTC)........365-4122 Sea Horse Boat Rentals (MH) .367-2513 The Moorings (MH).................367-4000 Treasure Divers (TC)................365-8571 Waterways Rentals (MOW)....365-6143

Boutiques

Bahamas Outfitters (MH)........367-3312 Bluff House Boutique (GTC)..365-4200 B’s Sunrise(MH)........................367-4822 Corner Value (MH) .................367-2250 Fantasy Boutique (HT)............366-0537 Golden Reef (GTC)...................365-4511 Green Turtle Club Boutique...365-4271 His & Her Jeans (MH)............ 367-2011 Iggy Biggy (MH) .....................367-5121 Iggy Biggy (HT)........................366-0354 Island Gal Boutique (MH)......367-0283 Laura’s Boutique (GTC)...........365-4287 Lighthouse Marina (HT).........366-0154

Destination Abaco

Local Shopping Mangoes Boutique (MH).........367-2366 Nippers Gift Shop (GGC)........365-5111 Orchid Bay Marina (GGC)......365-5175 Sand Dollar Shop(MH)............367-4405 Sun Dried T’s (HT)...................366-0616 Wally’s Boutique (MH)............367-2074

Crystal Treasures

Cameras & Film

Buds & Blooms (MH) .............367-2837 Pinewoods Nursery (MH) .... 367-2674 Flowers Etc (MH) ....................367-1246

Abaco Photos (MH).................367-0707 Computer Creations (MH)......367-2004 Snap Shop (MH).......................367-3020 Wally’s Studio (MH) ...............367-2722

Car Rentals

A & P Auto Rentals (MH).......367-2655 Bargain Car Rentals (MH)......367-0500 Cornish Car Rentals (TC) .......365-8623 Sea Star Rentals (MH) . ...........367-4887 Rental Wheels (MH) ...............367-4643 Quality Star Car Rentals (MH).367-2979 Triple J Car Rentals (TC).........365-8761

Abaco Treasures (MH) ...........367-3460 Corner Value (MH) .................367-2250 Sand Dollar Shoppe (MH) .....367-4405

Florists

Freight/Courier

Abaco Shipping (MH).............367-2091 Dean’s Shipping (MH).............367-2653 FedEx (MH)...............................367-4339 G & G Shipping (MH).............367-0329 GWS Express (MH)..................367-2722 UPS (MH)..................................367-3136 Tropical Shipping (MH)..........367-0225

Furniture & Accessories

Fine Living (MH) ....................367-0329

Destination Abaco

Local Shopping Furniture Plus (MH)................367-7587 Wood You (MH).......................367-9663 Palm Cottage (MH)..................367-2300

Ria-Mar Cart Rental (MOW)..365-6024 T & A Cart Rentals (GTC) ......365-4259 T & N Cart Rentals (HT).........366-0069

Golf Cart Rentals

Grocery Stores

Albury’s Property Man (GC)..365-5175 Blue Marlin Rentals (TC) .......365-8687 Cash’s Cart Rentals (TC) ........365-8771 C & D Rentals (GTC) ..............365-4311 Chris Cart Rentals (TC)...........365-8053 Cruising Cart Rentals (GTC)..367-4065 Claridge Cart Rentals (TC).....365-8248 D & P Cart Rentals (GTC) ......365-4655 Elbow Cay Cart Rentals (HT) 366-0569 Hope Town Cart Rentals(HT).366-0064 Island Cart Rentals (HT) ........366-0448 JR Cart Rentals(HT).................366-0361 Kool Kart Rentals (GTC).........365-4176 Seaside Cart Rentals (GTC) ...365-4147 South Beach Rental (GTC)......365-4375

A & A Food Store (MH) . .......367-3606 Abaco Groceries (MH).............367-5308 Albury’s Harbour St (MOW) .365-6004 Bahamas Family (MH)...........367-3714 Cherokee Food Fair…………366-2022 Curry’s Food Store (GTC) ......365-4171 Golden Harvest (TC) ..............365-8350 Guana Harbour Groc (GC).....365-5067 Harbour View Grocery (HT)..366-0033 Lowe’s Grocery (GTC) ............365-4243 LVA Convience(HT).................366-0056 MOW Grocery (MOW) . .........365-6016 M & R Food Store (MH)..........367-5196 Maxwells (MH).........................367-2601 Roberta Food Store (GTC)….365-4284

Destination Abaco

Local Shopping Roderick’s Food Store (MH) ..367-3237 Save-A-Lot (MH) . ...................367-2020 Sid’s Grocery (GTC) ................365-4055 Vernon’s Grocery (HT)............366-0037 24/7 (MH) .................................367-5064

Hardware & Paint Stores

Abaco Hardware (MH) ..........367-2170 AID (MH)..................................367-2077 Standard Hardware (MH) .....367-2660 MOW Hardware (MOW) .......365-6011 Imports Unlimited (HT)..........366-0136 New Plymouth Hard. (GTC)..365-4305 Roberts Hardware (GTC)........365-4122 The Paint Place (MH)...............367-2271 Treasure Cay Home (TC)........365-8258

Ice Cream

Sugar Shack (HT).....................366-0069 Island Family Rest (MH).........367-3778 Island Treats (MOW)...............365-6501 Jamie’s Place (MH)...................367-2880

Java Coffee Shop (MH)............367-5523 KFC (MH)..................................367-2615 Munchies (HT)..........................366-0423

Insurance

Abaco Insurance (MH.............367-2549 British American (MH)............367-5601 Colina Imperial (MH)..............367-3432 Family Guardian (MH)............3673264 Insurance Management (MH).367-4204 J.S. Johnson (MH) ....................367-2688 Van Stratton Insurance (MH).367-2222

Internet Services

Bahamas Family Market (MH).367-3714 Out Island Internet (MH)........367-3006

Jewelry

Abaco Treasures (MH)............367-3460 Bahamas Outfitters (MH)........367-3312 Ebb Tide (HT)...........................366-0088 Fantasy Boutique (HT)............366-0537

Destination Abaco

Local Shopping Iggy Biggy (MH)......................367-5121 Iggy Biggy (HT) . .....................366-0354 Mangoes Boutique (MH).........367-2366 El Mercado (HT).......................366-0661 Sand Dollar Shoppe (MH)......367-4405 Sun Dried T’s (HT)...................366-0616 Pete’s Pub & Gallery (LH).......366-3503 T’zers Gift Shop (MH) ............367-2158 Tropical Treasures (MH) ........367-5576 Golden Reef (GTC)...................365-4511 John Bull (MH).........................367-2473 Jewels, Gems & More (MH) . .367-2418 Native Creations (GTC) .........365-4206

Kayak Rentals

Abaco Adventures (TC)...........365-8749 Abaco Dive Adventures (MH).367-2213 Abaco Gal (TC).........................365-8571 Brendal’s Dive Center (GTC)..365-4411 Froggies Adventure (HT)........366-0431

Destination Abaco

Local Shopping Marine Stores

Abaco Ace Hardware (MH)....367-2927 Abaco Marine Props (MH).....367-4276 Abaco Outboard Engines (MH) . .......................367-2452 Abaco Yacht Services (GTC)...365-4033 Boat Harbour Marina (MH.....367-2518 Black Sound Marina (GTC) ...365-4531 Edwinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Boat Yard (MOW)......365-6007 Island Boy Marine (MH).........367-3228 Lighthouse Marina (HT).........366-0154 Master Marine (MH)................367-4760 M-O-W Marina Dive Shop (MOW)......................................365-6013 M-O-W Hardware (MOW).....365-6011 National Marine (MH) ...........367-2326 The Outboard Shop (MH).......367-2703 Roberts Marine (GTC).............365-4122 Standard Hardware (MH)......367-2660

Destination Abaco

Local Shopping Native Art & Crafts

Abaco Island Artist(MH)........367-3744 Albert Lowe Museum (GT)....365-4094 Alton Lowe Art (GT) .............365-4264 Abaco Ceramics (TC) . ............365-8489 B’s Sunrise (MH).......................367-4822 Bahama Dawn Designs (MH) .367-4648 Blue Sky Gallery (MH)............367-0579 Buds and Blooms (MH) . ........367-2837 Ebb Tide (HT) ..........................366-0088 Fantasy Boutique (HT)............366-0537 Flowers Etc (MH).....................367-1246 Golden Reef (GTC)...................365-4511 Home Fabrics (MH).................367-6003 Iggy Biggy (HT) . .....................366-0354 Iggy Biggy (MH) .....................367-5121 Johnston’s Studio (LH)............367-2720 Joe’s Studio (MOW) ................365-6082 Sun Dried T’s (HT)...................366-0616 Monkey’s Uncle (MH).............367-3223 Native Creations (GTC) .........365-4206

Destination Abaco

Local Shopping Party Supplies

Corbett Clinic (TC)...................365-8288

Party Time (MH)......................367-2785 Home Fabrics (MH).................367-6003

Pet Veterinarians

Caribbean Veterinary (MH)....367-3551 Island Veterinary (MH)...........367-0062 Pinewood Nursery (MH)........367-2674

Pharmacies

Abaco Island Pharmacy (MH).367-2544 The Chemist Shoppe (MH) ....367-3106

Perfumes

Abaco Treasures (MH) ...........367-3460 John Bull Ltd (MH) .................367-2473

Physicians/Clinics

Abaco Family Medicine (MH)..367-2295 Auskell Medical Clinic (MH).367-0020 Government Clinic (MH)........367-2510 MHMedical Center (MH).......367-0049

Professional Services

Alexiou, Knowles & Co. (MH).367-2010 L.C. Hull Cambers (MH) .......367-2030 V.M. Lightbourn & Co. (MH).367-0301 Frederik F. Gottlieb Co. (MH).367-3120 Higgs & Johnson (MH)............367-3215 The Firm (MH)..........................367-3572

Real Estate

Abaco Cays Realty (MH)........365-4648 Abaco Real Estate (MH)..........367-2719 Abaco Estate Services(TC)......365-8752 Adler Realty (MH)...................367-3231 Aisle of Palms Realty (MH)....367-0080 Coldwell Banker (MH)............367-2992 Chris Thompson Est. (HT)......366-0216 Damianos Sothebyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (MH)......367-5046 Era Dupuch Real Est (MH).....367-0288 Green Turtle Real Est (GTC)...365-4695 H.G. Christie (MH)..................367-0360

Destination Abaco

Local Shopping Island Properties (MH)............367-0737 John Cash Realty (TC).............365-8467 Ocean Blue Prop. (GTC)..........365-4636 Paradise Real Estate (MH)......367-7653 Treasure Cay Real Estate(TC).365-8538

Sandals & Shoes

Abaco Shoe Gallery (MH).......367-5510 Brass & Leather (MH) . ...........367-3643 Golden Reef (GTC)...................365-4511 Iggy Biggy (HT) . .....................366-0354 Iggy Biggy (MH) .....................367-5121 Sun Dried T’s (HT)...................366-0616 The Shoe Place (MH) ..............367-2424 T’zers Gift Shop (MH) ............367-2158

Service Stations

24/7 (MH) ..................................367-5064 Quality Star/Texaco (MH) .......367-2978 K & S Auto Service (MH).........367-2655 MH Auto Parts (MH)................367-2111 TC Fuel Station (TC).................365-8869

Scuba/Diving Gear

Above & Below (MH)..............367-0350 Abaco Dive Adventures (MH).367-2213 Brendal’s Dive Shop (GTC).....365-4411 Dive Abaco (MH).....................367-2787 Dive Guana (GC)......................365-5178 Froggies Out Island (HT) .......366-0431 Treasure Dive Shop (TC).........365-8571

Wines & Spirits

A & K Liquors (MH) ...............367-2179 Bristol Wines & Spirits (MH) .367-2180 Burns House (MH) . ................367-3712 Fig Tree Wine & Spirits (GC) .365-5058 HT Wines & Spirits (HT).........366-0525 Lighthouse Liquors (HT) .......366-0567 Plymouth Rock Liquor(GTC).365-4234 Spanky’s Liquor Store (TC) . ..365-8385 Down Through Store (GTC)....3654287 Tupp’s Liquor Store (MH).......367-2936

Destination Abaco

Area Dining Guide Craving Bahamian Dishes?

If you have an incurable taste buds for the bahamian dishes you will find many special delights throughout Abaco. Some of the dishes are the must have Conch Salad, Conch Fritters and Cracked Conch or Fresh Grouper Fingers â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; chips. Offering delicious sweets will be the Bacardi Rum Cake, Guava Duff and Coconut Cakes. Try our tropical drinks Sky Juice or Gully Wash (Coconut Water and Gin), Bahama Mama, Goombay Smash and a Kalik Beer. You should try one or all of these while you are in Abaco and The Bahamas.

Destination Abaco

Recipes

Spicy Pork-Loin with Tamarind Sauce

from Chef Noel Claude

Ingredients 1 tender pork loin trimmed of fat and skinned membrane 1 tsp salt 1 tsp black pepper crushed 1 tsp all spice/pimento A drizzle of vegetable oil for marinade Tamarind Rum Glaze 1 litre of tamarind sauce of jam 1 cup Bacardi Rum 1/2 cup honey 1/2 tbsp molasses Season pork, spread rub, sear all over in a hot pan and transfer to a pre-heated 350o oven for 15-18 mins or inside temp of 1600. Remove and let meat rest before slicing. For glaze, combine ingredients in a pot, boil and simmer for 15 mins.

Pan Seared Grouper with Native Fruit Salsa

Ingredients 2 cups mango (cubed) 2 cups pineapple (cubed) 2 cups guava (cubed) 1 diced roasted peppers A dash of lime juice 2 teaspoons diced jalapenos 1 tsp vegetable oil 8 oz grouper fillet per person Cajun spice for coating To make the native salsa: Mix all ingredients except oil, grouper and Cajun spice. Let set while you prepare the grouper. To make the grouper: In a cast iron frying pan, heat vegetable oil until smoking. Coat both sides of grouper with Cajun spice. Place coated grouper in pan, cook 2-3 min per side (depending on the thickness) until done. Transfer grouper to a serving dish placing on top of mix greens. Spoon salsa on top of fish.

Destination Abaco

outdoor seating

waterfront dining

entertainment

happy hour

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price range

Angler’s Restaurant at Abaco Beach Resort Abaco Pizza Ambassador Inn Bayview Restaurant Beijing Bistro Curly Tails Dis We Style Golden Grouper Geno’s Kitchen Island Family Restaurant Jamie’s Place Jib Room JuNovia’s Restaurant Kentucky Fried Chicken Mangoes Restaurant Mother Merle’s Native Hut Pete’s Pub & Gallery Pop’s Place Snack Shack Snappas Bar & Grill Wally’s

meals served

Marsh Harbour

telephone

Area Dining Guide

367-2158 B,L,D 367-4333 L,D 367-2022 L,D 367-3738 L,D 367-3663 L,D 367-4444 L,D 367-4244 L,D 367-2301 B,L 367-7272 B,L 367-6444 B,L,D 367-2880 B,L,D 367-2700 L,D 367-1271 B,L,D 367-2615 L,D 367-2366 B,L,D 367-2770 L,D 367-0977 L,D 366-3503 L,D 367-3796 L 367-4005 B,L 367-2278 L,D 367-2074 L,D

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Treasure Cay Airport Snack Shop Coco Beach Bar & Grill Touch of Class Spinnaker Restaurant

365-8654 B,L $ - - - - l 365-8470 L $$ l - l l l 365-8195 D $$ l l l l l 365-8469 B,L,D $$$ l l l l 66

Destination Abaco

Area Dining Guide Hope Town Abaco Inn Boat House at Sea Spray Capt’n Jacks Cracker P’s Harbour’s Edge Hope Town Harbour Lodge Hope Town Coffee House Munchies On Da Beach Sugar Shack

366-0133 B,L,D $$ 366-0065 B,L,D $$ 366-0247 B,L,D $$ 366-3139 L,D $$ 366-0087 L,D $$ 366-0095 B,L,D $$ 366-0760 L $ 366-0423 L,D $ 366-0558 L,D $$ 366-0788 B,L,D $

Hibiscus Café Dock & Dine

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612-1021 365-5133 365-5111 365-5175

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Man-O-War Cay

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Guana Cay The Market Place (Baker’s) Guana Grabbers Nippers Bar & Grill Orchid Bay

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Green Turtle Cay Jolly Roger Bar & Bistro GT Club & Marina Harvey’s Bar & Grill Laura’s Kitchen McIntosh Restaurant Miss Emily’s Blue Bee New Plymouth Inn Plymouth Rock Café Sundowners

365-4247 B,L,D $$ 365-4271 B,L,D $$$ 365-4389 L,D $$ 365-4287 L,D $$ 365-4625 B,L,D $$ 365-4181 L,D $$ 365-4161 B,L,D $$$ 365-4234 B,L $$ 365-4060 D $$

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***Meals Served - Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, Credit Cards - Visa and Mastercard. Prices shown indicate cost of menu items, actual prices may vary, $=$10, $$=$11-$20, $$$=$21-$30 and up.***

Destination Abaco

Population: 15,000+ Island Size: 120 miles long, 10 miles wide Area: 650 sq. miles Highest Point: 134.5 ft. Location: Lat. 26°25’N & Long. 77°10’W Distance from Nassau: 105 miles northeast from Nassau Distance from Florida: 175 miles, E ofWest Palm Beach

Marsh Harbor, The Bahamas’ third-largest city and the commercial center. Boating Capital of The Bahamas Green Turtle Cay, Great Guana Cay, Man-O-War Cay and Elbow Cay are the five major inhabited cays in the Abaco chain.

About Abaco

Blackwood

Spring City

Marsh Harbour

Hope Town

Elbow Cay

Man-O-War Cay

Guana Cay

Green Turtle Cay

Treasure Cay

Cooper’s Town Fire Road

Mount Hope Wood Cay Cedar Harbour

Crown Haven Little Abaco Island

Fox Town

Map of Abaco Island & Surrounding Cays

Destination Abaco

Lighthouse

Telephone Internet

Clinic

Inter Island Ferries Information

Settlements

Airports

LEGEND

Sandy Point

Gorda Cay

Mooreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Island

Little Harbour

Hole-In-The-Wall

Crossing Rocks

Casaurina Point Bahama Palm Shores

Cherokee Sound

Great Abaco Island

Ahh ...

The Abacos By Kristin Pearce

Destination Abaco

Photo By Rhonda Pearce

baco is the third most populated island in The Bahamas with a population of approximately 16,692. It is definitely an island that is filled with a vast history. The Lucayan Indians first inhabited the island of Abaco. However, the first European Settlers were the Loyalists, who traveled to The Bahamas while fleeing the American Revolution in 1783. In the many years since that time, Abaco has grown into what it is today, filled with many settlements. Let’s take a journey through some of the most popular settlements found on Abaco. As we go through each town, we will find out a little of the history and what attracts people there today. Where better to start out journey than the capital of the island? Marsh Harbour dates back to the 1780’s, which makes it one of the four original “Loyalist” settlements where the Loyalists from the United States remained after the War of Independence. The settlement was once Maxwell Town and Marshes Harbour coexisting, but was later combined into one town named Marsh Harbour. Marsh Harbour is the third largest town in The Bahamas and is the perfect spot to experience the beauty of the islands without the hustle and bustle. Located in the centre of the islandand a short distance from many of the neighbouring cays and settlements, Marsh Harbour is definitely a great location to base a trip to the Abacos. With an international airport, 4 banks, a post office, 2 pharmacies, a photo lab, several bakeries, grocery stores, doctor’s offices, travel agencies, and hardware stores, Marsh Harbour is equipped with all the necessities for a vacation. The town also caters to the tourists with many gift shops, resorts, clothing boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries. After arriving at the international airport, a taxi will take you down Don MacKay Blvd.,

Destination Abaco

towards the island’s only traffic light. This area is considered to be the main town area and the busiest strip in the settlement. It is here that you will find almost every necessity for the trip. Turning onto Queen Elizabeth Drive at the traffic light, you enter the area that is considered the “Tourist Strip.” This strip extends from the traffic light toward the local ferry dock. It is in this area that the town provides the main tourist attractions. There are many lodging options for a visitor to Marsh Harbour. The town provides many condos, villas and guesthouses, along with luxury beachside marinas and resorts. The town is small enough that one can get around by foot; however, there are rentals that provide cars, bicycles and motorbikes. This is a great service for those wishing to venture outside of Marsh Harbour and into the neighbouring settlements. There are also boat rentals and ferries provided for those desiring to visit the nearby cays. On a trip to the island, one shouldn’t forget to observe the local beauty and culture. Exotic flowers, tropical trees and beautiful pine forests can be seen around every corner. And with just a short trip, one can enjoy the sight of the Abaco parrots and the wild barbary horses. Bahamian culture is all around; however, it can be best seen during the Goombay Summer celebration and the Junkanoo festivals.

Destination Abaco

Along with the rest of The Bahamas, most visitors come to Abaco to enjoy and appreciate the wonderful, crystal-clear waters. Marsh Harbour provides many opportunities to take in the beauty of the seas. There are several dive operations that offer courses for uncertified novice diving, diving trips to tunnels, caverns and reefs, and where one can rent scuba gear and snorkel equipment. For certified divers and snorkelers, there are several reefs and undersea parks that are just a short boat ride away. Provided are also several boat rental companies where you can rent a boat in order to truly experience the waters first hand. Sailing excursions are offered, and for the more experienced sailors, charter sailboats are available. Marsh Harbour is a great place to base a trip to Abaco, but we are nowhere near done with our journey.

et’s move along on our journey. Just three and a half miles from Marsh Harbour, a twentyminute ferry ride, lies the Settlement of Hope Town on Elbow Cay. This quaint, New England-style settlement is a great location for a relaxing vacation or a day trip packed with reminders of previous centuries. This community is definitely one that is rich in history. The Lucayan Indians were among the first to live there; however, all trace of them disappeared when the Spanish slave raiders moved

Photo By Rhonda Pearce

Marsh Harbour

Photo By Tuppy Weatherford

to experience and enjoy on the cay. There are two main streets in Hope Town. Front Street runs along the harbour, and Back Street runs almost parallel to it on the inside of the island. It is on these two streets that one can find tthe shos that the island has to offer with two grocery stores, a bakery, two liquor stores, and many tourist attractions. The island ahas a public athletic field, basketball court, and swimming pool. The main attraction in Hope Town is most likely the 120-foot high candy-striped lighthouse. Located across the harbour, it is easily accessible by ferry when requested. The structure was built in 1862 to warn sailors of the nearby reef. It is still operating today by a kerosene light that flashes in a sequence of five every fifteen seconds and can bee seen from up to twenty-three nautical miles away. With 101 steps to the top, you can experience the breathtaking view of Elbow Cay’s harbour and the neighboring cays. Located adjacent are a gift shop, marina, and liquor store. The ferry driver

Photo ByRhonda Pearce

Destination Abaco

Hope Town

through the islands in the 1400s. It wasn’t until the 1600s that the British began to colonize. The sheltered harbours and coves began to attract pirates for their hideouts, but they were later booted out in the 1700s. The current settlement was established in 1785 by the “Loyalist”. Arriving from Charleston, South Carolina, Wyannie Malone and others planted the “Union Jack” on the landing spot, which was later named “Wyannie’s Landing.” The settlement grew to what it is today, with a population of an estimated 260 people. Despite the growth, the locals wish to maintain the feel of the past centuries. Cars and any other motor vehicles are prohibited in the town area of the island. Many old New England style houses and picket fences still remain to this day. To know more about the history of the island, be sure to stop in at the Wyannie Malone Historical Museum. Exhibited in the museum is the life of the settlement as it originally was. Displayed are tools, utensils, and artifacts related to the sponging, wrecking and ship building industries. There are also many photographs portraying the island in the previous centuries. When arriving on the island by ferry, you will be dropped off at the Government Dock, which is located in the main town area. Close by Jarret Park, a post office, the local government office, and the old jail can be found. But don’t stop there. There is so much more

will gladly circle back for pick up in an hour when requested. Another of the island’s main attractions is the beautiful beach that stretches two miles on the eastern side of the island. The pinkish, white beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or a scenic afternoon stroll. The coral reef located just thirty feet off the shore is perfect for snorkeling. In the sixties and seventies, surfing was introduced to the island when a few vacationers were spotted riding the waves by the locals. An afternoon at this beach can be topped off with the occasional sighting of dolphins or whales off the coast. For those wishing to explore the seas off of the island, there are charters and boat rentals available around the island from places such as Froggies Out Island Adventures, Island Marine, and Sea Horse Marine. The marinas also provide full service for those traveling by boat. No trip is complete without souvenirs and gifts. There are many gift shops on the island, including Ebb Tide, Iggy Biggy, Da Fina Things, Kemp’s Souvenirs, Fantasy Boutique El Mercado, Lighthouse Marina, and Froggies Dive Shop. There are many restaurants located in the town area, such as Harbour Lodge, Cap’n Jack’s, Harbour’s Edge, Munchies, and even a local coffee shop. Other eateries out of the town include Cracker P’s on Lubber’s Quarters, and Sea Spray and Abaco Inn located in White Sound, which is a harbour at the southern end of the island. For those wishing to venture outside of the town, there

Destination Abaco

e will now travel just a bit north. Just three and a half miles east of Marsh Harbour, Man-O-War Cay lies tranquil, friendly and safe. With many of the original clapboard houses still standing and the narrow streets still in use, the locals hold on to the peaceful traditions of the original settlers, the Loyalists who moved from the United States during the War of Independence. Stretching two and a half miles and with 350 residents, it is not a big island, but it certainly is a famous one. Once the boat building capital of The Bahamas, many of the residents keep the heritage of craftsmanship alive by continuing in the work that made the island famous. The Albury Brothers have been known in the past for their wooden boats. Now their fiberglass models are so famous that they are also being manufactured in the United States. While visiting the island, feel free to stop at the hangar, where Willard Albury will give a tour and the history of the workshop. At two locations, Edwin’s Boatyard hauls ships and boats out of the water for maintenance and repair. With a visit to Emerson’s Shop, you can watch Andy Albury continue in the

Photo By Colette Bootle

Man-O-War Cay

Photo By Rhonda Pearce

are carts and bicycles for rent. For anyone wishing to spend a night or more, there are many accommodations and rentals available from places such as Harbour Lodge, Abaco Inn, Sea Spray, Hope Town Hideaways, Hope Town Villas, Elbow Cay Properties and Island Marine. For those wishing to experience a great nightlife, Hope Town is definitely the place to visit on weekends or special occasions. This settlement is often referred to as “Hollywood” by the locals because of the exceptional parties hosted by places such as Harbour’s Edge, Cap’n Jack’s, and Cracker P’s. This peaceful and quaint town is sure to be perfect for the whole family to sit back, relax, and enjoy a tropical paradise enriched in history.

woodwork of his father, Emerson Albury, by building custom-made furniture and boat replicas. A stop into Joe’s Studio will provide a look at Joe Albury’s dinghy half model replicas and also a great place to buy souvenirs. At the Sail Shop, you can observe the staff sewing bags from handbags and ditties to duffels and backpacks from of various patterned canvas. Annie Albury will gladly give the fifty-three year history of the craft and explain how, while her grandfather Norman Albury made sails, his wife Selina sewed a natural bag out of the sailcloth and how the business grew into what it is today. For anyone wishing to know more about the history of this cay, feel free to visit the brand new Man-O-War Heritage Museum, open midday on Thursdays. Displayed are numerous tools, utensils, artifacts, clothing, pictures, and much more from the settlement’s history. There are many other gift shops where you can find souvenirs and artwork produced by the locals, including Island Treasures, Sally’s Seaside Boutique, Edison’s T-Shirt Shop, and the Painted Fish, also known as the Dive Shop. Visitors will not go hungry with local restaurants open for business, such as Island Treats, Hibiscus Café, Dock N’ Dine, and Sheila’s Take Away. There are two main roads which run parallel to each other and the harbour, Bay Street and the Queen’s Highway. On these two streets you will find most of what the island has to offer. While traveling through the island, be sure to take time to stop and smell the roses, literally. The streets and yards are lined with an array of tropical flowers. A visit to Man-OWar would not be complete without visiting the beach. Many of the side streets off of Queen’s Highway will take you to the sandy, white beaches overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Albury’s Ferry

provides trips to and from the cay at various times throughout the day. The more adventurous visitors could rent a boat from Water Ways Rentals or Conch Pearl Rentals. During a trip to the cay, make the Man-O-War Marina the first stop on the agenda. The Marina provides many facilities that could make the stay more enjoyable, such as a fresh water pool, showers, restrooms, wireless internet, golf cart rentals, kayak rentals, boat care and maintenance, fuel, and charter boats. Man-O-War is a dry island, but feel free to take alcohol on the trip. Equipped with practically everything needed, including two grocery stores, two banks and a hair salon, Man-O-War Cay is the perfect location for a day trip or an overnight stay in a rented cottage. ext on our journey is the longest cay on Abaco, Great Guana Cay. Even though the cay stretches for seven miles, there are fewer than 150 residents, making it perfect for peace and quiet. A spectacular beach can be found on the eastern side of the island, which is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or taking peaceful walks. Some consider this beach to be one of the 10 greatest beaches in the world. Guana Cay is known for its great diving. On the eastern side of the cay, the Great Abaco Barrier Reef can be found with many near-shore reefs and dive spots. Diving trips can be arranged daily by the resorts or the dive shop. However, you don’t need a boat to experience the underwater formations of Guana Cay. Many beautiful diving spots can be seen just offshore of the beach. The settlement is indeed a quiet one. There can be found two

Destination Abaco

Guana Cay

Destination Abaco

or the next stop, we will travel back to the mainland, approximately 23 miles north of Marsh Harbour to Treasure Cay. It is easy to travel to Treasure Cay by rental car or taxi. Here you can graze your feet along snow-white sand. It feels like powder between your toes. The white sand extends for three and a half miles. You can look into the turquoise, crystal clear water stretching as far as your eye can see. The ocean floor is visible the entire way. Waves lap up on the beach in a rhythm that only nature can create. Coolly, the ocean breeze will brush your skin. It’s secluded and feels like there’s no one else in the world. It’s no wonder that the Treasure Cay beach has been ranked “One of the Best 10 Beaches in the World” by National Geographic Magazine and the “Best Beach in the Caribbean” by Caribbean Travel and Life Magazine. And it’s no wonder that it is a prime spot for vacations, second

Photo By Ruth Saunders

Guana Cay

resorts, a few rental cottages, a convenient grocery store, a few small gift shops, restaurants, and a full service diving shop that runs snorkeling trips. As mentioned, there are two resorts that can be found on Guana Cay. First is Orchid Bay Yacht Club and Marina. Surrounded by such an amazing waterfront view, Orchid Bay is the perfect place for a vacation. Its amenities include a waterfront pool, tennis court, a fully resourced marina, and an elegant restaurant. The second resort is Dolphin Beach Resort. This resort was listed by Fodor’s and Frommer’s Guides as top places to stay in 2009 and chosen by Fodor’s Choice as one of their top 10 places to visit in 2010. Here you can experience the peacefulness of Guana Cay, along with the many amenities provided by the resort, including, rental rooms and cottages, a private dock, a main lodge with a beautiful deck, rental boats and carts, complimentary kayaks, a freshwater pool, a gift shop called Potcakes, Dive Guana, the local dive shop, and Docksiders, the elegant restaurant. Grabbers Bed, Bar and Grill can also be found on Guana Cay. Grabber’s now offers a brand new marina, a bar and grill, a pool, and lodging. The newly refurnished rooms are perfect for an island getaway, family vacation, or honeymoon site. Guana Cay is not known for its nightlife or tourist attractions, but one thing most tourists are sure not to miss is a visit to one of the most famous bar and grills, Nipper’s Beach Bar and Grill. Nip-

per’s is considered to be the most colourful and best located bar on Abaco. Located directly on the spectacular beach and with “dune front” tables, the atmosphere at Nipper’s cannot be beat. Each Sunday many locals and tourists alike travel to Nipper’s for their famous Bahamian wild boar roast and barbecue. This is an event that cannot be missed on a trip to Abaco. On the north end of the island, there is a fairly new and private residential community called Baker’s Bay Golf and Ocean Club. Baker’s Bay has 244 custom home sites, 35 beachfront cottages, and 44 boathouses. At Baker’s Bay you can experience an oceanfront golf course, a private family beach club, a first-rate spa and fitness club, private watercraft, and superlative dining. Baker’s Bay also offers a seaport village, equipped with a waterfront cantina, a Caribbean-style hotel, and many gift shops and boutiques. There is a ferry service that travels several times daily to and from Guana Cay, making a day trip or long vacation extremely convenient for the entire family.

home, and retirement homes. Everyone wants a piece of paradise. If you are looking for a slower pace of life with some peace and quiet, Treasure Cay is the place for you! Along with the seclusion of the white sandy beach, the small town provides most of the necessities, guaranteeing a comfortable living. For those looking for a rental for a vacation, the Treasure Cay Hotel Resort and Marina is a top choice. This resort provides many rental units, along with 150 marina slips for those visiting with their boats. Here, you will also find many recreational amenities, such as an 18-hole golf course, fishing, boat rentals, scuba diving, snorkeling, and many other water sport activities. The Bahama Beach Club is the perfect spot for a relaxing vacation. Each condo is equipped with a balcony overlooking the white sand beach and turquoise water. It is also the perfect spot for a beach wedding, and the club provides a wedding package that offers everything you need for a paradise wedding. For those who would like to experience the peaceful town without experiencing a busy resort, there are many other options available. Rental homes, condominiums, and town houses are available throughout the town.

Of course, Treasure Cay is a prime location for business or personal real estate investments, such as condominiums, town houses, timeshares, etc. there are several new resorts and developments that are perfect for a new investor in Treasure Cay. Pineapple Beach Resort is an ideal location with condominiums and townhouses. It offers a large, heated swimming pool available to all of the owners and their guests. Another recent development in Treasure Cay is Carltonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Landing. This residential club offers a mixture of deluxe, carriage houses and cottages with both canal and garden views. Sandbank Landing is the newest development being planned in Treasure Cay, which is sure to bring in many vacationers and second homeowners. On a secluded beach with a protected harbour, Sandbank Landing is ideally located for owners and guests to enjoy all that Treasure Cay has to offer. This planned community includes private homes, townhouses, and beachfront villas. The village plan is projected to have every amenity for guests and owners, including 57 condominiums, an elegant hotel, restaurants, a beach club, pools, a spa, and tennis club and retail shops. The marina offers 88 slips for yachts up to 150 feet in

Destination Abaco

Treasure Cay

Photo By Ed Newell

Green Turtle Cay

length, along with dry storage. In the summertime Treasure Cay is also known for hosting many fishing tournaments and boat races every year. With the secluded feeling of the beach, and every amenity you would need, including a grocery store, liquor stores, marinas, restaurants, rentals, etc, Treasure Cay is the perfect place for a vacation.

ust a short ferry ride from Treasure Cay, Green Turtle Cay is next on our journey. This settlement is one of the earliest settlements in Abaco, and one that keeps its deep heritage alive. With two safe harbours on the island, White Sound and Black Sound, and with many inlets for hiding, this cay was a popular spot for pirating in the early days. It has been said that famous pirates such as Mary Reed, Anne Bonny, and Calico Jack were once associated with the island. The current settlement, however, was founded in 1784 and has deep African and Loyalist roots. During the 19th century at the peak of the pineapple, wrecking, bootlegging, and shark fishing industries, it was considered the largest city in Abaco. It was also during this time that many of the residents moved to Key West, later making the two cities sister cities in 1977. Even though many of the houses were dismantled and shipped

Destination Abaco

to Key West while others were destroyed in hurricanes, there are still quite a few of the old clapboard houses still standing over 150 years old. The population has dwindled over the years, and there are currently around 500 residents. However, the locals are extremely active in keeping their heritage and history alive. Each year in the month of May, there is an Island Roots Heritage Festival, which the locals and tourists alike celebrate all the history of the island. This Festival spans for three days, and it offers great activities such as music, singing, maypole, plays, face painting, games, comic shows, artifacts, souvenirs, the Royal Bahamas Police Force Band, Junkanoo, and wonderful Bahamian food. The island is also famous for its Green Turtle Cay Junkanoo Celebration, which is held on New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day. On a visit to Green Turtle Cay, you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t help but notice the history all around the island. Along with the many old houses, there is still the original jail, cemetery, and library. Located in the town area is the Loyalist Memorial Sculpture garden. This garden was created by Alton Lowe, a local artist, in remembrance of the original settlers of the island. There are bronze busts of the Loyalists and the forefathers of the develop-

and Harvey’s Island Grill. Be sure to stop in at the local bars and clubs on the weekends to hear the famous Gully Roosters perform authentic Bahamian music. Like every Bahamian island, there are beautiful views of the crystal clear waters and scenic beaches all around the island. During the summer Green Turtle Cay is filled with activity and good times, with occasions such as the Heritage Festival and the first leg of the Regatta. Fall is a bit more quiet and peaceful. At any time of the year, however, Green Turtle Cay is the perfect vacation spot. In fact, many visitors love the cay enough to buy vacation homes of their own.

f you continue to travel north on the mainland, you will find a second airport and you will travel the bridge between Great Abaco and Little Abaco. And let’s not forget to visit the Abaco Wild horses as you travel north. You can contact the Abaco Tourist Office for information onthe tours. Many people travel to North Abaco to catch the ferry to Grand Bahama, the neighbouring island, where the second most populated city is found, Freeport. Pinder’s Ferry travels twice daily from Crown Haven, Abaco’s northernmost point, to Mclean’s Town, Grand Bahama, which is 50 miles away. From there you can catch a bus or taxi to Freeport.

Destination Abaco

North Abaco

Photo By Rhonda Pearce

ment. For a better glimpse of the island during the olden days, Alton Lowe also created a museum in memory of his father, the Albert Lowe Museum. This museum displays the early settlement, even down to the building, which happens to be one of the old houses from the 1800s. Also displayed are the ship models built by Albert Lowe himself and art created by Alton Lowe. Vertrum Lowe continues the model shipbuilding. His art, along with the art of many other locals, can be found at Vert’s Model Ships and Creative Native. Even though the island is deeply rooted in its history, it still offers a great deal for locals and tourists today. With three grocery stores, two hardware stores, and a liquor store, the island is equipped with almost all the necessities for island life. Although there is no doctor on the island, there is a clinic with a nurse available. There are several marinas and clubs on the island that provide accommodations, rentals and restaurants. The Black Sound Marina offers services for those visiting by boat. The Other Shore Club provides a marina and hotel and is the home of Pineapples Bar and Grill. The Green Turtle Club and Marina is a four star club offering boat and cart rentals, two restaurants, a souvenir shop, and fishing charters. The Bluff House Beach Hotel and Yacht Club is equipped with two restaurants and a full service marina. Along with the clubs, marinas and hotels, there are accommodations provided around the island such as rental homes, villas, and cottages. Even though it is possible to walk the settlements, golf carts are available for rent from the clubs, marinas, Kool Kart Rentals, Island Roadrunner, and D and P Rentals. On the journey, be sure to dine at one of the many local restaurants. Bahamian cuisine is available, not only from the marinas and clubs, but also around the island from places such as Jolly Rogers, McIntosh’s, the Wrecking Tree, Laura’s Kitchen, Sundowners, Miss Emily’s Blue Bee Bar,

Photo By Rhonda Pearce

astly on our journey, let’s travel south of Marsh Harbour. South Abaco is becoming very popular for up-and-coming developments and communities. One of the biggest developments in South Abaco is the Abaco Club on Winding Bay. This Private Member’s Club is managed by the Ritz-Carlton and offers a 534-acre oceanfront estate, a European spa and fitness center, non-motorized water sports, championship golf, a private beach, an infinity pool, and two elegant restaurants. This is the perfect spot for a destination wedding, a vacation, or your very own private piece of paradise. Another recent development of South Abaco is Serenity Point. This new, gated community is compromised to 46 beachfront home sites, along with a full-service beach club, which is projected to offer an infinity pool, a tennis court, golf lessons, nature tours, bone fishing, deep sea fishing, snorkeling and diving, sailing, kayaking, horse back riding, whale watching, hiking and cycling, cave exploration, horseback riding, and much more. If you are an avid bonefisher, stop by and check out the Delphie Club at Rolling Harbour. This new luxury bonefishing lodge and micro-hotel is aimed at those who want a relaxing vacation, particularly those who are interested in international fly-fishing. However, non-fishermen are welcomed as well. With the world-class bonefishing flats, the white sandy beaches, infinity pools, a library, a wine cellar, and a bar, there is much to be offered for everyone. Also with private 80 Destination Abaco

scuba lessons, golf, snorkeling, game fishing, shopping, bird watching, and much more very close by, the Delphie Club is a perfect spot for anyone. The Schooner Bay Harbour Village is another growing development in South Abaco. This unique, ecological and environmentally sustainable development will occupy 220 acres of land and is projected become a fully functional community with a school, yacht club, bonefish club, pub, inn, beach club, spa, farming, medical center, shopping, and much more. Schooner Bay is still in development but is building and growing daily.

ext on the agenda is Sandy Point. Many people travel to Sandy Point in order to take the fast ferry to Nassau, the capital and most populated city of the Bahamas. The fast ferry runs several times a week most of the year; however, the schedule does vary throughout the year so be sure to check the schedule before planning your trip. While traveling through Sandy Point, be sure to eat an authentic Bahamian meal at Nancy’s Seaside Inn Restaurant Bar. And that concludes our journey through the island of Abaco. As you can see, Abaco is filled with not only a grand past, but also an extraordinary present and an even more extraordinary future. Filled with deep history and packed with many activities and glorious sites, Abaco is definitely the place to visit on a trip to The Bahamas.

Photo By Rhonda Pearce

South Abaco

Destination Abaco

Rainbow Rentals

Dundas & Murphy Town

Abaco Island Pharmacy Abaco Chamber of Commerce

Destination Abaco The Abaco Print Shop The Abaconian Auto Car Corner

The Chemist Shoppe

Abaco Family Medicine

Dundas & Murphy Town

Save A Lot Grocery

Treasure Cay

Palm Cottage & Wood You Home Fabrics

Pharmacy Methodist Church Presbyterian Church

Destination Abaco

Tupp’s Liquor Monkey’s Uncle

Abaco Beach Resort & Boat Harbour

Shear Dynamics Hair Salon

Living Easy Property Rentals

Destination Abaco

Accommodations Marsh Habour Abaco Beach Resort..............367-2158

Abaco Beach Resort at Boat Harbour offers an ideal vacation for every type of traveler looking for an escape under the Caribbean sun. Guests staying at the resort can relax in the spacious rooms and suites decorated with island-style décor highlighting the laid-back Bahamian lifestyle. Each room boasts a private terrace or balcony with spectacular views of the marina and the Sea of Abaco. The resort offers beautifully appointed one-bedroom suites, two-bedroom villas, or one, two and three-bedroom condominiums. Guests will always find something to do while staying at Abaco Beach Resort. A few notable amenities for the adventurous guests include outdoor activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, fishing and eco-tours or simply lounging by the resort’s pools. www.abacobeachresort.com

from Marsh Harbour airport and is convenient to downtown shopping and ferries to the cays. All rooms feature: two double beds with en suite bath, cable TV, air conditioning, coffee maker, refrigerator, terrace overlooking private garden, full maid service and fresh water swimming pool. www.conchinn.com

Cat Island Experience........... 367-3414 Condo Rentals....................... 357-6719 D’s Guest House.................... 367-3980 Family Affair.........................422-1960 “Family Affair” is a tastefully furnished and spacious 2 bed/2 bath condominium located in a central area of Marsh Harbour, Abaco, The Bahamas. Its island décor gives you a feel of a ‘home away from home.’ Our unit complete with all the luxuries; oven & stove, full fridge/ freezer with ice maker, washer/dryer, dishwasher, coffee maker, toaster, cable

Abaco Vacation Planner......367-3529 www.abacoestateservices.com

Abaco Lodge.......................... 367-5909 Ambassador Inn.................... 367-2022 Bustick Bight Resort . ........... 367-5995 Conch Inn Hotel....................367-4000 The Conch Inn Hotel is a short taxi ride

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Accommodations TV, games & books, private patio, etc. “Family Affair” is equipped with central A/C and fans. Facilities include a large patio and swimming pool area, tennis courts and beach for their guests. Maid service is also available during your stay at “Family Affair”. www.abacoestateservices.com

Living Easy............................367-2202 www.livingeasyabaco.com

South Abaco Sandy Point

Oeisha’s Resort ..................... 366-4139 Pete & Gay’s Resort............... 366-4119 Rickmon’s Bonefish............... 366-4477

Spanish Cay

Spanish Cay Resort............... 365-0083

Lofty Fig Villas...................... 367-2681 Island Breezes Motel............. 367-3776 Pelican Beach Villas.............. 367-3600 Regattas of Abaco.................. 367-0148 Villas at Palmetto Beach.....367-3600

Cherokee

Lee Pinder.............................. 366-2053 Cherokee Cottages................ 366-2075 The Abaco Club on Winding Bay...... 1-888-303-2765 or 1-242-367-0077

Channel Cay

Private Island......................... 367 3262

Moore’s Island

Moore’s Bonefish Camp....... 366-6334

Lubbers Quarters

Sea Level Cottages................ 366-3121

Hope Town Experience the sound of the waves and the delicate mist of the warm sea as it crashes on rocky formations. Drag your toes through the warm and soothing white sand. Whether you are seeking a peaceful retreat, a romantic getaway, an exciting island vacation, or simply want to experience a natural wonder, you will find what you are looking for at the Villas of Palmetto Beach. Our 6 private villas are set on 210 feet of private white sand beach. Surrounded by miles more of undeveloped beach to explore! www.abacoestateservices.com

Abaco Inn...............................366-0133

The Abaco Inn has a total of 22 rooms situated either on the bay side of the Sea of Abaco or on the Atlantic Ocean. The rooms are nestled between the sand dunes and the coconut palms only steps from 2 different beaches and the fresh water pool. All rooms have a view of the stunning aqua blue water of the Bahamas! Guests can enjoy either a bungalow style room or a luxury villa suite with living room and kitchenette. Whatever accommodation you choose, you can take pleasure in the island-themed décor rooms with A/C, ceiling fans and en-suite

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WE BRING THE ISLANDS TO YOUR FRONT DOOR Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty The real estate brand that stretches throughout the Bahamas.

Tilloo Pond Ref# 7162

A wide variety of listings are just a click away at www.coldwellbankerbahamas.com

242 367-2992

OFFICES AND REPS: Nassau, Paradise Island, Abaco, Andros, Berry Islands, Bimini, Eleuthera, Exuma, Harbour Island, Long Island

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LIGHTBOURN REALTY

Accommodations bathrooms. It is also common to enjoy the outdoor space specific to your room, whether it is sitting on the porch of a villa or enjoying a hammock outside a bungalow room. www.abacoinn.com

Crystal Waters & Villas .321-452-0164 Hope Town Hideaways........366-0224

Whether you are a beach, harbour, or Sea of Abaco enthusiast, Hope Town Hideaways has a perfect rental home for you! Book your beach house and swim and snorkel in the backyard and enjoy sunrise

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Turtle Hill Villas and

On Da Beach Bar & Grill

Hope Town, Abaco, Bahamas

HOPE TOWN HIDEAWAYS Rentals & Sales HOPE TOWN, ELBOW CAY ABACO, BAHAMAS

RENTALS Ph: 242.366.0224 Fax: 242.366.0434 Reservations@HopeTown.com

Fully equipped 2 & 3 bedroom villas with golf cart included For reservations call 954-636-6066 in the US, or 242-366-0557 in Abaco email: amy@turtlehill.com

SALES Ph: 242.366.0216 Fax: 242.366.0223 RealEstate@HopeTown.com

www.HopeTown.com

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Accommodations beach walks. Perhaps you would prefer to swim with the dolphins, fish off the dock and keep your boat in the backyard. If this is the case, a Sea of Abaco waterfront home would be the choice for you! Hope Town harbourfront home rentals offer the exciting boat action of an active harbour as well as the traditional lighting of the kerosene lighthouse each evening at dusk. Book your waterfront island home with Hope Town Hideaways today and get the best that Abaco has to offer! www.hopetown.com

Hope Town Inn & Marina.... 366-0003 Turtle Hill . ............................366-0557

throughout. The rooms on all three floors have split system air conditioners and decorator ceiling fans that allow you to adjust the temperature to your own comfort level. Brightly coloured Caribbean theme, attractively decorated bathrooms feature showers, bath condiments and hairdryers for your convenience. Most rooms include studio refrigerators. Kick back and enjoy the famous tropical weather and the Bahama breezes. www.hopetownharbourlodge.com

Sea Spray Resort ..................366-0065

Turtle Hill is on the outskirts of Hope Town, Elbow Cay, in the beautiful Abaco Islands. These Out Island luxury rental villas are poised above the Atlantic around an ever-inviting swimming pool, just steps from a vast pristine beach where gentle sea turtles still return to nest each year. Just minutes away, the Loyalist settlement of Hope Town is prized for its pristine beaches, picturesque harbour and candystriped lighthouse. Today, this friendly seaside village retains much of its original 18th-century appeal. amy@turtlehill.com

Hope Town Harbour Lodge .366-0095

Sea Spray’s seven villas provide the best of both worlds – the ability to wrap yourself in privacy while enjoying the beautiful ocean or harbour view each villa offers while still being within a short walk of all the resort’s amenities. Spend endless hours relaxing in your private hammock, or join new friends for a poolside lunch or drinks at our Garbonzo Reef Bar, the choice is yours. Sea Spray offers seven unique villas, ranging from a large three-bedroom,

Your relaxed vacation mood begins the moment you step into one of our historic Lodge. The inviting rooms feature a tropical coloured and co-ordinated décor 90 Destination Abaco

Man-O-War 91

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Accommodations two bath villa with views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Sea of Abaco to a romantic one-bedroom, one-bath, bungalow located at the top of a short bluff at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. Each villa is decorated in beautiful tropical colors and includes a full service kitchen. www.seasprayresort.com

Elbow Cay Properties...........366-0035

You can spend your days on the beach enjoying the turquoise waters and sunshine or experience the thrills of diving, snorkeling, fishing, or surfing. Rent a boat and enjoy some island hopping or stroll the quaint streets of 18th century Hope Town. All this just 150 miles from the Florida Coast! Elbow Cay Properties can help you find the perfect home for your vacation. Browse through our listing of homes and chat with us online if you have questions. You can also book online if you have already decided on a property. Many of our homes are booked months in advance, so please make your reservations early! www.elbowcayproperties.com

Hope Town Villas.................. 366-0030 Sea Glass................................. 366-0290 Sea Gull Cottages ................. 366-0266 Tanny Key.....................366-0053/0140

Man-O-War Cay Schoonerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Landing............... 365-6143 Island Home Rentals............ 365-6048 Waterways Rentals................ 365-6143

that romantic island retreat. Abaco is a world-renowned vacation destination for travelers seeking to enjoy a slice of tropical island charm. Experience the casual elegance of this sophisticated and fascinating Isle of Paradise. www.abacoestateservices.com

Bahama Beach Club.............365-8500

Treasure Cay Abaco Estate Services..........365-8752

Looking to explore the elegant island of Abaco, let Abaco Estate Services help you to discover the true treasures of a Bahamas vacation getaway. We can help you plan that fun-filled Abaco family vacation or

Bahama Beach Club offers a variety of

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Accommodations luxurious, sophisticated, exquisitely detailed, decorator-appointed beachfront condominiums for rent. Condo windows open to island breezes and private screened lanais overlook swaying coconut palms and the sparkling turquoise Bahamian sea. For your comfort and convenience, all our spacious, luxury condo rentals include fully-equipped kitchens, cable TV, FREE & Unlimited in-room Long Distance calling to the USA & Canada, FREE high speed wireless internet, laundry, and daily housekeeping service. Restaurants, dining, and groceries are nearby. www.bahamabeachclub.com

private balcony and multiple bathrooms. Fine dining is savored at the 250-seat Spinnaker Restaurant overlooking the marina or one may order lunch at the Coco Beach Bar located directly on the beach. The restaurants both feature Bahamian dishes and Continental cuisine. There are several locations to “wet your whistle” from the Spinnaker Lounge to the Coco Beach Bar and the Tipsy Seagull Bar. The Tipsy Seagull is renowned as the local “hot spot” that features weekly live entertainment and dancing ‘til the wee hours. www.treasurecay.com

Treasure Hunt Villa..........845-651-329

Guana Cay

Pineapple Point...............800-545-0395 Sandbank Landing................ 365-8752 Treasure Cay Hotel Resort & Marina . ......... 365-8578/365-8801

Sea Shore Villas..................... 365-5028 Dolphin Beach Resort........... 365-5137 Abaco Sea Fan.................603-664-2608 Ocean Frontier Hideaway............... 1-888-541-1616 Bahamas Vacations Frangipani Cottage........772-336-7023

Green Turtle Cay Accommodation includes standard rooms, deluxe rooms and 1, 2 or 3 bedroom suites. Rooms offer a choice of garden or marina views and feature delightful amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. The suites offer full, complete kitchens, a living area with

Bluff House............................ 365-4200 Green Turtle Club & Marina.365-4271 Other Shore Club Marina . .. 365-4226 Coco Bay Cottages................ 365-5464 Island Property Mang........... 365-4047 Ocean Blue Properties.......... 365-4636 Roberts Cottages................... 365-4105 New Plymouth Inn............... 365-4161

www.abaconian.com (242) 367-2677 93

Destination Abaco

Visitors Information ATMs

Visitors to Abaco can get cash 24 hours a day in Marsh Harbour. ATMs operated by Royal Bank of Canada, Scotiabank (Bah) Ltd., Commonwealth Bank, First Caribbean Int’l Bank in Marsh Harbour provide convenient banking services 24 hours a day.

Banking Hours

Commonwealth Bank is located in Marsh Harbour by the traffic light. Hours of operations are Monday - Thursday 9am - 3:30pm, Fridays 9:00am - 4:30pm. Telephone - 367-2370 First Carib. Int’l Bank is located in Marsh Harbour, Green Turtle Cay and Man-O-War Cay. Hours of operation for Marsh Harbour are 9:30am - 3:00pm Monday - Thursday’s and Friday 9:30am - 4:30pm. Green Turtle Office is operated two days a week - Thursday. Telephone in MH - 367-2166 Royal Bank of Canada Marsh Harbour 367-2420 ATM Treasure Cay 365-8119 ATM Scotiabank (Bah) Ltd is located in the Abaco Shopping Center in Marsh Harbour and a branch in Coopers Town which is only operated on Monday and Thursdays from 9:30am - 3:30pm. The Marsh Harbour Branch hours are from 9:30am - 3:00pm Monday - Thursday and Friday’s 9:30am 4:30pm. Telephone (MH) 367-2141 Fidelity/Western Union 367-3135 Open 9:30am - 3pm Mon - Thurs, 9:30am - 4:30pm Friday. Closed on Saturday & Sunday.

Customs Bahamas Customs

Baggage declaration by temporary visitors is oral, but the baggage is subject to customs inspections. In the case there are dutiable articles, the visitor will be required to complete a baggage claim form. Each adult is allowed 50 cigars or 200 cigarettes or one pound of tobacco and one quart of spirits free of customs duty in addition to personal effects. In addition, purchases up

to a value of one hundred dollars ($100) are permitted by all arriving passengers. Household effects such as china, furniture, linens and appliances with valid invoices and used household effects are subject to assessment by customs officers.

US Customs

Residents of the US may take home merchandise valued up to $600 retail duty free. This exemption applies to each family member, even infants. Family members living in the same household may pool exemptions to reduce the duty on an expensive item or carry in more items. All items must accompany the traveller to be eligible for exemption and must be for personal use or gifts and not for sale. The $600 exemption may only be claimed if you have been out of the US for 48 hours and may only be claimed every 30 days. Purchases of up to $1,000 more than the $600 allowance will be taxed at a flat rate of 10 percent, based on the fair retail value in The Bahamas. Separate from the $600 exception, you may also mail gift packages of $100 value or less duty-free. They must be marked ‘Unsolicited Gift’ and you may send as many as you wish, but not more than one $100 gift package to the same person on the same day. Goods shipped for personal use may be mailed into the US duty and tax-free if the total value is not more than $200. This exemption does not apply to perfume, alcoholic beverages, or to cigars and cigarettes. If you do not meet the 48-hour and 30-day time requirements, you may take in $25 worth of items for your own personal or household use free of duty. This exemption may not be pooled. Exemption limit of 10 cigars (not Cuban), 50 cigarettes, 4 ounces of liquor or 4 oz of cologne, may be included. If you spend more than $25 you must pay duty on the entire amount. REMEMBER: If you are carrying more than $10,000 in US or foreign currency, coins, traveller’s checks, etc. into the US, it MUST be reported to Customs. Please contact US Customs at 242-377-8461 if you have questions on importing any items.

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Visitors Information Canadian Customs

Canadian residents including minors may claim $50 (Can.) exemption after an absence of 24 hours or more. This exemption, which excludes tobacco and alcohol, may be claimed numerous times annually by verbal declaration. After 48 hours absence any number of times a year, $200 exemption may be claimed. This merchandise, which must accompany the traveller, can include 50 cigars, 200 cigarettes, 2 lbs of tobacco and 40 ounces of liquor. A $500 (Can.) exemption can be claimed after an absence of seven (7) days or more. This exemption may be claimed any number of times per year regardless of any $200 exemption claimed on a previous trip, but the two may not be combined at any time. The declaration for this exemption must be written. The allowance for liquor and tobacco is the same as for the $200 exemption. All duty-free items must be for personal or household use or as gifts. Children who are literate and can understand the declaration may claim exemption. Persons must be over 16 years of age to import tobacco and spirits. Amounts are in Canadian dollars. Illegal Items. Strict laws and penalties apply for possession of dangerous drugs and firearms. Any drugs considered dangerous, including marijuana, bring stiff fines and even jail terms if found in the possession of unauthorized persons.

Churches

Grace Baptist Church (DT)...........367-2926 Unity Baptist Church (TC)............365-8371 Zion Baptist Church (MT).............367-3563 BRETHREN Bethany Gospel (MH)....................367-4472 International Creole(MH).............367-3784 Gospel Chapel (MOW)..................365-6038 New Life Chapel (MOW)............. 365-6458 Marsh Harbour Gospel (MH).......367-2204 New Plymouth Gospel(GTC).......365-4198 Friendship Tabernacle (DT)..........367-4238 METHODIST Aldersgate Methodist (MH).........367-2009 St. Andrew’s Methodist (MH)......367-2007 St. James Methodist (HT)..............366-0400 Epworth Chapel (Cherokee).........366-2249 NON-DENOMINATIONAL New Vision Ministries (MH)........367-3324 Church of the Latter Rain (DT)....367-3871 Purpose Ministry (MH).................367-4867 PRESBYTERIAN Kirk of the Pines (MH)..................367-3855 ROMAN CATHOLIC St. Francis de Sales (MH)..............367-2714 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Seventh Day Adventist (MH).......367-2948

Communications

Radio Abaco 93.5 FM is the local broadcast with local and national programming and advertising 24 hour broadcasting. Cruisers Net is available on VHF 16 each morning at 8am for updates on weather and events in Abaco.

Currency

If you come across a $3 bill, it’s okay. Bahamian paper money comes in Call to confirm services and times. Evevarious bills such as $1, $3, $5, $10, $20, ning services may vary due to the time $50 and $100. There is also an extra change. Bahamian coin, the 15-cent, which is ASSEMBLIES OF GOD square with rounded corners and 1st Assembly of God (MH) 367-2130 decorated with a hibiscus. Church of God (GTC) 365-4505 Church of God (MOW) 365-6088 Church of God of Prop.(DT) 367-2071 Church of God (MH) 367-2740 Full Gospel Assembly (TC) 365-8097 Personal Bag Limit ANGLICAN The subsidiary laws of The Bahamas alSt. Simon by The Sea (TC).............365-2714 lows all persons travelling by commercial St. John’s the Baptist (MH)............365-2518 airlines to carry the following fisheries BAPTIST resources when leaving The Bahamas as Calvary Baptist Church (MH)......367-2105 96 Destination Abaco

Department of Marine Resources

Visitors Information personal baggage: NO MORE THAN SIX FISH IN TOTAL Kingfish, Wahoo & Dolphin, TEN (10) POUNDS - Crawfish or Conch OR TWENTY (20) POUNDS OF DEMERSAL FISH - Snappers, Grouper, Stone Crab claws, Jacks, Hog Fish etc. For more information contact Department of Marine Resources at 242.367.342.

Independence Day..........................10th July Emancipation Day.......................3rd August Discovery Day..........................12th October Christmas Day...................... 25th December Boxing Day............................ 26th December New Year’s Day..............................1 January If a holiday falls closer to the end of the week the holiday is celebrated on the Friday of that week or Monday if it falls down to the beginning of the week.

Exchange Rates

Service Groups

The Bahamian dollar is on par with the U.S. dollar. A small exchange may be applicable when converting traveller’s cheques for local currency.

Organized clubs of business and professional persons active in public services.

Immigration

Upon your arrival in The Bahamas you are given an immigration card to fill out. The officer at the Port of Entry will keep the top section and return the bottom section to you. You must return that portion to the ticket agent upon departure. Citizens of the U.S., Canada, United Kingdom or colonies do not need a passport for a visit that does not extend beyond 3 weeks, provided that you have proper identification, birth certificate, picture identification and a return ticket.

Postage

The post office in Marsh Harbour is situated in the Dove Plaza downtown on Don MacKay Blvd and provides air mailing service to anywhere in the world. Also regular surface mail. Postcards are 50 cents to the US, UK and Canada. Airmail letters (one-half ounce) 65 cents for US and Canada, 70 cents for Europe. Other services available include FedEx, United Postal Service and DHL. Each town has its own post office.

Public Holidays

Good Friday.........................22nd April

Easter Monday.............................. 25th April Labour Day.......................................3rd June Whit Monday..................................13th June

PILOT CLUB Dedicated to helping prevent brain related disorders - “Brain Minders”. Tel: 242.367.4571 or 359.6455 Meets every 3rd Tuesday in the month at Central Abaco Primary School at 6pm. KIWANIS CLUB Dedicated to serving the children of the world. ‘Young Children - Priority One’ meets every Tuesday except the third Tuesday of the month at Central Abaco Primary School at 7pm. Tel 242.3673680 ROTARY CLUB Committed to immunizing all the world’s children against polio. ‘Polio Plus’ meets at Great Abaco Beach Resort every Tuesday night at 6pm. TOASTMASTERS Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs. For information about local Toastmasters clubs, please visit www.toastmasters.org or call Datus J. Farrington 367-2560 or 554-8178, datus23@yahoo.com FRIENDS OF THE ENVIRONMENT Friends of the Environment is a nonprofit organization that works to preserve and protect Abaco’s precious environment. FRIENDS sponsors a number of fun activities through out the year from educational

Destination Abaco

Visitors Information speakers to bird watching walks to fun events to benefit the environment and there is a way for everyone to get involved. For an updated calendar of events visit its website:www.friendsoftheenvironment.org or call 367-2721. ABACO CANCER SOCIETY The Abaco Branch of the Cancer Society exists to educate the public on matters relating to cancer and to support those undergoing treatment for the disease. It meets the second Tuesday of each month at Abaco Cancer Society Thrift Shop at 5:15pm 242.323.3744 email: abacocancersociety@gmail.com www.abacocancersociety.com SCURVY FEW MOTORCYCLE CLUB is the only charter motorcycle club in The Bahamas and is based right here in Marsh Harbour. Its big event of the year is its Toys-For-Tots which distributes over 1000 toys to all communities within the Abacos. They also participate in the Big Hill Box Derby in Hope Town and do a number of rides throughout the island during the year. The club has a number of items for sale at some of the better gift shops in Marsh Harbour including T-shirts, hats, beer cozies, patches and stickers. The proceeds are used in many ways during the year including donations to a number of worthy causes along with the Toys-ForTots. If you are lost while walking around the marina district, the club has a couple of “You-Are-Here” maps beside Snappas and Bahamas Realty to help you find out where you are. www.scuryfew.org Royal Marsh Harbour Yacht Club was formed in Marsh Harbour 25 years ago by yachtsman Charlie Murphy, who was then a regular visitor to the Abacos. Anyone interested in learning more about the yacht club can check out its website: www.RMHYC.com.

Taxes

a hotel room tax of 12% - 15% that will be added to your bill at the time of check out. There is a $5 - $25 agency charge for airline tickets booked through a travel agent.

Taxi Fares

Taxis are available and are found mostly

at the airports and the ferry docks in Marsh Harbour and Treasure Cay. Taxi drivers are willing to wait for individuals to shop and would love to take you sightseeing. Fares vary within the Marsh Harbour area and to the North and South of Abaco. Waiting time is $40.00 per hour additional 1/2 hr is $20.00. Children under the age of five are free. Fare from the airport to Albury’s Ferry Dock is $15 for 2 persons and each additional person is $3.

There is no sales tax in The Bahamas. However, there are other forms of taxes that may occur on your trip there. There is 98 Destination Abaco

Visitors Information Telephones

Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) provides 100% digital switching system that allows communication with over 100 countires. Other services are fax, telex, cellular and satellite. Phone cards are available. Roaming features are available and will be billed through your home carrier. Batelnet and Cable Bahamas are the two major internet providers in Abaco. Wireless internet services are also available.

Temperatures

How to Subscribe! Yes! Send me a copy of Destination Abaco July - Feb 2012 to the person indicated below. Name: Address: City:

High Low January 77º 64º February 77º 65º March 79º 66º April 81º 69º May 84º 72º June 87º 76º July 89º 77º August 89º 77º September 88º 76º October 85º 74º November 82º 71º December 78º 66º We enjoy a tropical temperature year round. Water temperature ranges from the low 80s in the summer to the mid-70s in the winter.

State: Zip Code: eMail: Tel: $10.00 US plus shipping & Handling Call 242-367-3202 or 367-2107 destinationabaco@gmail.com

What to wear

How to pack for your trip to The Bahamas depends on the time of year, where you plan to stay and what you plan to do. Summer wear is appropriate for day and evening. Bathing suits are not acceptable in any of the communities, only in pool areas and beaches. In the evening, depending on your choice of restaurant and activities, you may dress casually.

Traffic Rules

Drive on the left side. Remember to keep to the left. Wearing seat belts is mandatory. If you are walking where there is no sidewalk, face oncoming traffic.

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Destination Abaco