TRAVEL MISCELLANY

Entry: The Commonwealth of the Bahamas does not require visas, and U.S. citizens need only bring proof of citizenship such as passport, birth certificate, or voter's registration. The latter requires picture ID as well. All travelers must possess an onward or return ticket, and a departure tax of $20 will be levied at the airport.

Money: The legal tender is the Bahamian dollar, but it is on par with the U.S. dollar and used interchangeably. Traveler's checks and major credit cards are accepted.

Language: English is spoken universally, albeit with a distinct island lilt by natives and longtime residents.

Electricity: The electric service is 120 volts, 60 cycles, just like in the U.S.

Time: The time zone is Eastern Standard Time (GMT+5) from the last Sunday in October through the last Saturday in April, and Eastern Standard Daylight Time (GMT+4) from the first Sunday in April to the last Saturday in October.

Telephone: Local and international phone service is via Bahamas Telecommunications Service (BATELCO), and in many areas AT&T offers its USA DIRECT connections by dialing 800-872-2881. Some hotels may have their own preferred long distance carrier and may be quite expensive. Be careful what long distance provider you have chosen to avoid a big surprise on your next phone bill. Even though you are very near the U.S. in some areas of the Bahamas, your cell phone is unlikely to work.

Car rentals: Visitors to the Bahamas may drive on their own license for up to 3 months. In the Bahamas, drive on the left side of the road.