Being all about solo travel, we could talk all day about the benefits of travelling the world by yourself; the main one though is probably only having yourself to rely on. (The facts. The Bahamas is huge—some 700 islands distributed over 100,000 square miles of western Atlantic Ocean. The quick spread of coronavirus can partly be attributed to air travel, so a list of the safest destinations to travel to is pertinent right now. Protecting yourself against mosquitoes is more than just a suggestion in the Bahamas: here they transmit Chikungunya virus. So let’s take a look at what’s going on with these islands…. In Freeport, you’ll be able to catch a jeetney between there Port Lucaya but it’s not very frequent and quite often late. avoiding trouble as a solo female traveller. Thinking about going to the Bahamas? Related: Where can Americans travel … This isn’t Thailand. When it comes to eating out children will usually be welcomed into a restaurant as Bahamians are family-oriented and love children. Basically, the healthcare is decent in the Bahamas, it can just be a little lacking if your trip is to the outlying islands and if you seek professional advice. However, according to the Royal Bahamas Police, in 2018 the murder rate was reduced by 25% and crime as a whole is down by 14% percent. Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own. There’s quite a bit that makes us think that maybe the Bahamas isn’t as safe as you think it is, but let’s look at that in more detail…. Crime is a big problem here. There you have it. This is something that means you’re going to have to be relying on the local taxis, so now you probably want to know…. Towns can be hazardous to drive in, the streets busy, the drivers crazy…. The result will let you know if you need a visa or not. Even if you’re only going for a few days, that’s more than enough time to get smote by wrathful angels. Whether you actually lose your wallet, or your wallet mysteriously “goes missing”, it can still make your trip turn sour. You’re also going to want to make sure you buy or rent a house that is going to withstand tropical storms and hurricanes – and that’s high enough that means flooding isn’t a worry, either. Enjoy your travels! Once you have the negative result, you can apply for a Bahamas Travel Health Visa here, where you must opt in for Covid-19 health insurance. It’s all about helping out our tribe of awesome backpacker readers [that’s you!]. Whether you need to purify the water from a hostel sink in Kathmandu or a stream trickle in the Andes, the Geopress has got you covered. A recent “crimewave” in the Bahamas has led the United States to issue a travel advisory from the 25th February 2019. There are two ways your points and miles can help the country. “The health and wellbeing of both residents and visitors remain the number one priority of public health officials. Make sure you have small change to pay for your taxi to avoid getting shortchanged. Travelling on buses after dark is not a good idea and will put you at more risk of being a target. The outer islands don’t have any public transport, but you can get to them by using ferries operated by a company called Bahamas Ferries. Close. You can always hire a driver: much easier and pretty affordable. They run between 6 am and 7 pm and they basically just follow a massive loop around the island; just look at the front of the bus to see where it’s going. The Ministry of Health has developed protocols to allow individuals presently in The Bahamas but not on one of the above listed Family Islands, to travel to those specific islands. Those with sensitive stomachs may want to arrive in the Bahamas complete with rehydration sachets and anti-diarrhoea meds…. That’s if you want to go independently, of course. Renting a car can be expensive and the cars are often in bad condition anyway. The cost of a Bahamas Travel Health Visa is free for children 10 and under, and starts at $40, rising to $60 for trips longer than four nights, according tourism officials. I consent to my personal information being processed in accordance with The Broke Backpackers. Do your own research. Interesting side note, Bahamians themselves often rely on herbal remedies. The Ministry of Tourism, along with local governments, have implemented things like CCTV, regulations to improve the safety on boats, and general “aggressive efforts” across all ministries to help make the Bahamas a “welcoming environment” for visitors. All travelers have to wear masks and always social distance in public spaces during their stay. CJI Conversation: What’s Next for Tourism Investment in Trinidad, The 21 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in 2021, How to Visit the US Virgin Islands Right Now, Bahamas’ Atlantis Resort Launches Free Testing Program, Frontier Is Adding New Nonstop Flights to Punta Cana, In St Barth, a Classic Caribbean Beach Villa, Caribbean Photo of the Week: Pos Chiquito, Aruba, Melia Launches Free Testing, Insurance in Punta Cana and Mexico, Dominican Republic’s Casa de Campo Adds On-Site Testing, Divi Adds On-Site Testing for Aruba Resorts, Turks and Caicos’ Ocean Club Launches On-Site Testing. This, however, is balanced out by the positives of living in the Bahamas: friendly people, laid-back lifestyle, great weather and simple living. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 4 Travel Health Notice for the Bahamas … Most likely these sorts of hotels – more like resorts and quite possibly all-inclusive won’t just be the best option for you and your children, but also they will be the most appropriate too. There are issues facing the Bahamas at the moment that might lead to a downturn in these visitor numbers. Travel. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. There are 19 mail boats in all and you will be able to spot them leaving Potters Cay (in Nassau). Travel mishaps can and do happen and it is well worth thinking about insurance before you leave home. If you are wondering if travel to The Bahamas is possible this year, here is what you need to know about how Irma (and Maria) affected the islands. Poorly regulated water-sports are a source of danger as well. The PCR testing requirement does not include children age 10 and under or pilots and crew of commercial airlines who remain overnight in The Bahamas. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. The Bahamas government offers up free care for its residents, but not for visitors, meaning that you will need health insurance. You should make sure you get a licensed taxi – those have a yellow number plate. Many women do travel solo to the Bahamas. Caribbean Coronavirus travel restrictions can change dramatically from day to day. Traffic rules aren’t always adhered to by the locals – and traffic police don’t enforce those rules, either. In the most touristed areas of the Bahamas, you will definitely want to keep your money safe; this is where it’s most likely to be pinched. There are tons of ways to store valuables and goods while traveling but a travel scarf has to be the least obtrusive and the most classy. No pickpocket or potential thief is going to think of looking in such a normal-looking belt! Single-use plastic bottles are a huge threat to Marine Life – Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. If you decide to do so, make sure you arm yourself with good car rental insurance coverage. Both Nassau and Grand Bahama feature emergency rooms that are open 24 hours a day. After you receive your test results you must visit this link prior to your arrival date to complete the Bahamas travel card … To be on the safe side, arrange a driver or recommended taxi service through your hotel. In total, there are around 50 health facilities spread across the outlying islands. Travel Advisory Levels. The romance of the Bahamas may be one thing, but the reality of stepping outside the resort areas is another. You’ll probably make friends with other families too, so they’ll get some new playmates! Is public transportation in Bahamas safe? Famous for its crystal coastline, having a zillion (well, 2,000) islands, beaches – including Pig Beach – as well as coral reefs, this paradise archipelago is a popular destination. Find your place amongst the chickens, parcels and other people and head to one of the 30 inhabited islands of the Bahamas. In 2018 the Bahamas welcomed 6.6 million visitors and is set for a record-breaking 2019, apparently. The taxis in the Bahamas are pretty well regulated and fares (fixed as well as per the meter) are set by the local government; that means you won’t have to be haggling every trip. If you’re not feeling well ask at your hotel about the nearest healthcare clinic or pharmacy to get advice and over the counter medication. You can help rebuild the Bahamas. We’d recommend an island other than Grand Bahama or other islands and towns associated with crime. “As of now, we are looking at a possible opening date for commercial travel on or before July 1st. COVID-19 Updates and Travel Information The Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board is monitoring the evolving situation regarding COVID-19 very carefully. If you need a little more room for your passport and other travel valuables, have a look at a full-size money belt that tucks under your clothes instead. There is no Uber in the Bahamas and there’s no Lyft either. If you do decide to go for a motorbike, wear a helmet! The Bahamas may seem like more of a place for honeymooners and retiree tour groups rocking up on cruise ships, but these islands can be travelled solo though it comes with some risk. If you already have a trip planned, don’t cancel it unless you hear to do so from your travel agent or tour operator. This property also allows a free cancellation. Though the outer islands are quiet and relatively free of crime, the downside is that they have less in terms of medical facilities. This isn’t backpacking in Europe. If in doubt, go all-inclusive, get on a tour, and ready yourself to lounge on the beach with pretty much no worries. Simply click the button, choose your country of origin from the menu, and select the Bahamas as your destination. These boats tick between islands and are pretty slow. Together, you can snorkel, go horse-riding, make sandcastles all day long and splash around in the pool. What better way to do that than putting them toward a trip for good? Check out our EPIC review of the best down jackets for backpackers in 2021! They’ll be helpful, friendly and will help you get to where you want to go. This certainly makes for a bit of a worrying situation in this group of islands, which is why we have put together this insider’s guide to staying safe in the Bahamas. For those who do want to see some things outside of that world of convenience will find a lot of family-friendly adventures to be had. To navigate the tastiness safely here’s some helpful tips…. The Bahamas Travel Health Visa and accompanying medical insurance is available to cover medical expenses related to COVID-19. As such, travel is neither practical nor advisable at this time. Where Can Americans Travel Right Now? The hotel is running a sale on its two-bedroom villas right now in the USVI. Most of the time you’ll probably just want to spend your time hanging out at the beach – we totally get that. ), 23 Top Safety Tips for Traveling to the Bahamas. Whilst COVD 19 has not gone away, the world is opening up again to travellers. Luckily for you, we’ve got an awesome recommendation: the Active Roots Security Belt. There are medical facilities available mainly in Nassau, Grand Bahama and Paradise Island. How to Visit the US Virgin Islands Right Now: Bahamas’ Atlantis Resort Launches Free Testing Program: Frontier Is Adding New Nonstop Flights to Punta Cana: In St Barth, a Classic Caribbean Beach Villa: This British Virgin Islands Resort Is Making a Comeback: Caribbean Photo of the Week: Pos Chiquito, Aruba: Melia Launches Free Testing, Insurance in Punta Cana and Mexico: Dominican Republic’s Casa de Campo Adds On-Site Testing: Jamaica Expanding Testing Capacity for Travelers: Divi Adds On-Site Testing for Aruba Resorts: Turks and Caicos’ Ocean Club Launches On-Site Testing: Cozumel Hotels Launch Testing Options for Travelers: Sign up for Caribbean Journal's free newsletter for a daily dose of beaches, hotels, rum and the best Caribbean travel information on the net.Click your way to the Caribbean. 9 Countries You Can Travel To Right Now. Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page page before you plan any international travel.. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Travelling smart also takes into consideration stuff like staying in secure and safe accommodation in the first place, and making sure that you don’t use tour companies, watersports rentals and excursion outfits that aren’t reputable. For the most part, families will be safe in the Bahamas. Ensure you and your little ones are covered up against the sun; use plenty of sunscreens and limit everyone’s time in the sun. Ports in Grand Bahama are now operating as normal and a number of hotels and resorts there have reopened. In an emergency, you should call 911 or 919. We work hard to put out the best backpacker resources on the web, for free! Though it’s all good if you’re sticking within the bounds of an all-inclusive resort – of which there are many – if you’re trying to stick to a budget and do things more independently, you’ll be more likely to encounter a sketchy situation. The only problem you’ll have with your kids on the islands… adults-only resorts and high-end restaurants; make doubly sure that the accommodation you’re going to book welcomes children. Made up of many beautiful islands, the Bahamas stretch west, from just 120 kilometres off the coast of Florida to the south, where it’s a mere 97km from Cuba. People often say “be vigilant” – but unless you know what of, that’s kind of a useless tip! For the most up-to-date safety information and what you should be doing to help, please consult the WHO and your local government. January 26, 2021 January 26, 2021 Edit Everything You Need To Know About Traveling To The Bahamas Right Now It’s better in the Bahamas — trust us . Read our Where to Stay Guide for our favorite accommodations in the Bahamas by area. And have you thought about getting Travel Insurance for your trip? A recent “crimewave” in the Bahamas has led the United States to issue a travel advisory from the 25th February 2019. Bimini, a small triplet of islands in the Bahamas, is just 30 minutes from Miami.Colonizers from the U.K. started visiting the islands over 200 years ago, though it has largely managed to keep itself a secret. The Bahamas comes packed with a lot of social issues, namely gaps between rich and poor, plus being a bit of a conduit for the drugs trade to North America and Europe. Or do they? The Bahamas, like any other country, is facing a dilemma of balancing public health and its own economy. For one thing, catcalls and sexual harassment have been reported by women walking around Bahamian streets. If you head to any of the outer islands it’s probably better to stick to bottled water in general anyway. In 2018, there were 43 crimes involving tourists in the Bahamas, too – 30 of which were US nationals. However, there are some concerns about living somewhere that’s got such a high crime rate, which is why the Bahamas’ sizeable expat community live in gated communities. As of January 3, 2020, the CDC recommended US residents avoid nonessential travel to certain affected areas of The Bahamas, including the Abacos and Grand Bahama Island. Keep our tips in mind and know that some areas of the more touristed islands just aren’t a good idea to visit. Airbnb's Most Unique Properties Worldwide. Subscribe to Read More. These dates may change depending on the circumstances. Life in the Bahamas sounds like a dream, right? Is the Bahamas safe for solo female travellers? Travelers from all countries are permitted to visit the Bahamas under regular visa requirements. They also note police patrols in tourist areas. Do be sure to read the terms and conditions to make sure that the policy covers your needs. Opt for an infinity scarf with a hidden zipper pocket. Find out what you need prior to travel and what you can expect once you're here. There’s information on what islands of the Bahamas are safe, how solo female travellers can make the most of their trip, what the situation is with public transport – and even when hurricane season is because that is also an issue in the Caribbean! As we said, these can take a long time and are very weather dependent. The British High Commission reports that there has been an increase in reports of break-ins and robberies across New Providence, Grand Bahama and Freeport. There is public transport in the Bahamas, but not on all islands and certainly not that structured; it runs on Bahamas time. Pick up an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. We have used World Nomads for years now, reviewed their travel insurance policy, and I have personally made several claims. If you’re paranoid then maybe you might want to stick to hotel food or only go to international restaurants – this is fine, it’s your trip after all. However, this advisory doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be going anywhere; the Bahamas responded to America’s update by saying that it shares this “level 2” advisory with France, the UK and Spain (the latter being one of the safest countries in Europe). Why not get a quote from them yourself? Taking basic safety precautions, your kids will be safe in The Bahamas. “The Bahamas has remained diligent in its efforts to minimize the spread of COVID-19 throughout the islands, and these measures are imperative to ensure that remains the case,” The Bahamas’ Ministry of Tourism said in a statement. Reading reviews takes precedence over your budget here, 100%. I cover travel and transport with an … So much so that you won’t even have to leave the walls of the resort. Coronavirus AKA COVID-19 came from Wuhan in China and … Whilst solo travelling in the Bahamas might not seem like the best thing to do as we said, it can be done. Don’t expect to find facilities like high chairs and baby-changing rooms. Share Share Tweet Email Comment. The Bahama’s new travel protocols officially took effect this weekend: all travelers need to obtain a negative PCR test five days prior to arrival and apply for a Bahamas Travel Health Visa (you can find it here). “Find out how YOU can support the site. Living in Paradise Island may seem like a little slice of paradise, however, that kind of place is actually more geared towards tourists and is lacking in amenities (such as hospitals too). So make sure you’re well prepared before you go. Heightened police presence has been noted. The water in the Bahamas is said to be fine to drink, but it’s not that nice. Gabriel Leigh Contributor. They’re often the main form of transport and, for the most part, you’re not going to have too much trouble with them. Thanks for your support. If they are closed they will have the emergency numbers posted on their front doors. Sleep safe! These are referred to as jeetneys and are surprisingly easy to use and pretty frequent, though not that reliable. There are obviously parts of life in the Bahamas that are not safe in some areas: crime, poverty, corruption. Enjoy! Locals often drink bottled water. It’s believed that US citizens have been assaulted primarily in Nassau on New Providence Island. You can even book ahead; ask the Bahamas Tourist Office or the dockmaster in Nassau for details. Driving in The Bahamas is much like driving in the UK – it follows the UK’s driving laws, such as driving on the left-hand side of the road; that doesn’t mean, however, it’s as safe as driving in the UK. Read our full review of the GRAYL GEOPRESS! You can see it in the right top corner of the page you are currently on. If you’re reading TPG, you clearly love to travel and are all about learning how to maximize your points and miles. Of course, sometimes it can all be a case of bad luck, but knowing the sorts of annoyances and dangers you’re going to encounter makes for a good first step of what to look out for. Writer and Editor, Ana Pereira is a California native, inspired by Earth exploration and introspection. One of the most annoying things that can happen to you whilst travelling anywhere in the world is to lose money. The Bahamas may be paradise, for some people at least, but the beaches and warm weather of this archipelago are balanced out by a fair bit of crime. Do that than putting them toward a trip for good GRAYL GEOPRESS water bottle can take a long and! Of being a target you know if you want to go to walk-in clinics if your,. 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