Golf in the Bahamas

The Bahamas were originally discovered by Columbus and later colonized by the British. They were subsequently retaken by the Spain and, during one short period, by the United States. The Bahamas became a Crown Colony until independence was attained in 1973.

There are some 700 islands in the Bahamas, but only 22 have any appreciable population. The islands begin 50 miles off the coast of Florida and reach out in a 750-mile arc; the southeast extension ends approximately 50 miles from Haiti. Grand Bahama Island, with its popular resort town of Freeport, is the closest island to Florida; it has an excellent selection of resorts and golf courses.

US citizens visiting the Bahamas do not need to have a passport, but proof of citizenship (birth certificate or voter registration card, accompanied by a social security card and a driver's license) is required. If you do have a passport, bring it; it will simplify things.

If you are not already aware, the Bahamas are a British colony, so cars drive on the left side of the road. It can be a bit confusing. Sometimes a taxi becomes the most attractive method of transportation.