The Bahamas :: essays research papers

The Bahamas - Consular Information Sheet COUNTRY DESCRIPTION: The Bahamas is a country of many islands and has a developing economy. Tourist facilities are widely available on the main islands. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS: Visas are not required for U.S. citizens for stays up to eight months; however, U.S. citizens must carry original documentation proving U.S. citizenship (a valid or expired passport, a certified U.S. birth certificate or a Certificate of Naturalization), photo identification, and an onward/return ticket. Voter registration cards are not acceptable as proof of U.S. citizenship. There is an airport departure tax for travelers age six years and older. For further information, including entry/exit requirements, U.S. citizens may contact the Embassy of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, 2220 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone (202) 319-2660 or The Bahamas consulates in Miami at telephone (305) 373-6245 or New York at telephone (212) 421-6925. Additional information is available on The Bahamas’ Tourist Board web site at http://www.bahamas.com or telephone (800) 422-4262. CRIME INFORMATION: Visitors should exercise normal caution and good judgment when visiting The Bahamas. Although violent crime is on the increase, most incidents take place in parts of Nassau or Freeport not usually frequented by tourists (the "over-the-hill" area in Nassau, the Lucaya area in Freeport). Hotel guests should always lock their doors and should never leave valuables unattended, especially on beaches. Visitors should store passport/identity documents, airline tickets, unused credit cards and extra cash in hotel safes, and avoid wearing expensive jewelry, particularly Rolex watches, which have been targeted increasingly by criminals. Visitors should not travel alone on deserted areas of beaches or poorly-lit areas at night. The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport overseas should be reported to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. A lost or stolen U.S. birth certificate and/or driver’s license generally cannot be replaced outside the United States. U.S. citizens may refer to the Department of State’s pamphlets, A Safe Trip Abroad, and Tips for Travelers to the Caribbean for ways to promote a more trouble-free journey. The pamphlets are available by mail from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402, via the Internet at http://www.access.gpo.gov/su_docs, or via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov. MEDICAL FACILITIES: Medical care is generally good in Nassau and in Freeport, but may be limited in remote areas. Serious medical problems requiring hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to the U.