New Providence, Bahamas is an easy flight into paradise. A wonderful place to have a destination wedding, honeymoon, or getaway. Generally called Nassau, which is actually the capital city, New Providence is well known for its settlements Cable Beach, Paradise Island, and Nassau.
Cable Beach is a breathtaking stretch of beach that is home to many top hotels such as Sandals, Melia, and soon Bahamar. It then transitions into Love Beach. You can definitely spend your entire visit here and completely give in to relaxation.
If you want to really experience the island and have the opportunity to be among the wonderful people of Nassau, it is a must to visit the “Fish Fry”. Here you will find a gathering of approximately 30 stalls, sit downs, and grills all serving up the best and freshest Bahamian food. The go-to place for the famous Conch Salad, made fresh on order. There is often live music so Bahamians and tourists alike enjoy this location.
Just a short walk from Fish Fry is Junkanoo Beach. Named after the country’s biggest holiday festival, Junkanno beach is what you envision when you think about “Island Time”. Although small, you won’t feel crowded on this beach stretch that is home to some 10 tiki huts, water sports, and some “Rake N Scrape”, the music of the country.
If you’re looking to add a little culture to your trip, you should experience the annual holiday festival called Junkanoo. Junkanoo is truly an exciting time. Starting at about 2am on Boxing Day (I suggest relaxing around your hotel during the day to prepare), the streets will fill up with well…everyone to see the brilliant costumes and hear the rhythm of drums, horns, and bells as the musical groups dance through the streets for over 5 hours in hopes of winning the champion title. There are also over 1,000 dancers among the bands. This year the country is hosting its first “Junkanoo Carnival”, which will be celebrated on all of the islands and will surely be an exciting addition to Bahamian culture.
While you’re in town, you should spend a day at Paradise Island. Known for the exciting Atlantis Hotel, Paradise Island is also home to fine dining, shopping, art, and so much more. Just a quick taxi ride or a fun ferry ride from Downtown Nassau, you’re sure to love your time on Paradise Island.
The people of Nassau are warm and welcoming. You’re likely to go home having a new friend. Just walking along Junkanoo Beach, I was asked to join a great group of people for an ice cold “Kalik” and two hours later I was late for dinner plans! All conversations closed with a knowing “See you when you come back”. Yes, I will definitely be back!
