Bahamas on the Yandex map. Where are the Bahamas? Population of the Bahamas
Surely, many tourists have repeatedly asked the question: Where exactly are the Bahamas? Bahamas - this is how Russian tourists affectionately call the Bahamas. These islands are an archipelago in the Atlantic, located between Cuba and Florida. About seven hundred islands are scattered at a short distance from each other, creating this paradise, however, only thirty islands are inhabited.
The Bahamas, just like the Maldives, have long been on the list of the best elite resorts peace. Every person who loves to actively relax and travel has long dreamed of visiting these heavenly places.
Bahamas on the world map
Also, the Bahamas is not easy famous resort, it is also an offshore zone with the largest gaming business center. Famous businessmen, and just rich people, often stay here for months, enjoying the beauty of this marvelous resort. And, of course, the most amazing and beautiful place here are snow-white beaches. Kilometers white sand washed by warm, clear waters, incredibly beautiful coral reefs, blue clear sky- all this is collected in one place.
The most visited islands of the Bahamas
Despite the countless number of islands, the main concentrations of tourists can be observed only on a few. The first island is Great Abaco. World-famous sailing regattas are held there every year. Well, those who like to fish will not be left out of work here either. There are also quite a few different duty-free shops on the island, so you can shop as much as you like.
The second most visited island by tourists is Long Island (translated from English as Long Island). Perhaps this is the most picturesque place in the Bahamas: amazing vegetation, rare exotic bird species and much more. In addition to everything previously listed, on this island there is the famous Santa Maria beach, which many experts and tourists rightfully call one of the best in the world.
And the last place visited is the many small islands united by one name: Exuma. This place is famous for its incredibly beautiful ebb and flow. And it has rightfully earned honor and fame from yachtsmen and diving enthusiasts who know a lot about this matter. In general, an incredibly beautiful and charming place to relax.
We hope that we have helped you better understand where the Bahamas are.
The Commonwealth of the Bahamas is a state in the Atlantic Ocean located between the Florida Peninsula and the island of Cuba. The archipelago with a total area of 14 thousand kilometers and a population of 360 thousand people consists of 700 small tropical islands, only thirty of which are inhabited. The capital of the Bahamas is the city of Nassau, located on the large island of New Providence. The political system is a constitutional monarchy.
Bahamas on the world map
The state of the Bahamas is divided into 31 districts, the major cities are Nassau, Stella Maris, Andros Tau, Freeport. The bulk of the population is concentrated in large islands New Providence, Andros and Grand Bahama.
Tropical islands, washed by the warm Gulf Stream, annually attract thousands of vacationers to their snow-white sandy beaches. This international center tourism and diving, a major offshore center and the richest state in the region. The islands themselves are made of coral and reef limestone. There are extensive shallow waters, the largest of which is the Grand Bahama Bank, which stretches for 530 kilometers.
The surface of the island is mostly flat; karst phenomena are observed, leading to the appearance of underground and underwater caves. The coastline of islands abounds sandy beaches, there are many salt lakes that communicate with the ocean. There are practically no rivers in the Bahamas, so there are problems with fresh water. Clean fresh water has to be obtained from deep karst wells.
Map of the Bahamas in Russian
The vegetation on the islands is represented by evergreen shrubs, cacti and mango thickets; a significant part of the territory is occupied by savanna. Evergreens grow on large islands rainforests, and along the coasts there are coconut palms.
The climate of the Bahamas is trade wind, tropical, and there is summer almost all year round. Even in January the temperature does not drop below +22°C. Winters are dry and short, and summers are hot and rainy. The rainy season lasts from May to October, and hurricanes occur frequently.
We can talk endlessly about the sights of the Bahamas. These are famous National parks and nature reserves, historical, natural and architectural monuments, luxury hotels and casinos with bright nightlife. It is interesting to visit ancient churches and relax in modern tourist complexes, visit magnificent botanical gardens and go down into the underwater kingdom to meet its inhabitants, see unique coral reefs and underwater caves.
The Bahamas is an independent country that is part of the Commonwealth, which is headed by Great Britain. The second name of the state is the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. It is located on the archipelago of the same name, washed by the Atlantic Ocean. The border between the Bahamas and Florida is the Straits of Florida, and the border with Cuba is the Old Bahamas Strait. Now, I think, it has become clear to everyone where the Bahamas are located. The Bahamas simply do not have land borders, as you probably already guessed.
Yes, by the way, since 2009, Russians no longer need a visa to travel to the Bahamas. But when buying tickets, it’s still worth really assessing your knowledge in English. After all official language English is spoken here, and most holidaymakers are from the neighboring United States. Therefore, taking good English courses and improving your knowledge of the language will not be superfluous.
Isn't it beautiful?
The archipelago extends in a northwest direction and slightly to the southeast for 1,500 km; the area of all the islands of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas is 13,940 sq. km, and the inhabited islands are approximately 11,400 sq. km. It consists of about 700 islands and 2000 coral reefs. Of the seven hundred islands, only thirty are inhabited. The capital of the Bahamas is the port city of Nassau. It is Nassau that receives the first wave of vacationers, since it is here that hotel ships dock, bringing numerous tourists from all over the world. There is no shortage of vacationers, so prices for tours are in a fairly wide range. The currency of the Bahamas is the Bahamian dollar (BSD).
Bahamas on the world map, map in Russian
Who among us would not like to be on an island with fabulous nature, away from civilization?
This is quite possible on one of the Bahamas. That's where real paradise on the ground!
The ocean water here is turquoise in color, tall palm trees proudly rise on the coastal white sand, There are also cozy bungalows with thatched roofs - all this makes an indelible impression.
The Bahamas are popular with tourists who come here to forget about civilization for a while.
What could be better than sitting on a sun lounger on the ocean shore, sipping a mint pina colada or rum punch and watching the sunset and gently rolling waves.
The islands are a mecca for scuba diving and fishing.
Here are the most picturesque coral reefs of the world's oceans with a primeval diversity of tropical fish, vegetation and other eerie inhabitants of the depths.
A little about the geography and economy of the islands
The Bahamas form an entire archipelago in which There are about 700 islands and coral reefs lined up in a chain.
They are located in the Atlantic Ocean, south of the Florida Peninsula. The center of civilization is located on large islands:
- Greater Inagua
- Eleuthera
- New Providence
- Grand Bahama
- Andros.
The islands' currency is called the Bahamian dollar. the exchange rate of which economically depends on the US dollar.
Language islands english, religion, thanks to English missionary work, is Christianity.
They have been known to Europe since 1492, when the islands were rediscovered by the brave discoverer Columbus.
By the middle of the 17th century, English settlers arrived here. The Bahamas became a British colony.
The islands were a tasty morsel and came under Spanish ownership several times, but each time England regained them.
And now, setting foot on the shores of the Bahamas, a tourist finds himself on English territory, because The head of state is Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth.
Officially, royal power is represented here by the Governor General.
The population of the islands is small and amounts to only 280 thousand people.
The local residents are mostly descendants of black slaves and mulattoes.
Friendly people, favorable climate
Holidays in the Bahamas are synonymous with wealth and luxury.
The main attraction of the islands is their nature.
The Bahamas has wonderful weather all year round (even during the short rainy season), an abundance of seafood (completely exotic in appearance and taste), a national drink - strong rum and friendly people.
The climate on the islands is mainly tropical. It means that It's warm here all year round.
Interestingly, despite the tropical trend, summer temperatures do not rise above 32°C, and winter temperatures do not fall below +18°C.
Average The water temperature is always pleasant for swimming: +27°C in summer, +23°C in winter.
The best time to visit the archipelago is the cool season from September to May. 
The capital of the Bahamas is Nassau, The city is located on New Providence Island.
Previously, this was a small village that was once founded by pirates (the locals will certainly tell you about this story).
Now it is a modern city with many shops.
What to do and what to visit?
First of all, visit the water tower and underwater aquarium. Everything here is different, exotic, unlike the famous resorts!
Lots of entertainment: for lovers active rest here you can practice the classic sports of the rich - tennis and golf, For scuba diving enthusiasts there is always a free diving instructor.
If you want to wander through shady mangrove forests, admire centuries-old pine trees, feel the resinous aroma of pine needles, lie on the fine white sand under palm leaves, you need to visit Andros Island!
In the town of Andros Town there is his mascot - a dolphin, a lighthouse battered by the sea winds.
And in the town of Red Bay, be sure to buy a souvenir as a souvenir self made local handicrafts!
And also, if you want a bright, exotic wedding ceremony, then please - everything is at your service.
No wonder The Bahamas is a favorite wedding destination for newlyweds.
The history of the island of Bimini is riddled with many myths. The main feature here is the disappeared Atlantis, which is supposedly located off the coast of the archipelago.
There is some truth in this, although this fact has not yet been scientifically proven.
In any case, the Bimini Road - the name given to the 700 meters of rock formations - actually extends just 6 meters deep next to North Bimini.
The ancient grandeur of these islands inspired Hemingway to create his story of the old man and the sea.
Tourists are attracted by the possibility of custom fishing for huge tuna, marlin and sailfish.
These giant fish are nothing like the ones we see in fish stores!
In the picturesque harbor of the island there is an elite yacht club with an adjacent bungalow complex.
Secretly, this is a favorite pastime place for Hollywood stars and paparazzi.
Long Island is the most picturesque island in the Bahamas.
Travelers rarely visit it, and this is great, because here the world has been preserved the way the Creator created it - untouched and beautiful.
Cape Santa Maria has the most beautiful white beaches.
The second largest island is Great Abaco. This is the center of the sailing regatta, so all yachtsmen in the world know it.
The sailing season, with good wind to fill the sails and tack, lasts from early spring until the winter rains.
The coastal waters of the island are also rich in a wide variety of fish. While husbands are fishing, their wives are spending time doing great shopping.
In the largest city of the island - Marsh Harbor has many duty free shops.
Here you will find Cuban rum, first-class cigars, and the best Brazilian coffee.
Don't forget to bring your friends and family handcrafts from local craftsmen made from shells, straw and the famous Bahamian batik.
But remember about customs restrictions!
To the northeast of New Providence Island is Paradise Island, whose name speaks for itself - a paradise! It is connected to Fr. New Providence Bridge.
The most famous hotel in the Bahamas, Atlantis, is located on this island, which owns luxurious beaches, restaurants and casinos.
Another attraction of the island is the 50-meter Dixon Hill Lighthouse.
If you are strong enough to climb it, you are guaranteed unique photos the endless beaches of the Bahamas, where the azure sky merges with the blue surface of the ocean.
This island has an unusually quiet and lazy atmosphere; there is no need to rush anywhere...
A favorite place for tourists to visit is the 10-kilometer romantic East Beach, which has acquired a pale pink color due to crushed corals.
But there is no need to relax in the idyll! Don't swim far, otherwise you risk meeting the local sharks!
It would take a long time to describe the Bahamas; they are undoubtedly similar to each other, like the fingers of one hand, but at the same time, each has its own zest.
If you want to know what it's like - paradisaic delight, welcome here!
Video tour of the Bahamas
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The full name of the state is the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. The state consists of more than 3,000 islands, reefs and islets. The Bahamas is located north of Cuba and Haiti and close to Florida.
Originally settled by the Lucayans, originally from the Arawak tribe, the Bahamas became the first stop of Christopher Columbus back in 1492. Although the Spanish never colonized the Bahamas, they did send the Lucayans into slavery in Haiti, leaving the islands virtually deserted by 1513. In 1648, English colonists from Bermuda landed on the island of Eleuthera, and in 1718 the Bahamas became a crown colony.
Today, a constitutional monarchy remains the state's form of government, with Queen Elizabeth II represented by a governor general. The Bahamas has a parliamentary system of government, in which power is in the hands of a bicameral Parliament.
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A constitutional monarchy |
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Bahamian dollar |
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The religious composition of the population of the Bahamas is diverse: 35.4% are Baptists, 15.1% Anglicans, 13.5% Catholics, 15.2% of the population belong to other Christian denominations, another part are Methodists, Pentecostals, the Church of God, are atheists or undecided.
The state's economy is based on tourism. It accounts for more than 60% of GDP. In addition, the tourism sector provides employment to more than half of the country's working population.
Climate and weather
The north of the Bahamas has a tropical trade wind climate, while the south has a subtropical climate. It is formed by the warm Gulf Stream, the influence of which is dangerous, as it provokes hurricanes in the summer. Precipitation falls in the form of rain from May to October.
Temperatures in summer range from +26...+32 °C. On the southern islands the temperature can reach +40 °C, but thanks to the trade winds the heat is easily tolerated. In winter, the temperature is between +18…+22.
You can go on vacation to the Bahamas at any time of the year, but in the summer it can be very hot on the southern beaches.
Nature
According to its geological structure, the Bahamas archipelago is a limestone plateau. Average height above sea level is 30 m, and highest point Bahamas - Mount Alvernia on the island of Ket, rising 63 meters above sea level. Due to the outcropping of salt-laden limestone, many of the islands have mangrove swamps, salt lagoon lakes and sandy beaches. There are practically no rivers on the islands, so there is very little fresh water.
The flora of the Bahamas is not very diverse and is represented by low-growing shrubs, cacti, and aloe. Orchids and jasmine are growing.
The fauna is also not very diverse. In the Bahamas there are snakes, frogs, bats, and flamingos in the swamps and salt lagoons. In addition, people flock here to spend the winter a large number of migratory birds.
But the underwater world of the Bahamas is simply amazing. The corals on the ocean floor are home to many species of fish that divers love. In the lagoons and creeks you can find mackerel and barracuda. There are sea turtles. The reefs are home to a huge number of corals, mollusks, and sponges.
Attractions
The Bahamas are considered the richest country in the region. Each island of the archipelago has that zest that will attract any tourist.
The Bahamian capital Nassau has many interesting places. For example, you can stroll along Bay Street, a street with numerous shops and boutiques; or visit the Adastra Gardens, the Retreat Gardens reserve, an underwater aquarium or the famous Cable Beach - an area of sandy beaches, hotels, and casinos. The heart of the city - central square with the buildings of the Supreme Court, Parliament, Colonial Administration. Business card city is the Atlantis Hotel. The most visited places by tourists are the old water tower with a beautiful view of the city and Queen Victoria's Staircase with 66 steps carved into the rock.
The city of Freeport is suitable for lovers of water sports, outdoor activities, golf and tennis. It is also worth visiting the Garden of the Groves, monuments of the ancient culture of the Arawak Indians, and the Rand Memorial Park Reserve.
In the city of New Bight on the island of Ket there is a unique architectural monument - the Hermitage, built on the top of Mount Alvernia. The Hermitage was built by an apostate priest in 1939. The work of Father Jerome includes the Church of the Savior on the same island and many beautiful monasteries and temples built on other islands of the archipelago.
Nutrition
Seafood is the basis of Bahamian cuisine. The national ingredient of the Bahamians is the conch sea snail. All kinds of salads, appetizers, and soups are prepared from this snail.
It is impossible to imagine local cuisine without rice and pea dishes. Spiny lobster is the most expensive dish. For a very long time, various dishes and soup made from sea turtles were popular, which led this species of reptile to extinction. It is worth trying a dish of sea bass, which is served with a sauce of mushrooms, onions, spices and white wine.
Dessert is usually served with fruits (melons, pineapples, papayas, mangoes), drinks whose key ingredient is rum, and the famous Bahamian johnny cake. Non-alcoholic drinks include tea, coffee, and Pepsi-Cola.
Bahamian cuisine borrowed a lot from British, American and African cuisine, but adapted it to local conditions and opportunities.
IN major cities There are a large number of restaurants, cafes and bars. On average, the bill per person in an inexpensive cafe will be $10-15. At the height of the tourist season, many cafes and restaurants are crowded, so you should take care in advance so as not to be left without dinner, for example.
Accommodation
In the Bahamas there is no classification system for hotels and inns, so the assignment of a “star” level here is made either by the owner of the rental premises or by the tour operator. Holidays in the Bahamas are considered very prestigious and expensive, which is why most hotels operate on an all-inclusive basis.
As a rule, guesthouses are located on the coast, which are mainly rented to divers and surfers. Service in guesthouses may not always be perfect top level, but corresponds to its prices.
There are also hotel complexes consisting of bungalows. There are eco-hotels that use only natural products for food and get electricity from solar panels.
If staying in a hotel is not part of the tourist’s plans, there is always the opportunity to rent a room from the local population.
Entertainment and relaxation
Mostly people go to the Bahamas for beach holiday, diving and surfing. The coastal area of the archipelago is replete with beautiful sandy beaches, the most famous and popular of which is Pink Beach on Harbor Island. The most expensive place The island of Eleuthera is considered a beach holiday destination.
A large number of shallow reefs attract beginner divers. There is something to see underwater - sunken ships, underwater caves. Underwater feeding of sharks on the Abaco Islands, New Providence, and Long Island is very popular. Those who like a less extreme holiday will be offered swimming with dolphins.
Most hotels include service in the price aquatic species sports, some offer them for a fee. There are a large number of water sports centers concentrated on the islands of New Providence, Harbor Island and Grand Bahama.
The Jonkonu Festival is held twice a year in the Bahamas. Colorful processions are accompanied by musical performances and fireworks. Freeport hosts the National Windsurfing Championships every January. The Music Fest festival takes place in the last week of May. July 10 is Independence Day. The Bahamian Wine and Food Festival takes place at the end of September.
Nassau and Freeport have a large number of bars, restaurants, and clubs for nightlife lovers.
Purchases
Shops in the Bahamas are open Monday to Saturday from 9:00 to 13:00, followed by a lunch break and reopening from 15:00 to 17:00.
The world famous shopping street Bay Street is located in the old part of Nassau, and next to it is the Straw Market. In these places you can buy a variety of goods, ranging from fashionable clothing from world brands to exquisite jewelry, accessories and handmade souvenirs.
The second popular shopping destination is the small island of Paradise. Here, avid shopaholics will find everything their heart desires at affordable prices.
It is better to go shopping on a weekday morning, since at this time there are fewer people there.
Prices for goods in the Bahamas are comparable to those in the United States. Lovers of the beautiful life will have to shell out about $200 a day. Those who are more modest in their needs will settle for $70-150 per day. And don’t forget that the Bahamas has a duty-free system.
Transport
The Bahamas has two major international airports - international Airport Lindel Pindling Airport in Nassau and Grand Bahama International Airport in Freeport. In addition to these main ones, the Bahamas has about 60 smaller airports. Nassau, Freeport and Mathew Town have seaports.
Railway connections, as well as public transport, not in the Bahamas. Transportation is carried out by cars, motorcycles, and bicycles, which can be rented. There are taxis in the capital. The fare is regulated by the government. So, the cost for a quarter mile when traveling in a taxi will cost $2, then the rate will be 30 cents per quarter mile.
Communication between the islands is carried out by ferries and boats.
The length of roads is 2,700 km, half of which are paved.
Connection
The communication system in the archipelago is well developed. Payphones are found everywhere, you can make international calls from them, and payment is made using a calling card. The rooms of almost every hotel have a telephone from which you can make local calls or make an international call through an operator, although this will be 10-15% more expensive than from a payphone.
Mobile communications are also well developed. Local telecom operators provide 100% coverage of the state territory.
Internet provider BaTelNet provides almost all types of services. The average connection cost is $5 per hour.
Safety
When traveling to the Bahamas, it is not necessary, but it is advisable, to be vaccinated against hepatitis B, diphtheria and tuberculosis. The widespread prevalence of HIV and AIDS in the region should also be taken into account.
Customs control is quite democratic. There are no restrictions on the import and export of foreign currency, but the export of local funds exceeding $70 must be accompanied by permission from the Central Bank of the Bahamas. The import ban applies to drugs, explosives, and weapons (without special permission).
The local population is quite friendly and ready to help if necessary. However, there are some restrictions and prohibitions. Not allowed fishing using underwater guns and other devices for these purposes.
Local authorities are waging a tough fight against drug trafficking: even drug use can result in imprisonment.
Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and theft are quite common in the Bahamas, so you need to be careful. It is not advisable for girls and women to walk alone after dark.
There is virtually no government oversight of local firms offering active sports services, which leads to frequent accidents and deaths during underwater fishing, diving, and surfing.
Road traffic in the Bahamas is on the left.
Business climate
The Bahamas are considered a paradise for businessmen. It is possible to register any offshore companies here. But it is worth keeping in mind that buying real estate imposes a ban on doing business. However, it is very profitable to invest in business real estate. There are benefits for hotel owners.
There is no income tax, corporate tax, inheritance tax, or property tax in the Bahamas.
Real estate
Foreign citizens have the right to purchase both development land and other types of real estate in the Bahamas: villas, apartments, townhouses. There is a restriction on the area of real estate purchased by foreign citizens - it should not exceed 2 hectares, otherwise a special permit is required. The application for permission to purchase real estate must contain information about the buyer and seller, a description of the property and the purpose of its acquisition. After selecting the property, a purchase offer is drawn up in writing and an advance payment is made.
It is best to entrust the registration of real estate to a lawyer. The presence of the parties is not required. The purchased property is subject to mandatory insurance and registration with the Investment Council.
Average cost of 1 sq.m. comfortable housing in the Bahamas is $7,000. Buying a bungalow will cost $300,000-500,000, a villa will cost $500,000 or more, and a penthouse will cost $1,000,000-3,000,000.
To travel to the Bahamas you need to apply for a visa at the British Embassy. The visa is issued for a period of up to 90 days, unless it concerns employment.
Despite the high cost of services, you can save money in the Bahamas. Many hotels offer guests discount cards for entry to nightclubs for $5. This is a very advantageous offer, considering that on weekends entrance to the club costs from $50.
Prices for imported alcoholic drinks are very high, so if you want to save on alcohol, it is better to order local drinks, such as rum and beer.
Please note that tips in the Bahamas range from 10 to 15%, and some restaurants and hotels include this in the bill in advance.