What to Expect
Life in the Bahamas is a unique blend of the familiar and the unpredictable—at times strikingly first world, and at others, decidedly not. You might enjoy a perfectly smooth week, only to have the power cut out mid-meal or find that a simple part you need has to be shipped in from Miami. It’s part of the rhythm of island living: a slower, more deliberate pace that teaches patience, flexibility, and appreciation for the essentials.
For those drawn to the Out Islands, it’s important to understand that “paradise” comes with logistical challenges. Nearly everything is imported, making the cost of living higher than many expect, and supply chains can be slow or inconsistent. Fresh produce can be limited, particularly for those accustomed to large organic markets, so healthy eaters often learn to get creative—or grow their own herbs and vegetables.
Depending on where you settle, your experience will vary. In higher-end communities, modern conveniences like backup generators and reverse osmosis water systems ensure that life continues seamlessly even when the power or water supply falters. In Nassau, the tap water is generally safe for cooking, but across most of the islands, it’s best to drink purified or bottled water due to salinity, and the water’s high salt level can be tough on laundry, appliances, and silverware.
Social life depends largely on location and personality. Nassau, with its steady influx of expats in banking, finance, and international business, offers a lively, diverse community and a calendar full of social opportunities. Families, in particular, find it easy to settle in through schools, sports, and social clubs. The Out Islands, by contrast, range from friendly and close-knit to deeply solitary—perfect for those seeking peace, but potentially isolating for social extroverts.
One of the quirks of life here is that rules can feel both loose and rigid at the same time. Bureaucracy can move slowly, yet you might find yourself chuckling as a shop clerk offers to open your beer before you walk out the door. Traffic in Nassau can test your patience, and local driving customs take some getting used to—but on the flip side, you’ll rarely be pulled over unless your car registration is expired.
Living in the Bahamas ultimately means embracing imperfection. The trade-off for reliability is beauty: turquoise water, soft trade winds, and the constant reminder that the best things in life often move at their own pace.
Phones & Internet
Cell service across the Bahamas is generally reliable. The two main providers—BTC and Aliv—offer competitive rates, prepaid plans, and 3G or higher data coverage on most major islands. Visitors can often use their home carriers through roaming agreements with US and Canadian networks, though service in the Out Islands may depend on your provider. If you have an unlocked GSM phone, you can purchase a local SIM card with prepaid minutes and data.
Most people WhatsApp for messaging and calls, since it works seamlessly over Wi-Fi. High-speed internet is available through Cable Bahamas, which now offers underground fiber connections in Nassau and select communities, reducing outages and improving reliability.
Shipping & Postal Service
When it comes to receiving goods, courier and freight forwarding are the norm. DHL, FedEx, and UPS operate offices in Nassau and Freeport, and will forward packages to the Out Islands via mailboat if needed. The Bahamian Postal Service is best reserved for postcards—delivery can take months.
Most residents use freight forwarders, which provide a US shipping address and handle customs clearance and delivery to Nassau. Expect to pay roughly double the original item cost after adding VAT, import duty, and shipping fees. For larger items, such as furniture or construction materials, you’ll want to utilize a shipping container or pallet on a barge from the US, such as Tropical Shipping or Seacor Island Lines.
Weights & Measures
The Imperial system is used for measurements, and Fahrenheit for temperature. We are unsure if MPH or KPH is the official measurement of speed, as speed limit signs are rarely posted. The time zone is Eastern Standard Time (EST), with Daylight Saving Time observed.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in the Bahamas is higher than average US cities, though comparable to upscale international destinations. The Bahamian dollar is pegged 1:1 to the US dollar, making conversions simple. Groceries, alcohol, and utilities are more expensive due to import duties—yes, even local beer comes at a premium.
Conduct & Customs
Life in the Bahamas moves at an easygoing pace often referred to as “island time.” Things get done, just not always on your schedule.
Bahamians are generally conservative and well-dressed. Suits or collared shirts are standard for business; churches and restaurants lean formal. Swimwear is for the beach, not for shops or dining. Women wear bikinis, but skimpy or topless sunbathing isn’t culturally accepted except in private settings.
Despite this formality, island life is barefoot-friendly, especially in the Out Islands, where you’ll often see locals greeting everyone they pass. A nod or “good morning,” “good afternoon,” or “good night” (used as a greeting, not a farewell) is considered polite and expected.
Overall, Bahamians are warm, proud, and genuine, with a hospitality culture that deepens the farther you travel from Nassau. Be patient, smile often, and remember—everything eventually gets done, just not always on schedule.