Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
PHONE CARDS
The majority of Bahamian public telephones accept only prepaid phone cards issued by
BaTelCo
( 242-302-7827) , available at stores and other accredited outlets near phone-
card booths. The cards are sold in denominations of $5, $10, $20 and $50.
Safe Travel
In all likelihood, the most you will have to worry about on the islands are mosquitoes and
'no see ums' (sandflies).
NATURAL HAZARDS
Many of the reefs and beaches across the region have dangerous undertows and currents,
so do take care. Blue holes and caves are especially dangerous - don't explore without an
expert present.
Public warnings will be issued if a hurricane is due to come ashore. In the event of a hur-
ricane, seek shelter in the sturdiest structure you can find. (For more on hurricane seasons
see
Click here
)
.
The manchineel tree, which grows along the Bahamian shoreline, produces small, apple-
like green fruits. Don't eat them - they're highly poisonous! The sap is also irritating. Take
care not to sit beneath the tree, as even raindrops running off the leaves onto your skin can
cause blisters. Poisonwood, a common tree, has a scaly reddish bark that can cause poison
ivy-like itchy rashes when touched.
HUMAN HAZARDS
Most Bahamians are extremely law-abiding citizens and their tolerance of thieves and
criminals is extremely low.
Nassau is a distinct exception, where violent crime is dishearteningly common, though
largely confined to young Bahamian men with connections to the drug trade. Most of the
problems occur in the low-income area south of downtown called Over-the-Hill, an area
avoided by most foreigners. Tourists are very rarely affected by violence, though robberies
have been known to occur in downtown Nassau. Certain parts of Freeport on Grand Ba-
hama are also affected by crime, most notably the Winn Dixie Plaza area after dark. The
mellow Out Islands have little crime and many islanders still sleep with their doors open,
though Marsh Harbour, Abaco has a few slum areas best avoided.
Most crime against travelers is petty opportunistic theft, so take sensible precautions
with your valuables.
Tourist Information
Whatever the name, these places can be helpful with activity booking and hotel and res-
taurant recommendations, especially in major tourism centers like Nassau. On the Out Is-
