The Bahamas is an archipelago nation of approximately 700 islands and 2,400 cays. Only  a little more than 30 of the islands are inhabited  The islands cover an area of about 100,000 square miles, from Florida almost to Haiti. The official language is English and the currency, the Bahamas-Dollar, is equivalent to, and interchangeable with, the American dollar.

The main island is New Providence where the capital Nassau is located. It has a large and beautiful harbor and is the commercial and social center of the islands. Paradise Island sits adjacent to Nassau, accessible by car or a short ferry ride across the harbor.

The Bahamas have a sub-tropical climate, about 340 sunny days per year, and the clearest waters in the Caribbean region.

Quick Bahamas Facts:

Population:
Approximately 319,000 people.

Government:
Parliamentary system of government. The Commonwealth of The Bahamas became an independent nationstate on July 10,1973.

Transportation:
Taxis, car rentals, buses, jitneys and private limousines are available throughout the islands.

Tipping:
The usual tip is 15%.

Electricity:
Electrical current is 120 volts, 60Hz (standard U.S. equivalent).

Education:
The Bahamas has a 96% literacy rate.

Family lslands:
Eleuthera, Exuma, Abaco, Bimini, Spanish Wells, Walker's Cay, Rugged Island, Berry Island, Crooked Island, Andros, Cat Island, Mayaguana, Long Island, Akilos, San Salvador, Little lnagua, Great Inagua.