Located only 90 minutes from south Florida, Exuma is an undiscovered, unspoiled island full of deserted prisitine beaches,
friendly people, and many options of things to do and see. The islands of the Bahamas
constitute one of the smallest countries in the world, and Exuma island in particular is just large enough to have adequate
infrastructure (good roads, a medical clinic, doctors, veterinarian, etc.) but small enough to offer the lucky visitor
a vacation they will never forget. You can be busy all day exploring the rich history of this
island and taking advantage of the world-class snorkeling, scuba and fishing opportunities, or you can simply enjoy your peaceful
existence at this well-appointed and comfortable waterfront home. George Town is Exuma's quaint
village overlooking Elizabeth Harbor. It embodies the soul of Exuma; no traffic, no crime, no stoplights and no malls.
Enjoy shopping for souvenirs at the outdoor Straw Market. Visit the quaint hardware store for a new set of snorkeling fins,
or enjoy a delicious meal at one of the cafes. The pace is slower here, but that is precisely why it is such a
wonderful vacation spot. If you want a day (or night) of excitement, it's easy and affordable
to book a flight to Nassau, just 45 minutes away by air. Once there you can experience a different island
pace, see the impressive Atlantis Hotel & Casino, visit the rum factory, view historic sites, play golf, or stroll
the many shops downtown. You'll be glad to get back to Exuma, though, to relax and unwind. Because
Exuma, like the rest of the Out Islands, is relatively flat, it's a great place to walk and bicycle.
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| Another Spectacular Sunset at The Cays |
CURRENCY The Bahamian dollar is tied to the U.S.
dollar, with the exchange rate being one to one. You can go your whole vacation spending only U.S. Dollars if that
is your preference, but you may get some coin change back in Bahamian money.
The Bahamas has the clearest water in the world with visibility of over 200 feet. It has been scientifically proven
that a specific algae, which requires light to live, is found deeper in the Bahamas than anywhere else on Earth. (Quoted
text from Bahamas government site)
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| Calm Water Today...Perfect Day for Kayaking |
This "clickable" map can actually zoom in to show Water's Edge!
WATER TEMPERATURES
Swimming, snorkeling,
diving on Exuma is truly world-class. We have enjoyed watersports at all times of the year in this region.
However, if you want to be in the water "all the time," consider going between June and October.
While we certainly enjoy swimming in December and January, sometimes the water can be a little cool on some cloudy days.
Water temperatures during the summer months can't be beat!
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The name "Bahama" comes from the Spanish "baja mar" or shallow sea, originating when the Spanish
arrived in 1492. The relatively shallow waters around Exuma translate to some of the best snorkeling and diving in the
world. Exuma is also known for its unrivalled, world-class bonefishing. TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS To
enter the Bahamas you will need a passport and a return or onward-bound ticket. Each adult
may bring in duty-free 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars, or one pound of tobacco and two litres of alcohol.
If you're disabled or need assistance traveling, make all of your arrangements well in advance.
LANGUAGE
The language spoken on Exuma is English, with a decidedly West Indian accent.
FOOD & DRINK Bahamian
food is a rewarding adventure. Seafood is a staple. Conch is prepared numerous ways, with a conch salad being
a good lunchtime choice during the warm weather. Fish can be prepared for breakfast,
lunch and dinner. Almost everything is served with "peas and rice," a truly delicious concotion.
While exploring Exuma, some of your best meals will be at out-of-the-way places with just a small sign
(or no sign) where a delicious home-cooked meal will be prepared just for you. Kalik is the local
beer brewed in the Bahamas. A fine beer that is highly recommended!
At our vacation rental you will find lots of information about the wonderful array of restaurants, cafes and beachside
huts that have the best food on the island.
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THINGS TO DO North
of Great Exuma and Staniel Cay lies a newly-created sea park administrated by the Bahamas National Trust called the Exuma
Cays Land and Sea Park. (Check out the link for it on the "Links" page) It is a 177-square-mile track
of islands, cays, and reefs where the underwater world can easily be seen through about 10 feet of water. The park is
accessible only by boat. Undersea are reefs, blue holes, shipwrecks, and huge caves full of black coral. Above
the water, Allens Cays is home to the Bahamian Dragons, rock iguanas that can grow to more than two feet long. Picturesque
Rolletown is a nice drive from Water's Edge; a visit to Stocking Island is a must for all visitors; Thunderball grotto is
a "don't miss" for divers.
There is so much to see and do on this island, it can't all be
represented here. There are, however, several books available at the house for the use of our guests with details, descriptions,
directions, times, phone numbers, suggestions and tips on all kinds of activities, restaurants, fishing guides, boat
rentals, deserted beaches, etc.
We are constantly updating our own personal guidebook and acquiring new
publications on the local area to help you get the most out of your stay.
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| No visit is complete without a trip to Stocking Island |
GETTING AROUND Transportation
options consist mainly of car or motor scooter rental or taxi hire. Car rental normally runs between $350 to $600 a
week. We can provide you with a very good discount at a reliable car rental agency.
Motor scooters
usually run around $250 per week. Motor scooters are fun for a day or so, but not recommended as one's sole means of
transport, due to the size of Exuma, condition of some of the roads, and sometimes unpredictable weather.
Taxi drivers are always friendly, reliable and helpful.
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| Great Food & Drink on Stocking Island at Chat N Chill |
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| The Salt Beacon on Little Exuma. Lots of history to explore |
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