Info about Bahamas

Starting 60 miles off the coast of South Florida and stretching as far south as Cuba, Haiti and the Dominican Republic, The Bahamas has over 700 islands, 29 of which are inhabited. Set in the most beautiful, crystal blue waters, these islands share a rich history and culture.

The Bahamas has a thriving economy, with tourism being the number one industry, representing 50% of the Gross Domestic Product. Over 3.5 million tourists visited Nassau, Grand Bahama and the Family Islands in 1993, with an estimated spending of $1.304 billion. International banking & other financial services is the number two industry. As of June 30, 1994, 410 institutions were licensed to provide banking and/or trust business in The Bahamas. With no income tax and no corporate tax, retail and wholesale distributive trade prosper as well.

In November of 1992, the Bahamas Government lifted customs duties on the following imported items: china, crystal, fine jewelry, leather, linens and tablecloths, liquor, perfume, cologne and toilet water, photographic equipment, sweaters, watches and wine. These items can now be purchased 100% duty-free.

It is not surprising that tourism flourishes in The Bahamas when each island, including Grand Bahama, Long Island, Inagua, Cat Island, Bimini, Andros, Eleuthera, Paradise Island, Exuma and Nassau/New Providence, has its own distinct character & so much to offer its visitors. Among the diverse activities that guests can enjoy throughout the islands are: world-class diving; every water sport available under the sun, including sailing, windsurfing, waterskiing, parasailing, snorkeling, SCUBA diving and jetskiing; sports fishing; for those who like to stay dry, there is golf, tennis, horseback riding, cycling, volleyball, squash, racquetball; a wide variety of dining from casual to elegant gourmet and so much more!