New Providence City Guide

Local dishes to try are conch fritters, cracked conch, conch salad, grilled fish, and Johnny cake. There's a wide international food range, especially around Nassau and Paradise Island. Vegetarian and vegan options are growing. Some late-night food is available in entertainment areas.

Nassau and Paradise Island offer lively nightlife with casinos, bars, clubs, and live music.

The coffee scene is growing, with a mix of local cafes and international chains. Specialty coffee is emerging but still limited.

Tipping is expected in most service settings. Restaurants usually add 15-20% service charge but check your bill. Taxis and tours also expect around 15-20%.

Local SIMs are sold at the airport and stores. Main providers are BTC and ALIV. ID is required to activate. eSIM options may vary.

Tourist areas are clean but some local spots have litter. Waste pickup is regular, recycling is limited.

Some pharmacies and minimarts operate late or 24/7. Emergency rooms are open always. Late-night food is available in tourist areas.

International products are available at supermarkets like Solomon's Fresh Market, Super Value, and Quality Supermarkets. Most open 8 AM to 9 PM, with closures Sundays and holidays.

Cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but carry cash for local markets, small vendors, and taxis.

ATMs are easy to find in Nassau, mainly at Royal Bank of Canada, Scotiabank, and Commonwealth Bank. Fees for international cards may apply.

International schools include Lyford Cay International and St. Andrew's International. English is the main instruction language. Early application is advised due to varying waitlists.

The nomad community is small but growing. Co-living spaces are limited and nomad events are rare. Networking happens mostly in business and expat groups.

Ardastra Gardens and Botanical Gardens offer green spaces for walking and running. Coastal roads also provide shaded areas.

Popular running spots include West Bay Street and Cable Beach. Running is safe during daytime with some local clubs and annual events.

Several gyms offer fitness classes and equipment across the island.

Tennis courts are available at resorts and private clubs, with equipment rental and coaching offered.

Padel is less common but growing, mainly at private clubs and some resorts.

Several yoga studios in Nassau offer varied styles and drop-in classes. Most instructors speak English.

Multiple gyms offer Taekwondo, Karate, Judo, and boxing/kickboxing with English-speaking instructors. Local competitions happen.

No skiing available.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing are widely offered, mostly through resorts and operators. Equipment and guided tours are common.

Surf spots are limited and mostly beginner-friendly. Winter months may bring some swell but surf schools and rentals are scarce.

Excellent dive sites with reefs, wrecks, and blue holes. Water visibility is great year-round with abundant marine life. Many certified dive centers and rentals available.

Hospitals like Princess Margaret and Doctors Hospital offer care with English-speaking staff. Pharmacies are common and meds are available. Private care is faster and higher quality.

Tap water is treated and safe to drink though many prefer bottled water for taste.

Playgrounds and kid-friendly cafes are common, especially near tourist areas. Attractions like Ardastra Gardens and Atlantis Aquaventure water park are great for families.

Generally tolerant in tourist areas but conservative socially. No specific LGBTQ+ venues or protections. Discretion advised in public.

Policies vary by place. Veterinary and pet supply stores are available. Pet parks and dog walking areas are limited. Import rules are strict.