Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
blend with 190-proof alcohol to create your very own signature fragrance ($30). See also
International Bazaar
MARKET
( Freeport; some shops open daily, others only for cruise ship tours) Back in the 1960s,
this warren of international-themed shops and restaurants was a cutting-edge attraction,
with faux European alleys, mock Chinese temples and simulated Middle Eastern souks.
Today it's a half-abandoned curiosity, notable mostly for its decay. Despite the ghost town
vibe, a handful of interesting shops remain - check out glassblower Sidney Pratt, or Ba-
hamian bath and beauty product shop Jubulee. Or just bring your camera and snap some
eerie pics of the cracked Parisian facades or mildewed Chinese Buddha statues.
ACTIVITIES
Diving & Snorkeling
The diving here is considered some of the best in the Bahamas. In addition to dolphin, shark
and cave dives, wreck-dive fans will love the thrill of swimming through Theo's Wreck,
a 240ft-long sunken freighter, where you can safely wiggle through the hold and engine
room, and visit the friendly resident moray eels. Other super-cool wrecks include two Span-
ish galleons, the
Santa Gertrude
and
San Ignacio,
which ran aground in 1682 off the south
shore near present-day Lucaya.
All dive operators offer half-day snorkel trips that include transportation (adult/child
$45/30). A popular and established dive and snorkel operator:
Underwater Explorers Society (UNEXSO)
DIVING
( 242-373-1244, 800-992-3483;
www.unexso.com
; Port Lucaya Marina, Lucaya; 2-tank
dives $99, dolphin dive $219, equipment rental $40) One of the world's premiere diving
centers, PADI five-star certified UNEXSO offers the full range of scuba activities. Choose
from one of multiple daily reef and wreck dives, or check out one of UNEXSO's specialty
trips. The shark dive with shark expert Cristina Zenato will earn you bragging rights for
years to come, as will the spooky subterranean cave dives. For the less adventurous (or
more prudent), the center's popular dolphin dive gives you the chance to socialize with
Flipper and friends (see right ). Sign up early. For student divers, a four-hour intro to diving
course is $109, while three-day open water certification courses start at $449.
Other options:
Pat & Diane Fantasia Tours
SNORKELING
