There are over 700 islands in the Bahamas (including some very little ones) that are located in the West Indies. Since the 1970’s it has been an independent country, and is still part of the Commonwealth which is technically ruled by Elizabeth II (Queen of England). Because of its colonial heritage you will find that the official language of the islands is still English and because it is widely spoken throughout the islands still it has been a key factor in helping the country to flourish and so become a favourite with the many people who traveled to it on vacation from the USA.

The biggest 2 islands in the Bahamas are Grand Bahama and New Providence which is where the capital Nassau is located. The largest employer of over half the population of Bahamians is tourism and especially the 2 largest islands certainly feel like one big tourist resort. If you prefer a vacation that is offering comfort then it is suggested that you take your vacation on one of the bigger islands in the Bahamas and if you want something with a bit more adventure then try one of the smaller ones.

Because the Bahamians are very proud of their traditions such as their music styles, which involves large brass bands you will often find these playing in the streets and traditional foods such as pineapple and crab will often be eaten at large festivals held at about the time of the harvest.

They also enjoy boat racing, holding regattas and other boat related pastimes as well as cricket and athletics. If you happen to visit some of the smaller islands you will still see that traditional arts and crafts are still practiced, although they sell most of these to the tourists nowadays, which means you are able to purchase a beautifully hand woven basket or other items at a very good price in some places.

But should you decide to visit the Bahamas, check the hurricane forecasts for the near future. Certainly in 1992, 1999, 2004 and 2005 the Bahamas was hit by a number of hurricanes in which many people died.

Allison Thompson
http://www.bahamas.wiki101.info