With over 2,400 Cays and 700 islands in the Bahamas (of which only 30 are inhabited), the archipelago is a paradise for sailors, sun-worshippers, conservationists, and would-be pirates alike (at least pirates by the Jimmy Buffett definition of the term.) Though the Bahamas is named after its famously aquamarine coastline (the country’s name is derived from the Spanish term Baja Mar, which means ‘clear waters’), there’s much more to this island nation than meets the eye—however visually appealing its tropical surfaces may at first appear.

For those of you who have vacationed in the Bahamas you probably think you’ve experienced it all holed up in your luxury resort. How about you weekend spring breakers, did you ever adventure away from the beach or the bar? If either of those describes you, you are missing the true Bahamian experience.

There is more to the Bahamas than Senor Frogs and swimming with pigs (Exumas) although, of course, both activities certainly hold their own appeal.

The rich cultural heritage of the Bahamas is evident in the festivals and events held throughout the year, as well as in the cooking, dancing, and (yes) rum-distilling that can be found throughout Nassau and the outer islands to the present-day. If you get a chance to attend the Junkanoo Festival (Boxing Day – the day after Christmas) you will have the time of your life. The costumes and dance are well worth the adventure. Junkanoo is also held New Year’s Day and several Saturdays throughout the summer.

Just outside your resort, or inland from the sandy beach is a thriving culture and food scene at your fingertips.

In fact, there’s never been a better time to visit to experience a culturally immersive getaway in the Bahamas, not least because the locals have made it a mission to provide such experiences for their guests. If you happen to be visiting during the last Friday of the month, attend the monthly tea party hosted by the Bahamian Tourism Bureau and enjoy their cucumber sandwiches. It’s hosted in the Government House, which is just as spectacular as The White House, only with better views, and — always a plus — it’s pink.

The colorful architecture in the Bahamas never disappoints. It’s particularly vibrant at Compass Point Beach Resort, but more on that later.

Another offering coordinated by the tourism bureau is the People to People Experience that lets visitors connect with the locals, as it is a program where you are hosted by a Bahamian family in their home. They cook for you and (spoiler alert), it’s delicious. But, your culinary adventures need not be limited within the home.

Check out Tru Bahamian Food Tour (and request the ever-charming Wil Gadot) to explore the culinary scene in the capital of Nassau. You will discover there are similar flavors and dishes throughout the Caribbean (i.e. rice, conch, etc.).  Guests can sample Bahamian specialties like Jonny Cakes, which are Gadot’s favorites.

Learn more about local history at the Heritage Museum of the Bahamas, just down the block from the Government House. Fans of The Crown will appreciate the photographs.

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Listen to Katherine’s Podcast on the Bahamas

Adventures of The Bahamas

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