Nassau, Bahamas ~

The powder white beaches are the ultimate playground, and with water temperatures averaging about 80°F year-round, water sports are naturally a popular vacation activity. Throw on a swimsuit. Grab a towel. Explore the emerald-green, turquoise, and crystal-blue waters one sport at a time.

Visit Atlantis, Paradise Island, and plan to spend the day. It’ll take you that long to see everything in this billion dollar complex. Luxurious designer shops, the Caribbean’s largest Casino, eye popping architecture, and the world’s largest marine habitat. Experience over eight million gallons of salt water exhibits featuring Ruins Lagoon, a recreation of the sunken city streets of mythical Atlantis; The Dig, a replica of an archeological excavation site; and Predator Lagoon with its sharks, barracuda, sting rays and large grouper, just some of the 120 species you’ll see.

For a really unique interactive experience, take a brief harbor cruise on a Calypso boat and visit Blue Lagoon Island, a beautiful cay just off Nassau’s shoreline. Two thousand palm trees, crystal clear waters, and white sandy beaches greet you upon arrival. Here you can snorkel with one of nature’s most graceful creatures at Stingray City; or enjoy swimming with the reigning marine mammal at The Dolphin Encounter!

While beaches are a big attraction, something that won’t be found on the shores is the rich history and culture of its friendly people. Trek inland and sample the native fare. Dance in the streets to Goombay music. Take a guided tour throughout this beautiful island and see the Queen’s (Victoria’s) Staircase, walk the dungeons of Fort Charlotte, or visit the exotic Botanical Gardens and beautiful National Parks.

Grand Bahama Island , Bahamas ~

Grand Bahama Island was chosen as one of the best Caribbean Destinations in the 2008 Travelers' Choice® Destinations Awards! This fantasy island earned its distinction as one of the world's top vacation spots to visit because of its impressive combination of entertaining manmade attractions, historical and cultural elements, and awe-inspiring ecological wonders - including a fifty-two mile stretch of pristine white-sand beach.

As home to the spectacular resort areas of Freeport and Lucaya, there is always something for everyone; and certainly shopping tops many of our travelers' wish-list of favorite things to do. The best duty-free shopping is arguably concentrated at the International Bazaar and the Port Lucaya Marketplace. But be sure to check out the quaint boutiques and gift shops found in the downtown area and major resorts as well. Everything from duty-free items like jewelry, perfume, and liquor - to local arts & crafts, wood sculptures, straw & shell products, and unique clothing creations are readily available.

Water activities are plentiful. The Island's reputation as a diver's paradise comes from the elaborate coral gardens and unique azure portals in the reefs that you can descend. Not certified? Then snorkel the shallow reefs and view the brightly colored fish, or take a ferry out to the lagoon and swim with the dolphins. This area is also considered one of the world's premier sport fishing destinations. Strap yourself in and get ready to hook onto a marlin, sailfish, blue and yellowfin tuna, bonefish, or barracuda-to name a few.

If exploring is for you, then this is your island. Most people who come to Grand Bahama never realize that the natural attractions are its finest assets. You can check out a secluded beach. Or visit the wondrous Lucayan National Park - home to Ben's Cave, which is the second longest underwater surveyed cave system in the world. And across the street is Gold Rock Creek, home to all five ecosystems of Grand Bahama. Or maybe take a relaxing tour through the twelve acres of indigenous flora and fauna at The Garden of The Groves. Whatever your choice is - It's going to be a fun one!