last edited Dec 11, 2019
Health and Safety in the Bahamas
Location Map of Bahamas
Bahamas
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Official Recommendations
In France, both for individuals and professionals, the "travel advice" from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding precautions for each country has legal value. A similar online travel advice system exists in several countries:
Health
Illnesses
No particular health issues; just ensure your vaccinations are up to date. However, it's best to avoid contaminated or stagnant water, which may carry parasites. On another note, STIs and HIV are present, so take the usual precautions.
Hygiene
No real risks here either, and water is generally safe to drink everywhere (though you might opt for bottled water for extra "peace of mind"). Just remember to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun during the hottest periods.
Local Healthcare Facilities
Local facilities are good and well-equipped in Nassau and on the main islands; the United States are also nearby. However, in the Bahamas—and even more so in its American neighbor—healthcare remains (very) expensive, so it's advisable to have travel insurance that includes medical evacuation.
Safety
Crime and Delinquency
While crime has increased slightly in the capital in recent years, there is very little risk, especially for tourists. Just avoid certain areas of Freeport or Nassau at night, where visitors have no reason to go anyway.
Scams and "Tourist" Harassment
Socio-Political Issues and Terrorism
Nothing to report.
Climate and Nature
The main natural risk is hurricanes, which occur mostly between August and October (like Dorian in 2019), primarily affecting the southern islands of the archipelago. In any case, authorities generally take the necessary steps to inform and protect the population.
Animals
Compared to many other islands, mosquitoes are not a major problem (though it's wise to bring repellent), but sand fleas are present throughout the region—keeping your shoes on while walking on the beach can help.
Foreign Consulates on Site
If you encounter problems while traveling abroad, your country's consular services can assist you. It's also worth noting that if you're an EU citizen and your country isn't represented, you can contact any other EU member state's representation.
France
While the Bahamas fall under the French Consulate General in Miami (tel.: +1 305 403 41 50) and the French Embassy in Panama for diplomatic matters, there is still an honorary consul on site (tel.: +1 242 302 50 01).
Belgium
While Belgium is represented by the Embassy in Washington, there is still an honorary consular agency on site: PO Box CR-56766-363, Nassau. Tel.: +1 242 363 4264.
Canada
Consulate: Shirley Street Plaza, PO Box SS-6371, Nassau. Tel.: 242 393 2123.
Switzerland
Consulate: Old Fort Bay, Montagu Island #1, Nassau. Tel.: +1 242 362 5539.