Some of us are programmed to explore, others are programmed to dream. Regardless of which category you fall into, there is a whole world out there just waiting to be discovered.
Her.ie’s new weekly travel guide brings you to some of the most inspiring places in the world and dares you to turn those dreams into an adventure of a lifetime.
As the saying goes, ‘home is where your passport is’ – so where will your passport end up next?
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This week we’re off to the Bahamas where you can kayak through the 365 Exuma cays, wander the stunning pink-sand beaches of Eleuthera and discover the world of pirates in Nassau.
Life’s a beach
The Bahamas is world famous for its beaches, and with over 2,000 islands to choose from along with the clearest water you will possibly ever see, it’s not difficult to see why people flock back there year after year.
Handy hint: It doesn’t really matter which beach you go to, as you will be blown away by the beauty of them all and won’t want to come home! Our favourite? Treasure Cay Beach with Tahiti Beach running a very close second.
Paradise Island
Take in the stunning surrounds of the Atlantis on Paradise Island, a stunning resort and water park that was officially opened in 1998 and has been recreated on The Palm in Dubai.
Handy hint: Book in for the water park – it is worth every second.
Andros
Rich in culture and steeped in history, Andros has so much to see and do that if you manage to get yourself away from the beach, it is a must visit. Take in the lighthouse with cannons from an old wreck, the old pirate’s well and cave.
Handy hint: Get involved with the locals by heading out on the crystal clear waters with them.
Harbour Island
Take a trip to Eleuthera and Harbour Island where you can soak up the history and culture, taking in the island and the Spanish Well.
Handy hint: Be sure to take a look inside the stunning Preacher’s Cave.
Grand Bahama Island
If you fancy an off-road adventure then the Grand Bahama Island is the one for you. You can also take in some brilliant shopping, tours and heritage sites.
Handy hint: Make sure to visit the open-air market and the only distillery on the island.
Dance your cares away
Regardless of where you are in The Bahamas one thing is for sure, you will be kept entertained. As the sun goes down, you will be amazed with the local music and culture.
Handy hint: Make sure to sample some of the local tropical cocktails. If you can time your trip for Christmas and New Year, you might be lucky to catch Junkanoo the street parade that has to be seen, particularly in New Providence.
Long Island
Explore the magnificence of Hamilton’s Cave, one of the largest caves in The Bahamas. It was here that a pre-Columbian gallery of drawings was discovered in 1935 and will leave you awestruck.
Handy hint: Be sure to take a hike up the monument commemorating Columbus at the cliff on the north side of the island.
The Blue Hole
The Blue Hole is the world’s deepest known salt level blue hole with an entrance below sea levels. Located 202 metres in a bay west of Clarence Town on Long Island.
Handy hint: Make a stay on Exuma another stop when you’re out that direction.
Nassau
There is so much to see in Nassau that you need to take time to explore it. From the historical building at Rawson Square to the Gregory Arch and historical forts you will be kept busy all day.
Handy hint: Head to the Queen’s Staircase and explore the museums and be sure to visit Blue Lagoon Island about five kilometres away.