Spangled between the depths of the North Atlantic and Florida’s eastern coast, The Bahamas is a collection of almost 700 breathtaking subtropical islands and 2400 cays, each bordered by exquisite sea life and unfathomed ocean trenches. The principal islands include New Providence, Grand Bahama, Abaco, Andros, Long Island, Eleuthera, and Exuma. The country’s population stands at 401,978. English is the official language of The Bahamas, which makes the transition to island life much simpler for a foreigner than in other Caribbean countries. In addition, the islands are prominently located at the entrance to the Gulf of Mexico, with easy access to the Americas (less than an hour’s flight to the USA).
The Bahamas’ society and culture are a remarkable fusion of African heritage and western culture. The practice of self-expression, ingrained in every Bahamian, is contagious. Bahamians embrace dancing, music, and art as a form of self-expression. Goombay, a storytelling and dancing tradition, uses goatskin drums to produce the music. The Junkanoo parade, exuberant and colorful, is a staple of Bahamian culture. This street parade incorporates dancing, music, and vibrant costumes. The capital of New Providence hosts the biggest parades on Boxing Day (December 26) and New Year’s Day. Costumed Bahamians dance during the Junkanoo parade to the sounds of cowbells, drums, horns, and whistles. It is believed that John Canoe, a local folk figure and chief of an African tribe, inspired Junkanoo.
The Bahamas is a constitutional monarchy based on the Westminster system of parliamentary government with a Prime Minister as the Head of Government. Its political and judicial traditions closely resemble those of the United Kingdom as a former colony. King Charles III is the head of state; however, the Bahamas government is responsible for executive decisions. A sovereign country, The Bahamas is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations.
The Bahamas’ economy is heavily based on importing and exporting goods and services. Tourism, The Bahamas’ primary sector, supports an annual average of 1.4 million stopover guests and 4.6 million cruise visitors. Nearly 70% of Bahamians are employed directly or indirectly by the tourist industry, which contributes an estimated 50% of the nation’s GDP. The cost of living in the Bahamas is about 20% higher on average than in developed countries. It is among the 10 most expensive places to live in the world. Since most items must be imported, the cost of essential goods is significantly greater than the average foreigner would expect. Nevertheless, The Bahamas is still an island paradise