So Close, You Can Visit Anytime!

The best thing about the Bahamas is that you can always travel on a discount with a Bahamas vacation special. Since the islands are less than 150 miles away from the US mainland, the Bahamas offer tourist discounts all year round.

During the country's celebration of Bahamas Junkanoo (from June 10-July 29) you can find discounts on vacation packages that can save you up to 30% off the regular price by visiting websites such as Expedia, Orbitz, or even the country's tourist website at http://www.bahamas.com.

*If you can't travel during the summer, don't worry. The discount packages you can find during the off-peak months can go as deep as 50%!

Visiting the Bahamas on the Outs

The Bahamas or "The Islands of The Bahamas" (as its true name reflects) is made up of over 700 islands. Most of these islands are small and hardly populated or touched by civilization. Known as the "out islands", these islands serve as a perfect picture of peace and calm and offer an unspoiled look at the Caribbean.

While most tourists go directly to the main islands of the Bahamas, these smaller islands should not be overlooked. You can usually arrange an island-hopping tour of them and enjoy the beauty of their beaches and water.

Beauty Untouched on Abaco Beach

The Abaco Beach Resort, located in the out island of Abaco, is one of the least-known Bahamas resorts. However, this beautiful Bahamas locale is one of the major destinations for those "in the know" of places to visit that are off the beaten path.

With 72 oceanfront rooms, this quiet resort is the perfect place to unwind with family or just go to get away from it all. For as little as $795 per person, you can enjoy a four-night resort package vacation that includes swimming, boating, and sightseeing. And, for an additional cost, you can even stop worrying about where and when to eat with an inclusive meal package.

Snorkeling in Cat Island

Cat Island, one of the smaller Bahamian Islands is known for its beautiful beaches and snorkeling opportunities.

If you're interested in snorkeling, consider bringing your own gear. Everything on the islands will be at a premium price. The initial investment in getting your own snorkel, mask, and fins will really pay off later.

*Snorkeling can be a great activity for older kids. Encourage them to wear a white T shirt or tank top while they are in the water. This will give them a little extra protection against that hot Caribbean sun.

Alternative Travel to the Bahamas

You can always fly to the Caribbean, but have you considered going by boat? No, we don't mean a cruise - we mean a ferry!

If you live in Florida, or just feel like traveling to the islands in a fun and creative way, consider the Bahamas day ferry our of Fort Lauderdale. You can actually go for the day, but with a one way trip of about 5 hours, why not stay the weekend?

You can certainly find a good all inclusive resort package, or just find a little bed and breakfast or local inn. Either way, start and end your vacation in a relaxing way, rather than with all those security check points and lines.

Atlantis Found: The Atlantis Hotel in the Bahamas

When looking for a Bahamas resort with a distinctive flair, you need not look further than the Atlantis hotel. Originally built in the 1960's, the Atlantis was completely renovated in the late 1990's and built into the 34 acre luxury accommodation that stands today.

Atlantis is more than just a hotel or resort, however. The property's grounds are immaculately groomed...almost like a Disney World of the Caribbean. As for amenities, Atlantis offers various price ranges from affordable ($100 per night) up to extravagant ($750+ per night).

*No matter which facet of Atlantis you choose to enjoy, you can be sure you will enjoy your stay at this crown jewel of the Bahamas.

The Jewels of the Bahamas: Nassau and Grand Bahama

Most tourists prefer to visit the main islands of Nassau and Grand Bahama when on a Bahamas vacation. The most developed of the islands, Grand Bahama, has a bounty of activities to suit anyone: from golf to fishing to water sports.

Of course, what would a trip to the Bahamas be without a visit to one of their world-famous beaches? Nassau (also connected to Paradise Island) is the capital city of the Bahamas and is also one of the most beautiful coastlines in the Caribbean. Two 600-foot bridges connect Nassau to the 675+ acre Paradise Island. Just as its name implies, paradise awaits most travelers in this tourist hub that is custom tailored for tourists.