The official name of the country is “THe Commonwealth of The Bahamas” and the capital city is Nassau on the island of New Providence. More than 700 islands and cays make up this archipelago nation that became independent from the British Crown in 1973. The Bahamas is the third richest country in the Americas with the primary industries of tourism and finance followed by seafood and other minor exports.

Bahamas operates on Eastern Standard Time (EST), and observes Daylight Savings Time from March to November annually. The telephone area code is 242 and cars drive on the left side of the road. The vast majority of the country enjoys reliable utilities including electricity, telecommunications, internet and a generally high quality of life. 

What to Pack and Wear

Light, comfortable clothing is appropriate for most places in The Bahamas. Be sure to pack or buy cover-ups to wear over your swimsuits in public places such as the hotel lobby, restaurants, buses and stores. Plan to have slippers for the pool and beach, casual sandals that you wear anywhere, tennis shoes for the gym and casual shoes and clothing for general use. You may have to dress up a bit more to visit certain more high-end restaurants, casinos, nightclubs, courts, events and churches. Island Elegant, or Island Casual dress codes is fine for dinner at most places, and you can choose summer wear for daytime activities.

Sunglasses and sunscreen will be standard for everyday use during sunny days in The Bahamas. If you are visiting a Family Island, it is important to pack or buy insect repellent. Toiletries will be more expensive and may be a different or more limited range of choices than in your country. However, local pharmacies will stock a wide range of necessities including haircare, skincare, toiletries, items for babies and children, cleaners, office suppliers and medication. 

Tipping

Most restaurants will charge an automatic 15% gratuity for all in-house dining. Although this appears to be a standard tip for table service, note that this amount is usually split between your server, the bar and kitchen staff. If you receive great service, consider leaving a bit extra for your hardworking server.

Shopping Hours

The primary shopping areas for visitors in Nassau are downtown and inside major resorts such as Atlantis and BahaMar. The Palmdale business district is near to downtown and also features many shopping options. Store hour vary but most shops are open from about 7AM to 5PM. The Mall at Marathon is a shopping mall in Nassau with extended hours to 8 or 9PM depending on the store. 

Shopping on Family Islands will be more limited, but you can find options in gift shops and more populated areas. Check the local Guide for more information on stores and hours in the various islands.

Most grocery stores in The Bahamas are open at 7AM until 8PM or later, but may be closed or have limited hours on Sundays and holidays.

Electricity

Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) is the state-owned electric utility company that operates 30 generating plants in 25 islands in The Bahamas. The standard voltage of 120 volts and frequency 60 cycles is similar to that of North America. You should check your appliances for the required voltage. Europe and Australia use 220-240 volts and therefore will need a downward converter. Power outlet sockets are of type A and B which is standard to the US, Canada, Latin America, China and Japan. Chargers and appliances from Europe and other countries will need a two-pin flat adapter. Appliances that include a label stating ‘INPUT: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz’ are able to be used in all countries without a converter. Check for this universal label on your common appliances such as cell phone chargers, cameras, electric razors and toothbrushes, laptop chargers etc.

Alcohol & Smoking

The legal drinking age in The Bahamas is 18. Alcohol and cigarettes are sold in liquor stores and bars throughout The Bahamas. You can find cigarettes but not alcohol in most grocery stores or gas stations. A few areas in the Abacos are “dry”, which means they do not sell alcohol, but you are free to bring it to the house where you are staying. Cigars are imported from Cuba and other countries in the region and can be found in cigar shops and other outlets. Several locations in Nassau and Freeport also offer hand-rolled cigars by local experts.