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Weather in Bahamas
Bahamas
22°
Overcast
Sun
21
22
Mon
21
23
Tue
22
23
Wed
22
24
Thu
23
24
SPF level in Bahamas
Recommended: SPF 50+
Spring
SPF 50
Summer
SPF 50+
Autumn
SPF 50
Winter
SPF 30
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Transportation in Bahamas
Tipping in Bahamas
Tipping is customary in the Bahamas for various service industries. A service charge is sometimes automatically added to bills, so check before you tip.
Restaurant
15-20% if a service charge is not included. If a service charge is included (usually 15%), additional tipping is optional but appreciated for exceptional service.
Bar/Café
15-20% if a service charge is not included. Same as restaurants, check the bill.
Taxi
15-20% of the fare.
Hotel Porter
1-2 BSD per bag.
Hotel Housekeeper
2-5 BSD per night.
Tour Guide
10-15% of the tour price, depending on the quality of service.
Safety & security in Bahamas
Tips for British travellers
Bahamas is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Do not go on foot outside the main tourist areas and beaches, especially if you are alone, due to violent crime.
The risk of petty theft and pickpocketing increases during regattas and festivals, so keep valuables in a safe place.
Do not leave your drinks unattended as there is a risk of drink spiking and sexual assault, especially during regattas and festivals.
Penalties for possessing or trafficking drugs are severe, and tourists may encounter drugs in pubs and bars, so you could face a substantial fine, deportation or imprisonment.
The water sports industry is poorly regulated, so be careful when renting jet skis and other water sports equipment, as many companies and individuals are unregistered or use poor quality equipment.
Bonus tips:
Local attitudes towards the LGBT+ community are mostly conservative, and showing affection in public may receive unwanted and negative attention.
Most swimming areas are marked by buoys, but beware of jet skis as these markers are not always respected by jet ski operators or tourists.
Driving in Bahamas
Side of road
left
Motorway speed limit
N/A (no motorways)
Urban speed limit
48 km/h (30 mph)
Alcohol limit
0.08%
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
911
Save 911 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Bahamas
Voltage
120V / 60Hz
Plug types
Type A, Type B
UK adapter needed?
Yes
Cards & payments
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in the Bahamas, especially in tourist areas.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1 303 967 1096
ATMs in Bahamas
ATMs are available in major cities and tourist areas, but may be less common in remote areas.
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are generally reliable in populated areas and accept international cards. Be aware of potential fees from both your bank and the ATM operator.
Mobile & roaming
Post-Brexit, EU roaming agreements no longer apply to UK mobile users. Check with your mobile provider about roaming charges in the Bahamas. Roaming charges can be substantial, so consider local SIM or Wi-Fi.
Local SIM data package
5 GB for 50 BSD (~£40)
Network coverage
4G, LTE
Local carriers
BTC (Bahamas Telecommunications Company), Aliv
WiFi & internet
Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, resorts, restaurants and cafes, especially in tourist areas. Quality can vary.
Average speed
25 Mbps
Wi-Fi is fairly widespread, but the performance can vary depending on the location. Mobile data may be a better option outside of main population centers.
Health & vaccinations
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including emergency evacuation. Check that your policy covers all planned activities.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
Consult your doctor or a travel clinic for the latest recommendations on vaccinations and preventative measures. Dengue fever is present in the Bahamas. Protect yourself from mosquito bites by using repellent, wearing long sleeves and trousers, and staying in air-conditioned accommodations. Medical facilities are adequate in Nassau and Freeport, but may be limited in more remote areas.
Calling Bahamas
Country code
+1-242
To call the Bahamas from the UK, dial 00 1 242 followed by the local number.
To call the British High Commission in Nassau from the UK, you would dial 00 1 242 322 7471.
The country code for the Bahamas is 1-242. When calling from abroad, dial your country's exit code, then 1-242, and then the local number.
UK Embassy in Bahamas
British High Commission Nassau
British High Commission, Ansbacher House (3rd Floor), East Street, P.O. Box N-7516, Nassau, The Bahamas
Airport in Bahamas
Frequently asked questions about Bahamas
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.