Articles Tagged "Eastern Road"
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Buying in The Bahamas: 5 Advantages of Hiring a Home Inspector
Whether you prefer Nassau homes for sale or Paradise Island homes for sale, buying a new home in The Bahamas is one of the best decisions you can make. When you select the right home with backing from the best Bahamas real estate agents, you will change your lifestyle for the better. It's your own slice of paradise!
Our agents are experienced and can help navigate you through the nuances of buying island real estate. The idea of buying real estate in another country may appear intimidating, but rest assured, there are many similarities. If any differences do arise, an experienced local real estate agent can help you navigate them.
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4 Neighborhoods to Call Home in The Bahamas
Dreaming of waking up to the soft sounds of sea waves? With a home in The Bahamas, this could be your daily reality. But which of the country's small communities is right for you? We've covered these five Bahamas neighborhoods, as well as three more areas to consider, and we wanted to highlight a few more to set your sights on.
Two of these four neighborhoods below hold some of our finest Nassau and Paradise Island homes for sale while the other two are world reknown gems in our Family Island. Keep reading to learn more about each community and why it's worthy of your consideration.
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Where to Go for Ice Cream in The Bahamas
Some say heaven is a ballfield in Iowa or country roads in West Virginia. For our agents, it's ice cream on a beach in The Bahamas. Get your favorite creamy treat at one of these wonderful shops near Nassau homes for sale.
- Main Street Ice Cream Parlor - Bay Street, Nassau, Bahamas
Tucked away on the second floor above a souvenir shop, Main Street Ice Cream Parlor is as charming as the name sounds. With nearly three dozen flavors, including premium brands such as Edy's and Haagen-Dazs, choose your favorite or find a new one. Try the signature rum cake sundae and take home some of the handmade fudge. Enjoy your ice cream out on the balcony seating for some prime people-watching down below. Hours are 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. daily.
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Buying in The Bahamas: 3 More Neighborhoods to Consider
Life in The Bahamas is paradise no matter where you end up, but choosing a community that aligns with your needs will make your time here all the better. This tiny country is packed with different neighborhoods to suit any lifestyle. Continuing on from our previous coverage, here are three more Bahamian neighborhoods you might want to consider when browsing our Nassau and Paradise Island homes for sale.
- Governor's Harbour
True to its name, Governor's Harbour is a key location in The Bahamas' history as well as its present-day government. The Harbour is home to Cupid's Cay, a small island joined to the mainland by a concrete causeway. This tiny island was the site of the very first British settlement in The Bahamas back in 1648.
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Sellers: How an Agent Helps Steer the Ship
During any week in the United States, thousands of homes get sold. But the story is a little bit different here in The Bahamas. While many people wish to relocate at any given time, the right Nassau and Paradise Island homes for sale aren't always available.
If you've decided to sell your property in The Bahamas, you have every reason to expect to get a good deal. However, Bahamas buyers are highly sophisticated and rarely make a snap decision on the first property they see. Our real estate agents can help keep you in the running.
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Visiting The Bahamas: Try These 6 Dining Destinations
One of the best ways to get to know a culture is to experience its cuisine. This is as true in The Bahamas as anywhere else. Whether visiting The Bahamas for the first time or thinking of making the islands your home, you simply must dine at some of the local restaurants. Here are a few of the top dining destinations our agents recommend.
- Social House: 1 Skyline Drive, Nassau, The Bahamas
Social House is the place to go if you love sushi and are looking at Nassau homes for sale. The restaurant itself has a modern vibe with colorful, lively decor. On the menu, you'll find selections like the Seared Nigiri Sampler platter, Tuna Tataki, and Beef Gyoza.
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5 Benefits of Adding a Retaining Wall to Your Bahamas Property
Retaining walls are an integral part of your landscape that enhance the aesthetic and protect your home. Installing a retaining wall is a cost-effective investment that our agents strongly recommend. Once installed, you'll enjoy many benefits, including, but not limited to, the following five things our clients frequently mention.
- Increased Property Value
Retaining walls don't sell the property, but they are definitely something prospective buyers notice. A properly built retaining wall that's well-maintained enhances the property's curb appeal and preserves the property's value by protecting the landscape and the structure from erosion and flooding. Further, because you can design the retaining wall as desired, you can create a retaining wall that creates an aesthetic that enhances the home's appearance. Whether you choose a straight, tiered, or curved wall made from concrete, stone, or brick, you can design and build a customized wall that fits seamlessly into the property. In fact, the wall will become the anchor that will frame the landscape around your home.
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Buying in The Bahamas: Look for These Green Features
Living in an island paradise gives you an even clearer view of all the ways we humans can influence our environment. The Bahamas is highly active in environmental conservation so that everyone can enjoy the islands' beauty for years to come—and so are our agents.
Nassau and Paradise Island homes for sale often incorporate environmentally friendly features, most noticeable in newer construction. The Bahamas government encourages builders to consider environmental impact and will often provide incentives to homeowners for doing the same.
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Visiting The Bahamas: 5 Running Trails to Try
It's hard to imagine a more beautiful place for a run than Nassau, The Bahamas. Located on the stunning New Providence Island, Nassau is most famous for its beaches, resorts, golf courses, and nightlife. But it also has some great running routes.
When you're ready for a jog in Nassau, you have countless miles of roads, trails, and beaches to choose from. So lace up your running shoes, and join our agents for a run near our Nassau and Paradise Island homes for sale.
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6 Misconceptions About Island Living
Our agents know that few experiences are more exciting and enjoyable than moving to a beautiful tropical island such as those you'll find in The Bahamas. Nassau and Paradise Island homes for sale provide buyers with all the beauty of the unspoiled tropics alongside many "mainland" amenities.
Whether you've visited The Bahamas for long periods before or simply researched it, you likely have a good idea of what to expect. Yet, some things about island living could continue to surprise you even when you've been here for quite a while.
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Bird's-Eye View: 5 Parasailing Adventures in The Bahamas
The best views of The Bahamas are from above. If you're visiting The Bahamas, one of the first things on your to-do list should be to go parasailing. There's no experience quite like strapping yourself to a giant sail and soaring over the water like a bird. The experience is thrilling, and the views are breathtaking. Our agents have compiled a list of the best places in the Nassau and Paradise Island areas to go parasailing.
- Paradise Ocean Sports Ltd. - East Bay Street
A Nassau-based company, Paradise Ocean Sports offers a variety of water activities, from jet skiing to banana boating to snorkeling. However, one of their most popular activities is parasailing over the crystal blue waters of Paradise Island. Good for beginners, you can spend between 3 and 5 minutes in the air—either riding by yourself or in tandem with someone else. Then when you're done, enjoy a lunch of barbecue chicken and rum punch or fruit punch.
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Homeowners: Try Your Hand at Backyard Composting
Composting your yard and food waste is a great way to reduce the amount of trash that goes into landfills and incinerators. On top of that, the compost you create can be used to nourish the soil in your garden beds or yard, leading to happier and more vibrant plants. If you've always wanted to try your hand at backyard composting, there has never been a better time. Composting works well in the humid, tropical climate of The Bahamas, and our agents have some helpful tips to share.
- Mix Your Greens and Your Browns
Generally speaking, there are two different types of materials you can add to your compost. The first is "greens," which include high-nitrogen items such as vegetable peels, yard clippings, coffee grounds, tea leaves, and freshly fallen leaves. The other is "browns" or low-nitrogen items, which include waste paper, cardboard, straw, and wood chips.
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Buying in The Bahamas: 5 Neighborhoods to Consider
If you have been contemplating life in The Bahamas, it may be time to start thinking about which part of the islands is right for you. Our agents know the area's top neighborhoods intimately, and each has its own unique attractions and atmosphere. Keep reading to find out which of The Bahamas' most popular neighborhoods is the best fit for your lifestyle and needs.
- Albany
Albany is one of the most highly prized resort communities in The Bahamas. Spanning over 600 acres (most of which are directly on the coast), there is so much to see and do in this exclusive neighborhood. Whether you want to spend time working on your swing at the world-class 18-hole golf course, dock your boat at the sprawling marina with space for over 70 mega-yachts, or even enjoy a bit of horse riding along the beach, this is the place for you.
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The Bahamas: Avoid These Relocation Mistakes
Relocating to The Bahamas can be a great adventure, and it's one our agents will be glad to help with. Having the right advisors on your side is an absolute must, so you can enjoy all the islands offer with plenty of peace of mind along the way. Our experience makes the difference for customers like you.
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Watch Your Garden Grow in The Bahamas
Many Nassau and Paradise Island homes for sale have lovely backyard gardens. If you purchase one of these homes, of course, you'll want to keep the garden looking fresh and healthy. You may even want to improve the landscaping and add more plants and features to the design. Gardening in The Bahamas does come with a few intricacies, but if you follow the tips below, you'll be off to a good start.
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The Bahamas: Where to Hear Live Music
Music filling the air is one of the hallmarks of island life. When our agents want to get in the groove, they head out to one of these great spots that feature live music around Nassau and Paradise Island homes for sale.
- The Green Parrot - Harbour Front, East Bay Street, Nassau, Bahamas
Is there a more perfect visual to identify with the islands than The Green Parrot? This restaurant started as a simple grill top at the Hurricane Hole Marina Bar. In 2006, The Green Parrot moved to a larger building near East Bay Street homes for sale to accommodate the ever-increasing number of customers. Indulge in their signature lobster specials while listening to bands like Long Island Connection, appearing on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month. Hours are 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily, while the bar is open until 11:59 p.m.
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Visiting The Bahamas: Top Dive Sites
The Bahamas is rife with beauty at every turn. Between the gorgeous views, amazing people, and exciting activities, Nassau and Paradise Island homes for sale often get snatched up quickly. Many residents and people visiting The Bahamas love diving into one of the many hotspots located in the area, and our agents would like to share some of their favorites.
- Mermaid Reef - Abaco
A gorgeous little reef is located in the Sea of Abaco, Mermaid Reef is perfect for beginning divers. Every day, you'll find the place filled with snorkelers and paddleboarders who love taking in the sights. When you dive, you'll come across many friendly fish that are comfortable with humans and will come right up to you. It's basically like diving inside a fish tank, and some visitors bring small pieces of food such as frozen peas to feed some of the fish that get near them. Be sure to tour these Abaco homes for sale after your dive.
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Indulge in Dessert at These 5 Places Around Nassau
Have you ever realized that "stressed" is "desserts" spelled backward? When our agents need some balance in their lives, they head to these five amazing dessert spots around Nassau and Paradise Island homes for sale.
- Original Swiss Sweet Shop - Cable Beach West
The name is a bit of a tongue-twister, but everything else about the Original Swiss Sweet Shop is deliciously simple. After learning the secrets of pastry-making in Switzerland and other European countries, owner Armin Wernli came to The Bahamas 10 years ago to work at two local resorts. Now he creates mouthwatering treats such as Black Forest cake, Napoleons, and Key lime pie in his own bakery, down the street from Cable Beach homes for sale. Hours are 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Saturday.
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7 Things to Ask a Home Remodeling Contractor
When it comes to natural beauty, Nassau and Paradise Island homes for sale are ahead of the rest. But our agents know a property needs more than charm to meet your expectations: Every now and then, you may want to renovate your home. And that can be more complex than in the United States.
The rules around who is allowed to perform contracting work are different than you might be used to. Bahamas contractors must be licensed in an area of specialization, such as residential or commercial construction, electrical work, or plumbing. Still, it is possible to be targeted by scams.
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Step into the Past at These 6 Nassau Destinations
Visit The Bahamas, and you might just decide to become a lifelong resident. Nassau alone is home to so many fascinating historical sites, which shed light on the community's past and make for great places to visit in the present day. Some of these sites are even still in use today, serving as centers of public life in Nassau. Our agents have the details on six Nassau destinations where you can step into the past and learn more about local history.
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Fort Fincastle – Bennet's Hill
One of three historic forts found near Nassau and Paradise Island homes for sale with stunning views of Nassau, Fort Fincastle was constructed in 1793 atop Bennet's Hill by Lord Dunmore, a British captain looking to protect the area from pirates. You can still see the many cannons that were never once fired. Guided tours are offered daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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Living on the Out Islands: Harbour Island and Exuma
The balmy shores and overgrown tropical foliage of The Bahamas' out islands are some of the most exquisite landscapes in the world. While their populations are low, the select few who live in these paradises wouldn't trade the experience for anything.
Following our Abaco and Eleuthera coverage, our agents have all the details on life on two more gems of the out islands: Harbour Island and Exuma.
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So You Want to Move to The Bahamas
With long sandy beaches, lively communities, and a warm, tropical climate, The Bahamas has it all. Now all you have to do is pick the right house among Nassau and Paradise Island homes for sale and settle down. Moving to The Bahamas allows you to experience the natural beauty of the tropics and explore a whole new way of living. It's a perfect place to call home for nature enthusiasts and those looking to live a more laidback lifestyle.
The Bahamas is an excellent place to vacation, but if you're looking to slow down and enjoy life's little pleasures, you'll find this island chain has much more to offer. There's a large expatriate community in The Bahamas, from meandering travelers to the rich and famous.
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Living on the Out Islands: The Abacos and Eleuthera
Life in the Bahamas is generally idyllic, but there is much more to this stunning part of the world than just New Providence.
On the out islands, you'll find a peaceful atmosphere and natural wonders, unlike anything you knew existed. This designation includes hundreds of islands, both big and small, but there are some clear standouts in this group. Our agents have compiled some highlights from The Abacos and Eleuthera to give you a better idea of what life is like in these untamed paradises.
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The Bahamas: 6 Resorts to See Breathtaking Sunrises & Sunsets
It's no secret that when people visit The Bahamas, they're usually struck by how beautiful the islands really are. When clients look at Nassau and Paradise Island homes for sale, they're always impressed by the natural beauty. The sunrises and sunsets are particularly breathtaking, especially when you take the time to enjoy them at one of the following resorts.
- The Cove: Queens Highway, Eleuthera, Bahamas
The Cove is a lovely, quiet resort on the island of Eleuthera. It's a great place to see the sunset after looking at Eleuthera homes for sale.
The resort itself is situated between two white-sand coves. You can gaze out onto the water as the sun sets lower in the sky. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also available, along with an infinity pool.
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Seafood and So Much More: Try These Restaurants in The Bahamas
Restaurants throughout The Bahamas offer more than just seafood. If you're looking for some authentic Caribbean cuisine, amazing dining experiences, and, of course, a wide menu selection, you won't have trouble finding an option around Nassau and Paradise Island. In fact, there are several within a short distance of these beautiful Nassau and Paradise Island homes for sale.
With so many great options, it can be hard to choose one, so here are some recommendations from our agents.
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Don't Miss These Art Galleries Around the Bahamas
Do you enjoy looking at artwork? Immersing yourself in others' creations can be so relaxing and eye-opening. Nassau has a vibrant art scene, along with some incredible galleries displaying paintings, drawings, and sculptures. If you're looking at Nassau and Paradise Island homes for sale, you may want to stop by some of these art galleries along the way.
- Sixty 2 Sixty: Bay Street, Nassau, Bahamas
Sixty 2 Sixty is an art gallery that seeks to support artists of all ages and backgrounds. Most of the work within can be considered modern art. The gallery even hosts Paint and Sip classes during which you can sip wine and create your own acrylic painting. The cost is $50 per person and includes wine and all necessary art supplies.
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Spot This Wildlife Around the Bahamas
It seems like a dream, but it's real: You're looking at Nassau and Paradise Island homes for sale. You're moving to the Bahamas. There are so many great things to see and do here! One of the biggest draws is the wildlife. Here are a few you might run into.
- Pigs. This will seem odd when you first see it. Pigs are farm animals and not native to the Bahamas. You would never think you'd see one swimming in The Bahamas. Yet there they are, pigs of all shapes, sizes, and colors, all along the beach, on the island of Big Major Cay—part of the Exumas Islands. No one is entirely sure how they got there, but they're an amazing sight to see.
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Bahamas 101: 8 Things You Didn't Know
There are several places around the world that are often called a paradise, but few come close to The Bahamas. Its amazing chain of islands is filled with sandy beaches, beautiful water, delicious cuisine, and wonderful people. Of course, there are probably many things you don't know about The Bahamas, so our agents have put together some of their favorite tidbits.
- Consists of 700 Islands
It may be hard to believe, but The Bahamas consists of more than 700 islands and cays, though most of them are quite small and unoccupied. Approximately 30 of those islands are inhabited, which means there are many great choices when looking for a new place to live. The island is New Providence has about 70% of the population, but the more popular islands for visiting are the Abacos, Eleuthera and Exumas.
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Breaking Down Closing Costs for Buyers and Sellers
Our agents have helped simplify the process of buying real estate in The Bahamas for thousands of people. Whether you choose Nassau and Paradise Island homes for sale or buy elsewhere on the islands, the process is very worthwhile.
And it is much easier than it may first seem!
It might surprise you to learn that real estate transactions in The Bahamas aren't that different from what you might be used to. Transactions take about three to six months to complete and require the assistance of a qualified real estate agent and local real estate attorney.
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What Type of Home Is Right for You in The Bahamas?
Considering the wonderful tropical climate, proximity to the United States, and low taxes, The Bahamas is a delightful place to call home. Find your dream home among these Nassau and Paradise Island homes for sale and find out why a home in The Bahamas is a highly sought-after asset.
If you're thinking of purchasing property in The Bahamas either as a primary or vacation home, here's a guide that will help you find a home that's right for you.
So, what's your style?
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Why You Should Consider a Short-Term Rental Investment
Want to know more about living in The Bahamas? Our agents are here to help.
In a previous post, we discussed how you can take advantage of unique government programs to relocate to The Bahamas. People from the United States and all over the world have already leveraged these welcoming laws to make their long-term – or permanent – move.
There's no secret about the many reasons to move to a tropical paradise like The Bahamas. Beautiful beaches and mild weather are only the beginning. The cost of living is attractive, and tax obligations are straightforward, especially compared to the United States.
Whether living on the islands or not, many homebuyers decide to rent their properties to help them with the carrying costs of ownership. The Bahamas benefits from a robust short-term vacation rental market. You'll find many different options sure to be suitable for your needs.
With the right real estate agent on your side, the process is easy and convenient.
Where to Look for Short-Term Rentals in The Bahamas
Nassau and Paradise Island homes for sale are always in demand, but some property owners prefer to cater to international clientele desiring a short-term stay. Enthusiastic new visitors arrive every day – thanks to year-round warm weather, September has become the peak of the season.
Some of the best places to look for Bahamas short-term vacation rentals include:
- Paradise Island
Paradise Island has the distinction of being the #1 tourist destination in a country already known for its splendid hospitality. A purchase here means you'll be right at the center of dining, nightlife, and watersports. Convenience to amenities enables a higher rent than might otherwise be possible. - Grand Bahama
The Grand Bahama is just 55 miles from Florida's coastline, making it a common debarkation point for tourists from the Sunshine State. While it also has a wide range of amenities, it is relatively slow-paced and quiet compared to Paradise Island. The main city, Freeport, includes an international airport. - Eleuthera
Eleuthera is known for its beautiful pink sand beaches and is full of natural wonders such Queens Bath, a collection of natural pools created by crashing, incoming waves. Nearby Harbour Island homes for sale are close to a charming downtown featuring distinctive architecture and authentic cuisine that vacationers will love. - The Abacos
This 120-mile long chain of islands offers all sorts of unexpected benefits and surprises. Each island is truly a community and experience unto itself. The most populous island is Great Abacos, but the entire chain is home to less than 20,000 people. It works best as a personal getaway location, and these Abaco homes for sale would fit the bill.
Buying Your Vacation Rental Property in The Bahamas
The Bahamas has no restriction on foreign real property purchases, and some 80% of all buyers come from the United States. Generally, transactions are approved quickly and without issue, if the parcel is less than 5 acres.
Property acquisition costs can be significant. They include a transfer tax when property changes hands and legal fees pertaining to the transaction. The buyer's share of soft costs usually amounts to about 7.5% of the purchase price. This does not count the real estate agent's fee.
Bahamas residents don't pay taxes on income, inheritance, gifts, or capital gains. The principal form of tax revenue is Value Added Tax (VAT). That said, annual property taxes are assessed based on assessed value, just as in the United States.
Contact us to discover more about real estate in The Bahamas.
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7 Traditional Bahamian Dishes to Try
With the gorgeous beaches, bright sunny days, and frolicking families found in The Bahamas, it's no wonder that Nassau and Paradise Island homes for sale don't stay on the market for very long. It's not just about the beaches and culture, though — it's also about the delicious island dishes that get people to sit up and take notice. Since we're guessing that many people out there haven't been lucky enough to taste these delights, our agents recommend seven traditional Bahamian dishes that will take your tastebuds for a ride.
- Conch Salad
If you're not familiar with conch, that's perfectly okay — many people aren't until they reach The Bahamas. Conch is a sea snail and a very tasty one at that. A conch salad consists of diced conch meat, green peppers, onions, and tomatoes. This colorful and refreshing dish is usually topped with a marinade of lime. Lemon and orange juice can be used making it an absolute citrus delight.
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Christmas Shopping Made Easy at These 5 Places
The holiday season is here! For many people, gift-giving is a big part of the holiday celebration. And if you're going to give gifts, you need to find a great place to shop. Nassau is brimming with local shops and businesses where you can find all sorts of unique clothing, accessories, decor, and more. Here are some of the top spots our agents recommend for Christmas shopping around Nassau and Paradise Island.
- Marina Village at Atlantis
Marina Village, located directly next to Atlantis, features more than 65,000 square feet of retail space, making it the perfect place to shop for Christmas gifts. The outdoor marketplace is beautifully landscaped with palm trees and native plants, so even walking from store to store is a lovely experience.
Some of the key retailers at Marina Village include Paradise Blue Surf Shop and Pirana Joe Resort Wear. You could buy a loved one some jewelry at Columbian Emeralds International and then stop for a burger at The Village Burger Shack.
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Fore! Visit These 5 Golf Courses in the Bahamas
The Bahamas is famous for its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, and the capital city of Nassau is instantly recognizable for its pastel-colored British colonial architecture. But there's another reason to get excited about the Bahamas: golf.
Nassau and neighboring Paradise Island are home to some of the world's most stunning golf courses. If you're looking to play a round while in the Bahamas, these are our agents' favorite courses in the Nassau area.
- Royal Blue Golf Club
With its unique two-courses-in-one design created by golf legend Jack Nicklaus, the Royal Blue Golf Club is one of the absolute must-play courses in the Bahamas. This 18-hole, par 72 course is equally suited to championship or recreational play, with dramatic ocean views on the first nine holes and a back nine bounded by dense jungle. The Royal Blue Golf Club is just minutes from many Nassau and Paradise Island homes for sale and offers challenges for golfers of all skill levels.
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Moving to the Bahamas: Work From Home With a View
Our agents know that the beauty of the Bahamas is becoming attractive to more Americans who no longer need to worry about commuting to work. Working remotely saves the average person thousands of dollars each year to reinvest for a better life.
Many remote workers now have the opportunity to become fully location-independent. Freed from the shackles of an office, they can do whatever they do from a world away. It's no surprise that the blue skies and sun-drenched beaches of the Bahamas are getting more attention.
Nassau and Paradise Island homes for sale are getting a closer look. However, not everyone realizes that a home in the Caribbean really is attainable. They worry that they will not be able to buy property in the Caribbean or that it will be a very different process than they're used to.