Electricity is normally 120 volts AC. American appliances are fully compatible.
Languages Spoken
The official language is English, more British than American.
Currency
Bahamian dollar (B$). Both U.S. and Bahamian dollars are accepted interchangeably throughout the islands.
Gratuity Tips
Tipping is always your choice. However, bellboys and porters usually receive $1 per bag. Waiters and taxi drivers usually receive 15%. Many establishments include the gratuity in their bills.
Taxes and VATS
There is a "departure tax" of $15 per person from Nassau/Paradise Island and the Out Islands, and $18 per person from Grand Bahama Island. There is no sales tax on the islands.
Banks, Credit Cards, ATMs
Most of the larger islands have ATMs located in branch banks, airports, most casinos and other convenient locations. Most machines dispense Bahamian currency. Machines in casinos and at Rawson Square in Nassau dispense U.S. dollars.
Driver License Requirements
A driver's license from a visitor's home country is required and can be used for up to three months. Visitors can also apply for an international driver's license. Traffic proceeds on the left in the Bahamas.
Clothing Requirements
Casual spring and summer attire including lightweight shorts, t-shirts, pants, sun-dresses and beachwear are recommended. Be sure to bring a sweater or jacket for cooler evenings from December to February. Most hotels, restaurants and casinos require jackets for men in the evening, especially in cosmopolitan Nassau and Grand Bahama Island.