The Bahamas

Of all the Caribbean islands, The Bahamas are geographically closest to the United States. Stretching from the Grand Bahama in west to Great Inagua to the south east, the Bahamas comprises 23 inhabited islands and thousands of unpopulated islets and cays. Marking the birth place of the Gulf Stream, The Bahamas are also the spawning ground for many big fish, making it a popular place for fishing. Fish caught around Bimini have set some of the largest game fishing records worldwide. Exuma the sailing capital of the Bahamas, is filled with hidden coves, bays and harbours. Throughout the waters, beautiful reefs teeming with wildlife await, and in fact more than 5% of the planet’s reef mass is located here. On land, the culture is a mix of European and African – most of the inhabitants are West African by descent. Bahamians take great pride in their past, and a laid-back attitude prevails throughout the islands. Nassau and Grand Bahama are the most popular resort islands, though at one point, the area was more popular with pirates including notorious ones such as Blackbeard. Cave lovers can visit The Caves on the Bahamas, and Cartwright’s Cave on Long Island, while those interested in learning more about the islands’ past can visit old historical buildings, including The Mermitage, a small monastery located at the highest point in the Bahamas, the Deveau Mansion ruins, an 18^th century plantation home, the Andros lighthouse, and the Salt Beacon.