Nassau and Paradise Island: The Jewel of The Bahamas

• HelloHey
  [hey]
• GoodbyeGoodbye
  [guhd-bye]
• YesYes
  [yes]
• NoNo
  [no]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [pleez/yoor wel-kum]
• Thank youThank you
  [thank yoo]
• Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
  [eks-kyoos mee/sor-ee]
• How are you?How you doin'?
  [how yoo doo-in]
• Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [fyn. and yoo?]
• Do you speak English?You speak English?
  [yoo speek ing-lish?]
• I don't understandI don't get it
  [i dohnt get it]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the menu, please
  [i'd like to see the menu, pleez]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [i dohnt eet meet]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI would like to pay, please
  [i wood like to pay, pleez]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Go 'way!
  [go way]
• Call the Police!Call the Police!
  [call de police]
• Call a doctor!Call a doctor!
  [call a doctor]
• I'm lostI lost
  [i lost]
• I'm illI sick
  [i sick]

• I'd like to buy...I'd like to buy...
  [i'd like to buy]
• I'm just lookingI'm just lookin'
  [i'm just look-in]
• How much is it?How much is dat?
  [how much is dat]
• That's too expensiveDat too pricey
  [dat too pricey]
• Can you lower the price?Can you drop de price?
  [can you drop de price]

• What time is it?What time it be?
  [what time it be]
• It's one o'clockIt one o'clock
  [it one o'clock]
• Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [half past (10)]
• MorningMornin'
  [morn-in]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [even-in]
• YesterdayYestadee
  [yes-tah-dee]
• TodayToday
  [today]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [tomorrow]
• 11
  [1]
• 22
  [2]
• 33
  [3]
• 44
  [4]
• 55
  [5]
• 66
  [6]
• 77
  [7]
• 88
  [8]
• 99
  [9]
• 1010
  [10]

• Where's a/the...?Where dat...?
  [where dat]
• What's the address?What de address?
  [what de address]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [can you show me (on the map)]
• When's the next (bus)?When de next (bus)?
  [when de next (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket (to ....)]

Before the arrival of Europeans, Nassau and Paradise Island were inhabited by the Lucayan people. This indigenous group lived in the Bahamas for centuries, developing a rich culture and society. They were skilled in fishing, agriculture, and navigation, and their influence is still felt in the island's cultural fabric.

On October 12, 1492, Christopher Columbus made his first landfall in the New World on San Salvador Island, which is part of the Bahamas archipelago. This event marked the beginning of European exploration and colonization in the region, forever altering the course of its history.

In the late 1600s and early 1700s, Nassau became a haven for pirates. The sheltered harbor and proximity to major shipping routes made it an ideal base for notorious pirates like Blackbeard and Charles Vane. Nassau was declared a 'Pirate Republic' during this time, with pirates effectively controlling the island until the British clamped down on their activities.

In 1718, the British established formal control over Nassau and the Bahamas, appointing Woodes Rogers as the first Royal Governor. Rogers succeeded in driving out the pirates and restoring order. Nassau became a key British outpost in the Caribbean, growing in importance as a center of trade and commerce.

The American Revolution had a significant impact on Nassau and the Bahamas. Loyalists fleeing the American colonies settled on the islands, bringing with them enslaved Africans and their own cultural influences. This influx led to the development of plantations and a more diverse population.

Slavery was abolished in the British Empire in 1834, leading to significant social and economic changes in Nassau and the Bahamas. The freed African population began to make their mark on the island's culture and society, contributing to the development of a unique Bahamian identity.

In the 20th century, Nassau and Paradise Island experienced a tourism boom, transforming from a quiet colonial outpost to a bustling tourist destination. The construction of luxury resorts, casinos, and other attractions drew visitors from around the world, making tourism the backbone of the local economy.

On July 10, 1973, the Bahamas gained independence from Britain, becoming a sovereign nation. Nassau, as the capital, played a central role in the celebrations and the transition to self-governance. The city continued to grow and develop, balancing its rich history with modern advancements.

Nassau and Paradise Island are known for their vibrant cultural festivals, such as Junkanoo. This colorful and energetic parade, held on Boxing Day and New Year's Day, features elaborate costumes, music, and dancing. It is a testament to the island's rich cultural heritage and community spirit.

Today, Nassau is a thriving metropolis that blends its historic past with modern amenities. The city boasts a mix of colonial architecture, bustling markets, and pristine beaches. Paradise Island, connected to Nassau by bridges, is home to world-renowned resorts like Atlantis, offering a luxurious escape for visitors.

Nassau, the capital of The Bahamas, is easily accessible by air and sea. Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) is the main gateway, located around 16 kilometers west of downtown Nassau. Major airlines offer direct flights from North America, Europe, and the Caribbean. Cruise ships frequently dock at Prince George Wharf in Nassau Harbour. For those traveling from other Bahamian islands, domestic flights and ferries are available.

Nassau and Paradise Island offer multiple transportation options. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or arranged through your hotel. The jitney (minibus) system is an affordable way to travel around Nassau, though routes can be confusing for first-time users. Car rentals are available, but remember that Bahamians drive on the left side of the road. For short trips, bicycles and scooters can be rented. Water taxis are a scenic way to travel between Nassau and Paradise Island.

The official currency of The Bahamas is the Bahamian Dollar (BSD), which is on par with the US Dollar (USD). Both currencies are widely accepted. Credit and debit cards are commonly used, especially in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets.

Nassau is generally safe for tourists, but some areas have higher crime rates. Avoid the Over-the-Hill area, especially at night, and exercise caution in the downtown area after dark. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded places. Always stay vigilant, avoid displaying valuables, and use hotel safes for important documents and cash.

In case of emergency, dial 919 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The Princess Margaret Hospital in Nassau provides comprehensive medical services. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues, and many staff speak English.

Fashion: Do wear light, breathable clothing suitable for the tropical climate. Don't wear swimwear outside of beaches and pools. Religion: Do respect local religious customs. Dress conservatively when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do have exact change for jitneys. Don't expect them to run on a strict schedule. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Good morning' or 'Good afternoon.' Eating & Drinking: Do try local Bahamian dishes like conch and rock lobster. Don’t forget to tip, as it is customary.

To experience Nassau and Paradise Island like a local, visit the Fish Fry at Arawak Cay for authentic Bahamian cuisine. Explore the local straw markets for unique crafts and souvenirs. Engage with Bahamians, known for their warm hospitality, to learn more about the islands' rich history and culture. Don't miss the Junkanoo Festival if you visit during Christmas or New Year.