One of the two most popular tourist destinations in the Bahamas is the city of Nassau/Paradise Island . Paradise Island is linked by entry and exit bridges to Nassau . The Bahamas claims the distinction of being Christopher Columbus’ first New World discovery, and throughout the Bahamas ’ turbulent history their strategically positioned cays and islets played a vital role in international intrigues. Not only were the Bahamas a formidable hideout for pirates, but Confederate blockade runners during the American Civil War and bootleggers during the American prohibition era also exploited the islands’ proximity to Florida in efforts to smuggle contraband into the United States . The capital city of Nassau is where the infamous pirate Blackbeard posted a lookout in his tower while he caroused around the islands.

In 1718, a century after the first British Colony was established, the British sent the first royal governor to the Bahamas . Nassau was named in 1729 for King William III of the House of Orange-Nassau.Now a member of the British Commonwealth of Nations, the islands retain many legacies from the years of British rule, including the distinctive Bahamian accent and two popular spectator sports, cricket and rugby.

There is always plenty to do in downtown Nassau . Sightseeing by horse-drawn carriage around the well-preserved colorful colonial buildings that capture the special charm and elegance of the Old World is a pleasurable way to see the city. There are lots of pristine beaches for fun sun-bathers and sea sporting visitors. Nassau has the largest straw market in Caribbean and many wonderful duty-free shops.

Bahamian dining specialties include: pigeon peas and rice, lobster, grouper cutlets, fried jack, conch chowder, fritters and a variety of tropical fruits. Rum and raison ice cream, guava duff (a pudding-like dessert) or a coconut tart deliciously round off meals.

SIGHTSEEING

Fort Charlotte is one of the largest forts in the Bahamas . The military installation commanded the western entrance to the harbor. Lord Dunmore, the British Governor of the Bahamas 1787-96 built the fort in 1787-89 and named it after the wife of George III. The fort never fired a shot in hostility. Tours of the dungeon, which features corridors cut out of solid rock, are available through the Ministry of Tourism. To the east of Fort Charlotte is the original guardhouse.

Fort Fincastle stands on Bennet’s Hill at the top of the Queen’s Staircase. Built about 1793, the fortification resembles a paddlewheel steamer. The summit of the 125-foot Water Tower, reached by elevator is the highest point on the island. The tower has cannons facing a viewing deck overlooking Nassau and New Providence .

Queen’s Staircase is located on Elizabeth Avenue . A flight of 65 steps leading to Fort Fincastle and the Water Tower was cut from solid limestone by slaves. Named for Queen Victoria , the stairs represent the years of her reign.

The National Art Gallery of the Bahamas opened its doors in July 2003 at the wonderfully refurbished Villa D’Este which dates back to the 1860s, on historic West Hill Street near Graycliff Hotel and Cigar Factory. It showcases a national collection of paintings, sculptures, textiles, ceramics, photos and other works. On exhibit is the personal collection of the Bahamian art collector Dawn Davies entitled: “Past, Present and Personal” as well as the mid-19 th century Nassau watercolors by British military officer, Gaspard le Marchand Tupper, entitled “The Awakening Landscape

Junkanoo Museum and Resource Centre located near Graycliff celebrates Junkanoo, the National Cultural Festival of the Bahamas . “Junkanoo” is a parade featuring native costumes created with wire and crepe paper and music played on goatskin drums and cowbells. The tradition began as a celebration of the holidays on Christmas Eve by slaves and was called John Canoe. At the Museum, you can see demonstrations of costume making, listen to interactive music demonstrations and make souvenir pieces in the Junkanoo Shack

THE SMALL TREASURES OF NASSAU AND PARADISE ISLAND

The small treasures of Nassau and Paradise Island are a group of six exclusive hotels located in Nassau and Paradise Island , each a distinctive property with less than 100 rooms. They are Graycliff Hotel and Cigar Factory, Dillet’s Guest House, Orange Hill Beach Inn, Paradise Harbour Club and Marina , Bay View Village and Red Carpet Inn.

Graycliff Hotel and Cigar Factory has all the comforts of home, an attentive staff and delicious meals in a secluded tropical setting. Thanks to Enrico and Annamaria Garzaroli every guest felt welcome as they mingled with their guests to make the Bahamian welcome sincere and memorable.

Graycliff was built in 1740’s by John Howard Graysmith and it was his base for his piracy in the Caribbean . He commanded the notorious schooner Graywolf as he plundered treasure ships along the Spanish Main . The Garzaroli’s bought the mansion in 1973 and converted it into an inn and restaurant as a setting for fine food, wines and cigars. It has several garden cottages tucked into nooks and crannies of the garden and pools. This intimate setting is behind walls for privacy and demonstrates Old World service standards. Most of the 20 guestrooms have balconies offering views of the city. The hotel provides outdoor swimming pool, full service health spa and a five-star restaurant with a menu of contemporary French and Italian cuisine. The jet-setting clientele included Sir Winston Churchill, Al Capone, Princess Caroline of Monaco , Paul Newman and Aristotle Onassis. Their new restaurant, The Humidor Churrascaria, is the Bahamas Best Steak House Brazilian-Style. It’s just a few yards from Graycliff.

Graycliff Hotel and Cigar Factory is a Landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places, www.graycliff.com

Dillet’s Guest House, Bed and breakfast in Nassau is a Colonial Manor House, steeped in history on an acre of tropical gardens. The authentic Bahamian mansion was built in 1929 by the Dillet family. With 7 rooms, the guest house is a refined and relaxing private place for vacationers looking for a casual cultural escape. There is a full art studio and gallery on property where guests can watch local artist, John Cox, at work.

Dillet’s is known around the island for its delectable meals featuring local specialties and fresh herbs from their garden. Continental breakfast and traditional afternoon tea is served daily as a complimentary treat. Cooking lessons and home-cooked meals can be booked in advance. This is the perfect place for a family reunion; the great room is spacious and offers casual comfort. www.islandeaze.com

Orange Hill Beach Inn sits on a hilltop overlooking sand and sea, with Nassau attractions just nine miles away. This laid-back resort has a family friendly atmosphere with 32 rooms and a fresh water swimming pool. Casual meals are available. www.orangehill.com

Paradise Harbour Club and Marina on Paradise Island is a waterfront resort on two-and-a-half acres with a 22-slip marina. It is a Residence Club with eight condos and hotel building with 17 apartments. Columbus Tavern is open daily from 11 am-11pm serving Bahamian breakfast Saturdays and Sundays.

You can use the amenities of Paradise Island Beach Club linked by complimentary shuttle service ( oceanside swimming pool, snack bar and beachfront.) www.phc-bahamas.com

Bay View Village is located on Paradise Island , seven minutes walking distance to beautiful Hartford Beach , shopping center and approximately 20 restaurants. Accommodations range from one-bedroom suites to two-bedroom townhouses and villas and three-bedroom penthouses. There are three freshwater swimming pools, tennis court, small convenience store and beautiful tropical gardens. www.bayviewvillage.com