Bahamas - Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a visa?

British passport holders, citizens of the United States of America, Canada, the European Union and most other Commonwealth countries do not require a visa to enter the Bahamas. You need to ensure your passport is valid for at least six months at the time of your trip, though, and that you have sufficient funds for your stay. You will also need to show a return flight ticket and evidence of accommodation for the duration of the trip.

What is the local currency and what currency should I take?

The Bahamian dollar is the local currency, although US dollars are also widely accepted. The U.S. dollar and Bahamian dollar have a system of parity, which means US$1 is equal to B$1. Major debit and credit cards are accepted in most places in the Bahamas.

What is there to see and do?

Like much of the Caribbean, the main attractions in the Bahamas are the beaches - think pristine white sands and turquoise seas. Active travellers can have a go at the likes of scuba diving, golf, horseback riding, cycling, kayaking and snorkelling. The huge Atlantis Waterscape open-air aquarium on Paradise Island is unmissable, while the biggest attractions on Grand Bahama Island are its laidback pace of life and small fishing villages. Nassau is home to a few galleries and museums, as well as being good for shopping. The Straw Market is an essential stop for bargain hunters, as you can haggle over the price of the goods here. There are also plenty of duty-free stores in Nassau where you can indulge in a spot of retail therapy.

What is the time difference between the UK and the Bahamas?

The Bahamas is five hours behind the UK (GMT-5). It's worth noting that the Bahamas observes daylight saving time from March to November, but as this generally coincides with the change to British summertime, the time difference remains five hours.

What is the legal age for drinking and gambling?

The legal age for drinking alcohol and gambling in the Bahamas is 18.