Paradise Island Local Customs

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As soon as we got off of our water taxi we followed the signs to Atlantis. We found ourselves at the Marina Village Entrance. There were maps at the netrance detailing the stores and restaurants in the Village. The maps also showed us we were right on track and could walk easily through the village and onto the Atlantis resort and Casino.

Maps are located throughout the property. Even if you get lost (we did briefly) there are plenty of staff around to set you back on the right path.

When travelling on a Royal Caribean Cruise ship you are issued a Sea Pass. Your Sea Pass acts as your room key, identification card and is used to charge items onto your room account. When you check in at the Port you are iasked for a credit card to link to your Sea Pass charges. Then a photo is taken for your Sea Pass. When entering or leaving the boat you must have you Sea Pass with you. The pass is swipped into the computer and your image is viewed ont he screen.

Lanyards are available at the ships gifts shops that hold your Sea Pass around your neck. It's an easy way to keep your Sea Pass handy.

Things run a lot slower in the Bahamas than they do in the States. It requires a little more patience on the traveler's part. Also, the vendors on the beaches and even in the streets are very forward about getting you to come look at their merchandise. If you don't want anything, please don't be rude to them, just say no thank you or not today.

This man reminded me of the coconut vendors in Puerto Rico. You can get whatever alcoholic beverage you like in the coconut (unless one of the ingredients is NOT coconut, or doesn't blend well with the taste of coconut). So mainly, Piña Coladas and Bahama Mamas. Here in Paradise, the price is very much inflated to that of the $3 Puerto Rican ones.. it's $7 on the beach, so either crave it or bring your own drink to the beach from Shark Bites Bar.

There are so many yummy drinks in the Bahamas--we especially liked Bahama Mama, Goombay Smash and the Yellow Bird. These drinks are all made with parts of Rum, Coconut Liqueur, Orange Juice, Pineapple Juice and/or Sweet and Sour Mix. Try one or two..or three..Yummy!!

Conch (pronounced 'konk') is a common name for large marine snails. It is considered an aphrodisiac, its the second most popular [edible] snail next to escargot.

Conch is prepared in many ways: Conch Chowder, Conch Salad (marinated, chopped and spiced served raw), Cracked Conch (beaten and fried), Conch Fritters (fried).

Its on nearly every restaurant menu in the Bahamas, we tried it once or twice, although its not my favorite dish, we did like it. Give it a try and form your own opinion.

Bahamians are very friendy, in deed. They would always make sure to start the day with a cheerful hello. They are enthusiastic to help you plan your day, give you advice, lend directions and get to know you a little better. We found the Bahamians very interested with NYC, they all expressed interest in traveling to NY. We told them they were crazy to leave Paradise Island and head to smog filled New York! :)

Take sometime to chat with the Bahamians, it will be a worthwhile experience!