The Telegraph’s
Cruise Guide to Nassau
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Festival Place, Nassau |
Despite sitting in the Atlantic Ocean, Nassau, located on New
Providence Island is widely regarded as the cruise capital of the
Caribbean. It’s easy to understand why, as this lively hub has lots
to offer in the way of extravagance and luxury. The tropical climate
is also quite an attraction. Some cruise lines have even bought
their own private islands in the Bahamian archipelago, for the
exclusive use of their passengers.
Cruisers porting at Nassau will disembark onto a lively welcome
centre, Festival Place, which resembles a bustling Bahamian village.
Here you can visit local stalls selling arts and crafts, or sample
some of the island’s mouth-watering cuisine, such as pineapple &
coconut tart or locally made ice cream. Though Festival Place is an
exhilarating first taste of Nassau, you will probably be keen to
quickly explore more of this stunning island.
There are many ways to get around Nassau, including motor scooter,
taxi and ‘jitney’ (a small motorized vehicle). One of the most
popular methods of transports for tourists, is to ride through the
island on a surrey. Most journeys last around 20 minutes, and depart
straight from the cruise terminal.
The centre of Nassau has lots to offer if your stay on the island is
short and you want to take in as much as possible. Parliament Square
is a popular draw for tourists—located
on the city’s hub of Bay Street. This impressive square is home to
the Queen Victoria statue and pastel pink Georgian buildings that
are a reminder of the island’s colonial history.
You may also want to explore Paradise Island, which is a 10 minute
taxi ride over the connecting bridge. The island is a slow, relaxed
environment, though certainly not lacking in luxury. Paradise Island
is home to a world class golf course, and the tropical Atlantis
Island hotel and resort. Inspired by ancient Atlantis, this
sprawling display of elegance and grandiose is a sight not to be
missed.
Though Nassau is well known for its bustling centre, there are more
peaceful areas of the island you can explore. If you are willing to
take a taxi and leave the city behind, there are many quieter,
hidden settlements waiting to welcome you.
If you only have a short time in Nassau, you may want to sample some
of the culinary delights the island has to offer. Seafood is a big
part of Bahamian cuisine, and conch is particular favorite amongst
locals. Many restaurants serve conch in a variety of ways, including
fritters or as an addition to salads. Gourmet lovers may wish to
head to the Graycliff restaurant and hotel. A former pirate haunt,
this is home to one of the Bahamas top gourmet spots, offering a mix
of Bahamian and French cuisine. Delicious seafood makes up a large
part of the tempting menu, including lobster tails and crab claws.
However you choose to explore the island—whether
you are keen to explore as much as possible, or prefer to relax on
the island’s luxurious beaches, you are sure to have a holiday that
will leave you wanting more.
The Telegraph
Cruise Guide has more on Nassau and
Caribbean Cruises if you want to find out how to make the most
of your cruise holiday.
Article Courtesy of
telegraph.co.uk
Photos © CruiseDiva.com
Learn More About Nassau & the
Bahamas
Bahamas -- Is it
really “Better in the Bahamas” as the old tourism slogan claims?
Cruise Lines' Private Islands
-- Established to provide a beach break on an island (or part of
one) reserved for their exclusive use, most are located in the
Bahamas chain of "home" islands.
