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Is it safe to use a debit card in the Bahamas?

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs in The Bahamas, especially in Nassau. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards: pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others.



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There is almost no difference in the acceptance of a debit or a standard credit card. Be aware: Some establishments in The Bahamas might not accept your credit card unless you have a computer chip imbedded in it.

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Those coming to the Bahamas should be aware that a daily budget for the islands typically runs around $100. Guests of the islands will be able to purchase everyday necessities and afford meals with this amount per day: although it might be better to budget for closer to $150-$200.

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Anything except fresh fruits, vegetables and dairy products can be brought into The Bahamas. All meats must be canned or frozen.

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Be vigilant at all times and don't walk alone away from the main hotels, tourist areas, beaches and downtown Nassau, particularly after dark. Take care if travelling on local bus services after dusk on routes away from the main tourist areas. Don't carry large amounts of cash or jewellery. Robbers may be armed.

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Rates are between $0.15-$0.33 per minute for local calls and incoming calls and about a dollar more for outgoing calls to the USA or Canada (hint: ask people to call you back). To save roaming costs purchase a prepaid Bahamas sim card. The sim card works on all unlocked GSM phones.

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There's no need to get your currency exchanged, US currency is accepted. You'll want to travel with cash and a major credit card though, because you'll probably need both during your stay. Tips are king. If someone helps you during your stay, tips are expected.

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Visitors must declare currency and other negotiable instruments of $10,000 or more upon entry. CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: Visitors must declare currency and other negotiable instruments of $10,000 or more upon exit.

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You'll find that merchants on the island do accept most major credit cards, though we recommend some cash for smaller, local merchants and restaurants who may require cash. Taxis in The Bahamas will require cash.

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Safety and security
  • Avoid Nassau's “over the hill” (south of Shirley Street) and Fish Fry (Arawak Cay) areas, especially at night.
  • Stay alert to your surroundings at all times.
  • Don't walk alone, particularly after dark.
  • Don't carry large sums of cash or wear expensive jewellery.


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The downtown area is safe to walk around during the day. If shopping is your thing, head right when you leave the port and walk along the water, about 7-8 minutes until you come to the Straw Market. Typical Bahamian trinkets/souvenirs.

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The Abacos Islands are some of the safest islands in the Bahamas. Generally speaking, you won't find much trouble in the outer islands. Other safe islands are Cat Island and the Berry Islands.

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The most prominent cause of death in the Bahamas in 2019 was ischaemic heart disease, with close to 86 deaths per 100,000 people. Stroke and hypertensive heart disease were also significant causes of death in the Caribbean country, with a rate of around 57.5 and 50.8 deaths per 100,000 population.

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