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Resources & References

Resources & References

Out Islands, The Bahamas

Digital Resources

Essential Apps

  • Google Maps

    Imperative for navigation. Download offline maps.

  • WhatsApp

    Widely used for local communication with operators.

  • Weather App

    Important for checking conditions and storm monitoring.

  • Airline Apps

    Useful for flight status updates and mobile check-in.

  • Currency Converter

    Useful if also traveling to other countries.

Useful Websites

  • Bahamas.com

    Official tourism website for general information.

  • Exuma Tourism Board

    Local resource for specific events and attractions.

  • Bahamas National Trust

    Information on protected areas like the Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park.

  • Resort/Hotel Websites

    For direct bookings, property details, and amenities.

  • State Department

    For current travel warnings and safety information.

Social Media & Podcasts

Tourism Accounts

Follow official Bahamas tourism accounts for photos and updates.

Local Businesses

Follow local Exuma businesses for real-time updates and specials.

Podcasts & Vlogs

Search for travel vlogs about 'The Exumas' for visual guides.

Print Resources

Guidebooks & Maps

  • General Caribbean or Bahamas guidebooks may contain Exumas sections.
  • Local maps often at airport or hotel front desks.
  • A good waterproof map useful for boaters and cay explorers.
  • Bahamas Cruising Guide (Waterproof Map) is available.

Local Publications

  • Local newspapers or tourism magazines for current events.
  • These provide local insights and business advertisements.
  • Look for them at the airport or in Georgetown.
  • Books on Bahamian history or local folktales deepen cultural appreciation.

Emergency & Medical Information

Critical Information

Medical Facilities

  • Exuma Health Centre in Georgetown provides main care.
  • Smaller clinics exist in other settlements for basic medical attention.
  • For serious emergencies, medical evacuation to Nassau may be necessary.
  • Ensure you have medical travel insurance.

Emergency Numbers

  • Police, Fire, Ambulance: Dial 919 or 911.
  • Exuma Health Centre (Georgetown): +1 (242) 336-2088.
  • U.S. Embassy in Nassau (for U.S. Citizens): +1 (242) 322-1181.
  • Contact your country's embassy for assistance.

Lost Documents

  • Passport: Report loss to local police for a police report.
  • Contact your country's embassy in Nassau for emergency travel document.
  • Credit Cards: Call your bank immediately to report theft or loss.
  • Have international contact numbers saved for credit cards.

Safety & Health Advice

Natural Disaster Protocols

  • Monitor local weather reports during Hurricane Season (June-Nov).
  • Follow instructions from local authorities or hotel staff.
  • Have travel insurance details ready for hurricane coverage.

General Health Tips

  • Reapply sunscreen frequently; wear hats for sun protection.
  • Pack bug spray for sandflies and mosquitoes, especially at dawn/dusk.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

Traveler Information

Accessibility Considerations

  • Pre-trip research on accommodation capabilities is important.
  • Direct communication with tour operators is required.
  • Infrastructure for mobility challenges is limited.

Cultural & Practical Tips

  • Embrace the 'island time' and relaxed pace of life.
  • Always greet shopkeepers and service staff.
  • Drive defensively and be aware of surroundings.

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries & Films

  1. Look for documentaries on Bahamian marine life.
  2. Explore films featuring the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park.
  3. Watch movies like "Thunderball" that feature the Exumas.
  4. These provide visual context and inspiration.
  5. Search on streaming platforms for travel vlogs.

Music & Online Communities

  1. Listen to Bahamian "Rake n' Scrape" music.
  2. Explore Junkanoo music and Calypso for cultural immersion.
  3. TripAdvisor forums offer peer advice.
  4. Dedicated Facebook groups provide personal recommendations.
  5. Online communities share real-time insights from other travelers.

Cultural Immersion

Visual Storytelling

Explore documentaries and films demonstrating the Exumas' natural beauty and history.

Sonic Journeys

Immerse yourself in Bahamian music, including Rake n' Scrape and Junkanoo.

Community Connection

Engage with online forums and groups for traveler insights and shared experiences.

Warning

Harmful chemicals in regular sunscreens damage fragile coral reefs. Choose mineral-based, non-toxic options.

Pre-Trip Checklist

Essential Preparations

Required Bookings

  • Flights

    Especially international and inter-island flights to GGT.

  • Accommodations

    Hotels, villas, or guesthouses require booking.

  • Popular Exuma Cays Boat Tours

    These often sell out, book well ahead.

Home Preparation

  • Secure Your Home

    Lock windows/doors, set lights on timers.

  • Arrange Mail

    Arrange for mail collection or hold service.

  • Plan for Pet Care

    Arrange care if you have animals.

Planning Timeline

-6 Months Before

Book flights and accommodations. Check passport validity. Research visa requirements.

-2 Months Before

Confirm all reservations. Arrange for travel insurance. Schedule vaccinations. Plan boat tours.

-4 Weeks Before

Make copies of documents. Notify bank. Arrange airport transfers.

Pre-Trip Research

Research Recommendations

  • Review current Bahamian entry requirements.
  • Check detailed weather forecasts for travel dates.
  • Look for any local events or festivals occurring during your stay.
  • Verify specific restaurant opening hours, especially in low season.

Packing Smart

  • Acquire reef-safe sunscreen.
  • Dry bags are ideal for boat tours.
  • Water shoes for rocky areas.
  • Waterproof camera for underwater photos.

Arrival Checklist

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • Clear Immigration and Customs at Exuma International Airport (GGT).
  • Pick up your checked luggage from the baggage claim area.
  • Locate your pre-arranged transport or proceed to the taxi stand outside the terminal.
  • Settle into your accommodation.

Orientation Strategies

  • Obtain a local map from your hotel front desk or the airport.
  • Locate the nearest grocery store (Exuma Markets in Georgetown) and ATM.
  • Purchase a local SIM card if desired for mobile data and local calls.
  • Buy bottled water or essential snacks to have on hand.

Good to Know

Remember to pick up checked luggage from the baggage claim area before leaving the airport.