If you are thinking of traveling to the Bahamas for a relaxing getaway, you won’t regret it. The West Indian country boasts a selection of stunning islands where you can have any kind of vacation you’d like, from lazy and beach-bound to action-packed and fast-paced. Rich in history, the Bahamas is an ideal destination for the whole family.
Although the Bahamas is one of the world’s top travel destinations, you can still get yourself into some trouble there if you don’t know what you’re doing. The locals don’t advise doing these 20 things while in the Bahamas—find out what they are below!
20 Getting In Unlicensed Taxis
Unlicensed taxis are always a problem is heavily touristy destinations. Stuff’s travel gurus advise checking in with your hotel to ask about identifying trustworthy cabs. It may even be a good idea to get them to book a licensed taxi for you.
19 Walking Alone At Night
Walking alone at night is risky in most parts of the world. The Bahamas is no different. Just because you might think of it as a paradise doesn’t mean that there aren’t dangers there. Think twice before walking alone at night and if you must stick to well-lit areas.
18 Not Having Any Cash
We may be moving towards a cashless society, but that’s not the case in many other parts of the world. It’s always a good idea to have cash in the Bahamas because, according to Travel Triangle, some places might not accept travel cards and bank cards.
17 Not Being Aware Of The Banking Hours
Travel Triangle also points out that it’s a good idea to be aware of the banking hours during which the banks operate in the Bahamas. That way, if you ever need to visit the bank for any reason (like withdrawing cash) you know when you can go and when you can’t.
16 Buying Things From Beach Vendors
You might notice that some beaches in the Bahamas are filled with people selling things. As a rule of thumb, think twice before buying or renting certain items, such as beach equipment as it might be faulty or even illegal to use in the Bahamas.
15 Not Making The Most Of The Duty-Free Shopping
The Bahamas has great options when it comes to duty-free shopping, so why not make the most of it? You don’t have to shop during the entire trip, but at least check out what’s on offer at least once! According to the Official Site of The Bahamas, you might pick up some great bargains.
14 Not Making The Most Of Public Transport
The other perk you should make the most of in the Bahamas, according to the official site? Public transport. There is a great bus shuttle service available that can take you between the most well-known resorts and other destinations, so be sure to enquire about it with your hotel.
13 Traveling During Hurricane Season
The biggest mistake you could make in the Bahamas is probably traveling during the hurricane season. June through November is when you want to avoid visiting the Bahamas, even if there are low prices advertised. If you want to take your chances, be sure to stay up to date with weather reports!
12 Not Having Their Travel Documents Ready
Traveling is always easier when you’re organized and have all of your documents ready. In the Bahamas, they may want to see your return plane ticket (so they know that you actually plan on returning home!) at the customs desk. Be sure to have all your travel documents ready.
11 Only Seeing The Bahamas Through A Cruise
Many people only ever visit the Bahamas as part of a cruise. But there is so much to see and do here that many seasoned travelers consider this a mistake. You’re really missing out if you only ever limit your time in the Bahamas to one or two days.
10 Buying Food At The Resorts Instead Of The Grocery Store
Though it might be tempting to simply buy your food on-site at the resort you’re staying at, this is usually the more expensive way to go. Don’t be afraid to visit some local grocery stores where you won’t be overcharged for fresh ingredients.
9 Being Careless When Booking Boating Trips
A boating trip in the Bahamas can be magical, but it can also be dangerous if you’re with an unqualified tour company. Always do your research before booking boating trips to make sure the company is reputable and totally safe.
8 Failing To Get A Permit If They're Bringing Their Pet
We get it: some people can’t go a day without seeing their beloved pets. If you’d like to bring your pet to the Bahamas, be sure to organize a permit in advance. Pets are permitted in the Bahamas but only if the proper documentation has already been prepared.
7 Being Too Scared To Sample The Local Cuisine
Don’t let fears of getting sick stop you from sampling the local cuisine in the Bahamas. While you should always use your best judgment when it comes to trying different foods, the local cuisine really is delicious and should not be missed!
6 Only Staying In The Famous Resorts
There are a few resorts in the Bahamas that are world-famous. While there are definitely advantages to staying in places like that, you might also want to research other accommodation options. You might find hidden gems that are less crowded and cheaper!
5 Only Bringing Swimwear
The Bahamas definitely seems like the kind of place where you’re going to be wearing a swimsuit for the duration of your time there. But don’t forget to pack other clothes too! You’ll need fancier clothes to get into certain restaurants, and the weather can cool down at night.
4 Forgetting That Spring Break Is A Huge Deal In The Bahamas
Spring break celebrations are huge in the Bahamas. It’s always important to be aware of this, so you can either book your vacation during this time or completely avoid the Bahamas in spring. It depends on whether you want to be part of the festivities or not!
3 Failing To Tip Fairly
When it comes to tipping in the Bahamas, it’s important to always treat your servers fairly. Failing to tip is disrespectful, especially when you understand that many locals rely on tips as their wages aren’t that high, to begin with.
2 Driving When They're Unprepared For The Road Rules
Driving in the Bahamas is quite different from driving in the United States due to the fact that they follow the British model of road rules. You’ll have to drive on the left side of the road from the right side of the car. It might be easier to just take public transport!
1 Believing That The Islands Are Punctual
The Bahamas is many things, but punctual isn’t one of them! Things on the islands don’t always run on time, so it’s best not to count on anything taking place early. Try to relax and understand that things usually run a little late. Sit back and enjoy the lazy way of life!