Travel to The Bahamas Now
Travel to The Bahamas; they are calling your name. White, pink and coral sands are combined with warm azure waters. Sounds like paradise right? These shades unite the archipelago of over 700 islands spread out over 100,000 square miles.
More recently, the path of Hurricane Dorian united the people with a struggle for survival. The country has a message they would like all travelers to hear. Choose to visit the Bahamas.
Yes, Hurricane Dorian left devastation in its wake. Abaco and Grand Bahamas received a destructive blow, and the first thing you can do is donate money, goods or a portion of time to the hurricane relief. You’ll find a partial list of organizations at the end of the post.
Travel to the Bahamas Aids Recovery
In reality, the majority of the Bahamas’ islands are unaffected and waiting to welcome you. The memo is clear, Bahamas tourism could really benefit from tourist dollars. Don’t wait for future travel plans, reconsider travel to the Bahamas and visit now.
Travelers can do something for The Bahamas by doing nothing on one of our beaches. Plan a trip to Nassau, Paradise Island, and the Out Islands. Our beautiful island nation is ready to welcome you, said Hon. Dionisio D’Aguilar, Minister of Tourism.
Fortunately, the hotels that are closed represent only about 15% of the country’s entire list of hotel properties. Islands in the southeast and central Bahamas were lucky to miss most of Dorian’s wrath. In addition, Nassau and its adjacent Paradise Island remain ready to greet visitors. 14 of the islands are awaiting guests with open arms and friendly Bahamian warmth that characterizes the country. Each has a unique personality, vibe and culture.
Bahama Islands map ©Bahamas.com
Tourism and Travel to the Bahamas
More than six million tourists visit the Bahamas each year. Most select Nassau and Paradise Island as their destination. Visitors who want to look further can book a stay in Eleuthera, Harbour Island and Andros, The Exumas, Cat Island, San Salvador, Rum Cay, Long Island and Ragged Island. Both Mayaguana and Inagua offer a more remote and lesser known vacation spots. All are receiving guests. You can check Bahamas.com for regular updates to the list.
After seeing all of the dramatic television coverage, it can feel a bit uncomfortable to think about having a luxe vacation on the beach while so many have been left homeless. Believe me, I get it. Writing the words feels a bit contradictory to me as well. It might help to reframe your vacation and think of it as aiding the economy and helping affected areas rebuild. The Bahamian financial structure centers on tourism. Never before has there been a greater need for those funds to flow into this island nation. The areas in the north left devastated will benefit from visiting in the unaffected areas.
The Gift of Travel to the Bahamas
For those of you with travel plans already, the best way you can help is to visit and keep those plans in place. After your vacation, spread the word about the positives. With the holidays quickly approaching, if you are considering a warm weather vacation, Exuma’s swimming pigs are anticipating your arrival.
Who needs wrapped presents when a vacation in crystal blue waters and white sandy beaches will be a gift to your loved ones as well as the Bahamian residents. Many airlines are offering change options or delayed flight bookings, so be sure to check for terms when making reservations. Selected hotels are offering special rates.
#BahamasStrong
As a Boston resident, I immediately felt the impact of the Marathon Bombing in the city. I also know the power of the words #BostonStrong and how commanding and hopeful the hashtag made us all feel. I can only hope a little of that STRENGTH has been passed to the people of the Bahamas. If you’re a fan of Instagram, take a moment and search thru #BahamasStrong . You’ll be inspired by the stories of volunteers beginning the battle of working thru the damage of the hurricane. So many grass roots groups making a difference. Perhaps you too will be inspired to help. #chefsforBahamas is another.
Donate to The Bahamas Relief
Donating to established groups is the immediate way to help, and giving money is the most effective support. Below are some links, and you can check for further information on Charity Navigator, an organization that vets charitable organizations in the United States.
- World Central Kitchen teams are providing food on Grand Bahama and the Abacos. I have such admiration for Chef José Andrés’ organization and his team! They have been working tirelessly since Day 1 and their Meal of the Day is bringing hope to thousands.
- The American Red Cross is online. Donations can also be made by texting DORIAN to 90999.
- The Salvation Army is accepting money.
- Team Rubicon is an on the ground network of Veterans staging resources, support and accepting donations.
- The bstrong program from reality star and entrepreneur Bethenny Frankel is working to “provide crucial supplies, immediate medical support, and helping to evacuate those who weren’t able to leave their homes before the storm”. She provided an impressive effort in Puerto Rico and insures that 100% of donations are used to help victims.
- Mercy Corps is coordinating response efforts, and accepting money here.
- Baark Bahamas and Briland Animal Rescue are two organizations focusing on dog rescue if you are an animal lover and interested in giving in this direction.
One thing we can all be sure about – the sun will rise in The Bahamas tomorrow and you will be greeted by a smile like no other. It really will be Better in the Bahamas.
♥ Pin Me – Travel to the Bahamas Now
The Bahamas has been on our travel list for quite a while – What’s that saying ‘There is no time like the present’.
Especially now Lyn. I hope I can make a visit there this winter. The impact of tourist dollars really will make a difference.
We’ve only had the pleasure of traveling to the Bahamas once, but it was definitely a memorable experience. With winter just around the corner, perhaps it’s time to consider planning a return junket to the islands.
As frequent travelers it’s a great way to spread the word that the Islands are ready to welcome visitors. I was surprised to learn that over 700 islands make up the country-had no idea!
Very informative. I really didn’t know how much of the Bahamas was still open for tourism after such a devastating hurricane. I hope that many will read your post and help via tourism and/or donations. By the way, I knew nothing about Exuma’s swimming pigs!