Money
The currency is the Bahamian dollar (BSD), pegged 1:1 to the US dollar. American cash is accepted everywhere; there's no reason to exchange it. Credit cards are widely accepted on Nassau, Grand Bahama, and the larger tourist islands. On smaller islands, carry cash. ATMs are available in Nassau, Freeport, and a few of the bigger Family Island settlements — use ATMs attached to banks or in hotels rather than standalone machines.
Language
English is the official and everyday language. Haitian Creole is spoken in Haitian immigrant communities.
Health
Tap water is generally safe in Nassau and Freeport; elsewhere, drink bottled water. No vaccinations are specifically required, but the CDC recommends being up to date on routine vaccines. Mosquito repellent is worth packing, particularly in the wet season. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is a smart investment — serious medical cases are evacuated to Nassau or Florida.
Safety
Nassau has areas with elevated crime, concentrated mostly in the Over-the-Hill neighborhood south of downtown. The tourist areas around Bay Street, Cable Beach, and Paradise Island are generally safe but pickpocketing and scams around the cruise port and Straw Market are common. Use licensed taxis (they have blue plates starting with "TX") and be skeptical of informal boat operators.
The Family Islands are quieter and generally very safe.
Communications
Mobile coverage is reliable in Nassau and Freeport. On smaller islands, coverage is patchier. Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and many restaurants. The country code is +1-242.
Electricity
120V/60Hz, same as the US — American appliances work without adapters.
Time zone
EST (UTC-5), with daylight saving time observed.