This tropical paradise is the perfect getaway for both worn-out nerves and adventure-lovers. Easily accessible from Miami, Florida, Canada and parts of Europe, this archipelago consists of 700 islands sprinkled over 100,000 sq miles of ocean. New Providence, Paradise Island, Grand Bahamas, Abaco….an unending list of must-visit places, silken white beaches, world-class golf facilities, state-of-the-art casinos and water adventure are a few of a host of reasons that make The Bahamas irresistible.

Boasting of the world's third largest barrier reef and about 14.5% of the world's under-water corals, there are innumerable cays, islands and islets to visit in The Bahamas. With its capital in Nassau, Mt Alernia on Cat Island is the highest point at 206 ft. Thirty of the islands are reportedly inhabited, while most of the remaining are known to be unspoiled realms. Mountains with rocky cliffs, rain forests, exotic bird-life and azure waters, flanked by undulating stretches of pristine beaches, are the arresting features.

Beach-based tourism being at its best here, one can choose between scuba-diving, snorkeling, deep sea fishing, shark diving, cruising and bone fishing. For nature lovers, bird varieties like the flamingo, red legged thrush and the rare Bahama parrot are a must-see. Bright yellow fish, flame-colored coral, and fragile sea anemones are a visual treat that await below the sea.

Shopping and dining are the favored indulgences for the less adventurous. Custom duties being relaxed to support the tourism industry, both duty-free shopping for global luxury brands of watches, perfume, jewelry, leather goods, cameras, etc and closing in on local produce like spices can be an exhilarating experience. The culinary delights offered range from Mediterranean, Continental, Italian, Chinese, and American, to the hot favorite – seafood. 15% service charge is usually added.

Accommodations in the Bahamas

All-inclusive resorts with top-notch amenities for a luxurious holiday; eco-tourism and camping for the outdoor enthusiasts; economical rental villas; beach front and plantation properties; private islands: there is something for every traveler. For the budget-conscious, small hotels and inns, which are a true slice of original Caribbean, are the best bet. Luxuryaccommodations offer spas, casinos, mountain-bike rentals, watersports and numerous other amenities. Camping sites, such as the Guadeloupe National Park, are armed with cabins, cooking zones, restrooms and cafeterias.

English, peppered with local accents, is the official language. Moderate temperatures ranging from 60-90 degree F, the rainy season extending from May-November accompanied by the occasional hurricane, the northern and western islands being cooler than the southern ones are the basic climatic traits. Cool, oceanic winds round out the year and ensure comfortable weather, making The Bahamas an all-season hotspot!