Travel Facts
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise increased caution in The Bahamas due to crime. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 2 blank pages in their passport for any entry stamps that will be required. A visa is not required.
US Embassy/Consulate
[1] (242) 322-1181, 328-2206 (after hours); US Embassy Nassau, 42 Queen St., Nassau, The Bahamas; acsnassau@state.gov; https://bs.usembassy.gov/
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) travelers can face unique challenges when traveling abroad. Laws and attitudes in some countries may affect safety and ease of travel. Legal protections vary from country to country. Many countries do not legally recognize same-sex marriage. Approximately seventy countries consider consensual same-sex sexual relations a crime, sometimes carrying severe punishment.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/lgbtqi.html
Telephone Code
242
Local Emergency Phone
911
Vaccinations
An International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever is required for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission and for travelers having transited through the airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. See WHO recommendations.
http://www.who.int/
Climate
Tropical marine; moderated by warm waters of Gulf Stream
Currency (Code)
Bahamian dollars (BSD)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
120 V / 60 Hz / plug types(s): A, B
Major Languages
English, Creole
Major Religions
Protestant 69.9%, Roman Catholic 12%, other Christian 13%
Time Difference
UTC-5 (same time as Washington, DC, during Standard Time); daylight saving time: +1hr, begins second Sunday in March, ends first Sunday in November
Potable Water
Yes, but some opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit
Suggested
Road Driving Side
Left
Tourist Destinations
Atlantis Paradise Island; Nassau (includes National Art Gallery, Fort Charlotte); Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park; Harbour Island; Castaway Cay; Grand Bahama; Andros Island; Treasure Cay; Elbow Cay
Major Sports
Cricket, American football, soccer, rugby
Cultural Practices
Bahamas are known for being friendly, outgoing and informal.
Tipping Guidelines
Service staff and hotel workers expect to be tipped. The usual tip for service from a taxi driver or waiter is 15% and $1-$2 a bag for porters. Most travelers leave $1-$3 per day for their hotel maid, usually every morning since the maid may have a day off.
Souvenirs
Conch/seashell jewelry, straw goods, precious-gem jewelry, crystal, leather goods, alcohol, imported luxury items
Traditional Cuisine
Crack Conch (sea snail) with rice and peas
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Tuesday, September 05, 2023
