Caribbean Islands

When making a decision to go on holiday to the Caribbean Islands you can easily be spoilt for choice, with over 7000 islands, islets, reefs and cays in the region, the Caribbean islands are an island chain stretching up to 2,500 miles long and 160 miles wide, enclosing the Caribbean Sea. Caribbean Islands holidays offer fine white sandy beaches, palm trees, warm translucent waters and a wonderful climate. You also get a wide choice on what type of holidays in the Caribbean Islands you're after, whether you fancy the vibrant nightlife in the Dominican Republic or something a little more traditional in somewhere like Nevis or parts of the Grenadines.

When visiting the Caribbean Islands the ideal trip would always include soft white beaches, beautifully warm seas and a wonderful all year round tropical sunny climate, with a wide variety in terms of style and culture from Aruba in the Dutch Antilles to English-speaking islands like the Bahamas and Barbados. The Dominican Republic and Margarita Island have a real Latin American feel and the islands of Jamaica and Cuba are truly exceptional in terms of character and culture. Mexico shows that you don't need to be on an island to enjoy the enchanting experience of the Caribbean Islands and the friendly people; romantic locations and stylish accommodation also make the Caribbean Islands a favoured choice for honeymoons. Whatever you want from a dream Caribbean Islands holiday, it has it all; sun, sea, sand and secluded spots to unwind are just waiting for you.

Getting there and getting around

Flights to the Caribbean Islands mostly operate from major UK airports such as Manchester, Gatwick, and Glasgow. Caribbean flights range from about 8 to 10 hours depending on your chosen destination. When booking a Caribbean Islands package holiday, coach transfers are usually included and if you've gone for a tailor made holiday, taxis are readily available at most airports to take you to your resort. To view the Caribbean's natural breathtaking surroundings it can be sometimes more worthwhile to book excursions such as boat trips and jeep safari tours with your holiday representative to get the most from your Caribbean Islands holiday destination.

Things to do

With so much variety at travel.co.uk, it's hard not to find your perfect Caribbean Islands holidays, whether it be to somewhere like Aruba, the Bahamas, Barbados, Cuba or Jamaica, you can't fail to enjoy this paradise world. The Caribbean offers fantastic diving, sailing, water sports, hiking, horse riding, ecotourism and wildlife. Caribbean Islands carnivals are renowned, with festivals right throughout the year, packed with music, dancing and street parades. Each island has its own individual carnival and being part of the lively atmosphere is an unforgettable experience and a true insight into the Caribbean Islands culture. The main holiday destinations in the Caribbean Islands are Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Barbados, Bahamas, St Lucia, Antigua, Grenada, Tobago, St Lucia, Margarita Island, Cuba and Mexico.

Food and drink

Food and drink in the Caribbean Islands reflects the colourful vibrant life and culture of the local people; the local produce forms the staple diet, fresh and nutritious, the locally produced rum is a must to try whilst lazing on the beach. From traditional rice and beans to luxurious all inclusive hotel cuisine, it is all on offer on holidays in the Caribbean Islands. Cuisines from all over the world are also served up in holidays to the Caribbean Islands, including Asian, Indian, Middle Eastern and other international tastes such as fast food outlets.

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Cayman Islands Facts at a Glance

The Cayman Islands are a British Crown colony with an envious standard of living, combining one of the world's largest banking centers with first-class scuba diving and watersports. Come and snorkel with the stingrays or relax on the famous Seven Mile Beach! The Cayman Islands are one of the cleanest and most relaxing travel destinations in the Caribbean. An abundance of amenities, teamed up with a low crime rate plus modern infrastructure and communications have created an enviable lifestyle in this laid back tropical paradise.

Location & Geography

The Cayman Islands are located in the western Caribbean Sea . They are the peaks of a massive underwater ridge, on the edge of the Cayman Trench, 8000 feet deep. The islands lie in the centre of the Caribbean south of Cuba and North West of Jamaica . But even Grand Cayman, the largest of the three islands, is not visible on many maps. The three islands are situated about 480 miles (770 km) south of Miami, 150 miles (240 km) south of Cuba, and 180 miles (290 km) northwest of Jamaica. Grand Cayman is by far the biggest, with an area of 76 square miles (197 km²). The two " Sister Islands " of Cayman Brac and Little Cayman are located about 90 miles (145 km) northeast of Grand Cayman and have areas of 14 square miles (36 km²) and 10 square miles (25.9 km²) respectively.

All three islands were formed by large coral heads covering submerged ice age peaks of the western extension of the Cuban Sierra Maestra range. Grand Cayman and Little Cayman are mostly flat. Cayman Brac has The Bluff, which rises to 140 feet (42.6 m) above sea level, the highest point of all three islands.

Electricity & Drinking Water

Electricity is the same in the Caymans as it is in the United States & Canada (110 volts, 60 cycles); it's reliable throughout the islands. Desalinated water is produced by the reverse osmosis process and centrally distributed to West Bay, Seven Mile Beach, Savannah, Bodden Town and some parts of North Side. Many residents still maintain cisterns for catching and storing rain water. Although "city water" is safe to drink, familiar brands of bottled water are also sold island wide at gas station, convenience stores and the major supermarkets.

Currency & Money

The Cayman Islands print their own currency, the Cayman Islands Dollar (KYD), which is pegged to the U.S. dollar at a fixed rate of 1 KYD = 1.227 USD. Thus, the C.I. Dollar's rate of exchange with all other countries is directly tied to the U.S. dollar's rate of exchange with those same countries. It is generally accepted that US $1.00 cash equals CI $0.80 (eighty cents CI). Travelers' checks and major credit cards are widely accepted at most stores. ATMs accepting MasterCard and Visa with Cirrus affiliation are readily available, particularly on Grand Cayman; you usually have the option of U.S. or Cayman dollars. The Cayman dollar (CI$) is made up of notes of $1, $5, $10, $25, $50, and $100. There's no $20 bill. There's no need for visitors to exchange their US dollars into local currency. Many merchants quote their prices in both CI$ and US$ and you can pay in either currency. If you pay in US$, you will receive your change in CI$.

Work Permits

In order to work in the Cayman Islands as a non-citizen, a work permit is required. This involves passing a police background check and a health check.

The Cayman Islands presently imposes a controversial "rollover" policy in relation to expatriate workers who require a work permit. Non-Caymanians are only permitted to reside and work within the country for a maximum of seven years (non-renewable) unless they satisfy the criteria of key employees. The policy has been the subject of some controversy within the press, and concerns have been expressed that in the long term, the policy may damage the pre-eminence of the Cayman Islands as an offshore financial centre by making it difficult to recruit and retain experienced staff. Government employees are exempt, although this has also been controversial.

Visas & Passports

As of January 23^rd, 2007 all U.S. citizens were required to possess a valid passport to enter the Cayman Islands. Visas are not required for U.S., U.K., or Canadian citizens. More details: travel documents & Cayman Islands Immigration entry requirements...

History

The Cayman Islands – often (but never by locals) referred to as "the Caymans", "Caymen Islands", or just "Cayman" – were first sighted by Christopher Columbus on May 10, 1503 during his fourth and final voyage to the New World. He spotted Cayman Brac and Little Cayman and named them Las Tortugas after the numerous sea turtles in the waters. The first recorded visitor to the islands was Sir Francis Drake, who landed in 1586 and named the islands the Cayman Islands after the Neo-Taino nation's term (caiman) for crocodile (Zayas, 1914).

The first recorded permanent inhabitant of the Cayman Islands, Isaac Bodden, was born on Grand Cayman around 1700. He was the grandson of the original settler named Bodden who was probably one of Oliver Cromwell's soldiers at the taking of Jamaica in 1655.

The islands, along with nearby Jamaica, were captured by the Spanish, and then ceded to England in 1670 under the Treaty of Madrid. They were governed as a single colony until 1962 when the Cayman Islands became a British Overseas Territory and Jamaica became an independent commonwealth realm.

Grand Cayman was hit by Hurricane Ivan on September 11 - 12, 2004, which destroyed many buildings and damaged 90% of the island's homes. Power, water and communications were all disrupted as Ivan was the worst hurricane to hit the islands in 86 years. However, Grand Cayman promptly engaged in a major rebuilding process, and within two years its infrastructure had nearly returned to pre-Ivan levels. The Cayman Islands currently enjoy the highest standard of living in the Caribbean aided by thriving tourism and banking industries ... more Cayman Islands history...

Culture: Demographics & Statistics

The latest population estimate of the Cayman Islands is about 51,992, from spring 2006, representing a mix of more than 100 nationalities. Out of that number, about half are of Caymanian descent. Caymanians are about 60% mixed race (mostly African-European). Of the remaining 40%, about half are of European descent and half are of African descent. The islands are almost exclusively Christian. The vast majority of the population resides on Grand Cayman. Cayman Brac is the second most populated island with about 2,000 residents, followed by Little Cayman with around 200 permanent residents. The capital and major city of the Cayman Islands is George Town, which is located on the southwest coast of Grand Cayman.

Economy

The economy of the Cayman Islands was once centered on the turtling trade. However, this industry began to disappear in the twentieth century and tourism and financial services became the economic mainstays during the 1970s. The United States is the Cayman Islands ' largest trading partner. With an average income of around $42,000, Caymanians enjoy the highest standard of living in the Caribbean . According to the CIA World Fact book , the Cayman Islands GDP per capita is the 8th highest in the world.

Tourism

Tourism accounts for 70-75% of the annual GDP of the Cayman Islands. Of the millions of tourists that visit the islands annually, 99% visit Grand Cayman. George Town also serves as a major cruise ship port, welcoming 4,000 to 22,000 tourists a day, five days a week, depending on the number of ships in port.

One of Grand Cayman's main attractions is the world-famous Seven Mile Beach on which a number of the island's hotels, resorts and condominiums are located. Seven Mile Beach is regarded by many as one of the best beaches in the world. Historical sites in Grand Cayman such as Pedro St. James National Historical Site, a restored Caribbean ‘Great House'; Bodden Town's Mission House; and the Mastic Trail between the north and south coasts; give visitors an idea of what island life was like 100-150 years ago. The 'Sister Islands' of Little Cayman and Cayman Brac supply their own unique charm -- a more relaxed pace, no crowds, and a little bit of the “islands time forgot” feeling.

The Cayman Islands is regarded as one of the world's best SCUBA diving destinations because of its crystal-clear waters and accessible wall dives. Little Cayman is frequently chosen as a favorite dive destination. Divers can find two shipwrecks off the shores of Cayman Brac, including the MV Keith Tibbetts. The popular Stingray City, in Grand Cayman, gives snorklers a thrill by allowing them to swim with and feed relatively docile Southern Stingrays.

Other Grand Cayman tourism attractions include the ironshore landscape of Hell; the 24-acre marine theme park Boatswain's Beach, also home of the Cayman Turtle Farm; and the annual Pirates Week Festival. On Cayman Brac, nature trails, rock climbing, and exploring the Bluff's caves draw many enthusiasts. Little Cayman's aboundant wildlife attracts fishermen and nature lovers, especially bird watchers in search of the island's Red-footed Booby population and the endangered West Indian Whistling Duck.

Financial Services & Banking

The Cayman Islands is widely recognized to be one of the world's leading offshore financial services centres.

The Cayman Islands financial services industry encompasses banking, mutual funds, captive insurance, vessel and aircraft registration, companies and partnerships incorporation, trusts, structured finance and the Cayman Islands Stock Exchange. As of December 2005, just over 70,000 companies were incorporated on the Cayman Islands including 430 banks and trust companies, 720 captive insurance firms and more than 7,000 funds.

A recent report released by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) assessing supervision and regulation in the Cayman Islands' banking, insurance and securities industries, as well as its anti-money laundering regime, recognized the jurisdiction's comprehensive regulatory and compliance frameworks. "An extensive program of legislative, rules and guideline development has introduced an increasingly effective system of regulation, both formalizing earlier practices and introducing enhanced procedures," noted IMF assessors. The report further stated that "the supervisory system benefits from a well-developed banking infrastructure with an internationally experienced and qualified workforce as well as experienced lawyers, accountants and auditors," adding that, "the overall compliance culture within Cayman is very strong, including the compliance culture related to AML ( anti-money laundering ) obligations...". The Cayman Islands had previously (briefly) appeared on the FATF Blacklist in 2000, although its listing was thought to be harsh, and was criticized at the time.

Government

The Cayman Islands is currently a British overseas territory, listed by the UN Special Committee of twenty-four as one of the last non-self governing territories. A fifteen-seat Legislative Assembly is elected by the people every four years to handle domestic affairs. Of the elected Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), five are chosen to serve as government ministers in a cabinet headed by the governor. The head of the elected government is the Leader of Government Business, which is currently The Honourable Kurt Tibbetts.

A Governor is appointed by the British government to represent the monarch. The governor can exercise complete executive authority if he/she wishes through blanket powers reserved to him/her in the constitution. He/she must give royal assent to all legislation, which allows him/her the power to strike down any law the legislature may see fit for the country. In modern times, the governor usually allows the country to be run by the cabinet, which is made up of the five elected ministers and three high ranking civil servants: the Chief Secretary, the Attorney General, and the Financial Secretary. The civil service is managed by the Chief Secretary, who is the Acting Governor when the Governor is not able to discharge his usual duties for one reason or another. The current governor of the Cayman Islands is His Excellency the Governor Stuart Jack, CVO, and the current Chief Secretary is The Honourable George McCarthy, OBE, JP.

The 1999 White Paper Partnership for Progress and Prosperity: Britain and the Overseas Territories sets out the Foreign and Commonwealth Office's policy on the Overseas Territories. This includes support and encouragement of constitutional modernization. Following the collapse of the Euro Bank Corporation in 2003, constitutional modernization has become an important issue in the Islands' politics. The prosecution in the trial was forced to reveal that MI6, on behalf of the British government and with the consent of the Governor, had planted moles (and used wire taps) throughout the Islands' banking industry. This caused the trial's collapse and subsequent release of those charged with wrongdoing. The only mole known at the time was allowed to leave the country, never to answer for what he (or the United Kingdom ) had done. This infuriated the elected members of the Legislative Assembly as they maintained that the Governor and the United Kingdom had put into question Cayman's reputation as a well-regulated offshore jurisdiction. Some saw this as the United Kingdom meddling in the territory's affairs to benefit itself (and the EU), at the expense of the islands' economy.

Constitutional talks however went on hold following Hurricane Ivan in 2004. Subsequently, in May 2005 elections, the ruling UDP Party was ousted by the PPM. A Constitutional Review Secretariat was opened on 1 March 2007. A timeline has been established, with public consultation on proposed constitutional changes leading up to the islands' first referendum before negotiations begin with the UK .

Taxes

Caymanians and Cayman Islands companies are not subject to any form of direct taxation. However, the Cayman Islands Government's primary source of income is indirect taxation. An import duty of 20% is levied against goods imported into the islands. Few goods are exempt; notable examples include books, cameras and baby formula. Duty on automobiles is charged on a sliding scale with the duty reaching 40% for expensive models. The government charges a flat licensing fee to financial institutions that operate in the islands. Each tourist that arrives on the islands is also charged a small fee, including 10% government tax added to all accommodations.

Education

Caymanian children are entitled to free primary and secondary education. The education system is a Caribbean-American-UK hybrid, reflecting the founders' and teachers' backgrounds. Various churches and private foundations operate private schools offering curricula derived from the American and UK education systems from kindergarten to grade twelve. Grand Cayman is also home to St. Matthew's University, which includes a medical school and a school of veterinary medicine.

The Cayman Islands Law School (CILS), affiliated with the University of Liverpool in the UK, is also based on Grand Cayman. Situated in George Town, the law school has been in operation since 1982. As taken from the student handbook: "The Law School provides tuition for both full and part-time programmes leading to the Bachelor of Law (Honours) Degree of the University of Liverpool and the qualification of Attorney-at-Law of the Cayman Islands, following successful completion of the postgraduate Professional Practicum Course (PPC).”

Grand Cayman is home to the International College of the Cayman Islands (www.icci.edu.ky) which is located in Newlands about seven miles east of George Town. The college was established in 1970 and offers Associate's, Bachelor's and Post Graduate degree programs. The Cayman Islands Government operates the University College of the Cayman Islands (www.ccci.edu.ky). Begun in 1975 as a community college, the institution has grown over the years and now offers Associate and Bachelor's degrees.

Healthcare

The Cayman Islands have a modern healthcare system. There are two hospitals in George Town, the government run Cayman Islands Hospital and the smaller, private Chrissie Tomlinson Memorial Hospital. Additionally, Faith Hospital is a small (eighteen-bed) facility on Cayman Brac. The Government maintains a satellite clinic on Little Cayman and health clinics in each of the districts on Grand Cayman .

Health insurance is handled by private insurers and a government-run company (CINICO). There is no universal health coverage as in the UK.

Currently the islands lack facilities for cardiac catheterization, though many feel the population is large enough to support the procedure. Various attempts to establish a cath lab at the Cayman Islands Hospital have stalled out. Cayman also lacked an MRI since one was destroyed during Hurricane Ivan. Recently, CT Scan, MRI and nuclear imaging capabilities were added at the Chrissie Tomlinson Memorial Hospital.

Military & Police

The defense of the Cayman Islands is the responsibility of the United Kingdom. The Islands have their own police force, the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service; Regular off-shore marine patrols are conducted by the RCIP.

Foreign Relations

The foreign relations of the Cayman Islands are largely managed from the United Kingdom, as the islands remain an overseas territory of the UK. However, the Government of the Cayman Islands often resolves important issues with foreign governments alone, without intervention from Britain. In its early days, the Cayman Islands' most important relationships were with Britain and Jamaica. In recent years, the Islands have developed a significant relationship with the United States.

Though the Cayman Islands are involved in no major international disputes, they have faced challenges. Located between North and South America, the Islands have been used for trafficking illegal drugs. In addition, all off-shore financial centres face criticism about money laundering. In an attempt to address these issues, the Government entered into the Narcotics Agreement of 1984 and the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty of 1986 with the United States . In more recent years, Government has stepped up the fight against money laundering by limiting banking secrecy, introducing requirements for customer identification and record keeping, and requiring banks to cooperate with foreign investigators.

Due to their status as an overseas territory of the UK, the Cayman Islands have no representation either at the United Nations, or in most other international organizations. However, the Cayman Islands still participates in some international organizations, being a full member of the Central Development Bank, International Olympic Committee and FIFA, an associate member of Caricom and UNESCO, and a member of a sub-bureau of Interpol.

Source: http://www.gocayman.ky/content/view/22/65/#Tourism_

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Abacos Islands

The Abacos Islands that remained untouched till the eighteenth century now provides its tourists with breath taking views and spellbinding boating experiences. Are you the kind who finds immense pleasure in exploring the underwater mysteries? Then Abacos Islands is just where you should land for your leisure trip.

Situated just 180 miles south east of South Florida, Abacos Islands maintains excellent maritime connections with the surrounding main lands. This archipelago encourages various types of leisure activities like scuba diving, boating, shopping and sizzling night life.

All you need to do is get to know a little more about this marvelous piece of land and book your tickets. Your wonderful time in these islands would keep you going back to it.

Beauty of Hope Town

The most famous kerosene lit lighthouse of Bahamas is situated in this village. This 120 feet historical light house is most definitely worth visiting. If you just drive off the coast of Marsh Harbor this town could be spotted on Elbow Cay.

Admire the Artist’s Work

Abacos Islands has a lot of art galleries to kindle your artistic talents. In the midst of the beauty of these islands you also get to admire the hand made artistic pieces of these islands.

Ocean blue gallery of Main Street offers an exquisite collection of early Bahamian art. Be it sculptures or paintings depicting the life of Bahamian people, you can find everything in this gallery. The rates range from $10 to $10000. Whether you’re an artist or a tourist who is looking for a souvenir, you’ll find your piece here according to your budget.

Indulge in the Luxuries of the Paradise

Abacos Islands offer its tourists with a different kind of luxury that is perfectly blended with adventure. Imagine swimming with a dolphin by your side and admiring the resplendent corals just under your feet from your boat. The luxuries of these islands are sure to rejuvenate everyone’s body and spirit.

The walks on the unexplored beaches which stretch for miles and the taste and aroma of the traditional food would never leave your memory.

For island-hopping as well as fishing you could rent power boats.

Where to stay?

As for your stay in Abacos there are plenty of resorts and rental houses that would suit the specifications of people from all walks of life. You could wake up to view the sunrise just outside your window and the ocean view would always keep your mind tranquil.

A variety of lodging options are available for the tourists. You can choose from Standard single bedroom accommodations to houses with full fledged kitchens. Houses with garden view or marine view are provided according to your preferences.

Now what are you waiting for? Abacos Islands is all set to welcome and entertain you. Bon Voyage!!!

Source: http://www.iho-ohi.org/index.php/category/bahamas/

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Andros, Bone Fishing Capital of the Bahamas

Largest of the many Islands of The Bahamas (104 x 40 miles), mysterious, mangrove-choked Andros is also the least explored, which means that you'll be sharing space with more terns and whistling tree ducks than humans--and maybe even a chickcharnie or two, those mischievous mythical inhabitants that are exclusive to this island. Reputed to be elfin creatures with three fingers, three toes, and red eyes, chickcharnies bring lifelong good luck to anyone lucky enough to see one. Andros even has its own "Loch Ness Monster," a dragon-like sea monster called the Lusca. No wonder the island was called "La Isla del Espiritu Santo" (the island of the Holy Spirit) by the Spaniards. Andros has come to be regarded "the bonefish capital of the world," where anglers from around the globe match wits with these challenging gamefish. It is also rapidly gaining interest as a spectacular dive site, with good reason--off the east coast of this island lies the third largest barrier reef in the world. The 12 foot water around the reef suddenly plunges 6000 feet into the Tongue of the Ocean, and contains colourful marine life of nearly all species, some of the world's deepest blue holes, and spectacular coral gardens and underwater caverns. Most of the major towns in Andros are scattered along its northeastern coast. Heading south, the settlements become more remote and are well worth a visit for palm-fringed beaches and warm and friendly people. Driggs Hill, Congo Town, and Kemp's Bay are ideal for long walks among wild orchids and relaxing in hammocks under the palms.

Source: http://www.geographia.com/bahamas/bsanin01.htm

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BOAT-BUILDING CAPITAL OF THE BAHAMAS

The Abacos are a sailing universe. Somewhere in the long necklace of pale-sanded islands and often uninhabited cays, flung out over 120 miles, you're sure to find the ideal private spot for some chilled champagne and a good book. Sheltered harbours create a haven for yachtsmen, and the slumber-struck 18th century villages and historic museums recall a tranquil past. The major islands of this small archipelago are Great and Little Abaco, with the off-lying cays of Elbow Cay, Man-O-War Cay, Green Turtle Cay, Guana Cay, Stranger's Cay, Umbrella Cay and Walker's Cay. The Abacos have a long history of providing refuge from hectic life in the States. It was at Carleton Point, Abaco's first settlement, that 600 Loyalist refugees fleeing the newly-independent United States settled in 1783, and Grand Cay was once a favorite retreat of former US president Richard Nixon. If you're not cruising there's still plenty to do. You can visit the Pelican Cay National Park, an underwater preserve; or, the Abaco National Park, a 20,000 acre site in southern Abaco encompassing the nesting area and habitat of the Abaco Parrot. Or spend a quiet afternoon at the Albert Lowe Museum, a restored 150-year-old mansion that now houses exhibits on local history. In the Memorial Sculpture Gardens, busts of some 30 Bahamians, representing different Bahamian islands, stand in an elegant, tranquil garden setting. Elbow Cay, with beautiful beaches and fine hilltop views, is the proud home of a candy-striped lighthouse standing guard over a picture-book harbour. A guide will show you around and tell you how the lighthouse operates. Nearby Man-O-War Cay (named after the bird) has always depended on shipbuilding for its livelihood. Some boats are still handmade-without-plans in a tradition that has been passed down for centuries. The town here resembles a New England sea-side village, save for the palm trees and tropical breezes. The commercial hub of the islands and third largest town in The Bahamas is Marsh Harbour, on Great Abaco, which has a plethora of well-stocked stores and marinas that provide services to fulfill the boater's every need. There are relatively few green turtles remaining on Green Turtle Cay, but they are bred here on farms and considered food. On occasion, boiled turtle or turtle stew, will appear on restaurant menus. Be aware when purchasing items made from turtle shell that they may have to be left behind, as it is illegal to import these products into many countries. Treasure Cay has an 18-hole championship golf course, tennis courts, a marina and facilities for fishing, boating and scuba diving. Nearby Treasure Island has superb beaches. Walker's Cay is the northernmost island in The Bahamas. Its waters are overrun with gamefish like tuna, dolphin, blue marlin, billfish, and kingfish among others. Walker's Cay Undersea Adventures offers bonefishing, deep sea fishing, secluded island picnics, tours of the tropical fish hatchery, and cookouts for dive groups.

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Nassau/Paradise Island

Nassau/Paradise Island is the home of the Bahamian national capital. Welcome to Nassau, bustling hub of The Bahamas since the shipwrecking days of the legendary pirate Blackbeard. Prized for its sheltered harbour, the city made history and preserved it beautifully in Victorian mansions, cathedrals, 18th-century fortresses and a Queen's Staircase whose 66 steps lead to a view not to be missed. Nassau is home to weatherbeaten, ancient forts; elegant, noble architecture; and fine local and international crafts and goods, from handmade lengths of batik to Rolex watches. An abundance of posh resort hotels, casinos, cabaret shows, and cruise ship docks make Nassau a vibrant center for entertainment as well as commerce. Parliament Square in downtown Nassau is the traditional center of the Bahamian government. Here, picturesque pastel buildings erected in the early 1800s by Loyalists, including the Houses of Parliament, the old Colonial Secretary's Office, the Supreme Court, surround a marble statue of Queen Victoria. Each season, the Opening Ceremonies of the Supreme Court fill the square with pomp and pageantry. Further downtown stands Fort Charlotte. Built in 1788, it is complete with moat, open battlements and dungeons. Standing by this impressive structure, one can almost hear the sound of cannon fire and the chilling laughter of marauding pirates above the splashes of waves. For a larger perspective of Nassau, go across the Cay to Coral Island, with its hundred foot tower and commanding view. Or descend into its underwater observatory for close encounters with stingrays and other creatures. You can even send details of your adventure from the world's only underwater mailbox. For encounters of a different kind, venture east and cross the bridge from the town of Nassau to "Paradise," with resorts, casinos and exciting nightlife on an island formerly called "Hog." Its transformation is not unlike Cinderella's putting on the glass slipper. For years the island stood completely undeveloped, its beaches and tropical splendor unnoticed by the world. Suddenly, with the addition of luxurious hotels and a sparkling casino, it was transformed into one of the most glamorous and celebrated resort centers in the world, combining exclusive tranquillity and lots of action. Reclusive millionaire Howard Hughes and the former Shah of Iran are among those who have found refuge here. As you go east, just past the bridge to Paradise Island, there is the boating heart of Nassau/Paradise Island with a number of marinas and boats for hire. The East End is also a delightful residential area showing the full flavour of the colonial past in its architecture and horticulture. Big houses with wide breezy verandas face the sea. Cable Beach, with its luxury hotels, casinos and beachfront, got its name in 1907 from the laying here of transatlantic telephone cables linking what was an isolated Bahamas to the rest of the world. But these days, the world comes to The Bahamas to see what it has been missing. For those who prefer a quieter, more serene Nassau/Paradise Island, it can be found farther west. Indeed, once you leave Nassau, the pace is slower. For example, the section of West Bay Street that leads to Cable Beach is nicknamed "Go Slow Bend." Beyond Cable Beach, the island is transformed. Large tracts of pine trees and rolling hills dominate the central portions of Nassau/Paradise Island, and the island's perimeter is marked by miles of fine white sand beach. The Coral Harbour development is a quiet, opulent community in a palm-clad setting. Its winding canals offer easy access to the sea. West of Coral Harbour, there is Adelaide, a tiny village with narrow streets. It was one of the first Black settlements established after the abolition of slavery. The area is a lovely, secluded spot for fishing and swimming. At the tip of the island, there is Lyford Cay, an exclusive residential enclave. After golfing or tennis or swimming, why not try some of the native cuisine of The Bahamas: Conch fritters, grouper fingers, peas 'n' rice, boiled fish, johnnycake and guava duff are just a few of the tasty dishes, all of which go just right with a tropical drink in your hand. From casinos, cabarets, magic acts and acrobatics to moonlight dinner cruises and theatre performances, Nassau/Paradise Island offers more options for nightlife than there are hours in the day to experience them all.



Source: http://www.geographia.com/bahamas/bsnpin01.htm

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Paradise Island

Island is currently the most expensive place to stay in the Bahamas. The small island was not always so glamorous, however. Paradise Island in the Bahamas was once known as Hog Island and was a major site for farming in the Bahamas. Paradise Island in the Bahamas is situated near New Providence, and the two islands are connected by a bridge between Paradise Island and Nassau Harbor.

Hog Island first became Paradise Island in the Bahamas when the island was purchased by Huntington Hartford in 1959. Huntington was the A&P Supermarket Heir and paid more then $11 million for the island. Huntington was the first entrepreneur to begin developing Bahamas Paradise Island and built the first major hotel on the site. He was also responsible for purchasing and transporting The Cloisters that rest at the Versailles Gardens, which is still a popular attraction on Bahamas Paradise Island. Huntington changed the name of the area from Hog to Paradise Island, and was also responsible for obtaining a gambling license for Bahamas Paradise Island. Huntington eventually turned ownership of the island over to his close friend and business partner, Jim Crosby, and ownership of the island has changed hands multiple times since then.

In addition to The Cloister, one of the main attractions for a Paradise Island vacation is the Atlantis Paradise Island Resort and Casino. The sprawling mega-hotel features the world’s largest open air marina, hundreds of rooms, a private beach, and an enormous casino. Even if you won’t be staying at the Atlantis for your Paradise Island vacation, the casino is a great attraction. If gambling isn’t quite your niche you can also shop at one of the nicest shopping areas on the island. The Shops at the Atlantis include well known brand names and plenty of souvenir boutiques.

Of course, no Paradise Island vacation would be complete without at least one trip to the beach or out into the ocean. No matter where you hang your hat at night, your hotel staff or concierge will be more then happy to help plan any sort of trip or tour you would like to take. Most hotels offer free shuttle service to and from the most popular beaches. You can also book trips for scuba diving, snorkeling, and fishing through your hotel. Thanks to Paradise Island’s proximity to Nassau, you can also enjoy some of the best attractions in Nassau. Paradise Island also has a couple of great golf courses, or you can always book a trip to visit Grand Bahama Island, as well.

Paradise Island is still the most expensive piece of real estate in the Bahamas, and in general guests find that a vacation there is more expensive than on other islands. Restaurants and nightclubs will reflect the higher cost, as will the hotels. Paradise Island can’t be beat, though, for having so much to do in one small place. Depending on how would like to spend your vacation time, Paradise Island Bahamas can be an excellent choice.

Source: http://www.destination360.com/caribbean/bahamas/paradise-island.php

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The Grenadine Islands

By Michael Russell

The Grenadines are located in the Windward Islands at the lower end of the Caribbean chain and they are situated between Grenada 75 miles (120 km) to the south, St. Lucia 24 miles (43 km) to the north and Barbados 150 miles (160 km) to the east. They are comprised of seven islands and are a part of the nation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and a member of the British Commonwealth.

English is the most used and also the official language of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. For everyday use, however, most Vincentians speak a local dialect, called Vincentian English or "Vincy" English. The dialect can vary a little from island to island ranging from easily understood to incomprehensible. Most of the people are of African descent, with a small percentage of Amerindian/black, European, East Indian and Carib people.

Bequia (pronounced "beck-way") is the northernmost of St. Vincent's Grenadine islands. It's also the largest (7 sq. miles) and most populated, with 5,000 people. Named the "island of the clouds" by the Caribs, the island is a delightful place, neat, quite hilly and well forested with a great variety of fruit and nut trees including lots of flowering bushes and some fine golden sand beaches. Bequia attracts quite a number of visitors, chiefly yachtsmen and also the smaller cruise ships and land-based (returning) visitors.

The main village is Port Elizabeth, which is located along the curve of Admiralty Bay. It is an appealing seaside community and the island's commercial centre. Admiralty Bay offers a safe anchorage for yachts and small cruise ships. The island was once the region's most important whaling station and there is also a strong boat-building tradition, however today the local boat-building manifests mostly in scale models. More than 90 percent of the boats pulling into beautiful Admiralty Bay are visiting yachts and in the height of the season the harbor is packed with yachts of all shapes and sizes.

A privately owned island, Mustique has been developed into an exclusive haven for the rich and famous. It is a beautiful island with fertile valleys, steep hills, an irregular coastline richly indented with bays and coves and 12 miles of white sandy beach. Lying 7 miles southeast of Bequia, the entire island with its beaches and surrounding waters are a conservation area. It has a population of about 800 people, most of whom work either directly or indirectly for those who vacation there. There are no towns and the island is not commercialized. Britannia Bay, at best a village, has a dock, 18 moorings for medium sized yachts, a general store and a handful of boutiques and the airport is about a mile northeast of the dock.

Canouan has dry scrubby hills and near-deserted beaches. It's a quiet, peaceful, crescent-shaped island located 25 miles south of St. Vincent. The island extends 3.5 miles in length, but in places this anchor-shaped island is so narrow that it can be walked across in a few minutes. There are about 700 people and equally as many roaming goats. The main anchorage is in Grand Bay, where the jetty is located, while the airport is about a mile to the west. Canouan's main attraction is its exceptional long, sandy beaches, several of which are reef-protected and good for swimming and snorkeling.

Mayreau, a small island 1.5 miles in length with a population of only 200, is most commonly visited by sailing cruises that travel through the cays and then sail into the deep V-shaped Saltwhistle Bay, at the island's northern tip. Saltwhistle Bay is protected by a long narrow arm, which at its narrowest, is just a few yards wide. The bay is stunning, with clear waters, beautiful white sands, calm waters and a protected anchorage for visiting yachts. Parts of the island are within the Tobago Cays Marine Park. There are no roads from Saltwhistle Bay, however, a track leads south to the village (a five-minute uphill walk from the dock to the village centre). There is a sandy beach along Saline Bay and deserted beaches within easy walking distance on the east side of the island.

Union Island, located 40 miles from St. Vincent, is the southernmost port of entry in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The island is about 3 miles in length and half that in width. It is high, rocky and dry, it's largely covered in thorny scrubs and dotted with cacti and free roaming goats. It has two settlements, Ashton and Clifton, with a combined population of 1,900. Seventy five percent of the population live in Ashton however, 95% of the activities take place in the commercial centre of Clifton.

Clifton is the centre of Union Island's thriving tour industry and includes a marina, airport, shops and restaurants. Most visitors use Union Island as a jumping-off point for cruising the uninhabited Tobago Cays and other nearby islands. There are a few nice deserted and remote beaches around the island. Union Island's west side reaches 1,000 feet at Mount Tabor and Mount Olympus reaches 637 feet in the northwest. The island's most substantial landmark is The Pinnacle, a 738-foot plug-shaped rock face that rises abruptly in the interior of the island between Clifton and Ashton.

Southeast of Union Island is Palm Island, a 10-minute boat ride away. It is a small whale-shaped island that is the domain of a privately owned luxury resort. The beach has long been a popular anchorage with yachters and is a stopover on many day tours between Union Island and the Tobago Cays. At the western side of the island, where boats dock, is the picture-perfect Casuarina Beach with sands composed of small bits of white shells and pink coral.

Referred to locally as PSV, is the southernmost and smallest of the inhabited islands that make up St. Vincent and the Grenadines (referred to as SVG). It's a beautiful privately owned 133-acre island with a single resort, fringed by white-sand beaches, coral reefs and clear waters. There are lots of trees and flowers providing a peaceful atmosphere and you can see most of the southern Grenadines from any location on the island.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Tourism

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell

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Key West Island - A Perfect Destination for Your Wedding

By Jerry Leung

When you are planning for your wedding, you would probably want to escape from all the traditional settings. Most couple nowadays will not be satisfied with a conventional wedding ceremony in church. Instead they would like to seek for something different and more unique. If you are one of these people, you can consider having your big day at the Key West Island.

Key West Island is located on the western end of Florida and is a main part of Florida Keys. In fact, thousands of weddings are hosted in Key West every year. This is a very hot and popular place for destination weddings. Of course some couples will discard this idea because of the budget. However, its tropical and romantic climates are some of the factors which attract so many couples.

Considering the venue, Key West Island can provide everything you can imagine. There are plenty of beautiful beaches and gardens. Besides, there are a lot of private resort to host both your ceremony and reception. If you want a bit more of privacy, you can also have a lot of choices. There are various private beach cottages in Key West Island so that you can have your wedding privately.

Without any surprise, the most popular theme of wedding in Key West is beach theme. You will be blessed by all the natural elements such as the sea and the sunshine. You have virtually no limit to plan your wedding ceremony there. If you think a traditional reception is too boring, a barbeque reception on the beach can be a perfect choice for you. If you would like to escape from the land and have a wedding on the sea, this island is perfect for you. You can rent a sailboat and have your wedding ceremony on it. You may also arrange your reception on a cruise if you like.

Another very common theme in Key West Island is underwater wedding. This is an exciting idea right? And yes you are actually taking an adventure as your ceremony. However, you also have to consider the issue of safety if you are planning to do so. Wedding is something meant to be fun and happy at the end of the day, you should never make it to be an unhappy or even sad event. You should do it if you do not dive at all. Both the bride and groom should be diving experts if they would like to go for this option. One of the most popular places to have such an adventure is the Christ of the Deep.

There are thousands of reasons for you to plan and have your big day in Key West Island. There are so many options and you can really make your big day very special and unique. Exchanging vows underwater is certainly very romantic. It should be very attractive if you are a diver. You can also think out of the box. There is a lot of potential and there are a lot more for you to explore. So, act now and start planning for your most memorable event in your life!

Jerry Leung is a wedding invitation designer with great interest in Chinese Style Wedding cards. He designs Contemporary Chinese Wedding Invitations Be sure to check his Ideas on Unique Wedding Favor You can also find Poems for Wedding Vow Renewal from his website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jerry_Leung

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