The Bahamas: A Long Weekend in Exuma

what do you think of when you hear "the bahamas?" nassau / paradise island/ atlantis?  but what about the rest of the islands?  

The background: We headed to Exuma for a girl’s trip for my good friend’s bachelorette party. There was a group of 6 of us, which was perfect for this trek off the beaten path, including some of the most scenic and picturesque ocean landscapes I’ve ever been to!

Time of year traveled: August, 4 nights

This Island is for you if: you love going off the beaten path, adore tranquility, and love the feeling of remoteness.

This Island is not for you if: you crave familiarity and structure, or desire extensive nightlife and hospitality options.

The details: unlike Nassau, its more well-known neighbor to the north, Exuma has much to be explored and developed, making it a unique and charming destination for those who want to avoid the Señor Frogs crowd or the usual Atlantis antics (nothing wrong with any of it, though!) You can opt for a resort (they are limited but available) or a house rental, which is what we ended up doing for this trip.

Getting there: from the US, you will most likely have to take a connecting flight from Nassau (BahamasAir) Fort Lauderdale (Silver) Atlanta (Delta) or Miami (American.) The airport is teeny tiny and all part of the fun!

Must know before you go:

- Credit cards are not widely accepted no matter what you read or what anyone tells you. It is wise to exchange money (to Bahamian Dollar) in your home bank, if possible, to limit fees or bring USD which is also accepted (and nearly 1 for 1 last time I checked.) There is a bank in town with an ATM, but for some reason it kept rejecting my debit card (thankfully I was with others.)

- Transportation is limited: download WhatsApp to communicate with taxi drivers and arrange pick-ups. It’s mostly through word of mouth and typically whoever picks you up from the airport, you can get their card for future needs.

- Word of caution if renting a car: you will have to drive on the other side of the road! It could be an option but just know that roads are primitive (mostly paved) but you will have to adapt to the other side…which may or may not be something you want to do on vacation.

Noteworthy Highlights:

• Boat trip to Kahari Resort for the day on nearby Stocking Island- you can also stay here as they have bungalow accommodations!

• Swimming with the pigs - but the best part of this day tour was actually just boating around to the different cays and swimming in the crystal-clear ocean with not a care in the world!

• Our Accommodation: Sea Star Villa at February Point

  *As COVID protocols continuously change, please be sure to check the requirements for entry for any destination you are planning to visit. What is relevant one day, may be outdated the next.

  As always: travel mindfully, respectfully and responsibly.