Adventure, History, and Culture

This unforgettable city is packed with stories, sights, and spice

by Kasi Antoine

Nassau in the Bahamas is more than simply postcard-perfect beaches; it’s a gold mine of history, flavor, and excitement. A trip to Nassau offers a blend of adventure, history, culture, and indulgence wrapped in the warmth of the Caribbean.

Be sure to book an ATV tour. There’s something liberating about riding around the city with the wind on your face, the aroma of salt and sea in the air, and vibrant Bahamian life all around you. An experienced guide will take you to both popular and secret parts of the city.

Nothing beats pulling over near the coast and witnessing the vast ocean spread out before you. The sea is a stunning combination of blues—cerulean, aqua, and sapphire—each hue more vibrant than the last. It’s the type of beauty that makes you stop and remember to be in the moment.

A compelling stop on any ATV tour is the ancient Queen’s Staircase, one of Nassau’s most recognizable structures. This 66-step limestone staircase, located in the Fort Fincastle Historic Complex, was hand-carved by enslaved Africans in the late-eighteenth century and was named in honor of Queen Victoria, who ruled during the period of emancipation in the Bahamas.

Walking up the steps, shadowed by the towering limestone walls and cascading foliage, is like stepping through time. The place inspires a quiet reverence—it’s more than simply a tourist attraction; it’s a physical reminder of the resilience of the individuals whose labor laid the groundwork for this island’s history. Once at the top, visitors are afforded a panoramic view of Nassau’s colorful rooftops and the deep blue harbor beyond.

From there, stop in to John Watling’s Distillery, named after a seventeenth-century buccaneer. This working distillery is located near the Queen’s Staircase and situated in a gorgeous eighteenth-century manor. As soon as you step onto the cobblestone pathway, surrounded by palm trees and old-world elegance, you feel transported to another period.

On the tour, you’ll learn about the rum-making process, from fermentation to maturation in oak barrels, as well as the importance of rum in the Bahamas’ history and economy. The highlight, of course, is the tasting. The unique flavor of the rum—smooth, golden, and kissed with island sweetness—is coupled with local delights. The distillery is more than a location to drink delicious rum; it’s a celebration of Bahamian culture and storytelling.

And what is a trip to Nassau without spending time by the water? Whether sunbathing on Cable Beach or riding a boat out into the open sea, you’ll find smooth white sands and limitless shades of blue. Once you are in the sea, you may find yourself surrounded by coral gardens and brightly colored fish dashing through the currents. Even if you’re not a water person, simply being near the ocean—watching the waves wash against the coast, feeling the sun dance on your skin—provides a kind of tranquility.

Nassau cuisine is a lively representation of the island’s culture, with flavors that are spicy, savory, sweet, and unforgettable. The conch fritters are a favorite dish—fried golden on the exterior, soft and tasty on the interior. These bite-size gems are produced with conch shellfish meat, spiced, peppered, herb-infused, and served with a zesty dip. Each bite provides a rush of island flavor. Another favorite is Bahamian rum cake, which is rich and delicious, with the perfect amount of rum.

A trip to Nassau is an immersion into a world where beauty, history, and culture collide—from exhilarating adventures to serene moments  and plenty of reminders  of generations past.

Boxing Day in The Bahamas

The fun, feisty, fantastic festival of Junkanoo

by Anissa Carby

The night air hums with excitement. The steady beat of goatskin drums pulses through the streets, cowbells rattle in rhythmic unison, and piercing whistles cut through the celebration. From sundown to sunup, the streets of Nassau explode with color and energy as thousands of Bahamians gather for one of the most electrifying celebrations in the world: Boxing Day Junkanoo.

For those unfamiliar, Junkanoo is no ordinary parade: It’s a full-blown cultural showdown. The biggest groups, like the legendary Valley Boys, Saxons, and Roots, spend an entire year crafting elaborate, handmade costumes on cardboard with brilliantly colored layers of fringed paper, adding textures and dimension that shimmer under the streetlights. These designs, often towering over the performers, follow carefully chosen themes, with no two years looking the same. The competition is fierce with 500 to 1,000 members, each group vying for prize money and, more importantly, the coveted title of Best Junkanoo Band. 

Boxing Day in The Bahamas isn’t just about the parade; it’s a 12-hour immersion into Bahamian culture. The island’s energy shifts in the days leading up to it. Music fills the air, last-minute costume adjustments are made, and “rushing” (dancing in the parade) becomes the only thing on people’s minds. And if you miss Boxing Day? Don’t worry. Junkanoo returns again on New Year’s Day, giving you a second chance to witness the magic. 

Boxing Day in The Bahamas is more than a holiday—it’s an experience, a legacy, and a cultural heartbeat that refuses to fade. If you’re looking for an authentic Bahamian adventure this Christmas, start planning now. The costumes, the music, the passion are something you have to see (and feel) for yourself.

Life as a Local on Sint Maarten

Tips for experiencing the authentic side of the island

by Jamal Ireland

Search for Sint Maarten online, and you’ll find the usual: beautiful beaches, fancy resorts, and popular tourist spots that might make you want to pack your bags right away. But the real Sint Maarten? That’s a whole different experience. It’s the places we locals go, the things we do every day, and the vibe that tourists often miss. If you really want to explore Sint Maarten, let me show you the island through the eyes of someone who calls it home.

Sint Maarten has a little something different going on. It’s split into two distinct sides: the Dutch side and the French side. There’s a border between them but no immigration checks, so you can freely move between both without a problem. Each side has its own currency: The Dutch side uses naf (guilders), while the French side uses euros. But here’s the good part: You can use U.S. dollars on both sides, making it super easy for you to get around without having to exchange your money.

When it comes to getting around, rent a car for the full experience. Roads here are smaller, and let’s just say we drive with a bit more freedom—no stop signs, no speeding tickets. If you’re not up for driving yourself, taxis can give you a tour, though they can be a bit pricey.

Now, let’s talk food. If you want an authentic taste of Sint Maarten, head to Philipsburg and Kim Sha Beach. That’s where you’ll find locals selling food at their booths, cooking it right in front of you. From juicy barbecue ribs with Johnny cakes from Fat Boy Jimmy’s to mouthwatering shawarma from Little Jerusalem, we’ve got it all. And trust me, you haven’t really tasted the island until you’ve had a Johnny cake: golden and crispy on the outside, soft and buttery on the inside, with cheese, bacon, or egg if you want to take it up a notch. For something savory and satisfying, the shawarma is your best bet. Tender lamb wrapped in pita bread, doused in a secret sauce that’s a perfect blend of garlic, onion, and ranch. It’s a must-try.

When the sun sets, the island comes alive. Locals party seven days a week, and if you’re looking to vibe with us, hit up places like Lotus Nightclub for the best DJs or Kim Sha on Fridays for a more casual but fun experience. You’ll hear us saying, “Lewwe hit a flex.” That’s our way of saying, “We’re heading out for a good time.”

So, whether you’re in the mood for an unforgettable night out, discovering hidden food gems, or just taking in the island’s beauty, Sint Maarten is more than just a vacation spot—it’s the truth!