Cayman Islands

With all the rich history that’s been written in the Exumas, it’s surprising how few historical sights there are to see in its capital, Georgetown. Like Green Turtle Cay in the Abacos, the Exumas were settled by Loyalists, former American colonists who stayed true to the British Crown in the wake of the Revolutionary War. https://www.uncommoncaribbean.com/2012/09/20/on-site-great-exuma-st-andrews-anglican-church/

Discover the exquisite beauty of Stocking Island at your own pace. This tour has been designed for guests who want to take a trip without a tour guide. It will depart from George Town at the Government Dock and will begin with a short sightseeing trip across Elizabeth Harbour to Stocking Island. https://www.pleasantactivities.com/page/product/11472/discover-stocking-island-exuma

Crab Cay, or Cayo Cangrejo, sits roughly one kilometer (.6 miles) off the east coast of Isla de Providencia. From Providencia, the view of the small outcropping makes for a prime photo op, but snorkelers will be itching to hire a boat or rent a kayak and dive into the crystal-clear waters—a dazzling array of shades of blue—surrounding the cay. https://www.afar.com/places/crab-cay

This small beach, located just below the Stella Maris Resort on the Atlantic side, is partially protected by offshore rocks. Imagine sitting here on the pretty, coarse white sand, alternating with occasional natural rock pools, feeling the ocean breezes, and watching the wave action. Great for snorkelling! The rocks adjacent to the reef contain a wondrous assortment of marine life including parrotfish, gigantic spiny sea urchins, fan and brain coral, queen and grey angelfish, damselfish, grey and yellowtail snapper and butterflyfish. https://www.bahamas.com/vendor/love-beaches

This long stretch of white powdery sand beach is a great place to pack a picnic basket and spend a relaxing day at the beach swimming and snorkelling. At low tide, you can walk or swim to Gaulding's Cay, a small island with a few casuarina trees. There is a place to park and shade is also available. https://www.bahamas.com/vendor/gaulding-cay-beach

Located just three miles northeast of Nassau, Blue Lagoon Island (also known as Salt Cay) is home to dolphins and sea lions at Dolphin Encounters, but it also offers everything that you would want on a private island getaway. You can swim in a hidden lagoon with clear blue water, snorkel right off the beach and see coral reefs teeming with numerous species of tropical fish, sunbathe on white-sand beaches surrounded by coconut palm trees, and walk through lush natural vegetation that is the habitat for nesting birds. You can purchase a package that includes round-trip boat transfer to Blue Lagoon Island, lunch, free access to the Inflatable Aqua Park, plus use of the facilities, beach sports and game equipment. Water sports equipment is also available to rent: paddleboards, kayaks, clear bottom kayaks, water bikes, underwater scooters, and snorkeling gear. https://www.bahamas.com/vendor/blue-lagoon-island-beach

Downtown Nassau isn’t the only place known for a fabulous straw market! Conveniently located across the street from Marina Village on Paradise Island is The Bahamas Craft Centre. It features Bahamian handicrafts, conch shell jewelry, Junkanoo art, wooden carvings, clothing, straw work, souvenirs, and more. It’s also a place where you can both test your bargaining skills and watch local artisans work their magic. Located across the street from Marina Village and next to Anthony’s Grill and Dunkin’ Donuts, The Bahamas Craft Centre is quite recognizable, because even from the outside it has a style all its own. Noted architect Jackson Burnside of Doongalik Studios designed the large Art Deco building that is painted in many shades of pastel yellows, oranges, and pinks. Overall it has a more quiet and sedate atmosphere than its larger cousin on Bay Street in Nassau. The Bahamas Craft Centre features approximately 100 booths selling everything from clothing to woven straw goods and everything in between. You’ll find Bahamian handicrafts, paintings, sea treasures, blown glass, conch shell jewelry, rum cakes and candies, Junkanoo art, steel drums, candles, driftwood paintings, straw work, and pine seed dolls, as well as Androsia, a unique Bahamian fabric. https://www.nassauparadiseisland.com/things-to-do/shopping/bahama-crafts-centre

If you’re going to Paradise Island to shop, a great place to start is Marina Village next to Atlantis. With over 20 designer and retail shops spread over 65,000 square feet—plus dining options ranging from casual and fine dining restaurants to grab-and-go meals and Starbucks—you’ll love strolling around this vibrant outdoor marketplace as you try to narrow down your purchases by asking yourself, “Will this fit in my suitcase?” The retailers at Marina Village in Paradise Island are as varied as they are unique. So if you’d like to go a delightfully different kind of shopping adventure, head to Marina Village for such stores as Atlantis Signatures, Columbian Emeralds International, La Parfumerie, Pirana Joe Resort Wear, Carlo Milano, Paradise Blue Surf Shop, Pandora, The Plait Lady, and more. https://www.nassauparadiseisland.com/things-do/shopping/marina-village

Nassau Paradise Island is the place to be for anyone who loves the sun, sand and sea. With so many stretches of beautiful beaches—and miles upon miles of powdery white sand—there’s always a perfect place for you to lie back, relax, and enjoy in The Bahamas. https://www.nassauparadiseisland.com/things-to-do/beaches

The extraordinary 14-acre environment of Dolphin Cay at Atlantis, Paradise Island showcases one of the largest and most sophisticated marine habitats and animal rescue-rehabilitation facilities unlike anything in the world. In addition to caring for dolphins and sea lions and studying their behavior, Dolphin Cay offers unparalleled educational experiences. Visitors can participate in creative, non-disruptive “interactions” that build real awareness, stir emotion, and help fund our conservation efforts. Wearing a wetsuit and sitting in waist-high water, you will have the chance to get close to the dolphins, face-to-face, feeling that personal connection. What could be better than swimming freely with these extraordinary mammals in deep water? Underwater acrobatics and the rush of feeling the dolphins swim beside you are only a part of this magical encounter. https://www.nassauparadiseisland.com/things-to-do/unique-tours/adventures/dolphin-cay-atlantis

The Heritage Museum of The Bahamas opened in July 2014 and is the foundation of Graycliff new Heritage Village. Located in the historically preserved Mountbatten House opposite the Graycliff Hotel on West Hill Street, the museum offers visitors an in depth look at the history and heritage of The Bahamas, ranging from the prehistoric times to the present. Browse the collection of Hamilton White, a well-known British antiques collector, his expansive collection greatly complements the history of West Hill Street with fossils, relics and treasures spanning the centuries. The oldest of artefacts being a slice of a meteorite, which is approximately 4.5 billion years old! The timeline explores natural history, the days of Columbus, the piracy era, slavery and plantation life, the Maritimes of the 18th century, life in the Out Islands during the early 1900’s, the days of the Duke of Windsor, the Royal Air Force, Bahamas Speed Weeks, and so much more. http://www.graycliff.com/heritage-village-at-graycliff/

Right in the middle of the high-end and boutique shops on Nassau’s Bay Street you’ll find the world-famous Straw Market. It’s home to handmade Bahamian crafts, gifts, souvenirs, and items such as hand-woven straw hats, bags, mats, dolls, conch shell jewelry, and wood carvings—and all available at very reasonable prices, especially if you’re good at negotiating! Located on Bay Street in downtown Nassau, The Nassau Straw Market is an authentic representation of an industry that has been growing throughout The Bahamas and the Caribbean since the early 1940′s. Originally, the craft and skills of plaiting, braiding, and weaving were useful when Bahamians led subsistence lifestyles, with baskets being used for carrying fruit and fishing traps. But following the end of World War II, many North Americans began visiting The Bahamas for their vacations, and straw craft souvenirs soon grew in popularity. https://www.nassauparadiseisland.com/things-to-do/shopping/straw-market

Head to the heart of Nassau for a unique visit to the Ardastra Gardens Zoo & Conservation Centre. As the first and only zoo in The Bahamas, it features more than four acres of lush tropical gardens inhabited by a dazzling array of animal species—including the national bird of The Bahamas, the Caribbean flamingo. Hand-feed playful parrots, meet beautiful Bahamian boa constrictors and be sure to watch the world-famous marching flamingos in action. Originally created as a nature preserve by Jamaican horticulturalist Hedley Edwards in the 1950’s, Ardastra Gardens & Zoo has developed over the decades into a tropical garden, conservation centre, boutique zoo and now wildlife rescue & rehab facility. Today, thousands of visitors visit Ardastra annually to marvel at the tranquil, restorative gardens and enjoy close encounters with a wonderful collection of over 135 animals, complete with a petting zoo, secret garden and flamingo arena. https://www.nassauparadiseisland.com/things-to-do/unique-tours/kid-approved/ardastra-gardens-zoo

Step into a world of grandeur and transport yourself to the Las Vegas strip mere steps from the turquoise waters of Nassau’s Cable Beach. The casino at Baha Mar is unlike any other. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide a backdrop of breathtaking ocean views, while exciting table games, modern slot machines, and private gaming salons stretch throughout the casino’s 100,000-square-foot space. Not only is this the Caribbean’s largest casino, it might also be the most beautiful. Embrace the spirit of Las Vegas in the heart of The Bahamas when you play to win at 119 live tables offering 18 different games including blackjack, baccarat, craps, and roulette. With betting ranging from $0.01 to $100 and more than 1,100 state-of-the-art slot machines available, your next big win could be a button away! Slot machines at Baha Mar Casino include reel spinning, video reels, progressives, video poker, and electronic table games. https://www.nassauparadiseisland.com/things-to-do/casinos-nightlife/baha-mar-casino

Indulge yourself with the best European-style spa treatments infused with tropical Caribbean flair. At Red Lane Spa, natural island botanicals soothe and invigorate the body, mind and soul for a journey of relaxation, restoration and rejuvenation. Discover for yourself why Condé Nast Traveler readers named Sandals Royal Bahamian “Top Caribbean Spa Resort.” For a real treat, escape to Red Lane® at Sandals Cay, our private offshore island, and enjoy a salt scrub on the secluded beach or a massage on a sea raft. From traditional stress-relieving Swedish massage like Tropical Bliss that will leave you island-style relaxed to Hot Stone Therapy and Feet First, which utilizes the ancient science of acupressure: Red Lane Spa will relieve tension and restore tranquility. Or for a different sensation, try the Scents of Love Couples Massage, which will take you on a side-by-side journey for two that will stay with you long after your vacation ends. https://www.nassauparadiseisland.com/things-to-do/spas-relaxation/red-lane-spa

Hank's Place Restaurant is unlike any other in Andros, because of its unique dining room and bar built over the water, providing guests a stunning view of Fresh Creek's harbor. It has two dining areas, one inside and one outside, and it serves Bahamian and American cuisine. https://www.bahamas.com/vendor/hanks-place-restaurant-bar

The Guardian Blue Hole is said to have the second deepest cave in The Islands of The Bahamas, with a maximum explored depth of 436 feet (133 meters). The surface pond is fresh water, with a layer of hydrogen sulfide sometimes present at the halocline. The cave was named for a solitary barracuda that at one time inhabited the main entrance pond. Some of the walls of the cave are highly decorated with stalactites and stalagmites. Several deep pits within the cave drop from 45 m depths to more than 130 m. https://www.bahamas.com/vendor/guardian-blue-hole

Abel Santamaría Historic Park is compounded by the museum, a library and a monument in the place in which you will find the ruins of the Former Saturnino Lora Civil Hospital. The building was built by the end of the 19th century with Neoclassic style and was taken by 23 young men under the command of Abel Santamaría due to its strategic location in relation to the Cuartel Moncada Headquarters in 1953. The museum of the enclosure which binds together all this buildings was opened in 1973 on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the assault to the Cuartel Moncada Headquarters, and exhibits the history related to the famous assault and the trial of Fidel Castro. The monument opened in 1979 in memory of Abel Santamaría and his colleagues who were tortured and murdered after the failed raising. It has four faces in which there is a sphinx of José Martí, another of Abel Santamaría, six bayonets symbolizing justice; the solitary star and a verse of the National Anthem. The water curtain which seems to support the compound symbolizes the ideals of the young men of the Centenary Generation. The Municipal Library includes the complex, it has a general room dedicated to Literature, a young-children room, a library extension department and another of technical processes. https://www.tripcuba.org/abel-santamaria-historic-park-santiago-de-cuba

Located in front of the Céspedes Park, the Museum of Historical Cuban Atmosphere is one of the most important museums in Santiago de Cuba. The museum is constituted by two antique houses that were built in different times. One is from the 16th century while the other is from the 19th century, and both show the way of life of the centuries in which they were built. https://www.tripcuba.org/museum-historical-cuban-atmosphere

The Nuestra Señora de la Asunción Cathedral stays from the early 20th century in the same place where other temples stood before since the 16th century. However, the repeated assaults of the pirates, the weather and the earthquakes destroyed the previous buildings. https://www.tripcuba.org/nuestra-senora-asuncion-cathedral-santiago-de-cuba

Garden of the Groves is Grand Bahama’s premier nature experience! Explore winding trails through lush vegetation, cascading waterfalls and sparkling fountains. Visit the picturesque chapel, which has been consecrated and is a favourite place for weddings, prayer and meditation. Explore the Garden Shops, discover the sacred beauty of the Labyrinth, enjoy lunch or dinner at the Garden Café and Bar, or children can play at the newly expanded playground. At Garden of the Groves indigenous and migratory birds and butterflies sip nectar or take insects from the many flowers and shrubs that were newly planted to provide nectar, insects and berries for wildlife. http://www.thegardenofthegroves.com/

Oceanfront activity center offering floating bouncy slides, a bar & grill, banana boat rides, jet skiing, zip lining, and much more. One of the newest attractions on Grand Bahama Island, Pirate Cove sits on nearly 7.5 acres of beachfront property where there is an array of energizing and tranquil activities for the entire family. https://www.bahamas.com/vendor/pirates-cove-waterpark-and-zipline

Coconut palms sway in a fragrant breeze and crystal-clear turquoise waters lap gently along the shore. There's no impatient crowds, no rush to grab beach chairs, no boring restaurants. At Grand Lucayan, we work to strike the perfect balance between the luxuries of a modern-day resort and the magic of one steeped in Bahamian culture. http://www.lucayabeach.com/

Straw vending is considered one of the country's oldest industries with organized markets in Nassau, Cable Beach, Paradise Island and a number of The Family Islands. Stroll down to the famous native Straw Market where you can find bustling activity with vendors who are willing to bargain with buyers. https://www.bahamas.com/vendor/straw-market-1

Vivid original paintings cover the walls of this small gallery. Leo, owner/artist and Nassau native, uses the space as a studio as well as a showroom, which somehow makes it more inviting. Leo has been painting since a very young age, and was officially discovered when the late GBPA Chairman, Mr. Edward St. George, saw his work and immediately offered him a scholarship to the school of his choice. Leo's paintings themselves depict exotic wildlife and religious scenes. As the artist is happy to explain, nearly every element of every painting is deeply symbolic, but even at first glance, the pictures are striking, colorful and complex. https://www.bahamas.com/vendor/leos-art-gallery

Paradise Cove offers direct access to Deadman’s Reef on the island’s southwest side, which is rated the best reef on Grand Bahama Island. The reef is within swimming distance of the beach and teems with tropical marine life. You can explore the reef in a glass-bottom or ocean kayak. A snorkel tour is available that includes transportation, equipment and floatation belts. Available Equipment: Snorkel Gear, Wet Suits, Ocean Kayaks, Glass-bottom Kayaks, Sea Scooters, Floats with window, Lounge Floats. Amenities: Volleyball, Lounge Chairs, Beach Umbrellas, Covered Deck, Games, Bar and Grill, Gift shop, Rest Rooms, Fresh-water Shower. Site is available for exclusive functions. https://www.bahamas.com/vendor/paradise-cove

Crandon Beach is one of Miami's greatest park treasures. A beautiful, sprawling campus of beaches and amenities, Crandon Park is more than a beach. At Crandon Park Beach on Key Biscayne, there's a Family Amusement Center, a Nature Center and even a place to rent cabanas. The beach remains the main attraction at the luscious and family-friendly Crandon Park. Gear up for a friendly game of beach volleyball or unpack your picnic and bring some supplies for the on-site grills. There's almost always a birthday party or event taking place somewhere at this site. At the south end of Crandon Park Beach, there are cabanas for rent. Cabanas have showers and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Cabana renters are assigned a parking space and exclusive picnic tables on the beach. It's fun to explore the various ecosystems at Crandon Park, including dunes, mangroves, coastal hammock and sea grass beds. The Crandon Park Nature Center is home to exotic plants, rare fish and wildlife, and Bear Cut Preserve, a natural Environment Study Area. Take a tour with a naturalist and explore all that this nature hotbed has to offer. https://www.miamiandbeaches.com/thing-to-do/beaches/crandon-park-beach/3765

Virginia Key Beach - North is located at 3701 Rickenbacker Causeway, Key Biscayne. A big wooden sign marks this historic beach, which is located just past the Rickenbacker Causeway across from Miami Seaquarium. Virginia Key Beach - North was the location of the famed,but now closed Jimbo's, a former movie-set-turned-hangout for some of Miami's eccentric local characters. Windsurfing and ultra light seaplane rental are available here. Enjoy great views of Brickell Avenue and downtown Miami skyline. http://www.miamiandbeaches.com/beach/historic-virginia-key-beach/102569

Located in the heart of South Beach’s Art Deco District, The Wolfsonian-FIU is a museum, as well as a library and research center that examines “the persuasive power of art and design and explores what it means to be modern.” Their collection of 120,000 objects, dating from 1885 to 1945, focuses on American and European decorative and fine arts, in addition to fascinating exhibitions. From propaganda posters to World's Fair memorabilia, the array of objects offers visitors a thought-provoking journey through the modern age. http://www.miamiandbeaches.com/arts/the-wolfsonian-fiu/100802

Discover South Florida’s best aquarium and favourite visitor attraction. Enjoy amazing marine mammal shows with dolphins and sea lions that delight children of all ages. See world-class sea life exhibits with manatees, sea turtles, penguins, rays and more. Learn about wildlife rescue and marine animal care at the Conservation Outpost. Plus, there is no greater thrill than getting in the water with the friendly, intelligent and graceful dolphins at Dolphin Harbor, the best dolphin experience in Miami! Join us for one of our many special events great family dining options, and of course, unforgettable animal experiences at the best place to swim with dolphins in Miami! https://www.miamiseaquarium.com/

Just across Biscayne Bay, Coconut Grove is home to the gorgeous Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, a National Historic Landmark that was once the winter home of agricultural industrialist, James Deering. Nestled on 10 acres of shoreline and located directly on the water, the mansion has been beautifully restored to its Gilded Age heritage. European antiques and art adorn the main house and lush tropical gardens surround the property. http://www.miamiandbeaches.com/arts/vizcaya-museum-and-gardens/100789

Perhaps the most important museum in Miami, PAMM opened its doors in December 2013 just in time for Art Basel. Dedicated to international art of the 20th and 21st centuries from the perspective of the Americas, the bayfront museum boasts an impressive permanent collection, as well as compelling exhibitions. The landmark building by Pritzker Prize-winning architects Herzog & de Meuron further solidified Miami’s place as a major city of the arts. http://www.miamiandbeaches.com/arts/perez-art-museum-miami/100797

Hidden in modern North Miami Beach, the Ancient Spanish Monastery takes us back. An enclave of European architecture and history, this Florida Heritage site—which was originally built in Sacramenia, a municipality of Segovia in northern Spain—has endured a long and interesting history to become the South Florida monument we know and love today. “The Ancient Spanish Monastery is a little piece of Spanish history,” says Father Gregory Mansfield, Curator of the Ancient Spanish Monastery Museum & Gardens. “Construction began in 1133 AD, almost 360 years before Columbus left Spain and arrived in the Americas, and it took eight years to complete. There are over 35,000 stones, some of which weigh a ton and a half.” In the 21st century, the Ancient Spanish Monastery serves as both a peek into history and a tourist attraction. At the entrance to the property, there’s a museum with historic Spanish artifacts like a hymnarium and pieces of armor worn during the Crusades. In that same building, there is also a gift shop with souvenirs available for purchase. http://www.miamiandbeaches.com/attraction/ancient-spanish-monastery/100839