The Bahamas is an archipelago of 700 islands and 2,500 cays. Its colourful history includes a diversity of characters – from the notorious pirates Blackbeard and Calico Jack to the Loyalists who fled the American Revolution to rebuild their lives on what was then British soil.The Bahamas gained independence from Great Britain on July 10, 1973.
The Bahamas has a sub-tropical climate, friendly people and – according to astronauts – the clearest waters in the Caribbean region. Not surprisingly, tourism is the largest industry. Diverse vacation experiences abound on each island. Nassau and Paradise Island combined have about 26 beaches. Pink Sand Beach on Harbour Island is named for the pale pink powder that stretches for three miles. Eleuthera is famous for its pineapples and Abaco for sailing. The sportfishing capital is Bimini, just 50 miles off the coast of South Florida; and Grand Bahama Island is the country’s centre of eco-tourism, offering nature tours, kayaking, horseback riding, national parks and botanical gardens.
But by far the most alluring features of The Bahamas are its sparkling turquoise waters and powder-white beaches, stretching for miles.