Before visiting Nassau, Bahamas in 2026, the most critical thing to know is that safety and situational awareness are paramount. While the resort areas of Paradise Island and Cable Beach are generally safe, the "Over the Hill" area (south of Shirley Street) has seen persistent gang-related violence and travelers are advised to avoid it, especially after dark. Secondly, the currency: both the Bahamian Dollar (BSD) and the US Dollar (USD) are accepted everywhere at a 1:1 ratio, but you will often receive change in a mix of both. Third, transportation: taxis are not metered, so you must negotiate and agree on the fare before getting into the car. Also, keep in mind that they drive on the left side of the road. For cruise passengers, "Junkanoo Beach" is a convenient free beach near the port, but for a cleaner, more relaxed experience, a day pass to a resort or a trip to Cabbage Beach is often better. Finally, be aware that the water sports industry is loosely regulated; exercise extreme caution when renting jet skis or booking "street-side" excursions, as many are unregistered and lack the safety standards found in more formal tour operations.