Bahamas: Disabilities & Accessibility

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Disabilities & Accessibility

In general, the Bahamas offer good options for those with limited mobility: the terrain throughout the islands is relatively flat; many hotels have been built or renovated with features that can accommodate wheelchairs or walkers; and downtown Nassau took into account wheelchair accessibility when it underwent redevelopment in 1995. The Bahamas Association for the Physically Disabled has a bus for hire that can pick up people with disabilities from the airport or provide other transportation. Reservations must be made well in advance.

Local Resources

Bahamas Association for the Physically Disabled (242/322-2393).

Lodging

Most major hotels throughout the Bahamas have special facilities for people with disabilities, in the way of elevators, ramps, and easy access to rooms and public areas. However, some properties may have only a few rooms designed to accommodate wheelchairs, for instance, and in the Out Islands, what locals consider accessible may not be up to the standards to which travelers are accustomed.

If you have mobility problems, ask for the lowest floor on which accessible services are offered. If you have a hearing impairment, check whether the hotel has devices to alert you visually to the ring of the telephone, a knock at the door, and a fire/emergency alarm. Some hotels provide these devices without charge. Discuss your needs with hotel personnel if this equipment isn't available, so that a staff member can personally alert you in the event of an emergency.

If you're bringing a guide dog, get authorization ahead of time and write down the name of the person with whom you spoke.

Sights & Attractions

The beaches of the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos are generally accessible. In Grand Bahama Island, the two largest shopping malls -- International Bazaar and Port Lucaya -- have some second-story restaurants not accessible by wheelchair. The Dolphin Experience can make special arrangements for travelers with disabilities. In Nassau, Ardastra Gardens is accessible in most areas, Government House has limited access, and Parliament Square is fully accessible.