Destination Abaco Volume 7 February - July 2007 by Destination Abaco - Travel Guide

Contents Publisher

Ruth Saunders Execuprint Ltd Contributing Writers Feature Story

Dwayne Wallas Annabelle Cross Jennifer Hudson Mirella Santillo Millane Rehor Contributing Photos Robbie Bethel Tuppy Weatherford Erik Russell Peggy Thompson Blair Saunders The Abaco Club on Winding Bay Treasure Cay Resort & Marina Bahama Beach Club

Feb - July 2007

In Every Issue Important Numbers 10 Calendar of Events 12 Ferry Schedule 21 Shopping 27 Guide to Marinas 37 Where to stay 43 Where to Dine 76

Sales/Research/Artist Ruth Saunders Senetra Delancy Anthony Adderley - Higrade Media Jane Braynen - JB Graphics Kelli-ann Sands

What to do 82 Information 95

Features Published bi-annually by Execuprint Ltd. For advertising rates and information:

Abaco Investment Climate 22 Artist - Sonya Weatherford 80 Wild Horses of Abaco 92

Tel (242) 367-3202/1 or 367-2107 Fax (242) 367-3201 US (305) 394-8274

www. destinationabaco.net

Photo credits Robbie Bethel Hope Town

Email: destinationabaco@ coralwave.com Destination Abaco is published by Execuprint Ltd. ÂŠ Copyright 2007 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.

Front Cover Relaxing in Hope Town

6 - Destination Abaco

I am extremely delighted to have the pleasure and privilege of welcoming you to the Abacos and the Islands of the Bahamas. We refer to this destination as the Abacos because by definition this destination is actually Great Abaco, Little Abaco and the multiplicity of Outer Cays (Keys). We have a tremendous variety of products evidenced through the varied and unique experiences available in this near geo-touristic environment. The preceding factors distinguish us as one of the most diverse destinations in the islands of the Bahamas and the region. We wish that those of you visiting with us for the first time would seek to explore as many corners of this destination as possible. It is anticipated that this publication will serve as a true destination guide, providing a glimpse into the experience. It is also a source book for important destination facts and interesting stories on the "character and personality" of the destination. Take it with you as a reference guide and an important keepsake on your return home. You are encouraged to relax and change gears to a less frenetic pace than the norm. It is in your departure from the norm - off the "beaten" path that we are certain you will find a near utopic experience unlike any imagined or experienced. We wish you the "Wow" experience each moment of your visit and trust that you will feel the warmth due a true "honoured guest." We welcome back those of you returning for a greater share of the "experience", continue to enjoy being with us. Feel free to visit with us and share your visit with us. We are located at #103 Memorial Plaza, Marsh Harbour. Don G. Cornish Director of Tourism The Abacos dcornish@bahamas.com (242) 367-4407 8 - Destination Abaco

DIVE WATCHES

it’s your watch that tells most about who you are. SeikoUSA.com

Marsh Harbour, Abaco (242) 367-2473 284 Bay Street, Nassau, Bahamas (242) 302-2800 • Mall at Marathon • Harbour Bay • Palmdale

Important Numbers The Bahamas Area Code (242) unless otherwise stated

Directory Assistance

Airline & Charter Services

US & CANADA

Abaco Air Ltd. 367-2266 Air Florida 367-5599 Air Sunshine Ft. Lauderdale Airport 954-434-8900 Treasure Cay Airport 365-8900 Marsh Harbour Airport 367-2800 American Airlines /American Eagle US Reservations 1-800-433-7300 Bahamasair Marsh Harbour Airport 367-2095 Treasure Cay Airport 365-8601 US Reservations 1-800-222-4262 Bimini Air Marsh Harbour 367-0140 US Reservations 954-939-8991 Calypso Air Marsh Harbour 367-0140 Treasure Cay 365-8660 Cherokee Air Ltd. Marsh Harbour Airport 367-3451 Office 367-2089 Continental Connection/Gulfstream International Marsh Harbour Airport 367-3415 Treasure Cay Airport 365-8615 US Reservations 1-800-231-0856 Island Express Marsh Harbour 367-0169 Major’s Air Marsh Harbour Airport 367-2498 Reginal Air Marsh Harbour 367-0446 Sky Limo International Ft. Lauderdale Airport 954-491-5930 Twin Air Treasure Cay Airport 365-8677 Ft. Lauderdale Airport 954-359-8266 Vintage Props & Jets Treasure Cay Airport 367-4852 New Smyrna Bch Airport 386-423-1773 Yellow Air Taxi Service Marsh Harbour Airport 367-0032 Fort Lauderdale Airport 954-359-0292

1-(Area Code)-555-1212

Long Distance Services AT&T USA Direct Canada Operator MCI Customers Sprint Customers United Kingdom Operator

1-800-872-2881 1-800-463-0501 1-800-888-8000 1-800-389-2111 1-800-389-4444

Embassies/Consulates United States Embassy Canadian Consulate

1-888-247-2262 1-800-433-7300

Car Rentals A & P Auto Rentals Allison Car Rentals Bargin Car Rentals Cash’s Resort Carts Cornish Car Rentals Rental Wheels Sea Star Rentals

367-2655 365-8193 367-0500 365-8771 365-8623 367-4643 367-4887

Banking & ATM Commonwealth Bank First Caribbean Int’l Bank Royal Bank of Canada Marsh Harbour Treasure Cay Scotiabank (Bahamas) Ltd

367-2370 - ATM 367-2166 - ATM 367-2420 - ATM 365-8119 - ATM 367-2141 - ATM

Emergency Services ‘919’ Royal Bahamas Police Force Fire Department (MH) Bah Air Sea Rescue Assoc

367-2560 367-2000 366-0500

Medical Services Abaco Family Medicine Auskell Advance Medical Corbett Medical Center Health Power Therapeutic Massage Government Clinics Marsh Harbour Cooper's Town Green Turtle Cay Hope Town Sandy Point Marsh Harbour Medical Out Island Chiropractor Agape Family Dental Centre Diamente Dental Clinic

367-2295 367-0020 365-8288 375-8416 367-2510 365-0300 365-4028 366-0108 366-4010 367-0049 367-2584 367-4355 367-4968

Chamber of Commerce Marsh Harbour

Travel Agencies A & W Travel Agency Marsh Harbour Travel Spot Marsh Habour

10 - Destination Abaco

367-2806 367-2817

Calendar of Events February 2 - 4 Abaco Art Festival (Marsh Harbour, Abaco Beach Resort) Abaco based Artists and Artisans are brought together with others from throughout the country to display their products. This event showcases extensive talent and allows patrons the pleasure of purchasing a range of fine and unusual creations. 242.367.2158

featured are: historical speakers, new book signing, traditional school songs and cultural dances, a mini boat parade with historic flags, sculling ‘dingy’ boats with single-oars, art & crafts, shell collection displays, museum tours, demonstration of threatened loyalist-style homes in addition to Bahamian cuisine freshly prepared for purchase. (10am - 1:30pm)

10 Friends of the Environment Winter Plant Fair - Treasure Cay.

See Friends of the Environment website for details. www.friendsoftheenvironment.org email anita@friendsoftheenvironment.org

Friends of the Environment website for details. www.friendsoftheenvironment.org email: anita@friendsoftheenvironment.org

Friends of the Environment Winter Plant Fair. Hope Town See

Annual Man-O-War Craft & Trade Fair Local crafts, general

items, food and drinks are featured at this popular fair that directly benefits Man-O-War School on Man-O-Cay, Abaco. For further information call 242.365.6049

17 2nd Abaco’s Annual Country Music Festival Performing at this year’s concert will be Billy Yates, a contemporary and traditional country music star. Tickets for this event will be on sale, which funds will aid a local organization. Contact the Abaco Tourist Office at 242.367.3067

March TBA

People to People Reception/Winter residents Reception This event presents an opportunity for local People-to-people volunteers facilitated by Ministry of Tourism, Abaco Office to meet and interact with winter residents in an annual ‘get together.’ Bahamian music, food and other cultural expressions are highlighted. For more information contact The Abaco Tourist Office 242.367.3067

2-3

Hope Town’s Annual Heritage Day The Annual Heritage

Day is held in the park and museum area of town. Generally 12 - Destination Abaco

Annual

Reef

Ball

Fun draiser for Friends of the Environment Abaco Beach Resort, Marsh Harbour. For further information call FRIENDS at 242.367.2721

Barefoot Man Concert Guana Cay The world famous

Nippers Beach Bar & Grill attracts hundreds of visitors and locals year after year with its live entertainment, its signature drink the nipper juice, Bahamian dishes and the partying atmosphere. Great Guana Cay. For further information call 242.365.5143

April TBA

Annual

Seashell

Show

A variety of Bahamian shells is showcased in authentic art and craft fashion. The venue is at Cherokee Sound, Abaco.

TBA

Cedar Harbour Homecoming Festival (Cedar Harbour, Abaco) These annual

events serve to bring local residents and other domestic visitors from neighbouring islands together to share cultural activities, games, food, drinks and worship. They generate economic activity and lend to the promotion and development of Bahamian heritage indigenous to these communities.

Calendar of Events TBA Grand Cay Homecoming Festival (Grand Cay, Abaco)

30-May 4 Sea Spray Fishing

These annual events serve to bring local residents and other domestic visitors from neighbouring islands together to share cultural activities, games, food, drinks and worship. They generate economic activity and lend to the promotion and development of Bahamian heritage indigenous to these communities. For further information call (242) 353-1306.

Deep sea fishing has a home in White Sound, Hope Town. It caters to fishing enthusiasts wishing to visit the Abacos and enjoy hunting the monsters of the deep such as Blue Marlin and Tuna. Contact Sea Spray Resort, Hope Town. Tel: 242.365.0065

Friends of the Environment Earth Day - Marsh Harbour. See Friends of the Environment website for details.www.friendsoftheenvironment.org email: anita@friendsoftheenvironment.org

16-19 Bahamas White Marlin Open Fishing Tournament (Treasure Cay Hotel & Marina, Treasure Cay) For further information all 242.365.8801

19-29

Abaco Anglers Fishing Tournament (Hope Town, Abaco)

Deep Sea and Bottom Fishing Tournament has been a part of the landscape for more than thirty years. It is family oriented and caters primarily to local fishing enthusiasts and to visitors wishing to experience the sea depths for Dolphin, Tuna and Grouper. All levels of fishing abilities, including children are encouraged. Contact 242.366.3151 or 242.359.6111.

22-27

Bahamas Billfish Boat Harbour Championship (Marsh Harbour, Abaco) the Bahamas

Billfish Championships sponsored by Rolex, is considered the premier fishing series in the Bahamas. This leg of the championship kicks off the five leg series of an event that attracts dozens of seasoned and crafty deep-sea fishermen. Bragging rights are the order of the day as reputations and hundreds of thousands of dollars in prizes and cash are up for grabs. Abaco Beach Resort Tel: 242.367.2158

14 - Destination Abaco

Tournament [Hope Town, Abaco]

May 1-5 Marine Maxx Hatteras Billfish Invitational (Marsh Harbour, Abaco) The full release tournament for the Abacos, featuring lots of fun and exciting events. For more information call the Abaco Beach Resort. Tel: (242) 367-2158

TBA 2nd Annual Buttonwood Boondoggle in Green Turtle Cay, Abaco. This three-day event features a musical and food-fest weekend in Green Turtle Cay, Abaco. ‘Gully Roosters’ Calypso Band will perform in addition to visiting musicians and other guest artists.

4-6 4th Annual Island Roots Heritage Festival, New Plymouth, Green Turtle Cay The communities of Green Turtle Cay, Abaco and Key West Florida enjoy a common heritage with a similar history. This event is intended to become a vehicle to connect familial and historical ties common to residents of these islands across geographical and national lines furthering the ‘Sister City’ concept. Descendants will be bought together to share in cultural activities, games, food, drinks and worship. This festival has tremendous external marketing value for Green Turtle Cay and the Abacos as a destination both for international and domestic tourism promotion.

8-12 Bertram Hatteras Shootout (Billfish

Tourney) The Bertram Hatteras Shootout, commonly referred to as “The Shootout” is the creme de la creme of the tournaments held in the Abacos. Abaco Beach Resort (242) 367-2158

Calendar of Events June TBA

Sandy Point Homecoming/Mimi Regatta (Sandy Point, Abaco) In addition

to heritage based events called “home coming,” this event also promotes the Bahamian sailing sloop sailing regattas. Usually a mid-size competition, the community takes pride in attracting some of the best skippers. These events serve to generate economic activity and lend to the promotion and development of Bahamian heritage indigenous to these communities. Cultural activities, games, food, drinks and worship. Contact the Abaco Tourist Office for more information. 242.367.3067

TBA Goombay Summer Festival (Marsh Harbour, Abaco) The Premier Bahamian Street Festival. Goombay is the rhythm we know as Bahamian music and is also the name of our native festival. It captures several elements of our culture on a single stage for a dramatic one-night experience over several weeks of the summer. It is but a glimpse inside our cultural experience, featuring native music, food, dance and arts & crafts. For more information contact the Abaco Tourist Office (242) 367-3067

TBA Little Abaco Home Coming [Fox Town, Abaco] Heritage-based event organized by the community. Cultural activities, games, food, drinks and worship. These events serve to generate economic activity and lend the promotion and development of Bahamian heritage indigenous to these communities.

3-8

Bahamas Billfish Championship (Treasure Cay, Abaco) The BBC sponsored by Rolex

is considered the premier fishing series in the Bahamas. Bragging rights are the order of the day as reputations and hundreds of thousands of dollars in prizes and cash are up for grabs. Contact Treasure Cay Resort & Marina, Abaco. (242) 365-8535

16 - Destination Abaco

10-15

24th Annual Treasure Cay Billfish Championship (Treasure Cay, Abaco) The

Treasure Cay Billfish Championship is a “Mainstay” among the Abaco fishing events with consistency the order of the day. It caters to a cross section of fishermen and is a major promotional event for northern Abaco. The event also features beach volleyball and a native arts & crafts show on the lay day. For more information contact Treasure Cay Resort (242)365-8535

TBA Treasure Cay Annual Arts and Crafts Show (Treasure Cay, Abaco) Hosted as an activity event connected with the TCBC fishing tournament. Offers a stage for display & sale of local art & craft. For more information contact Treasure Cay Resort at (242) 367-8535

17-22

Bahamas Billfish Boat Harbour Championship (Marsh Harbour, Abaco) The final leg of the BBC sponsored by Rolex is considered the premier fishing series in the Bahamas. Spouses of the anglers participate in a People-to-People Luncheon and silent auction for charity, while the overall results for all the legs are tallied and a festive awards’ banquet is prepared by the organizers. The venue is the Abaco Beach Resort Tel: 242.367.2158

July TBA Goombay Summer Festival (Marsh Harbour, Abaco) Goombay street festival at the ‘Goombay Park’ will continue its cultural experience, featuring native music, food, dance and arts & crafts. For further information contact the Abaco Tourist Office at (242) 3673067.

TBA Cooper’s Town & Fire Road Heritage Festival (Coopers Town, Abaco)

Let a Bahamian introduce you to The Bahamas! Participate in our People-To-People Programme where you will meet warm and genial Bahamian residents. Experience Bahamian Life inâ&#x20AC;?Grandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Style. Just as the Abaconians do! Take home with you the memory of one of the greatest resources... Our Bahamian People.

Junkanoo Summer Festival It is but a glimpse inside our cultural experience, featuring native music, food, dance and arts & crafts.

www.bahamas.com Tel: (242) 367-3067 or 367-4512

Calendar of Events TBA

Bahamas Independence Celebrations (Public Holiday)The

Bahamas will celebrate 33 years as an independent nation. Events are planned across Abaco in commemoration of this significant event in the life of our young nation. For further information contact (242) 367-2344

fun race for all types of sailing vessels ultralight racers, cruiser/racers, multihulls or fully loaded gunkholers - the "Round the Green Turtle Race" will challenge you and your crew's sailing ability on the Sea of Abaco, and your partying ability afterward at the Green Turtle Club's docks. Contact the Green Turtle Club Tel: 242.365.4271

August

3-11

Regatta Time In Abaco (Marsh Harbour, Abaco) Regatta Time sailing event is hoisted between the American and Bahamian Independence celebrations serving to link both important commemorations. This event that involves primarily American sloopes brings dozens of sailing enthusiasts to the Abacos for a racing series with few peers in the region. The series begins in Green Turtle Cay with stops at Guana Cay with parties at Nippers and Blue Water Grill, Man-O-War Cay dubbed the “Sailing Capital of the World”, Hope Town, home of the world famous candy-striped lighthouse and Marsh Harbour, the commercial hub of the Abacos. The regatta is in its 32nd year and is an important promotional event for Abaco. For further information contact Dave & Kathy Ralph at (242) 367-2677

Round the Green Turtle Race

Come join the fleet in Green Turtle, Abaco, Bahamas this summer as the Green Turtle Yacht Club hosts the 7th annual "Round the Great Turtle Race" for the 2005 Bahama Cup Trophy. A

TBA Goombay Summer Festival (Marsh

Harbour,

Abaco)

Goombay street festival at the ‘Goombay Park’ will continue its cultural experience, featuring native music, food, dance and arts & crafts. For further information contact the Abaco Tourist Office at (242) 367-3067.

TBA Moore’s Island Home-coming Heritage Festival (Moore’s Island, Abaco) This event will encourage a return of indigenous folks and other visitors to share in the community activities, food, drinks, worship and entertainment. Activities will lend to the promotion and development of local culture and financial support to these communities.

3-5

Blackwood Community Home-coming, Blackwood Abaco) A local community ‘home-

coming’ week-end of celebrations; the public is invited to join family and friends in food, drink and entertainment.

CRUISING REGULATIONS Fees for entering The Bahamas: $150 for all vessels under 35 feet and $300 for vessels 35.1 feet or greater. $150 for dinghy tenders over 18 feet. (Good for one year)

is an additional $150 for 12 months. Also included is a $15 exit/departure fee.

The above fees cover the captain and three crew members. Any additional crew members over 6 years of age must pay $15 per person. A fishing license for three months is included. If you wish to extend your fishing license, it

West End - Grand Bahama

18 - Destination Abaco

PORTS OF ENTRY Port Lucaya - Grand Bahama Spanish Cay - Abaco Green Turtle Cay - Abaco Treasure Cay - Abaco Marsh Harbour - Public Dock Sandy Point - Abaco

Blue Sky GALLERY

Bahamian Art Framing Original and Prints Professional Photography by

Tuppy Weatherford Special Occasions Weddings P.O.Box AB-20244 Marsh Harbour, Abaco 242-367-0579 (W) 242-365-6064 (H)

Subscribe to Destination Abaco Name:___________________________ _________________________________ Address: _________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ City:_____________________________ State:____________________________ Email: ___________________________ US Surface Mail $10.00 Other Mail (Bahamas) $8.50 International Mail $15.00 Mail to: Destination Abaco P.O.Box AB-20968 Marsh Harbour, Abaco, Bahamas Email:destinationabaco@coralwave.com 19 - Destination Abaco

d n a l s I s g n i d Wed Getting married in the Bahamas could not be easier. Just call the Ministry of Tourism Abaco Office to assist with your personal arrangements. To qualify to get married in the Bahamas, you must have been in The Bahamas for a minimum of one day. If either party has been divorced, the original final decree divorce papers must be produced. If either party is unmarried, being a citizen or resident of a country other than the USA, a declaration certifying this fact must be sworn before a notary public or other person authorized to administer oaths. The following documents are required: 1. Birth Certificate 2. Passport 3. Notarized Affidavit stating that you/they have never been married 4. Divorce papers if you/they have been married before With The Ministry of Tourism assistance, you can obtain the following: A personal wedding consultant Marriage License Administrator or minister of religion to conduct ceremony Licensed marriage officer Wedding Cake Photographer Videographer Wedding Location

Abaco Tourist Office Tel: (242) 367-3067 Fax: (242) 367-3068 Email:abacotourism@hotmail.com

Wedding Sites on Abaco Abaco Beach Resort www.abacobeachresort.com Regatta of Abaco www.regattasofabaco.com The Abaco Club at Winding Bay www.theabacoclub.com Schooners Landing www.schoonerslanding.com Hope Town Harbour Lodge www.hopetownlodge.com Abaco Inn www.abacoinn.com Hope Town Hideaways www.hopetownhideaways.com Sea Spray Resort www.seasprayresort.com Treasure Cay Resort www.treasurecay.com Bahama Beach Club www.bahamabeach.com Bluff House Beach Resort www.bluffhouse.com Green Turtle Cay www.greenturtleclub.com

Ferry Schedule ARAWAK AGENCY CUSTOMS BROKERS

Albury’s Ferry Service

· Air & Sea Shipping · Customs Clearance

Telephone: 367-3147/365-6010 VHF 16

One Way Adult Round Trip Adult

$16 Child $ 8 6 -11 $22 Child $11 6 -11 Kids 5 and under Free

· Freight Forwarding · Transportation & Logistics Services

Charters Available at any time! Marsh Harbour to Hope Town 7:15am/9:00am/10:30am/12:15pm 2:00pm/4:00pm/5:45pm Hope Town to Marsh Harbour 8:00am/9:45am/11:30am/1:30pm 3:00pm/4:00pm/5:00pm/6:15pm

· Ship Agencies For More Information: Tel: (242) 367-2089 Fax: (242) 367-2530 Marsh Harbour, Abaco, Bahamas Visit our office on Front Street “One Call Does It All”

Marsh Harbour to Man-O-War *Except Sundays & Holidays 10:30am/12:15pm/*2:30pm/4:00pm/5:45pm Man-O-War to Marsh Harbour *Except Sundays & Holidays 8:00am/11:30am/1:30pm/*3:15pm/4:30pm Marsh Harbour to Guana Cay 6:45am/10:30am/1:30pm/3:30pm/5:45pm

Green Turtle Ferry Guana to Marsh Harbour 8:00am/11:30am/2:30pm/4:45pm/6:30pm

Telephone: 365-4166 or 365-4128 VHF 16 One Way Adult $9 Child $3 under 12 Round Trip Adult $14 Charters Available at any time!

Green Turtle Cay to Treasure Cay Site 8am 9am 11am 12:15pm 1:30pm 3pm 4:30pm

CHEROKEE AIR

CHARTER SERVICE Servicing the Bahamas and South Florida Turbo Prop Service MARSH HARBOUR, ABACO, BAHAMAS (242) 367-2089 · (242) 367-2613 · (242) 367-2530

Call for Scheduling Committed to a Higher Standard in Aviation

21 - Destination Abaco

by Dwayne Wallas

For the past two decades, Abaco and its surrounding cays have experienced steady growth in its population and economy. Historically, Abaconians have been considered to be very industrious and the first settlers were inherent risk takers. This positive mentality continues to this day and has paid off considerably in the lives of present day locals. Following 1992, when the FMN first gained political power, the party subsequently amended the Immovable Properties Act to allow nonBahamians to purchase property in the Bahamas more easily and with greater security for their investment. The amended Immovable Properties Act was boon to the economy of the Bahamas and especially Abaco, stimulating the second home owner market and the construction industry. The amendments also had the effect of improving the global image of the Bahamas as a location with high investment potential. Abaco, and the Bahamas in general, are still enjoying steady economic growth as a result of this landmark change in legislature. Abaco's economy, is at an all time high, and set to soar higher. Despite a lack of large scale, high-rise tourist resorts found on New Providence/Nassau, Grand Bahama,

and other worldwide destinations, Abaco somehow manages to attract a substantial number of tourists, many of whom choose to return every year. Many people assert that the strong tourism industry in Abaco is largely due to the fact that there aren't any large scale tourist attractions. It is logical to assume that the typical visitor to Abaco chooses this destination simply because it offers a very different experience than the more well known vacation destinations such as Nassau/Paradise Island or Southern Florida. There are no casinos, flashy neon signs, no buildings over three floors, no recreational theme parks, basically none of the typical tourist traps one would find in the common tourist destinations. Visitors are offered a quiet, rustic get-away featuring activities such as fishing, boating, beaching and island exploration. Green Turtle Club

Many locals and visitors alike hope that Abaco's quaint environs will never become a commercialized mecca of high-rise hotels and shopping districts. This author strongly agrees with this sentiment however everything changes and nothing stays the same. Progress of a community and economy is almost inevitable, and Abaco is not exempt from change. There are several indicators of the progress of Abaco in terms of recent and future development, some are obvious while others are more subtle. Property sales have been strong all around the island and cays, with land and home values increasing steadily. The main drive for the rise in prices is a strong demand among foreign second home buyers looking to kill two birds with one stone. A second home owner can enjoy ownership of a secluded beach cottage or hill top vacation home for their personal enjoyment and also rent it out to other vacationers for a yearly income of up to $60,000. Then later on down the road the owner can sell his/her property for a substantial gain over their initial investment. A prime example of this the price of beach and water front lots, which were available for around $200,000 ten years ago and are now going quickly at prices well in excess of $500,000. This appreciation in value has occurred despite major hurricanes, wars, 9/11, and is not influenced by fluctuations in the stock market or Fed rates. Any savvy investor can look at the numbers and see the benefits of investment in this market. Real estate brokers in Abaco are very knowledgeable and always willing to discuss investment options in the area. There is usually a sound property deal available for every type and level or investor or purchaser. The most notable, recent addition to the Abaco landscape is The Abaco Club on Winding Bay. The Abaco Club is a real estate venture founded by Peter de Savary, a British shipping and real

estate magnate. Amenities for members and guests at the club include a top notch, double crescent beach, fantastic views of the Atlantic Ocean, horse back riding, deep water and creek fishing and an impressive club house which serves five star cuisine. The Abaco Club's golf course was recently ranked at No. 6 among the world's top golf courses by the Toronto Star Golf 2006, a testament to its appeal. The development was well received with of most of the home sites and villas already snatched up. The Abaco Club recently announced that the management and day to day running of the club, villas and facilities has been assumed by the Ritz Carleton Hotel Company who are sure to enhance the service and appeal of the already prestigious vacation offering. The Abaco Club on Winding Bay

Nippers Beach

Another major development in Abaco has been covered extensively in the news media of the Bahamas and the US as a result of its struggle with local residents. A few locals and environmentalist are strongly opposed to the project on the grounds of negative impact to the environment and the nearby reef in particular. Baker's Bay Golf and Ocean Club is intended to be an upscale island resort residential community which will offer members and guests many amenities to include a full service, deep water marina, an 18 hole golf course, a boutiquestyle hotel and a nature preserve to name a few. The developers are utilizing only the most environmentally friendly construction and development techniques. Bakeres Bay will become another jewel in the crown of offerings in the Abaco real estate market. Abaco Beach Resort and Boat Harbour is presently expanding their facilities in the form of The Residences. The Residences are currently under construction and will be a condominium townhouse product to compliment the hotel, marina and the residential community of the long established and locally owned Abaco Beach Resort. Pre-construction sales of the condos has been steady, although as they near completion it is expected that demand will increase. The condos will offer views of the marina and the Abaco Sea beyond. Owners of the Residences will be afforded access to all the amenities currently available at the Abaco Beach Resort which are centered around its first rate marina. The residences will comprise two- and three-bedroom townhouses with floor areas of 1,900 to 3,500 square feet and the 23 units are set to be completed for summer 2007. Local realtors have commented that the Marsh Harbour area lacks in condominium product, therefore this undertaking will likely fill a gap in the local real estate market. Treasure Cay has been experiencing a surge of construction activity in the

condominium market; most notable is the Bahama Beach Club which is now in its fifth phase of development. The Bahama Beach Club is a beach front condo complex offering 3- and 4-bedroom units with pools and access to the amenities of Treasure Cay. Other condominium developments in Treasure Cay include Carleton Landing, Palm Bay and The Cottages, each with slightly different characteristics, offerings and price ranges. All of these condo complexes have been well received and nearing the end of their multiple phase developments. There is also a good selection of single family homes in all price ranges on offer in Treasure Cay. Anyone interested in investing in Abaco would be interested in a recent announcement that the remaining holdings of the Treasure Cay Development Company are about to be sold. One hopes that the

Abaco Beach Resort

potential investor will upgrade the existing facilities and enhance commercial amenities. Over the years Treasure Cay has lost a little of its prestige and appeal but a little entrepreneurial spirit could easily restore it to a first class destination. Assuming the sale will be completed, now would be an excellent time to purchase property in the community.

24 - Destination Abaco

Treasure Cay Resort

For those who wish to get off the beaten track, there are enticing opportunities to found both in the southern and northern parts of the Abaco mainland, including Bahama Palm Shores and Long Beach in the south. At the recent Abaco Business Outlook Conference, the main highlight and focus of the event was emphasizing the continuing growth of the island and its economy. Abaco has long been considered to have the strongest economy in the Bahamas. The tourism industry of the island is growing steadily, hand-in-hand with the second home owner market, both of which are the main contributors to the economy and providers of employment. Abaco has plenty of land left for development and there are several large parcels for sale ranging in size from ten to hundreds of acres and many have water frontage. Recent discussions among local realtors have been about the lack of dock space in South Florida and the potential spill over to Abaco of boat owners looking for safe secure dockage. An ideal real estate investment ripe and ready for a savvy individual or group would be a development focused around a full service, deep water marina featuring condominiumized dock

space. This concept has begun to catch on in Florida, referred to as a "Dockominium". In order for a venture such as this to work it would need to be located near to an accessible airport and offer reliable care and maintenance of yachts from 30 to 150 feet in length. The appeal of the waters around Abaco and the focus on boating could make an investment venture like this highly successful. Recently, Abaco realtors have banded to together to create a Main Listing Service or MLS in order to better serve their clients. As a testament to the collaboration and work ethic of the Abaconian people, this MLS appears set for succees, unlike the failed MLS attempt in Nassau some years ago. Abaco has had some infrastructural improvements in the form of expanded water supplies to more remote areas of the mainland, and a major expansion of the cellular telephone network on the mainland. The cays are still left without any wireless telephone network of substance, however I believe most visitors and residents are happy with the status quo.

Additionally, there is word of the Bahamas Electricity Corporation acquiring additional power plants for its Abaco operation to augment an electrical supply that has been sorely lagging behind the development levels around the island. Additional electricity supply is badly needed. Although nothing concrete has been announced, unofficial word around town is that acquisitions are slated for sometime in 2007. Any investment on the island will be positively impacted by the long overdue but inevitable intentions by government to improve the Marsh Harbour Airport. Plans being finalized include a renovated and expanded terminal building, resurfacing

and lengthening the runway and adding a taxi way to run parallel to the air strip. Also worthy of note, the Bahamas Government is aggressively working on developing a workable GIS system (Geographical Information System) which will be integral in assisting with the management of land assets and the development of policies to govern land management. It is interesting to note that Abaco has been chosen as the first island in the Bahamas to be fully documented in the GIS database. The investment climate in Abaco is going strong and indications are that the prosperity will continue for many years hence.

26 - Destination Abaco

Photo by Robbie Bethel

Shopping · MH - Marsh Harbour · HT - Hope Town · GTC - Green Turtle Cay · TC - Treasure Cay · · MOW - Man-O-War Cay · GC- Guana Cay · LH - Little Harbour ·

Native Art & Crafts Albert Lowe Museum (GT) Alton Lowe Art Gallery (GT) Abaco Ceramics (TC) Bahama Dawn Designs (MH) Blue Sky Gallery (MH) Buds and Blooms (MH) Conch Pearl (MH) Ebb Tide (HT) Golden Reef (GTC) Iggy Biggy (HT) Iggy Biggy (MH) Island Petals (MH) Java Coffee Shop (MH) Johnston’s Studio (LH) Joe’s Studio (MOW) Kemps Souvenirs (HT) Ocean Blue Gallery (GTC) Native Creations (GTC) Wrackers (MH)

365-4094 365-4264 365-8489 367-4648 367-0579 367-2837 367-0137 366-0088 365 -4511 366-0354 367-5 121 367-2260 367-5523 367-2720 365-6082 366-0423 365-4234 365-4206 367-0197

Crystal Treasures Abaco Treasures (MH) Corner Value (MH) Sand Dollar Shoppe (MH) Solomon’s Mines (TC)

367-3460 367-2250 367-4405 365-8132

Cameras, Film, Developing Snap Shop (MH) Wally’s Studio (MH) Computer Creations (MH)

367-3020 367-2722 367-2004

Perfumes Abaco Treasures (MH) John Bull Ltd (MH)

27 - Destination Abaco

367-3460 367-2473

Shopping Boutiques Adam & Eve (MH) Bluff House Boutique (GTC) Corner Value (MH) Golden Reef (GTC) His & Her Jeans (MH) Lowes Pharmacy (MH) Lighthouse Marina (HT) Mangoes Boutique (MH) Spooners Dept Store (MH) Wally’s Boutique (MH) Iggy Biggy (MH) Wrackers (MH) Island Girl Boutique (MH)

367-5792 365-4200 367-2250 365 -4511 367-2011 367-2667 366-0154 367-2366 367-2017 367-2074 367-5121 367-0197 367-0283

Sand Dollar Shoppe (MH) Pete’s Pub & Gallery (LH) T’zers Gift Shop (MH) Tropical Treasures (MH) Golden Reef (GTC) John Bull (MH) Jewels, Gems & More (MH) Native Creations (GTC) Wrackers (MH)

Pharmacies The Chemist Shoppe (MH) Lowe’s Pharmacy (MH) Island Pharmacy (MH)

Jewelry Abaco Treasures (MH) Conch Pearl (MH) Iggy Biggy (MH) Iggy Biggy (HT) Island Treasures (MOW) Mangoes Boutique (MH) El Mercado (HT)

367-3460 367-0137 367-5121 366-0354 365-6072 367-2366 366 -0661

367-4405 366-3503 367- 2158 367-5576 365 -4511 367-2473 367-2418 365-4206 367-0197

367-3 106 367-2667 367-2544

Stationery, Books & Magazines Bellevue Office Supplies (MH) Abaco Treasures (MH) Office Supply Plus (MH)

367-3916 367-3460 367-3186

Look for our fine products at Iggy Biggy and Java Coffee House in Marsh Harbour. Iggy Biggy in Hope Town, Joe’s Studio in Man-OWar. The Harbour Shoppe in Treasure Cay. Native Creations in Green Turtle Cay.

Visit us at our studio in Treasure Cay. 9:00am - 4:00pm Monday - Friday

242-365-8489

Also available at The Plait Lady, Paradise Island and Adeana Designs at the Radisson Cable Beach, Nassau. The Sandpiper in George Town, Eleuthera and Dilly Dally on Harbour Island, Eleauthera.

eMail:abceram@hotmail.com 28 - Destination Abaco

Established since 1983

29 - Destination Abaco

Shopping

30 - Destination Abaco

Shopping

Tropical Souvenirs i

Straw Baskets i T-Shirts i Hats i Casual Wear i Gifts i Souvenirs

Located on Don MacKay Blvd near Airport in Marsh Harbour Mon - Sat 7:30 - 5

Sun 10 - 5

Tel: (242) 367-2431 Visa and MasterCard Accepted POSTAGE STAMPS SOLD WITHIN

31 - Destination Abaco

Shopping Boat Rentals Island Marine Rentals (HT) J.I.C. Boat Rentals (TC) Loggerhead Boat Rentals (GTC) Concept Boat Rentals (MH) Cat’s Paw Boat Rentals (HT) B & B Boat Rentals (MH) Sea Horse Boat Rentals (MH) Rich’s Rentals (MH) Rich’s Rentals (TC) Rainbow Rentals (MH) Blue Wave Boat Rentals (MH) Laysue Boat Rentals (MH) Waterways Boat Rentals (MOW)

Froggies Out Island Adv. (HT) Treasure Divers Gift Shop (TC) 366-0282 365-8582 365-5461 367-5570 366-0380 367-7368 367-2516 367-2742 365-8582 367-4602 367-3910 367-4356 365-6143

Scuba/Diving Gear Above & Below (MH) Abaco Dive Adventures (MH) Brendal’s Dive Shop (GTC) M-O-W Dive Shop (MOW) Dive Abaco (MH) Dive Guana (GC)

367-0350 367-2963 365-4411 365-6013 367-2787 365-5178

366-0431 365-3465

Marine Stores Abaco Outboard Engines (MH) Abaco Yacht Services (GTC) B & D Marine (MH) Black Sound Marina (GTC) Dolphin Marine (GTC) Lighthouse Marina (HT) National Marine (MH) The Outboard Shop(MH)

367-2452 365-4033 367-2622 365 -4531 365-4262 366-0514 367-2326 367-2703

Car Rentals A & P Auto Rentals (MH) Bargain Cart Rentals (MH) Cornish Car Rentals (TC) Sea Star Rentals (MH) Reliable Car Rentals (MH) Rental Wheels (MH) Quality Star Car Rentals (MH)

32 - Destination Abaco

367-2655 367-0500 365-8623 367-4887 367-4234 367-4643 367-2979

Shopping Bicycles, Scooters The Bike Shop (HT) Rental Wheels (MH) Wendals Bicycle Rentals (TC)

366-0292 367-4643 365-8687

Golf Cart Rentals Cashâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cart Rentals (TC) C & D Rentals (GTC) Chris Cart Rentals (TC) D & P Cart Rentals (GTC) Guana Cay Rentals (GC) Hope Town Cart Rentals (HT) Island Treasures (MOW) Island Cart Rentals (HT) Island Road Runners (GTC) J.I.C. Cart Rentals (TC) Resort Cart Rentals (TC) Seaside Cart Rentals (GTC) T & A Cart Rentals (GTC) T & N Cart Rentals (HT)

365-8771 365-4311 365-8053 365-4655 365 -5195 366-0064 365-6072 366-0448 365-4610 365-8582 365-8771 365 -4120 365-4259 366-0069

33 - Destination Abaco

Shopping Florists Buds & Blooms (MH) Island Petals (MH) Pinewoods Nursery (MH) Tropical Farm Nursery (MH)

367-2837 367-2260 367-2674 367-2783

Wines & Spirits A & K Liquors (MH) Archer Brothers Store (MH) Bristol Wines & Spirits (MH) Burns House (MH) Central Liquors Store (MH) Fig Tree Wine & Spirits (GC) Hope Town Wines & Spirits (HT) Lighthouse Liquors (HT) Plymouth Rock Liquors (GTC) Spanky’s Liquor Store (TC) Tupp’s Liquor Store (MH)

367-2179 367-2022 367-2180 367-2135 367-2966 365-5058 366-0525 366-0567 365-4234 365-8385 367-3498

Coming in June - August, 07 Call for information at (242) 367-3067

34 - Destination Abaco

35 - Destination Abaco

Shopping Abaco Souvenirs Abaco Ceramics (TC) Abaco Treasures (MH) Albury’s Sail Shop (MOW) Buds n Blooms (MH) Bell Ena (MOW) Ebb Tide (HT) Edith Straw Market (HT) El Mercado (HT) Fantasy Boutique (HT) Golden Reef (GTC) Iggy Biggy (HT) Iggy Biggy (MH) Island Petals (MH) Island Treasures (MOW) Java Coffee Shoppe (MH) Joe’s Studio (MOW) Lighthouse Marina (HT) Kemp’s Souvenirs (HT) Pete’s Pub & Gallery (LH) Native Creations (GTC) Sand Dollar Shoppe (MH)

365-8489 367-3460 365-6014 367-2837 365-6077 366-0088 366-0423 366 -0661 366-0537 365 -4511 366-0354 367-5121 367-2260 365-6072 367-5523 365-6082 366-0154 366-0423 366-3503 365-4206 367-4405

Seashore Gift Shop (GC) Sunset Souvenirs (MH) T’zers Gift Shop (MH) Tropical Souvenirs (MH)

365-5028 367-2658 367-2158 367-2431

Sandals & Shoes Abaco Shoe Gallery (MH) Adam & Eve (MH) Brass & Leather (MH) Golden Reef (GTC) Iggy Biggy (HT) Iggy Biggy (MH) The Shoe Place (MH) T’zers Gift Shop (MH)

367-5510 367-5792 367-3643 365 -4511 366-0354 367-5121 367-2424 367-2158

Beauty Supplies Abaco Beauty Supplies (MH) Beautiful Braids by Kimmy (MOW)

36 - Destination Abaco

367-2452 556-2380

Shopping Grocery Stores A & A Food Store (MH) Abaco Groceries (MH) Albury’s Harbour St (MOW) Bahamas Family Market(MH) Curry’s Food Store (GTC) Cost Rite (MH) Guana Harbour Grocery (GC) Harbour View Grocery(HT) Lowe’s Grocery (GTC) Man-O-War Grocery (MOW) M & R Food Store (MH) Price Right (MH) Roderick’s Food Store (MH) Sid’s Grocery (GTC) Maxwells (MH) Treasure Cay Mini Mart (TC) Vernon’s Grocery (HT) Mikula’s Grocery Store (TC)

Hardware Stores 367-3606 367-5308 365-6004 367-3714 367-4 171 367-2020 365-5067 366-0033 365-4243 365-6016 367-5196 367-7283 367-3237 365-4055 367-2601 365-8350 367-0037 365-8795

Abaco Hardware (MH) Standard Hardware (MH) Man-O-War Hardware (MOW) Guana Cay Hardware (GC) Imports Unlimited (HT) New Plymouth Hardware (GTC) Roberts Hardware (GTC)

367-2170 367-2660 365-6011 365-5020 366-0136 365-4305 365-4122

Furniture & Accessories Fine Lliving (MH) Lowes (MH) IndiFurniture (MH) Wood-You (MH) Palm Cottages (MH)

37 - Destination Abaco

367-0329 367-5308 367367-9663 367-2300

ROAM FREELY IN THE

BAHAMAS

WHEREVER GSM is AVAILABLE (CDMA coming soon!)

Conference Services Available

at our Wireless Departments in New Providence & Grand Bahama and the Multi-Purpose Centres in the Family Islands

• Call from anywhere in The Bahamas • Call anywhere in the World!

Hot Spots available in numerous locations Now Available! The Mall Drive. PO PO Box Box F-42483, F-42483, Freeport, Grand Bahama, The Bahamas

John F.Kennedy Drive. PO Box N-3048, Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas

Telephone (242) 225-5282 • Visit us at www.btcbahamas.com

Catching up with the most modern technology, The Bahamas is introducing the state of the art BlackBerry, cell-phone/internet device, aimed at facilitating national and international communications." BTC defines the "BlackBerry" as "the integrated and secure wireless connectivity solution, to keep users in-the-loop when it matters most." " It gives users access to important resources, information and communications while on the go". Four types of BlackBerry are being offered: BlackBerry 7100gTM, ( for phonecentric users) features quad-band frequencies, including all four global GSM TM frequency bands, for extensive international coverage and roaming range. "You can compose messages quickly with SureType TM technology which combines a traditional phone keypad and a familiar QWERTY keyboard. BlackBerry 7290TM, (for internetcentric users) offers quick, convenient access to all wireless communication needs. It provides a set of advanced wireless features including quad-band network support for international operation throughout North America, Europe and Pacific Asia . It also features Bluetooth support for wireless headsets and car kits, allowing hand-free operation. Blackberry 8700gTM (for phone-centric users)coming soon-, wireless

Handheld TM puts leading BlackBerry functionality such as email, phone, browser, instant messaging and organizer, into one compact, integrated device. It allows uncompromising email, browsing and voice performance through a thin, lightweight handheld, with full QWERTY, QWERTZ, or AZERTY, keyboard. It provides complete features and functionality. BlackBerry 7130TM (for phonecentric users) -coming soon- offers the total integrated wireless experience in a sleek design. The BlackBerry 7130 puts top-ofthe-line features, such as speaker-phone, Bluetooth technology, text messaging and polyphonic ring tones, into a stylish handset. Browsing the Web, viewing attachments and running applications will be faster than ever. Compose messages quickly with Sure Type technology, which combines a traditional phone key-pad and a familiar QWERTY keyboard. Every BlackBerry TM device offers the freedom and connectivity of an all-in-one mobile phone, email device, web browse rand organizer. And with any BlackBerry model, you'll appreciate the intuitive menu system, familiar QWERTYstyle keyboard and easy to read display that make it easy to stay in touch. by Mirella Santillo

Find out about the BlackBerry Enterprise Solution TM which is the leading wireless solution for connecting mobile professionals to the customers, colleagues and information that drive business.

THE BLACKBERRY ENTERPRISE SOLUTION INCLUDES: BlackBerry Enterprise Server TM Global Carrier Network Advanced Security Enterprise Data Beyond Email BlackBerry Mobile Data service Simplified Management and centralized Control BlackBerry devices Third Party Software

The BlackBerry's subscribers using the Blackberry Internet service now have the ability to browse popular internet sites. Optimization technology provides 100% compression and faster response times by optimizing web pages and wireless protocols. Blackberry Browser TM supports HTML, XHTML Basic, WML 1.3 and Plazmic Media Engine formats. It supports the download of ring-tones, Java applications and other content. BlackBerry and GSM phones are now available in Nassau, Abaco, Bimini and GranBahama. For information or to purchase a BlackBerry device, visit any Cyber World location or contact BTC's Wireless Department.

Bahamas Telecommunications Corp Marsh Harbour, Abaco, The Bahamas

Tel: (242) 367-2200

Slips

Fuel

Water

Electricity

Ice

Showers

Groceries

Laundry

Restaurant

Marinas

Spanish Cay Marina

365-0083

Abaco Beach Resort & Boat Harbour Marina (MH)

367-2158

185 X

Conch Inn Marina (MH)

367-4000

Harbour View Marina (MH)

367-3910

Mangoes Marina (MH)

367-4255

Marsh Harbour Marina (MH)

367-2700

Club Soleil Marina (HT)

366-0003

HopeTown Hideaways Marina(HT)

366-0224

Lighthouse Marina (HT)

366-0154

Sea Spray Marina (HT)

366-0065

Treasure Cay Marina (TC)

365-8578

150 X

Bluff House Marina (GTC)

365-4247

Other Shore Club (GTC)

365-4226

Green Turtle Club & Marina (GTC)

365-4271

Man-O-War Marina (M-O-W)

365-6008

Orchid Bay Marina (GC)

365-5175

Guide to Marinas

42 - Destination Abaco

Photo by Abaco Beach Resort

43 - Destination Abaco

Marsh Harbour Time to explore..... by Cindy Pastor

elcome to the cays and settlements that are the treasures of Abaco! Stretching out more than 160 nautical miles from Walker's Cay to the lighthouse at Hole-in-the-Wall, the cays, pronounced "keys", represent the most northern part of The Bahamas. The outer cays form a chain down to Little Harbour, protecting the islands of Little and Great Abaco from the restless Atlantic Ocean. They also define the eastern edge of the temperate and captivating Sea of Abaco. Miles of secluded beaches, towns offering native dining and accommodations, coral reefs for diving and snorkelling, and the gracious hospitality of the people of Abaco makes this area one of the top rated vacation and second home destinations. Come with us on a trip through the archipelago and discover its diversity and beauty that bring visitors back again and again. At the top of the barrier islands that curve southeast, we find Walker's Cay, the premier sportfishing centre of The Bahamas. Fisherman off Walkerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cay have caught record marlin and swordfish in the nearby Atlantic's indigo water. Diving is excellent here, with depths ranging from 50 to 100 feet just north of the island. Towering coral heads can be seen below the crystalline surface, so you might want to hire one of the many local guides. Travelling southward we come to the Grand Cays, the village here, with about 400 inhabitants,

is an excellent base for bone, reef and game fishing. Rosie's Place offers lodging and food and there are many guides to choose from for your angling preferences. The Double Breasted Cays to the south and east, form their own archipelago of untouched solitude. There are established seabird rookeries and the natural beauty of this locale is worth the extra effort to get there. Heading west to the very top of Little Abaco lies the tiny settlement of Crown Haven. This small community offers access to passenger ferries to McLeans Town on Grand Bahama. A little farther south is Fox Town, the largest settlement on the island. It is a picturesque fishing village protected by numerous small cays, with stunning views of the Sea of Abaco. The winding road has a variety of homes, some old and unchanged for years and others quite modern. As we follow the Scherlin Bootle Highway east, we come to Cedar Harbour, with many small fishing boats tucked in amongst the mangroves and a newly dredged channel. Just a little farther and we will cross a causeway, known locally as The Bridge, which connects Little Abaco to Great Abaco. There are plans to replace the causeway with a bridge to enhance the natural flow of water from the sea into the Bight of Abaco.

Marsh Harbour

Back across the clear turquoise waters, the barrier islands start to become larger, offering many protected coves for boaters. Allans-Pensacola Cay was at one time two separate islands, but a hurricane filled the narrow pass between the cays and there are now a few private residences there. If you are lucky enough to get to Allans-Pensacola Cay, be sure to visit the "signing tree", filled with memorabilia from passing cruisers. Southeast is Spanish Cay, site of Spanish Cay Marina, a beautiful private resort and marina, with condominiums and hotel suites. Three beaches grace this island, as well as an airstrip and two upscale restaurants. Powell Cay has high bluffs and excellent beaches making it yet another place to drop your hook and enjoy the surrounding tranquil waters. Directly across from Powell Cay, on Great Abaco, is Coopers Town. Crawfishing, conching and fishing make up the local economy here and Chili's and Valentine's take-away stands sell the freshest seafood available. Albert Bootle Museum displays artifacts of local history and one of The Bahamas most modern medical clinics is right in town. Green Turtle Cay, accessible by ferry from Great Abaco,

and its charming settlement of New Plymouth is our next stop. Green Turtle Cay offers two secure and enclosed harbours, White Sound and Black Sound, as well as Settlement Creek in New Plymouth. Several resorts and marinas line the inner shores of the bights and complete boatyard services are available. To the southwest on Great Abaco, Carleton Point is the site of Abaco's loyalist settlement, founded in 1783 by Loyalist refugees from New York. The town was named after Sir Guy Carleton, British commander in chief in North America. Unfortunately, Carleton Point failed to prosper and all that is there now is a plaque recognising its historical significance. Treasure Cay is to the south and has the distinction of not being a separate cay, but attached to Great Abaco. National Geographic's travel magazine labels it as one of the best ten beaches in the world and with its 3½ miles of powdery white sand, it is easy to see why. Started as a resort, Treasure Cay has evolved into a small community complete with its own commercial airport, grocery store, shops, library, a school and a medical clinic. Treasure Cay Marina offers marine services, a restaurant, a bar that also serves snacks and hotel rooms. There is an 18-hole golf course and several tennis courts. Back out on the Sea of Abaco, unless you are sailing a small or very shoal draft boat, it is necessary to venture briefly out into the Atlantic Ocean via the Whale Cay passage to approach the northen section of Great Guana Cay. Several years ago, extensive dredging created a ship's channel for a cruise line that used Baker’s Bay as a tropical playground for their guests. The capricious waters of the ocean made it difficult for the cruise ships to adhere to a schedule and they abandoned the northern beaches of Great Guana Cay. In its place Baker’s Bay Golf and Ocean Club, is developing an exclusive residential and marine complex, which will feature many waterside activities.

Marsh Harbour Great Guana Cay could be called the party capital of Abaco with its resorts and restaurants. Nipper's Beach Bar and Grill offers a sumptuous pig roast on Sundays and Guana Sunset Resort usually has daily specials. Peaceful Man-O-War Cay has been a boat building centre for over two centuries. This is a quiet community with a protected port and traditional values. Lovely, well-tended homes and gardens along the narrow streets march up the steep hill to the ocean beaches. Joe Albury keeps his studio open most days where you can see his all wood models of sailing craft. Meals can be had at Hibiscus Café or Pavilion Restaurant, but there is no alcohol served on this island. At this point, the cays of Abaco turn sharply to the south. We will return to Marsh Harbour and the Hub of Abaco by travelling northward from the most southerly settlement of Sandy Point on Great Abaco. Sitting at the very end of the Great Abaco Highway, Sandy Point is a pleasant, neat, remote village, independent from the rest of the island by years of isolation before electricity, phones and roads. It is now an important area with passenger and vehicle ferry service to Nassau and an annual sailing regatta in June. Coconut palms shade the neat avenues and streets of this friendly town. Lodging can be found at Oeisha's Resort, Pete and Gay’s or Richmon’s Lodge and you don't want to miss the lobster and conch at Nancy's Seaside Inn. Fishing is outstanding here with the deep Northwest Providence Channel so close by. Following the Abaco Highway north, a fork branches out to the southwest and leads to the lighthouse at Holein-the-Wall. This historic sentinel, erected in 1836, is the oldest Imperial Lighthouse in the Bahamas. Continuing north, a turnoff takes us 11 miles east to the charming village of Cherokee Sound. Once a major ship building town, it is now deriving most of its income from fishing and cottage rentals. The water front and surrounding scenery are truly

breathtaking. Cherokee hosts several events during the year, including an antiques road show displaying many artifacts from the original settlers. On the return trip to Great Abaco Highway is the elegant and upscale Abaco Club at Winding Bay, with its spectacular tropical Scottish style links golf course and continental accommodations. Peter de Savary, founder and chairman, has recently joined with Ritz Carlton to add several hundred units to the existing resort. Without a doubt, this undertaking will reflect positively on how the world views Abaco. Just a short distance from the entrance to the Abaco Club at Winding Bay, a rocky road leads us to Little Harbour, an eclectic community of artists, second home owners and local characters. The place to meet and greet while there is Pete's Pub, owned by sculptor Peter Johnston. Mr. Johnston maintains a working foundry and studio where he casts his bronze sculptures and beautifully crafted gold jewelry.

Marsh Harbour The central area of Elbow Cay is crowned with a jewel of a settlement. Hope Town is a fine example of how community planning can shine. Newer residences combine seamlessly with 200 year old cottages and flowers abound in all the gardens. Established by Loyalists in 1785, this well preserved village is home to a 120- foot tall red and white striped lighthouse that still uses a kerosene- fueled light and must be hand cranked to rotate the huge glass fresnel lens. The vistas from the top are truly breathtaking! Waterside dining can be casual at Cap'n Jacks, Harbourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Edge and elegant at Hope Town Harbour Lodge. Finally, we return to the Hub of Abaco and the largest town on Abaco, Marsh Harbour. Established in the late 1700's by former residents of Carleton Point, Marsh Harbour was renowned for shipbuilding and sponging. After World War 1, the area's economy nearly collapsed and many residents left to find work in Nassau. Over the years the town has rebuilt and grown to become the prominent tourist, cruiser and vacation spot that it is today. Luxurious homes perch high on the surrounding hills, above the waters overlooking both the

klets. Also stop at Wrackers, Conch Pearl and Abaco Gold for gifts to take home. Within the harbour, many resorts, marinas and eateries stretch out on the shoreline, tempting you to visit each one. Yacht rentals from The Conch Inn/Moorings and Florida Yacht Charters allow you to use the harbour as base to further explore the outer cays. On the eastern shore of Marsh Harbour, the unique Abaco Beach Resort has a gorgeous view of the Abaco Sound, with amenities that would please the most particular of visitors. The Marsh Harbour International Airport, slated for renovations, has daily flights with several airlines, making it effortless to fly here. Stay for a weekend, a week or a month. The treasures that make up the many cays of Abaco will lure you back time and again, and you just may choose to stay for a lifetime.

waterfront and the Sea of Abaco. This sophisticated commercial centre for the wide spread settlements of Abaco offers excellent shopping opportunities at the huge selection of stores and boutiques. Step into John Bull, one of the exclusive shops for fine jewelry, perfumes and trin48 - Destination Abaco

Marsh Harbour Where to Stay Abaco Beach Resort

367-2158

Villas, Private House Rentals, Hotels

Condo Rentals

357-6719

82 rooms, 6 villas with kitchens, 2 fresh water pools, 2 tennis courts, boat rentals, dive shop, gift shop, full service marina with 192 slips, restaurant & 2 bars. www.abaco-bahamas.com

2/3 bedroom, 2 bath condos, pool, private beach, cable T.V., central A/C, other ammenties Kim & Marty Sawyer kerrisawyer@hotmail.com

Ambassador Inn

Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guest House

367-2022

6 rooms with A/C, mini fridge, cable T.V., restaurant, liquor store, convenience stores nearby.

Conch Inn Hotel/The Moorings 367-4000 9 rooms, fresh water pool, boat rentals, dive shop, gift shop, full service marina with 80 slips, restaurant & bar and laundry facilities. moorings-conchinn@oii.net

Bustick Bight Resort

367-5995

7 rooms with A/C, satellite, mini fridge, microwave. www.everette@coralwave.com

367-3980

6 rooms with microwave, mini fridge, cable T.V., nearby take-out/restaurant and convenience store

Family Affair

422-1960

2 bedroom, 2 bath condo, pool, private beach, stove, fridge, washer & dryer, dishwasher, T.V. A/C. familyaffair@coralwave.com

Lofty Fig Villas

367-2681

6 rooms with full kitchen, A/C, pool, cable T.V., private porch with each room. loftyfig@mymailstation.com

49 - Destination Abaco

Where to Stay

Marsh Harbour

Villas, Private House Rentals, Hotels

“Family Affair”

Sandy Point Oeisha’s Resort

366-4139

Pete & Gay’s Resort

366-4119

10 rooms, 4 suites, beach, A/C, T.V., mini fridge, sports lounge, on the beach. peteandgay@oii.net

Rickmon’s Bonefish

"Family Affair" is a tastefully furnished and spacious two bedroom, two bathroom 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.' Enjoy all the resort amenities from a swimming pool to a private beach located on the Sea of Abaco just steps away. The vacation of your life awaits in this luxury condos... For further information and availability Email - familyaffair@coralwave.com

Tel: (242) 422-1960

Relax... Enjoy... Discover Island Breezes Motel

367-3776

8 rooms, A/C, cable T.V., mini refrigerator & microwave.

Pelican Beach Villas

366-4477

9 rooms, 1 suite, beach, A/C, T.V. rickmon@aol.net

367-3600

Spanish Cay Spanish Cay Resort

365- 0083

18 rooms, mini fridge, microwave, swimming pool, hot tub, Jacuzzi, liquor store, grocery store, gift shop. www.spanishcay.com

Casuarina Point Different of Abaco 366-2150 20 beach front suites (1BR), pool, A/C, www.differentofabaco.com

Channel Cay Private Island

367 3262

Mainhouse, 4 bedroom 4 bath. Sleeps 8. On site caretaker. 250 meter crescent sandbeach. Borders Land and Sea National Park. bugsmom2@aol.com www.channelcay.com

7 rooms with laundry, dock, near the Jib Room and Mermaid Reef. www.ivacation.com

Grand Cay Rosie’s Place

Regattas of Abaco

Moores Island Moore’s Bonefish Camp 366-6334

367-0148

2 bedroom rentals, fresh water pool, tennis court, located on the beach, walking distance to major restaurants. abacotowns@oii.net

Royal Harbour Manor

367-0148

2 bedroom villas, wireless internet, cable t.v., walking distance to major restaurants and night life. royalharborvilla@yahoo.com

352-5448

8 rooms (2BR) A/C, satellite T.V., telephone, use of a kitchen, near airport.

Lubbers Quarters Sea Level Cottages 366-3121 Sea level Cottages, 4 cottages fully furnished, on site caretakers, each cottage has the use of a boat, kayaks, very remote cottages on the beach. www.sealevelcottages.com

50 - Destination Abaco

Where to Stay Cherokee Lee Pinder

366-2053

Sea View - 2 BR - full furnished, central A/C, cable T.V., located on the beach. seaview@oii.net

Cherokee Cottages

366-2075

5 adorable new, Bahamian style cottages. Tastefully decorated in bright islandy colors. Full kitchen, A/C, cable T.V. kimdana@coralwave.com

Marsh Harbour Villas, Private House Rentals, Hotels course, clubhouse with infinity pool, European spa, deep sea and bone fishing, equestrian, tennis, children activities and numerous water sports on a pristine 2 Âź mile powder soft sand beach. The Abaco Club welcomes non-members to enjoy the private club once only. Exquisite one to four bedroom cottages are available for rent. For reservations, please contact Member Services at 1-888-303-2765 (US Toll Free) or 1-242367-0077 (Worldwide) or email memberservices@theabacoclub.com or visit www.theabacoclub.com.

The Abaco Club on Winding Bay The Cottages at The Abaco Club represent the beauty and history of Bahamian architecture at its best. The cottages offer generous verandahs and balconies, open airy interiors, designer custom furnishings, fully equipped custom kitchens, wireless internet, satellite television and luxurious bedding, linens and towels. Club amenities include: a championship golf

51 - Destination Abaco

Front Street Arawak Agency

Commonwealth Bank

Port of Marsh Harbour

Rainbow Rentals

Insuran Managemen

National Marine UPS

Dundas & Murphy Town

Queen Elizabeth Drive

Bahamas Family Market

Island Care Wireless Da Bes’ Yet Bakery

F.C.I.B.C

Standard Hardware

Price Right

Court Dove Plaza Post Office

AID KFC Scotia Bank

Abaco Shopping Center

D&S Plaza Island Bakery

Island Petals

Subway

Maxwell’s Lowes Pharmacy

23 miles to Treasure Cay B.E.C. Bella’s Rooms To Go Computer Creations

Adam & Eve

Don Mckay Blvd.

Abaco Wholesale

Party Time A&K Liquors

Marsh Har Medical Ce

Bahamas Family Texaco Medical

K & S / Esso

Blue Sky Gallery

Batelco

Royal Bank of Canada

Abaco Hardware

Dis We Style

Spooners

Bristol Cellers

D&R Sports Lounge

Anglican Church

Brethren Church

Government Subdivision Government Clinic Cherokee Aviation

Fine Dinning Restaurant & Club Solid Gold

Catholic Church

B Abaco Air

Pine Woods Nursery

R Abaco Grocery

Marsh Harbour International Airport

The Abaco Club at Winding Bay Spring City

ce nt

Pelican Shores Jib Room Curly Tails B&B Boat Rental

Triple J Marina

Snappas

Blue Wave Rentals

PARK

Mangoes

Conch Inn Dive Sandra Evans Royal Harbour Abaco Realty Village

Wallys Sapodilly’s Iggy Biggy Tupps Albury’s Ferry to Guana Cay

Regatta’s of Abaco

Memorial Plaza

Gym

ROYAL HARBOUR VILLAGE * Conch Pearl Galleries * Bahamas Realty * Java Coffee Shop * Fine Lliving Furniture

Hummingbirds Laines Curls & Cuts

Above & Below Dive Center

Great Abaco Beach Resort

Ministry of Tourism

rbour enter

Jamie’s Place

Albury’s Ferry

Wrackers Art Gallery

Angler’s Restaurant

John Bull

Abaco Gold

Buds N’ Blooms

arsh Harbour

A Sandra Evans Company

Please visit

Legend

AbacoWaterfrontProperties.com

Doctors’ Offices

for Multiple Listings Recent Sales Requirements Local Services

Local Stores

Churches

Abaco, Bahamas Tel: (242) 367-0365 Cell: (242) 357-6638

Government Offices

Banks

Restaurants

Accommodations

Bill Thorndycraft, BRI Sandra Evans, BRI, CIPS Realtors you know and trust

Treasure Cay

What a jewel.... by Portia Jonsson Cindy Newell

reasure Cay is a jewel on Abaco and boasts one of the top ten most beautiful beaches in the world with three and a half miles of powdery white sand. Treasure Cay has become a major tourist development on Abaco today. It offers a unique tranquil getaway, retaining its Bahamian charm and as National Geographic states “One of the ten best beaches in the world”. Treasure Cay has most anything you would find in a small town including hotels, shops, medical centre, library, dive shops, restaurants, post office, police station, grocery store, bank with ATM, car rental agency and liquor store. Treasure Cay has its own commercial airport less than 10 miles from the Treasure Cay Hotel Resort and Marina. Private planes and charters service this airport frequently. It is accessible from West Palm Beach, Ft. Lauderdale and Miami. Transportation in Treasure Cay is by foot, bicycle or golf cart. It is only 10 minutes away to famous Green Turtle Cay by ferry. Try a guided excursion with Buddy’s Abaco Adventure on Prozac with all day tours of scenic ferry rides, snorkeling trips and sunset sailaways.

The Treasure Cay and Marina is a 150-slip full service marina with laundry and shower facilities. In the marina complex there is a pool, bar, tennis courts, watersports, restaurant and dive shop. Boat rentals and charters with guides are available. Treasure Cay is strategicly centralized in that you can hop on a ferry to Guana Cay to have lunch at Nippers or enjoy their breathtaking beaches. Green Turtle Cay is only 10 minutes away to experience the town once inhabited by the Loyalist. On resort grounds is a 18- hole 7,000 yard championship golf course designed by the legendary Dick Wilson which will certainly make you want to play it more than once. Treasure Cay Resort is famous for the billfishing and whaoo fishing tournaments.

Treasure Cay

Bahama Beach Club is also an exclusive resort at Treasure Cay featuring 2, 3, 4 & 5 bedroom luxury beachfront condominiums that are fully equipped and include spacious kitchens, cable TV, air conditioning, telephones, free high speed wireless internet service and daily maid service, freshwater pool & spa. Bahama Beach club is expanding to include more condominiums and additional amenities. Treasure Cay is a vacation homeowners dream from cozy one bedroom villas and condos overlooking the marina to large beachfront estate homes and protected canal lot residences where one can keep their boat right at their doorstep. All of the amenities that make Treasure Cay a unique vacation paradise also appeal tot he second home own-

ers, both for their own environment and for the opportunity to rent for others to enjoy. There are several new projects in Treasure Cay including the expansion of Bahama Beach Club. The Carleton Landing Cottages and Condominiums, designed by a well know Bahamian Architect is the newest canal front project with large units and individual dock slips. Both developments are still offering the last minute opportunity to invest during the construction stage and take advantage of pre-development prices. Weather you are in Treasure Cay for the sun, sand and sea or golf and weather you are here for a quick visit or to call home, you are sure to find that Treasure Cay truly is the Jewel of Abaco. Looking for real estate investments? Abaco Estate Services, is one of the fastest growing Bahamas Real Estate Agencies in Abaco, with listings database expanding daily. They feature the best real estate opportunities that Abaco has to offer in all price ranges and property types, including luxury beachfront homes, canal waterfront lots, ocean waterfront lots, canal properties, condominiums and acreage on the mainland of Abaco, Treasure Cay, Marsh Harbour, Leisure Lee and all the surrounding cays.

Treasure Cay Villas, Private House Rentals, Hotels

Bahama Beach Club

365-8500

44 condos fully equipped, central A/C, cable T.V., dial-up data port, swim-up tiki bar & pool craig@bahamabeachclub.com

Treasure Cay Hotel Resort & Marina 365-8578/365-8819 95 rooms, A/C, cable T.V., pool, bar by the pool, restaurant & bar on the beach, full service marina, 18-hole golf course. www.treasurecay.com

Carleton Landing

394-2600

Cottages and rental homes with 2 and 3 Bedrooms, pool, tennis court, cabana, marina slips available. Rentals or ownership residences. info@careltonlanding.com

Island Dreams

365-8507

50 - 60 house, villas and cottages fully furnished for rent. www.islanddreamrentals.com

Pineapple Point

800-545-0395

Brand new condominums and homes, deep water docks. www.pinapplepointresort.com

56 - Destination Abaco

Hope Town

Quaint but so much fun.... by Jennifer Hudson

ust a twenty minute ride away from Marsh Harbour via Albury's ferry lies the quaint New England style village of Hope Town, a place you will definitely want to put on your sight seeing itinerary. On entering the picturesque harbor one's eyes are immediately drawn to the many hued pastel cottages dotted along the eastern shore taking one immediately back in time to colonial days. On the opposite side of the harbor rises the famous 120 feet tall candy striped lighthouse, a favorite subject for artists and photographers. The ferry will gladly stop at the Lighthouse Dock to allow you to get off to climb the 101 steps to the top of this landmark. This climb is well worth the effort for the view from the top affords a breathtaking panoramic view of Elbow Cay's sheltered pleasure boat filled harbor and the neighboring Parrot Cays. The lighthouse, which was built in 1862 is still operated by a kerosene light which flashes every 15 seconds. Just tell the ferry boat captain when

he drops you off that you would like to be picked up again an hour later and he will happily oblige and take you over to the main settlement. Here you can delight in a leisurely stroll through the quiet, narrow streets of 18th century Hope Town past picture book cottages surrounded by white picket fences and colorful flower gardens. Front Street, which runs alongside the harbor, and Back Street are perfect for a walking or cycling tour and you will not encounter any motor vehicles as they are prohibited from the settlement's centre. As you exit the ferry at the Government Dock you will pass a small park where you can sit under a large shade tree just across the street from the Post Office, Commissioner's Office and old time jail. Alongside the Post Office building is a small passage which leads you to the St. James Methodist Church located adjacent to the beach and a popular location for weddings.

Hope Town

A short walk south up the hill will bring you to the Hope Town Harbour Lodge which is the tallest building in the settlement and overlooks the harbor. The Lodge's attractive grounds extend from the harbor to the ocean with a beautiful beach. The beach is a 'must see' whether your desire is to spend the day swimming and sun bathing, snorkeling off the live coral reef just 30 feet offshore, watching for dolphin and the occasional whales or just enjoying a peaceful stroll along the two mile beach feeling the soft pinkish white sand between your toes. The beach may be entered from several different points along Back Street. The Wyannie Malone Historical Museum is a very interesting place to visit and can be found just north of the Government Dock next to the park. It is named after the widowed Wyannie Malone who arrived on Elbow Cay in 1785 from Charleston, South Carolina, with her four children. Descendants of Wyannie Malone and other Loyalists who arrived around that time and founded the settlement can still be found among the Malones, Alburys and Russels, some of Hope Town's prominent citizens. Exhibits in the museum depict life as it was in the original settlement and

include old tools and utensils and artifacts relating to sponging, wrecking, hurricanes and ship building. As you meander through the settlement you may also come across other reminders of bygone days such as a dome shaped out door brick oven, fishing nets, old wooden boats and even an old wooden pew or two rescued from a fire which destroyed the former Methodist Church and now provide a place to sit on somebody's front porch. After a few hours of sightseeing or swimming, somewhere to find food and refreshment is a must and Hope Town offers several good options. Just a few steps north of the Government Dock is the Harbour's Edge Restaurant which, as its name suggests, has a wonderful view of the harbor and provides a delightful place to sit and relax while also offering excellent food. Further along in the same direction, also on the harbor is Cap'n Jacks while in the opposite direction meals are available at the Harbour Lodge which also has a poolside bar overlooking the ocean. Outside of town and too far to reach on foot since they are situated on the southernmost tip of White Sound Harbour are the Sea Spray Resort and the Abaco Inn. They will, however, send their van to Hope Town to pick you up if you give them a call. Here you will see the tranquil waters of the Sea of Abaco on the one side against the contrast of the rolling Atlantic breakers on the other.

Hope Town There is also the option of hiring a golf cart, available at the Government Dock, for sightseeing south along the Queen's Highway. If you do decide to do some sightseeing further afield then a visit to Tahiti Beach on the south end of Elbow Cay would be well worth your while as it is one of the most picturesque beaches in the world. If you prefer to purchase your own groceries then a visit to Vernon's Grocery on Back Street at the north end of town is a treat. Not only will you find what you need but will enjoy reading the many humorous quips and quotes Vernon has posted all over his store plus probably not be able to resist the urge to buy some of Vernon's freshly baked bread and pies. Harbour View Grocery can be found on Front Street. For gifts and souvenirs to take home you can enjoy browsing the Ebb Tide Gift Shop, Iggy Biggy Boutique, Da Fina Tings, Kemp's Souvenirs, Fantasy Boutique and El Mercado which offer a

large and varied selection of items. Tshirts and surfing gear are available at Froggies Dive Shop. This is a full service dive shop which also offers sightseeing and diving trips. In addition to accommodations at the Harbour Lodge, Abaco Inn and Sea Spray Resorts there are also a number of cottages and villas for rent. Hope Town Hideaways, Hope Town Villas, Elbow Cay Properties, and Malone Estates offer a large number and variety of rentals. For fishing, diving, exploring the outer cays or a quick hop over to Cracker P's on Lubber's Cay for lunch or dinner, well maintained power boats may be rented from Island Marine or Sea Horse Marine on Elbow Cay. Albury's Ferry Service makes several round trips daily into Marsh Harbour. Whether planning a trip to Hope Town for just a day or two or for a few weeks, you will want to make sure you have plenty of film in your camera.

Hope Town Villas, Private House Rentals, Hotels

Abaco Inn

366-0133

22 rooms, A/C, restaurant & bar, fresh water pool, free amenities, dockage available, free use of kayaks & bicycles. www.abacoinn.com

Hope Town Hideaways

366-0224

4 villas with kitchens, A/C, pool, 12 slip marina with complimentary dockage for up to 26’ boats, laundry facilities, maid service upon request, onsite caretaker. www.hopetown.com

Hope Town Marina

366-0003

6 hotel rooms, 1 apartment with kitchen, central A/C, pool, restaurant & bar, dockage. www.clubsoleil.com

Turtle Hill

366-0557

6 villas, A/C, T.V., Full kitchen, 2 swimming pools. amy@turtlehill.com

Where to Stay Lighthouse Marina/Rentals 366-0154 4 cottages with full kitchen, A/C, laundry facilities, full service marina, gift shop, bait & tackle, liquor store on site. www.htlighthousemarina.com

Hope Town Harbour Lodge 366-0095 26 rooms, pool, 2 restaurants & bar, beach, A/C, dockage available up to 26’ boats, near the beach. www.hopetownlodge.com harbourlodge@abacoinet.com

Sea Spray Resort

366-0065

5 villas with full kitchen, A/C, pool, restaurant & bar, full service marina www.seasprayresort.com

The Out Islands’ Finest Vacation Homes & Waterfront Properties Rentals and Sales 12 - Slip Marina with Freshwater Pool One Purple Porpoise Place Hope Town, Abaco, Bahamas

Chris & Peg Thompson Proprietors

Phone: 242-366-0224 Fax: 242-366-0434 www.hopetown.com 62 - Destination Abaco

Where to Stay Crystal Villas

366-0522

7 villas for rental

Elbow Cay Properties

366-0035

Hope Town Villas, Private House Rentals, Hotels

Tanny Key

61 houses - each has its own amenities elbowcayproperties@coralwave.com

Hope Town Villas

366-0030

4 waterfront villas (2 bed/2 bath), A/C, TV, telephone access info@hopetownvillas.com

Sea Glass

366-0290

10 houses for rent

Sea Gull Cottages

366-0053/0140

Houses,cottages & villas with A/C, cable T.V., telephone, fully furnished, in and outside of town. www.tannykey.com

366-0266

3 cottages, T.V., pool, full kitchen, dockage available. www.seagullcottages.com by Peg Thompson

63 - Destination Abaco

64 - Destination Abaco

Man-O-War Cay Serenity... by Jennifer Hudson

uaint and historic Man-O-War Cay is home to one of the most protected harbors in the Bahamas and is a yachtsman's delight. It is known as 'The Boat Building Capital of The Bahamas' and is famous for its long boat building history which lives on even today. Visitors can enjoy the experience of watching master boat builders at work in the several boat yards on the Cay. Positioned at the centre of the harbor is the Man-O-War Marina which can accommodate yachts up to 115 feet and offers excellent service and hospitality with amenities including a full service fuel dock, electrical service, free cable T.V., clean showers and laundry facilities as well as cosmetic and mechanical repair services. Located alongside the Marina is a full service Dive Shop which offers a good selection of beach and casual wear. Also overlooking the Marina is the Pavilion Restaurant for great casual al fresco dining where one can find delicious local dishes and enjoy fresh caught fish and local pies. Joe Albury, whose family dates back several generations, can be found in his studio crafting sailing dinghies, model hulls and gifts, all made from Abaco hardwoods.

A visit to Albury's Sail Shop is also a delightful experience as it not only offers visitors the opportunity to observe sails and canvas bags being made and to purchase gifts but gives one the chance to meet some of the cay's residents who greet visitors with a smile and are happy to chat and offer information about their island home. Other evidences of the cay's sea faring history can be seen in attractive Japanese fish net balls adorning an occasional tree and the numerous 'Widow's Walks' atop homes where the sailors' wives would go to keep a look out for their husbands returning from the sea.

65 - Destination Abaco

Man-O-War Cay This little island, which is only two and a half miles long, with a laid back and stress free a t m o s p h e r e , gives one a wonderful feeling of peacefulness and of a time gone by. Its Loyalist roots are evident in its quaint pastel colored clap board houses built years ago by ship's carpenters and the naming of its one main street The Queen's Highway which is really no more than a narrow lane. Bicycles and golf carts are available for rent to get around the settlement which is very neatly kept and most attractive with well tended gardens and an array of beautiful flowers and bushes, though it is perfectly easy to get around it on foot. Two small but well stocked grocery stores and a hardware store provide all the necessities while there are a few

gift shops where souvenir items can be purchased. A bakery sells the most delicious fresh baked treats daily and one may even be lucky enough to meet, cruising along the road in her golf cart, the lady who bakes fresh bread and cakes; she will be happy to stop for you to purchase her freshly baked goodies. Alcoholic beverages are not sold on the island but visitors are allowed to bring their own. Since there is no hotel on the island many visitors go just for the day but it is an ideal place for a family vacation or honeymoon. Vacation rental cottages are available as well as Condominium rentals at Schooner's Landing Ocean Club. Secluded beaches are just a short walk across the narrow island and for those wishing to venture a little further afield, high quality boats are available for rent from Sea Horse Boat Rentals. A short boat ride from the north end of Man O War Cay lies The Fowl Cay Underwater Park, which is a national preserve and well worth a visit for expert divers and snorkelers. This tranquil little island gem is situated just three and a half miles from Marsh Harbour and is serviced by Albury's Ferry several times a day.

Where to Stay

Man-O-War Cay Villas, Private House Rentals, Hotels

Schoonerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Landing

365-6143 367-4469

4 units with balconies with ocean view, full kitchens, fresh water pool, central A/C, cable T.V., laundry facilities, golf cart & boat rentals available, gazebo overlooking the ocean, telephone. www.schoonerslanding.com

Island Home Rentals

365-6048

11 homes fully furnished for rent 1 - 4 BRâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Waterways Rentals

365-6143

4 - condos ( 2 & 3 Bedrooms), full furnished, A/C., cable t.v., fresh water pool, telephone, 3 cottages (3 & 4 bedroom), overlooking harbour. Also boat and golf cart rentals available. www.waterwaysrentals.com

Located on the tropical Island of Man-O-War Cay in the Abacos. Tel: (242) 365-6143 or 365-6072 Fax: (242) 365-6285 www.schoonerslanding.com info@schoonerslanding.com 67 - Destination Abaco

Guana Cay Party capital of Abaco... by Mirella Santillo

reat Guana Cay is the largest of the cays lining the eastern shores of Abaco’s main island. When approaching the cay from the Sea of Abaco, you’ll reach the protected circle of the harbour and you’ll step right into the heart of the small, picturesque settlement. To your left from the government dock, you can walk to the Guana Sunset Resort which has a small bar & grill. You can drop in for drinks at the pool bar where potluck dinners are organized on occasion or rent one of the few rooms available. Further north in Crossing Bay, approximately 2 miles from the settlement, y o u ’ l l encounter G u a n a S e a s i d e Village which is an eight room inn. Two of these rooms are suites with microwave and refrigerator.

Guana Seaside offers a beach on the Sea of Abaco with a dock for up to ten boats and a beautiful beach on the ocean side. The Court Yard Bar has become quite famous for its Saturday nights BBQ ribs and Kareoke music. Cool down after a day on the beach in the fresh water swimming pool. Cottages there, are privately owned but are available for rental. Contact the office for details. You might want to rent a golf cart and drive all the way north to Baker’s Bay, future home of the Baker’s Bay Golf and Ocean Club, where you’ll discover an amazingly beautiful white sand beach. Swim or snorkel in the crystal clear waters or just lie under the shade of the casuarina trees and forget about the world! On the east side of the town of Guana Cay harbour, Orchid Bay Club and Marina offers a full service 66-slip marina with fuel, new shower and laundry facilities, home sites and a gourmet restaurant. Located right on the ocean, the Dolphin Beach Resort is approximately 10 minutes from the settlement. It offers nine cottages and main lodge containing four 1 bedroom units, all air conditioned and just a few feet from the beach.

Guana Cay Complementary kayaks and bicycles are available. There is a gift shop on the premises and the Blue Water Grill offers a variety of ethnicfoods. Walking through the village, you may find a few locals gathered under the old fig tree facing the harbour. It is the official meeting place for the residents who discuss island matters in the shade of its foliage. To the east, past the school, you’ll reach the ocean beach, a beautiful long fine sand beach. Although laid back in appearance, Guana Cay is the party capital of Abaco. Every week-end people converge by ferry or private boats to the famous Nippers Beach Bar and Grill to enjoy live music and lethal strength drinks! Nippers also offers a buffet consisting of typical Abaconian fares such as barbecued wild boar, freshly caught fish, peas n’ rice, cole slaw and more. If not dancing to the rhythms of meringue or calypso on one of the several decks overlooking the ocean, you might swim or take a walk along another beautiful white sand beach. Each

year in March, Nippers holds a ABarefoot Man concert which draws thousands of people to Great Guana Cay. Great Guana Cay is a diver’s paradise. The cay is protected by a barrier reef one of the most colorful reefs in the world. Contact Dive Guana for a diving adventure. Your time on Guana Cay will always be too short, and after a stay there you’ll want to own your little piece of paradise.

Guana Cay

Where to Stay

Villas, Private House Rentals, Hotels

Sea Shore Villas

365-5028

6 apartments, 1 cottage, full kitchens, central A/C, satellite T.V., swimming pool, gift shop, laundry facilities, use of privately owned dock. seashorevillas@abacoinet.com

Abaco Sea Fan

603-664-2608

Upper level 1 bedroom, 1 bath www.abacoseafan.com

Ocean Frontier Hideaway 1-888-541-1616

Dolphin Beach Resort 365-5137 10 ocean front cottages, lodge with 4 guest suites with private bathrooms, porches & kitchenette, A/C, pool, restaurant & bar, complimentary bikes, kayaks & snorkel equipment, bottle of wine. reservation@dolphinbeachresort.com

Cabins that sleep 6 with 2 bedrooms and a loft, kitchenette, bathrooms, few yards away from the beach www.oceanfrontier.com

Bahamas Vacations

800-462-2426

www.bahamasvacations.com

Spectacular sailing, diving, fishing, beachcombing, shelling & relaxing. Enjoy a wonderful, affordable Bahamas getaway vacation tailored to your tastes and means. Located on Guanaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s breathtaking beach with snorkeling, beachcombing and swimming a few yards away! Each cabin sleeps up to 6 with two bedrooms and a loft, kitchenette & bath Adjacent to Nippers for excellent food and fun!

RENTALS

Resorts Apartments Private Beachfront Villas Cottages & Houses Car Rentals Economical Off-Water Cottages Boat Rentals

LOCATIONS

Two minutes from settlement

Great Abaco (Marsh Harbour & Treasure Cay) Green Turtle Cay Great Guana Cay Man-O-War Cay Elbow Cay Lubbers Quarters Island

For reservations call:

Call Toll Free 1-800-GO-BAHAMAS (462-2426) www.bahamasvacations.co

1-888-541-1616 or 1-519-389-4846 email: info@oceanfrontier.com www.oceanfrontier.com

70 - Destination Abaco

Green Turtle Cay Experience the culture... ike many of the Abaco settlements, Green Turtle Cay was settled by Loyalists during the American Revolution. Life must have been extremely difficult for these early settlers, but over the years the settlement of New Plymouth grew to become the largest in Abaco. The population reached its peak during the pineapple industry of the 19th century. Photographs dating back to the early 20th century show multistory buildings lining the waterfront and a Methodist Church that accommodated more than 1000 worshipers. Some of these homes were dismantled and shipped to Key West in the 1800's while others were destroyed by the hurricane of 1932. The people of this small island community have endured many hardships, but have worked together through good and bad times. Today New Plymouth, with approximately 500 residents, is one of the most prosperous communities in the country. There is history all around you on Green Turtle Cay. There are the obvious places like The Albert Lowe Museum and the Loyalist Memorial Sculpture Garden where our history is documented. Look carefully and there is history in less obvious places. Amy Roberts Primary is the local school named for Amy Roberts who taught there for 57 years. The wooden building was built after the hurricane of 1932 and most of the residents received their early education there. Imagine sitting in the same classroom where your great-great parents once sat! The fig trees that offer shade to today's students have heard the laughter of 7 or 8 generations. Gravestones mark the places in the local cemetery where generations of Loyalist descendants were laid to rest. Some of the marble stones date back to the early 19th century. Across from the cemetery is the old jail which was once a larger, two

by Annabelle Cross

story building. The hurricane of 1932 destroyed the top story that housed the town's administrative center. The stone wall is believed to have been built with the stones from the top story. Green Turtle Cay has always been a sea faring community with families depending on the sea for its livelihood. Abaco is known for boat building and Gladstone Lowe and his sons Roger and Ashborne built boats on the water front of Green Turtle Cay. The harbour locally referred to as "the creek shore" was at one time the center of activity as men gathered there to build boats, repair their boats and fishing nets or share the day's catch. Settlement Point was once the home of the shark fishing industry. The small building and this area was then referred to as "Liza". Sharks were caught for their skins, meat and oil. At the head of this protected harbour is the Wrecking Tree Restaurant that sits on property where men gathered to share the goods salvaged from a ship that wrecked on the reef. Some of the houses in the community are more than 150 years old. There is much history in these homes where generations of babies were delivered by midwives such as Lena Russell and Marion "Dana" Hewitt and missionary doctor Walter Kendrick.

71 - Destination Abaco

Green Turtle Cay

Built without the convenience of modern day tools and engineering, these homes have withstood devastating hurricanes. The Chamberlain/Kendrick home was once owned by the Chamberlain familywho owned a sisal plantation. Neville Chamberlain, who grew up to become the Prime Minister of England, lived in this house as a boy. Later the Walter Kendrick family lived in this house and it is still owned by descendants of the Kendrick family. The Albert Lowe Museum occupies a house built during the pineapple industry of the 1800's. Artist Alton Lowe purchased this house in the early 70's and restored it for use as one of the first museums in the Family Islands. The museum is named for Alton's father who was a model ship builder. Today Vertrum Lowe continues the tradition of building model ships in his model ship shop. Like his father Albert, Vertrum's ships are finished by hand down to the smallest detail. The John Lowe House was also built during the pineapple industry by pineapple agent John Lowe. This well kept home is still owned by John Lowe's descendants. The Captain Roland Roberts House was built by Roberts family in the 1800's. It withstood the hurricane of 1932. This house was painstakingly restored to its former glory by the

Architectural Preservation Foundation and is now an environmental center. Roland Roberts was a sea captain and his uniform and photograph can be seen in the house. Many of the other small, traditional clap board houses in New Plymouth were built in the late 1800's or early 1900's. The hurricane of 1932 that devastated Green Turtle Cay destroyed some of the original homes and the rising water even relocated some to other areas of the town. After the hurricane of 1932, residents built small "huts" in the more elevated and protected area of town. During a hurricane they would shelter in these huts until the storm passed and the water receded. These "huts" were later abandoned and torn down, but the road that leads through the area where the huts once stood is still called "Hurricane Hut Road". New Plymouth is considered a historic district and residents are encouraged to preserve the history of the community. The Architectural Preservation Foundation and The Island Roots Heritage Committee work with the community to preserve and celebrate our history. As you walk or drive through our small town, just imagine that each house you pass has its own story to tell!

Where to Stay

Green Turtle Cay Villas, Private House Rentals, Hotels

Bluff House Beach Hotel

365-4200

Coco Bay Cottages

365-5464

30 rooms, central A/C, 2 restaurants, 2 bars, 1 pool, 1 gift shops, 45 slip marina. bluffhouse@oii.net

4 cottages, fully equipped, ocean & bay front, coral reef off the property, A/C., telephone, info@cocobaycottages.com

Green Turtle Club and Marina 365-4271

Island Property Mang.

32 rooms, central a/c, fresh water pool, gift shop, restaurant & bar, pool bar, full service marina with 35 slips, boat, golf cart & bicycle rentals, fishing charters available. info@greenturtleclub.com

Other Shore Club Marina & Pineapple Bar & Grill 365-4226 2 houses & 1 cottage, fully equipped, pool bar & grill, full service marina with 15 slips, 5 min walk to town, fishing charters & island tours available, golf cart rentals. relax@othershoreclub.com

365-4047

48 houses available, offer phone calls & internet services. www.abacoislandrentals.com

Ocean Blue Properties

365-4636

50 plus cottages and apartments for rent - A/C, T.V., dockage available, telephone, waterfront or beachview available, nightly, monthly or yearly rentals. www.oceanblueproperties.com

Roberts Cottages

365-4105

3 cottages, full kitchen, A/C, screened porch, on the water, dockage. www.go-abacos.com/turtle@oii.net

73 - Destination Abaco

74 - Destination Abaco

75 - Destination Abaco

Dining B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner

Credit Card Accepted

Happy Hour

Angler’s Restaurant Abaco Beach Resort, Marsh Harbour 367-2158

Abaco Pizza

Delivery Available

Marsh Harbour 367-4333

Abaco Inn Located in Hope Town, Elbow Cay

366-0133

Ambassador Inn Dundas Town, Abaco 367-2022

Boat House Sea Spray Resort, White Sound, Elbow Cay 366-0065

Bluff House Located on Green Turtle Cay 365-4200

Blue Water Grill Located on Great Guana Cay 365-5137

Cap'n Jacks Located in the harbour, Hope Town 366-0247

Chat n Chill Located in Dundas Town 367-3044

Curly Tails Located at Conch Inn Marina, Marsh Harbour 367-4444

Dis We Style Take Out Located on Crocket Drive, Dundas Town 367-4244

Golden Grouper Located in Dove Plaza, Marsh Harbour 367-2301

Geno's Kitchen Located in Marsh Harbour 367-2002

Green Turtle Club & Marina Located in White Sound, Green Turtle Cay 365-4271

Guana Sunset Great Guana Cay 365-5106

Hibiscus Cafe Located on the harbour, Man-O-War Cay v 365-6380

Hummingbird Restaurant Memorial Plaza, Marsh Harbour 367-2922

Hudson’s Delight Located in Treasure Cay 365-8648

Harbour’s Edge Located on the harbour, Hope Town 366-0087

HopeTown Harbour Lodge Located in Hope Town

366-0095

Island Treats Located in Man-O-Way Cay 365-6501

Jamie's Place Located in Marsh Harbour 367-2880

Jib Room Located on Pelican Shores, Marsh Harbour 367-2700

Kentucky Fried Chicken Located in Abaco Shopping Plaza, Marsh Harbour 367-2615

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B,L,D

Entertainment

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Dining

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Dining B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner

Credit Card Accepted

Laura's Kitchen New Plymouth, Green Turtle Cay 365-4287

Mangoes Restaurant Located in Marsh Harbour 367-2366

Mother Merle’s Dundas Town, Marsh Harbour 367-2770

McIntosh's Restaurant New Plymouth, Green Turtle Cay 365-4625

Munchies New Plymouth Inn New Plymouth, Green Turtle Cay 365-4161

Nippers Bar & Grill on the beach, Great Guana Cay 365-5143

Orchid Bay On the harbour, Great Guana Cay 365-6175

On Da Beach

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Located in Hope Town 366-0558

Pavilion Restaurant Located in Man-O-War Cay 365-6185 Little Harbour, Abaco 365-4636

L,D

Located in Hope Town 366-0423

Petes Pub & Gallery

Happy Hour

Reservations for Dinner required

Plymouth Rock Café Green Turtle Cay 365-4636

Pop's Place Located in Marsh Harbour 367-3796

Rudy's Place Located on Elbow Cay 366-0062

Sapodilly's Bar & Grill Located in Marsh Harbour 367-3498

Spinnaker Restaurant Treasure Cay Resort, Treasure Cay 365-8469

Snack Shack Marsh Harbour 367-4005

Snappa's Bar & Grill Harbour View Marina, Marsh Harbour 367-2278

Sundowners

Green Turtle Cay 365-4060

Subway Marsh Harbour 367-2798

Touch of Class Treasure Cay 365-8195

The Art Cafe & Bakery Great Guana Cay 365-5154

Traveller's Rest

Treasure Cay 365-8654

Wally's Queen Elizabeth Drive, Marsh Harbour 367-2074

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Entertainment

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Local Artist - Sonya Weatherford As a child, Sonya Weatherford grew up in Man-O-War Cay and was exposed to art from a young age while helping her grandmother selling Androsia batik fabrics in her shop. Inspired by the bright colors and designs of this Bahamian made batik, she started painting on T-shirts. Her inspiration grew as a student of Mrs. Westhoven, a teacher for the children of the small community and an artist herself. While in school in Man-O-War, Sonya started painting on paper. This is a passion that never left her. As a teenager, her style became more definite as well as the media she used, acrylic and pastels which she is still experimenting with today. Although married and working five days a week, Sonya, who now resides a few miles north of Marsh Harbour, still finds time for her hobby. In her home nestled in the forest, she has set up a small studio where she paints on week-ends. "I have painted every week for the past few months," explaining how she has produced the 20 paintings that were entered in the Wine and Art Festival in Nassau sponsored by the Bahamas National Trust. 80 - Destination Abaco

Her subjects range from still life to landscapes to imaginary compositions. She is an admirer of the impressionist period. "You have to have somebody to inspire you to begin with," she explained. "I love Van Gogh and Monet," she added. There is a definite impressionist touch in her creations. Huge sunflowers and seascapes reminiscing of Van Gogh, a tabby cat in front of a green door which could remind one of Paul Cezanne. However, Sonya says that she is still trying to develop a new style, to render her own vision of the world around her. "During the week, I think of the subject I will paint that weekend and create a composition in my head." She is experimenting with new media such as foil paper that she uses to produce semi-abstract creations and pen and ink used to render mostly portraits or single subjects. Up to now, Mrs. Weatherford has painted on 22inch by 28-inch poster paper and has enrolled her husband to make frames, "simple frames, some plain some with a routed edge," she explained that she chooses to enhance her paintings. The Wine and Art Festival is her first showing off Abaco but she has displayed and sold her work at the Abaco Beach Resort's yearly art show for the last four years. Her large paintings sell for $350 each. You can reach Sonya Weatherford on her cell phone at 242-357-6657.

Website: weatherwillow.com

What to do Galleries Bahama Dawn Design is a working studio and gallery of fun things. Offering the finest in handmade products such as art quilts, table decor, silk paintings and so much more. Andorsia and Bahama Handprint fabric is also available. All handmade by Kim Roberts. Tel: 367-4648

Wrackers is located at the entrance of Abaco Beach Resort & Boat Harbour and offers fine original artwork by local artists including Marjolein Scott, Cal ‘Jeep’ Byers, Livingston Pratt, Don Wood, Sean McNamara, Brigitte Carey, Don Russell, Bob Zwickel, Kathy Hayes, Chan Pratt and Peter Johnston with a wide variety of styles and subjects from oils and acrylics to watercolours and silk to bronze and wood sculptures. Open daily. Tel: 242.367.0197

Java in Abaco

Blue Sky Gallery

is located in the Royal Harbour Village offering Coffee, Expresso drinks, Frappe’s, Chai, Smooties, fresh baked pastries and breakfast sandwiches while browsing through beautiful Bahamian Art & Crafts featuring Colette Bootle, The Basket Lady, Bahama Dawn Designs, Abaco Ceramics, The Plait Lady and so much more. Open Monday - Friday Tel: 367-5523

Lovely Island Tings offers fine Bahamian Art, prints, professional framing & photography by Tuppy Weatherford. Displayed artwork of Lou Lihou, Anne Ray Fritz Keck, Beth Sweeting and Zandrick Jones are found here. This store is located on Queen Elizabeth Dr. Open Mon Sat, 9am - 5 pm Tel: 367-0579

specializing in Straw work. Fine items such as strawbags, wallets, handbags and hats. Household items like mats, cushions, garbage bins and bath accessories with so much more. Located Queen Elizabeth Dr. Tel: 367-4297/551-7453

Conch Pearl Galleries

Established in 1983, Abaco Ceramics continues to offer a wide range of beautifully hand painted functional and decorative ceramics created in their workshop located on Treasure Cay Road. Open Monday through Friday 9am to 4pm. Tours gladly given upon request.

offers fine Bahamian jewelry made exclusively by Peter Bradley. This is where you will find the conch pearl that can be handcrafted in unique pieces. The store also offers a variety of Bahamian artist pieces. Showcased are Stephen Knowles, Eddie Minnis, Sonia Issacs. The store is located in the Royal Harbour Village. Open Mon - Sat. Tel: 242.367.0137

Abaco Ceramics

Pete’s Pub & Gallery Located in Little Harbour - The Johnston's produce the bronze art in the Foundry. Clients and visitors are welcome to tour the foundry, then visit the Gallery where the finished sculptures are available. Open Dec through August - 11am. Call 366-3503

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What to do Abaco’s Lighthouses Built in 1836, Hole-In-TheWall lighthouse’s old mechanism has been dismantled and the light is now automated. A preservation society is being formed by Colin Reece and friends in hopes to recapture the beauty of this once beacon of light to ships that sail in our beautiful waters of the Atlantic.

Maxwell Sawyer Marty Sawyer Jimmy Lowe Randy Sawyer Sandy Point Richmon’s Bonefishing Pete & Gay Guest House

366-3058 366-2115 366-2165 366-2284 366-4139/4477 366-4119

North Abaco Coopers Town Alexander Rolle Edward Rolle Donald Rolle Treasure Cay Carey McKenzie Ed Newell Mount Hope Herbert Thurston Pedro Thurston

The Elbow Cay Lighthouse is probably the most recognizable landmark in the Abacos. This 89-foot candystriped figure was built in 1863 and is one of three hand-wound kerosene burning lighthouses left in the world and is worth the viewing.

365-0120/0532 365-0024 365-0105 365-8313 365-8752/359-6023 365-4205 365-2405

Central Abaco Marsh Harbour Jay Sawyer Danny Sawyer Buddy Pinder Justin Sands Terrance Davis Jody Albury Spring City Edmund Williams

367-3941 367-3577/477-5901 366-2163 367-3526/359-6836 367-4464/375-8550 367-5119/375-8068 367-7123

Cays Hope Town Maitland Lowe Green Turtle Cay Ronnie Sawyer Jeff Survance Ricky Sawyer

Bonefishing

366-0478/366-0033 365-4070 365-4040 365-4261

Deep Sea Fishing

Enjoy a day of fishing on the "Marls", Abaco's less explored western side. The Marls, considered the world's best bonefish destination, consists of 400 square miles of pristine flats teeming with trophy size bonefish. One of the local bone fishermen will happily guide you to Abaco's "Wide Open Spaces."

South Abaco Cherokee Sound Junior Albury

Green Turtle Cay Rick Sawyer Eddie Bodie Joe Sawyer Treasure Cay Clark Burrows Hope Town Robert Lowe Ira Key Truman Major Lubbers Quarters Michael Schreiner Casaurina Point Junior Albury Cherokee Sound Randy Sawyer Stanley Albury Man-O-War Cay David Albury Guana Cay Henry Sands Marsh Harbour Brent Bass

366-3058 83 - Destination Abaco

365-4261 357-6784 365-4173 365-8158/375-3543 366-0266 366-0245 366-0101 366-3143 366-3058 366-2284 366-2111 365-6502 365-5140 477-5640

What to do Barefoot Boat Charters Charter a boat that will help you experience beautiful Abaco and its surrounding cays The Moorings at Conch Inn (MH) Florida Yacht Charters (MH) Abaco Bahamas Charters (HT) Abaco Mutihull Charters

367-4000 367-4853 366-0151 366-0552

Cultural Activities Homecomings Every year

various settlements or towns throughout Abaco host local homecomings, usually held during a long holiday weekend. These homecomings give residents, past and present, an opportunity to showcase their community spirit, and visitors a chance to enjoy the festivities. Bahamian eats, treats and drinks are always the specialty. Some of the communities that stage such homecomings are Sandy Point, Blackwood, Cedar Harbour and Moores Island & Murphy Town.

Regatta Time In Abaco Regatta Time In Abaco is a five-race series held each year between the American and Bahamian Independence Day holidays. Its primary focus is for cruising sailboats although they do have a special class for the serious racers. 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 10-day event.

Junkanoo The Junkanoo Parade is held twice a year, Boxing Day(December 26th) in Marsh Harbour and New Year's Day in Green Turtle Cay. It is the most exciting display of art and culture in The Bahamas, displaying elaborate and exciting costumes in a variety of shapes and sizes. Listen to the sounds of the horns and whistles and feel the pulsating rhythms of the goat-skinned drums and cowbells.

Rush out with local groups like the Spring City Rockers, Supreme Dancers, Green Turtle Cay Rockers and LA Conquerors.

Island Roots Festival Island Roots Heritage Festival - 4th Annual!! Come celebrate Tings Bahamian. Rediscover your Bahamian Heritage by enjoying old time games, delicious native foods, great Bahamian entertainment. The fantastic family fun - filled weekend will close with a community worship service Sunday morning, and possibly a Gospel Concert! The Island Roots Festival for 2007 is scheduled for May 4th, 5th and 6th. For more information contact The Abaco Toruist Office at 367-3067 or Karen McIntosh at 365-8489.

Junkanoo Summer Festival Summertime on Abaco means Goombay time. This festival, staged by the Ministry of Tourism throughout the summer months, highlights 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 from 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.

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What to do tion activity. Throw on a swimsuit. Grab a towel. Explore the emerald-green, turquoise, and crystal-blue waters one sport at a time.

Eco-Adventures

Lumber Camp Ruins There were six lumber camps in Abaco, starting at Wilson City in 1905, followed by Norman’s Castle, Cornwall 1, Cornwall 11, Millville and Cross Harbour. Lumber activities gave employment to Abaconians from 1905 - 1965. Ruins can be found at: Wilson City, 1905 - 1916 Norman’s Castle, 1920’s

Ocean Holes Large Ocean Holes in the middle of the pine forest (west) Treasure Cay. Numerous ocean holes near Cherokee Sound. Drinking water Blue Hole Southwest of Cedar Harbour along an old wagon trail.

Watersports With water temperatures averaging about 80 °F year-round throughout The Bahamas, water sports are naturally a popular vaca-

Diving/Snorkeling ABOVE AND BELOW ABACO is a Full Service SCUBA Diving Facility on the beautiful Island of Great Abaco in the Bahamas. We are located at the Premier Bahamas Destination, Abaco Beach Resort and Boat Harbour. We have a wonderful, professional staff. We really care about our guests and want you to enjoy the very best of Abaco

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What to do while you are here. There are more than 100 miles of magnificent reef running the length of Abaco just waiting to be explored. The visibility of the pristine turquoise water is usually over 100 feet. The reefs are amazing! They rise from the sea floor at depths of 20 to 70 feet and come to within a few feet of the surface. These reefs are famous for their huge caverns and tunnels filled with laser-like rays of sunlight. There's something for everyone; lush coral gardens, gigantic formations, steep drop-offs, friendly sharks, rays and wrecks. We also have breathtaking Inland Blue Holes. If your desire is to stay on top and Snorkel, Abaco's reefs come within a few feet of the surface where beautiful tropical fish and colorful corals abound. Lion Fish - photo by Above and Below

If you've never tried SCUBA Diving, Abaco, Bahamas, is a great place to learn. We teach all levels of diving from Resort Course through Instructor Certification. In addition to dive trips we also offer Island Hopping Tours and Sunset Cruises. We are happy to custom design a package that will meet your needs. It has been said that, "Exceptionally high levels of vibrational energy can be found in places of great beauty." Abaco Island, in the Bahamas is such a place. Feel the energy, vitality, and renewed clarity that come from our "Island Experience." Enjoy the best of Abaco with our friendly staff and professional guides. We take you to the "Heart of Abaco" where the rhythm and harmony of the land, the sea and the people will touch the very Heart of Your Soul. For more information visit our website at www.AboveAndBelowAbaco.com or Abaco 242-367-0350 US 321-296-9197

Abaco Dive Adventures has a wide variety of dive sites to choose from. Their most popular sites called the Bakers Reefs are located at the north end of Guana. These reefs spread over a 3-square-mile area where a maze of reefs reaches the surface from depths of 30 to 70 ft. Black Tip Sharks, Spotted Eagle Rays, Turtles, Tarpon and other interesting sea life are often seen on these reefs. Brendals Dive Center established in 1985 with over 20 years experience with Platinum Pro Instructor. Discover Scuba, Full Certification Courses & Advanced Scuba Courses, CPR and First Aid & Dive Master Courses. Adventure Specialty Trips of: - Fresh seafood caught and prepared on island Picnic - Hand feed the sting rays - Wild Dolphin Encounter & island hopping trips - Kayak tours and rentals - Afternoon and sunset sailing cruises - Hand feed Groupers "Junkanoo & Calypsoâ&#x20AC;? - Dive historic ship wreck - Dive with school of Tarpon Fish Call for further info at (242) 365-4411

What to do DIVE ABACO! is conveniently located in the heart of Marsh Harbour at the Conch Inn Resort & Marina. Phone: 242.367.2787. DIVE ABACO! is a full service dive/snorkel center and offers trips, SCUBA instruction & resort lessons; certifications & referrals; equipment rentals, sales & repair; and private charters & guides. They are affiliated with PADI, NAUI, YMCA & CMAS and participate in the Universal Referral Program. For 2-tank dive and 2-site snorkel trips, check-in is at 9:00am. The trip departs at 9:30am and returns by 2:00pm. Overnight gear storage is provided. Reservations are recommended. DIVE ABACO! provides guided underwater tours along the world's third longest barrier reef or dive site - excluding drift dives. Whether you are just learning to dive or are a world traveler, DIVE ABACO! has something to offer. With nearly two dozen dive sites ranging in depth from 25' to 130', the area extends from Whale Cay in the north to Little Harbour in the south. This includes the Fowl Cay Undersea Preserve and Sandy Cay Reef, which is part of the Pelican Cay Land & Sea Park. The Preserve is approximately 5 miles and a 30-minute boat ride away. n addition to brightly colored tropical fish and magnificent marine life - lobster, turtles, shrimp, crabs, sting rays, spotted eagle rays, sharks, barracuda, moray eels and dolphin - the reef is riddled with coral encrusted and sponge covered tunnels, swim-throughs, caverns and a mini-wall. They also offer night, wreck and shark observation dives, and they dive the inland blue holes of Abaco. Abaco is a GREAT destination if you're looking for a true Out-Island experience! You can do as much or as little as you desire, and DIVE ABACO! will gladly help you plan the perfect getaway. by Dive Abaco

What to do

Dive Sites Dive with Dive Abaco

THE TOWERS: Gigantic pillars of coral rise from the world's third longest barrier reef and grace the ocean's surface. The Towers provide excellent snorkeling (but, ouch!, please don't stand on the coral) while SCUBA divers explore the depths to 55 ft. Spectacular coral formations and huge caverns in the reef are illuminated by laser like shafts of light piercing through crevices in the ceiling! Common wild life sightings are Caribbean reef sharks, spotted eagle rays, turtles, huge parrot fish, schools of Bermuda Chub, and yellow tail snapper.

THE EDGE: Because if you're not living on the edge, you're taking up too much space! On the Edge of the barrier reef, a garden of sea fans and gorgonian corals leads you to a mini wall that drops to a maximum depth of 70 ft. Mountainous coral surrounds you while being escorted by friendly Nassau grouper, ocean trigger fish, Caribbean reef sharks and the occasional spotted eagle fay. Look carefully into the coral and you'll see juvenile tropical fish playing hide and seek. DIVE ABACO! has seen as many as 22 eagle rays at this site along with their favorite juvenile fish, the spotted drum.

What to do Hair Braiding

Out Island Excursions

The art of hair braiding can be traced back thousands of years to Africa. Today thousands of people take in the highly specialized and artistic crafts of twisting, braiding and locking natural hair fashions. Hair braiding is more than a means of entrepreneurship. It is an important form of cultural expression. You can find talented hair braiders everywhere on our shores. Kimberly Roberts (MOW) 556-2380 Megan Cartwright (MH) 367-2198

Bahamas Fast Ferries Take a trip to our nation’s capital, Nassau, in under 4 hours on Bahamas Ferries’ state-of-art, air-conditioned high-speed ferry. Stroll the 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. Call Sandy Point in Abaco at 366-4119, Marsh Harbour 367-5250 and Nassau 323-2166. Pinder’s Ferry Service offers service between Abaco and Grand Bahamas. 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. Bus serves Freeport and McLean’s Town. Rental automobiles at both terminals.

Inter Island Transport FERRIES Albury’s Ferry Services offer ferry service to the various outer cays on a daily bases. Night charters are also available. Green Turtle Cay Ferry offers ferry services from the Treasure Cay ferry dock to Green Turtle Ferry dock located in New Plymouth on a daily bases. Charters are also available. See schedules for both ferries on page 20.

GOLF CARTS See pg 33 for listings

Entertainment The nightlife on The Abacos is concentrated in the bars of its resorts and marinas. If you arrive too late to catch a favorite artist or group, check around. Most resorts share schedules and offer live music at different places on different nights

Prior to your adventure to one of the outter cays - call to reserve a cart in advance.

Museums The Albert Lowe Museum on Green Turtle Cay charts the history of Abaconians from the Loyalists of the 1780s through the morden day development of the island of Abaco. It also features handcrafted ships’ 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 exhibits the cay’s history from the 1780’s to the present and is named after Hope Town founder from South Carolina. The museum is crammed with manuscripts, photographs and artifacts. Local ancestries, pottery and ships’ china recovered by wreckers, and household antiques are housed here.

Abaco Beach Resort (MH) 367-2158 One-man band, rake & scrape Harbour’s Edge (HT) 366-0087 DJ on Saturday nights Curly Tails Restaurant (MH) 367-4444 One man band Wed-Thur-Sun 6-11pm Club Solid Gold 367-0544 Open Nightly - Friday & Saturdays Club Jam Rock Night Club 456-5887 Open Friday and Saturdays Nippers Beach Bar & Grill (GC) 365-5143 Famous Pig Roast on Sundays Marsh Harbour Marina - Jib Room (MH) Wed & Sat nights - live band 367-2700 Rooster’s Rest (GT) 365-4066 Sapodilly's Restaurant (MH) 367-3498 Fri - 5:30 -7:30 Happy Hour Sea Spray Resort (HT) 366-0065 Happy Hour - 5:00-6:00 Snappas Restaurant (MH) 367-2278 Happy Hour, Bar & Grill D&R Pool Bar (MH) 367-2385

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The Abaco Club on Winding Bay, Private International Members’ Golf Club & Sporting Retreat The Abaco Club on Winding Bay features the world’s first Scottish style tropical links golf course. The par 72, 7,123 yard championship course, designed by Tom Mackenzie and Donald Steel, tracts upwind and downwind knowingly along a 2 ¼ mile pristine, powder soft sand beach, and concludes in a crescendo style

with four stunning holes along a canyon and sea cliff. The dunes that dominate throughout would be the envy of many of the greatest seaside layouts. Amenities at the Club include: clubhouse and infinity pool, European spa, deep sea and bone fishing, equestrian, tennis, children’s activities and numerous water sports. The Club’s private plane and air terminal, as well as sport and leisure boats, are also available to members and guests. The Club welcomes non-members to enjoy the private club once only, and exquisite cottages are available for rent. Estate lots and exquisite turn-key cottages are priced from $875,000 to $4 million. Non-resident membership is also available. For more information, please contact the Membership Department at 1-888-3032765 (US Toll Free) or 1-242-367-0077 (Worldwide) or email info@theabacoclub.com www.theabacoclub.com.

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Treasure Cay Golf Course is a superb 18-hole championship course designed by Dick Wilson, one of America’s most renowned golf course architects, with several classic courses consistently ranked in “Golf Digest’s Top 100”. The best known probably being the Doral “Blue Monster” in Miami. The tropically landscaped 186- acre Treasure Cay golf course was the last Dick Wilson planned; he died before it was completed in 1968. His assistant, Joe Lee, completed the course and went on himself to become a famous golf course architect. At 6,985 yards from the blue tees and with 66 strategically placed sand bunkers, the Treasure Cay course presents a formidable challenge with ocean winds, tight fairways and a layout that makes you ponder every club selection. It will certainly make you want to play it more than once.

Despite its length, the course at Treasure Cay can be played inside three hours. Golf carts are available and the course is generally un-crowded. No tee times are necessary. It can also be walked with a pull cart by those with more time seeking a bit more exercise. If you are a single looking for a game, just show up at 8:30am and Pro Ronnie Bootle will assist you in finding a partner. Tee times are not necessary! In fact, if you tee off after 10:30am, you may not see another group – you may be playing your own private championship course! During the winter season, homeowner tournaments are often held at bi-weekly intervals. Guests are most welcome, a reasonable and fun way of meeting new people. Very attractive golf packages are available to guests staying at Treasure Cay Hotel Resort & Marina.

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What to do

For many years, the wild horses of Abaco were thought to be a myth, animals about whom many stories were told but who were extinct. Actually the Wild Horses of Abaco are still clinging to a precarious exsistence on the Preserve in the pine forests of Abaco. Research for information about the horses’ history, both past and present began in 1992. Based on three sperate DNA tests, the horses are internationally accepted as a sub group of the rare Spanish Barb breed. They are acknowledge to be critically endangered. Many organizations are hoping to see the horses come back from the brink of extinction for the second time in their recently turbulent history. They have much to offer the entire breed. Spanish Barbs are bred from the Barb horses on the North Coast of Africa (Barbary) by the desert tribes know as the Moors who invaded Spain. When the Moors were finally driven out, the Spanish croosed these extraordinary horses with their own impressive breeds and came up with a horse of great intelligence, built for speed, stamina and survival under extreme conditions. The Barb is in no way related to the Arab, having different bone structure and many characteristics not found in the Arab. It has also been discovered, fairly recently, that one of the founding horses of the Throughbred line was a Barb. Having been transported confiend to small, foul stalls with little water and less food on the tossing decks of Spanish ships as they travelled the Caribbean, we have made the assumption that the Abaco Horses arrived when one or more ships wrecked off Green Turtle Cay sometime int he late 1400’s or early 1500’s. There are many Spanish Wrecks on Green Turtle’s reefs. The horses, likely half starved and terrified, smeeld fresh water and with the steely determination bred into them, managed to swim across to main

land Abaco. Here they found an equine paradise of \\shady pine forests filled with enough foage and fresh water to help them regain their strength and to stay healthy. The rough ground kept thir hooves trimmed. For 500 years they lived int eh forsets of Abaco. Unfortunately, with the building of Abaco highway the horses’ paradise was destroyed. And the hands of humans have weighed heavily on them ever since. A tragedy involving a blameless wild horse and a child resulted int he salughter of a herd once estimated to be from 150 to 200 head. Three horses were brought out of captivity and placed on the newly developing Baham Star farm. From one stallion, a mare and her filly the herd regained to about 30 35 head when they were roughly counted in1992. The horses’ commuted between the farm and the forest. Unfortunately, the presence of humans still threatened the horses and when hurricane Floyd drove them from the forest to full time on the farm, they once again declined. Unwillingly to move from the ove rich grass once planted for cattle, the horses entered a vicious cycle of obesity, which discourged movement which resulted in founder and laminitis, two hoof diseases which killed several horses. Unable to move much because of the pain their hooves, they grew even fatter. Simple intervention with penicillin delived by blow pipe saved many, but the presence of fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides added to a deadly environment. The horses stopped reproducing. The haven of the farm was a mixed blessing. Inappropriate human actions took several lives. In 2002, the remaining horses were moved to a government granted preserve of 3800 acres and the horses were moved back int their ancestral home. Pre-exsiting conditions took more lives.

What to do by Milanne Rehor Photos by Blair Saunders

Today the herd is at eight, four mares, four stallions, and even in these small numbers the herd has attracted international attention. They are in glowing good health. They are living time capsules, classic examples of the carefully bred horses with which the Spanish conquered the New World. They are a genetic treasure trove, and WHOA (Wild Horses Of Abaco Preservation Society) in Abaco and Arkwild, Inc. (a 501c charity) in the US are working hard to keep the herd going. Several of the mares appear to be pregnant, some test have showned negative resultsm wit reservations. Many signs indicate possibel pragnacies which may have begun later than first thought. This is a critical, fragile time for the horses. Were funds available, it would be possible to take tissue samples for preservation for future cloning. It would be dangerous to use any invasive test procedures at this time and so the sometimes tricky tests of fecal and urine samples continue. The pine forests of Abaco are a unique and rare habitiat. Home to the endangered Abaco parrot, wild hog, migrating birds (among them the rare Kirtland warber) they are also home to the

Abaco Barbary Horses. The prevailing mood in the forest is one of tranquility, filtered dappled light, birdsong, the wind sighing in the tall pines. There are few sounds of civilization here. Wild does not m e a n streaming manes and tails and pounding hooves. Those mean panic. In the wild, as we are privileged to see the horsesm they spend nearly all their time foraging, for the forest food, while adequate, is by no means rich. And the horses were bred to get by on poor scanty forage. Barbs eat nearly a third less than other horse breeds. They move constantly, keeping their muscles toned, their hooves trimmed. Water holes are plentiful, often rising and falling with the tide of salt water that lies under the fresh water lens trapped in the limestone rocks of Abaco. Gently hils are the remains of old, petrified sand dunes, for the area was once underwater. It is the goal of Arkwild and WHOA to maintain the horses in a free an environment as possible. This offers unique opportunities for research into behaviour of horses free of human dominance. And it allows visitors a chance to experience a peaceful, hushed environment and to meet with some of natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most rare and beautiful creatures on the horsesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; terms. For more information, you can visit at www.arkwild.org or call 242.3674805 for more information. As with all charitable efforts, funds are needed to improve the infrastructure of the preserve, to help maintain fire breaks and keep the fence line clear, for pregnancy testing and medical support when needed. All funds go directly to Arkwild (donations are tax deductible for US citizens) or to WHOA for direct benefit of the horses.

What to do WildLife

ThePhoto Abaco Parrot by Tuppy Weatherford

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 Islands of 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 Woodpecker, the Red-Legged Thrush, the Olive-Capped Warbler and the Flamingo, national bird of The Bahamas. This National Park, comprising 20,500 acres in Southern Abaco near Hole In The Wall, has been designated a preservation area by the Bahamas Government and is managed by The Bahamas National Trust. Included are 5,000 acres of pine forest the nesting area and habitat of about 1000 endangered Bahama or "Abaco" Parrots. The parrots once lived on as many as seven islands in The Bahamas, but now only exist in Abaco and Great Inagua. The Bahamas National Trust reports that there are now less 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 .

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Information ATM Machines

Telephones

Visitors to Abaco ca get cash 24 hours hours a day. ATM’s Operated by Royal Bank of Canada, Scotiabank (Bah) Ltd., Commonwealth Bank, First Caribbean Int’l Bank provides convient banking services 24 hours a day.

Bahamas Telecommuications Corporation provides 100% digital switiching 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 is the two major internet provders in Abaco. Wireless internet services are also available.

Banking Hours Commonwealth Bank 367-2370 First Carib. Int’l Bank 367-2166 Royal Bank of Canada Marsh Harbour 367-2420 ATM Treasure Cay 365-8119 Scotiabank (Bah) Ltd 367-2141

ATM ATM

Communications

Open 9:30am - 3:00pm Monday - Thrusday, 9:30am - 4:30pm Friday. Closed on Saturday & Sunday.

Radio Abaco 93.5 FM is the local brodcast with local and national programming and advertising of 24 hour brodcasting. Cruisers net is available on VHF16 each morning at 8am for updates on weather and events in Abaco.

Currency

Temperatures

ATM ATM

If you come across a $3 bill, it's ok. Bahamian paper money comes in ½ dollar, $1, $3, $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100 bills. There is also an extra Bahamian coin, the 15-cent, which is square with rounded corners and decorated with a hibiscus.

Exchange Rates The Bahamian dollar is on par with the U.S. dollar. A small exchange may be applicable when exchanging Traveller's Cheques for local currency.

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.

Months

Jan Feb March April May June July August Sept Oct Nov Dec

70 71 72 75 78 81 83 83 82 78 76 70

by Above and Below Dive Center

We enjoy a tropical temperature year round. Water temperature ranges from the low 80s in the summer to the mid-70s in the winter.

What to wear

Postage The post office is situated in the Dove Plaza downtown on Don MacKay Blvd and provides air mailing to any where in the world. Also regular surface mail along with courier services of Federal Express, United Postal Service and DHL. 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.

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.

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

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

Public Holidays New Year’s Day Good Friday Easter Monday Labour Day Whit Monday Independence Day Emancipation Day Discovery Day Christmas Day Boxing Day

1 January 24th March 27th March 29th May 2nd June 10th July 1st August 10th October 25th December 26th December

St. John’s the Baptist Anglican(MH) BAPTIST Calvary Baptist Church (MH) Grace Baptist Church (MH) Unity Baptist Church (TC) Zion Baptist Church (MH) BRETHREN Bethany Gospel Chapel (MH) International Creole Gospel (MH) Gospel Chapel (MOW) New Vision Ministries (MH) New Life Chapel MOW) Marsh Harbour Gospel (MH) New Plymouth Gospel (GTC) Friendship Tabernacle (MH) METHODIST Aldergate Methodist (MH) St. Andrew’s Methodist (MH) St. James Methodist (HT) Epworth Chapel (Cherokee) New Plymouth Methodist (GTC) PRESBYTERIAN Kirk of the Pines (MH) ROMAN CATHOLIC St. Fransis de Sales (MH) SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Seventh Day Adventist (MH)

365-2518 367-2105 367-2926 365-8371 367-3563 367-4472 367-3784 365-6038 367-3242 365-6458 367-2204 365-4198 367-4238 367-2009 367-2007 366-0400 366-2249 365-4293 367-3855 367-2714 367-2948

Taxis

Service Groups

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 $20.00 per hour. Children under the age of three are free. Fare from the airport to Albury’s Ferry Dock is $12.00 per person and each additional person - $3.00.

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

Churches Call to confirm services and times. Evening services may vary due to the time change. ASSEMBLIES OF GOD 1st Assembly of God (MH) 367-2130 Church of God (GTC) 365-4505 Church of God (MOW) 365-6088 Church of God of Prop.(MH) 367-2071 Church of God (MRF) (MH) 367-2740 Full Gospel Assembly (TC) 365-8097 ANGLICAN St. Simon by The Sea (TC) 365-2714

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 Offices of Friends of Environment at 7pm.

KIWANIS CLUB Dedicated to serving the children of the world “Young Children-Priority One.” Meets every Tuesday except the third Tuesday. Tel: 242.3673680 or 52-1766 Central Abaco Primary School at 7pm

ROTARY CLUB Committed to immunizing all of the world’s children against polio - “Polio Plus.” Meets at Below Decks, Abaco Beach Resort every Monday night.

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Information 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 speakers to bird watching walks to fun events to benefit the environment there is a way for everyone to get involved. For an updated calendar of events visit their website: www.friendsoftheenvironment.org or call 367-2721. CANCER SOCIETY OF ABACO The Abaco Branch of the Cancer Society exists to educate the public on matters relating to cancer and to support thoese undergoing treatment for the disease. Meets second Tuesday of each month at Brass & Leather Shoppe at 5:15pm Nassau 242.323-4482 or email:cancersociety @coralwave.com.

The SCURVY FEW MOTORCYCLE CLUB is the only charter motorcycle club in The Bahamas and is based right here in Marsh Harbour. The brain? Child of Sid Dawes and Skeet Lachance, the club was formally started with six "Founding Members" back in 1998 and is still very active today. Their big event of the year is their Toys-For-Tots which distributes over 1000 toys to all communities within the Abacos'. They also participate in the Big Hill Box Derby in Hopetown 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-For-Tots. And 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. Thanks you very much for your support, welcomes you to our island in the sun. Aarrrrrrrrrrr!!! www.scuryfew.org THE 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. Through the

years the RMHYC has grown to over 1800 members & mates from all over the world. The purpose of the Yacht club is to provide Fellowship, Information and Support Services for Cruisers, Landholders and Others who enjoy visits and extended stays in the environs of the "Hub of Abacos Bahamas" As a service to the Community the RMHYC has built and maintains the floating Dinghy Dock at the Government Union Jack dock in Marsh Harbour. They have purchased and installed two red & two green Channel Markers in the harbor for all boaters to use and this past year have provided lights on them for night vision as an added safety feature. The RMHYC is more active in the winter & spring months as more members are present here. They have a very active social life with many functions throughout the year for all of their members, as well as reciprocity for card carrying Yacht Club members from other Yacht Clubs. The RMHYC also has chapters in the United States and Canada, these are located in Ft. Lauderdale, Fl; Palm Beach gardens, Fl; Daytona,Fl; Baltimore, Md; and Nova Scotia,Canada. Anyone interested in learning more about the Yacht Club can check them out at their website: www.RMHYC.com.

Immigration Upon your arrival to 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.

Bahamas Customs Baggage declaration by temporary visitors is oral, but the baggage is subject to Customs inspections. In 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

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Information 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 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 TAXFREE if the total value is not more than $200. This exemption does not apply to perfume, alcoholic beverages or to cigars or cigarettes. If you do not meet the 48-hour and 30day 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 and 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.

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.

UK Customs UK residents returning from the Bahamas after an absence of more than 24 hours can take home duty and tax free 50 grammes (2 fluid ozs) of perfume and 250 cc of toilet water. Persons over 17 years of age are allowed, duty free, 1 litre (over 22% proof) of liquor or 2 litres of alcoholic beverages not over 22% proof or fortified or sparkling wine, plus 2 litres of still wine. Persons over 17 are also allowed 200 cigarettes or 100 cigarillos or 50 cigars or 250 grammes of tobacco.UK residents can bring 145 pounds sterling worth of other goods including gifts, souvenirs, cider and beer, which must be carried in baggage and cleared by you at the time of your arrival. You are advised to pack dutiable goods separately. The importation into the United Kingdom of some goods is prohibited and restricted. These include counterfeit coins, dangerous drugs, firearms and ammunition, dangerous knives, plants and bulbs, radio transmitters, (including walkie talkies), meat and poultry (not fully cooked) and live animals.

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