My husband and I are trying to plan a vacation to celebrate our 15th anniversary in October. The Bahamas look good to us mainly because of the low (JetBlue) airfare!

My father is giving us a timeshare exchange week, so we're considering either Cable Beach or Paradise Island. We prefer vacations that give us time to relax but also offer things to do during the day. We're not much on diving and snorkeling (although we may try), but we would like to do some sightseeing while we're there. We're definitely not "stay at the resort" types.

A few questions: is Cable Beach or Paradise Island better in terms of nice place to stay but not too "resort-y"? Also, how risky is it in terms of hurricanes in late October? We can be flexible with our dates if necessary.

What are some "must do" and "must see" things in the Bahamas? Also, is it possible to find dinner for two with drinks for less than $100? We love good food but are shocked at some of the prices we've read about in the islands.

Many thanks for any advice, tips, etc!

Susan

Both of these areas are very touristy. Once you land and are away from the airport you will think that you are in the slums! It seems that the only "nice" areas of the Bahamas are the resort areas. However, for myself I like to travel in order to see how others live. I stayed with my girlfriend at the Radisson Cable Beach (very nice hotel!) and had an ocean view room on the 8th floor...very breathtaking! I would say that both Paradise Island and Cable Beach are touristy but Paradise Island has the multi-billion dollar Atlantis Resort. We spent a day there and found many things to do there is a HUGE aquarium that is very interesting. There are also shops and a decent casino. Although it reminded me of Vegas a little too much.
After this we really wanted to see how the locals lived and took a jitney (city bus for one dollar) to the Straw Market which is basically a large flea market. Found many interesting items there and found the locals to be very pleasant. There are tons of things to do at either island...historic tours, snorkeling (you should try it once-very fun and easy). I believe October is near the end of hurricane season so you should be fine that way. For food that wont cost a paycheck try more local restaurants they were excellent when I visited.
Must Dos:
1. Straw Market
2. Atlantis (you have to see it!)
3. Try a bowl of Conch Chowder
4. Snorkeling
5. Day Trip to out islands
O yea there are MANY islands that surround the Bahamas and there are many tours that will take you to these islands...there is also an island with pink sand! These are great for you because they show you islands which have no people on them. Other than that enjoy the sunsets possibly take a sunset dinner cruise. Enjoy but hang on tight if you take a cab ride!

Hurricane season lasts until November so there is always a chance when planning ahead.

Paraside Island really is beautiful. If we go back, that is where we will stay. We were married at the Radisson on Cable Beach a few years back. Gorgeous beaches, friendly place, just know what to expect. The Bahamas are not Hawaii, the people live a much more simple and poor life. I wouldn't exactly call the area slums. We went to a shack like restaurant outside the tourists area with our wedding photog, some of the best food we had the whole time! Try anything conch, especially the conch cakes! If you have any interest in parasailing, they have the boats made for it, just incredible! Take a day trip or two, both these islands are VERY small, there is so much more to explore. Have a great time! and order a drink called a Miami Vice, my personal favorite!

Thanks so much for the helpful info. As far as the Bahamas being "tourist-y," my concern is that other than the resorts the islands are complete poverty (which is what I've heard about Jamaica). We're trying to avoid that sort of thing if it's at all possible. We like to venture away from the resorts and really "see" places (cultural, historical, etc.).

Would we be disappointed with either Cable Beach or Paradise Island in this regard? As of now, our first choice is Paradise Island, and we would definitely be interested in some day trips off the island.

Does anyone know if there are day trips to Miami? We have friends there and would love to see them while we're on vacation.

Thanks again!

Susan

As I have lived on the island of New Providence now for 4 years, I would suggest Cable Beach.

The remarks about "being like slums" poverty & poor, I don't understand. I guess I have adjusted to this living as we live in the village of Adelaide. Yes, most people are unemployed, but we have a different way of living than tourists and what they leave to come here to see.

Going fishing, and bartering for other goods is a way of life.

It is now my way of life. Hope you have a good trip, regardless of where you stay.