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About the
Island >
Local Facts
Banking
In Freeport/Lucaya, banks are open from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.,
Monday through Thursday, and 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Friday.
Boating
Grand Bahama Island is a mecca for boaters. With shallow, clear
waters, abundant game fish and excellent weather throughout the year,
boating is considered world class. Boaters must clear Bahamas Customs
and Immigration at the first Port of Entry. A Bahamas Cruising Permit
allows unlimited access to over 600 uninhabited islands and cays.
Grand Bahama Yacht Club, Grand Bahama's finest marina, plays host to
boats from 30 to 150 feet.
Clothing
Casual summer wear can be worn during the day any time of the year;
but be sure to bring a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings from
December to February. Though walking the streets in swim trunks in
mid-January might sound irresistible, beach clothing is inappropriate on
the streets, in churches, restaurants and casinos.
Currency
US and Bahamian dollars are accepted interchangeably throughout the
islands.
Driving
British rules apply, so please drive on the left and watch those
roundabouts! Visitors may use their home licenses for up to three months
and may also apply for an international driver's license. Pedestrians
should remember to look right before crossing streets.
Electricity
Electricity is 120 volts AC. American appliances are fully
compatible.
Diving and Fishing
To protect the marine environment, spear fishing using scuba gear
and possession of spear guns are illegal. Cruising boats must clear
customs at the nearest port of entry before beginning any diving or
fishing activities. A permit is required for visiting vessels to engage
in sports fishing at a cost of $20 per trip or $150 per year for vessels
on which not more than six reels will be used.
Language
The official language of The Bahamas is English, more British than
American, and generally intertwined with a special Bahamian dialect.
Shopping
Perfumes and fragrances, crystal, leather goods, jewelry, fine
linens and tablecloths, watches and clocks, photographic equipment,
china, binoculars, and telescopes are all duty free. Savings on these
items are between 25% - 50% below US prices. The best shopping is at the
Port Lucaya Marketplace and the International Bazaar; boutiques and gift
shops are also found in the downtown area and at most major resorts.
Everything from duty-free products to local arts and crafts, wood,
straw, shell and clothing creations are readily available. A wide
variety of produce and grocery items can be found at local Food Stores
throughout the island. There are a number of American-style supermarkets
on the island.
Spring Break Season
Spring break season runs February 28 - April 10. This is important
information, whether you're aiming to avoid the spring break season
altogether or intent upon landing right in the middle of this month-long
youth fest. Beach parties, sports meets, and musical entertainment lead
off the packed Spring Break calendar.
Time
Eastern Standard Time is used within The Islands of The Bahama.
April to October is Eastern Daylight Time, in conjunction with US summer
hours.
Tipping
Tip according to quality of service. Bellboys and porters usually
receive $1 per bag, while most other servers (waiters, taxis, etc.)
receive 15%. Most establishments include the gratuity in their bills.
To learn more about the Bahamas please The Bahamas
Guide.
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