Just off the coast of Miami and only a quick three-hour flight from New York City, the Bahamas continues to shine as one of the worldโs most captivating destinations. With 700 islands and 200 caysโ30 inhabited and 16 actively promoted for tourismโthis island nation blends natural beauty, vibrant traditions, and modern travel convenience; especially now with the newest direct, nonstop flight from NYC.
This commitment to preserving culture while expanding tourism was highlighted on November 19 in New York City, when The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation hosted a special tourism event at Hall des Lumiรจres. Before being transformed to the island with food, drinks and a performance by Bahamian artist Preston “Puzzle Man” Wallace, Jr. guests heard directly from Ministry leadership and on-the-ground partners who are helping shape the future of Bahamian travel.
The event offered an immersive taste of Bahamian culture, featuring delicious cuisine ranging from coconut shrimp to lamb skewers and coconut curried lobster-topped Johnny cakes. Attendees also enjoyed a live cooking presentation with chef Kevyn Pratt and informational sessions from local Bahamian family owned businesses such as Curlyโs, as well as luxury hospitality partners including Sandals Resorts. The experience reflected the countryโs dedication to sharing authentic Bahamian flavors, artistry, and hospitality with travelers worldwide.
Chef Kevyn Pratt
As tourism grows, the Bahamas remains committed to celebrating and protecting the unique culture of each island. Every island hosts its own signature events, contributing to the countryโs reputation as the cultural epicenter of the Caribbean. Festivals take place year-round, from the beloved Pineapple Festival in Eleuthera to the vibrant Junkanoo celebrations on Boxing Day and New Yearโs Day, where cowbells, drums, and colorful costumes fill the streets. Summer brings the islands beloved Goombay Festival, blending tradition with warm-weather festivities, while artisans across the islands showcase their craftsmanship through hand-made goods.
To support its expanding tourism landscape, the Bahamas has revitalized 14 airports, making inter-island travel easier than ever. This investment encourages visitors to explore beyond Nassau and discover fly-fishing hotspots, secluded beaches, and local communities across the archipelago. The countryโs global presence continues to grow as well, with Bahamian ambassadors such as Lenny Kravitz and John Q. Jones proudly representing their heritage. A recent partnership with the New York Yankees further strengthens the Bahamasโ connection to one of its most loyal travel marketsโwhere an impressive 40% of New Yorkers return to the Bahamas.
Traveling from New York has never been more convenient with the launch of a new non-stop flight from LaGuardia to Nassau, making spontaneous island getaways even more accessible. As the Bahamas reminds travelers with its signature tagline, itโs not just one islandโitโs a lifetime of them, each offering something wonderfully unique. Whether drawn by the culture, cuisine, festivals, beaches, or simply the warm Bahamian spirit, visitors continue to find endless reasons to return to this incomparable Caribbean destination.
