WHAT TO DO WITH EIGHT HOURS IN NASSAU, THE BAHAMAS

Bahamian Taxi Driver Shares Insider Tips on How to Plan a Day Trip In Top Caribbean Cruise Port

NASSAU, The Bahamas – Jan. 9, 2011 – Thousands of cruise ships arrive in Nassau’s Port of Call each year, offering cruisers an opportunity to experience The Islands Of The Bahamas capital city. In a location that is bustling with activities and attractions, visitors frequently ask questions such as ‘what are the top family attractions’ and ‘where can I find the best Bahamian food’ when attempting to create an itinerary that meets the desires of all companions.

In a new Islands Of The Bahamas web story, ‘Nassau, Bahamas for Day Trippers’ Bahamian native and veteran taxi driver Stephanie Johnson shares her insight and recommendations for cruise passengers docked on day trips to Nassau. From water-based activities like diving and snorkeling, dolphin encounters or simply lounging beachside, to shopping, cultural sites and island tours, Johnson says planning for a day trip in Nassau holds many possibilities. Some of her top recommendations include:

• Explore Festival Place at Prince George Wharf and purchase authentic Bahamian-made souvenirs and crafts. Taxi service, island tours and excursions can also be arranged here.
• Embark on diving or snorkeling excursions at Stuart Cove, or arrange a Dolphin Encounter on Blue Lagoon Island
• Shop at the newly built Straw Market on Bay Street to interact with local artisans and sample their work
• Attend ‘Da Fish Fry’ at Arawak Cay, an ideal spot for local Bahamian food and culture Try fresh conch salad, native fish fry or a traditional drink of coconut and gin.
• Purchase a day pass to Atlantis resort  to visit the aquarium or 141-acre water park
• Visit the Pirates of Nassau museum for a rich history of the life and times of pirates in The Bahamas
• Lounge on one of the many white sand beaches and sip an iced-cold Bahama Mama or Kalik beer

To view the ‘Eight Hours in Nassau’ web story as well as other Islands Of The Bahamas videos, visit The Bahamas YouTube page.

In addition to attractions referenced in the web story, day trippers should also visit:

• Government House, the official residence of the Governor-General of The Bahamas since 1901 and the host of such notable occupants as the Duke and Duchess of Windsor during World War II.  The Changing of the Guard ceremony occurs here every Saturday at 10 a.m.
• Queen’s Staircase to climb 65 steps (originally 66) dating back to the late 18th century and carved by slaves into a solid limestone cliff in honor of Queen Victoria’s 65-year reign.
• Ardastra Gardens and Zoo to stroll five acres of tropical greenery include an aviary of rare tropical birds, other exotic animals and the renowned for its marching flamingos.

The Islands Of The Bahamas have a place in the sun for everyone from Nassau and Paradise Island to Grand Bahama to The Abaco Islands, The Exuma Islands, Harbour Island, Long Island and others. Each island has its own personality and attractions for a variety of vacation styles with some of the world’s best scuba diving, fishing, sailing, boating, as well as, shopping and dining. The destination offers an easily accessible tropical getaway and provides convenience for travelers with preclearance through U.S. customs and immigration, and the Bahamian dollar at par with the U.S. dollar. Do everything or do nothing, just remember It’s Better in The Bahamas. For more information on travel packages, activities and accommodations, call 1-800-Bahamas or visit www.Bahamas.com. Look for The Bahamas on the web on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. To purchase one-of-a-kind items from The Bahamas, visit www.eshopbahamas.com.

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Media Contacts:              

Lauren Lane                                                             Anita Johnson-Patty  

Weber Shandwick                                                    Bahamas Ministry of Tourism        

(212) 445-8303                                                        (954) 236-9292                 

llane@webershandwick.com                                  ajohnson@bahamas.com