Budget Travel, Featured
Budget Bahamas: Last-Minute Deals and Luxe Amenities on a Dime
The Caribbean is often equated with luxury, thought of as a playground of Richie (and Regina) Rich(es) with money to burn and delicate skin that needs tanning. You don’t have to spend a pretty penny to make your way to the Bahamas, however. Many hotels, resorts and attractions on the islands are affordable when you plan ahead and take advantage of seasonal discounts and packages. Yes, readers, splashing around Blue Lagoon Island, diving adventures and dolphin expeditions are well within reach if you follow our indispensable travel advice. Read on for more.
Look for Last-Minute Deals
From the Atlantis Resort to the One and Only Ocean Club, enjoying a luxurious getaway isn’t too far out of your budget range when you shop for last-minute deals. If you have a flexible schedule, consider booking a week or two prior to travel dates to secure some of the lowest available rates at four- and five-star properties. Many venues, including the Hotel Riu Paradise Island, Musha Cay Resort and the Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach Resort, offer discounted rates on rooms and suites that have opened up at the last minute.
Don’t Forget About All-Inclusive Resort Packages
All-inclusive vacations aren’t just for spring breakers. You can save a significant amount of money when your food, overnight accommodations, resort activities and beach activities are all included in a package. All-inclusive packages can also make it easier to map out your itinerary and enjoy the best of the Bahamas, especially if it’s your first visit. Look for packages that offer gourmet buffet dining options, access to nightclubs and area entertainment hotspots, rounds of golf and complimentary transportation to key sights around the islands.
Check Resort Schedules for Free Activities
Many resorts in the Bahamas offer a host of complimentary activities solely for guests, which means you can save money on the cost of attractions, boat rentals and other activities. Look for resorts that offer amenities including complimentary charter boat rides, guided tours, nature hikes and fitness activities on or offsite so you can make the most of your visit without overextending your budget.
Eat Earlier in the Day
Many popular restaurants and eateries in the Bahamas have gourmet dinner menus, prix-fixe menus and late-night dining options, but you will be paying a premium price to indulge later in the day. Consider eating a bigger breakfast and lunch so you can save money on food and drinks later. Some popular restaurants to explore when you’re on a budget include the Chat & Chill on Great Exuma Island, the Bahamian Kitchen in Trinity Place and Mama Lyddy’s Place in Nassau.
Pack a Picnic for the Beach
Avoid restaurants altogether by packing a picnic for your days on beaches and parks. There are only a handful of grocery stores scattered on the islands, so you’ll need to spend a few hours tracking down a store and carrying the load back to your hotel. The Winn Dixie in the downtown Freeport/Lucaya area, the Food World Store on Coral Road, and gourmet treats and snacks at Butler Specialty Foods on Yellow Pine Street. Another option is to head to some of the food markets located around the neighborhood. Just pick up your items to go and enjoy them later in the day.
Choose Budget Hotels Near the Major Resorts
If you want to stay near the larger resort properties for easy access to beaches and water sport activities, choose a budget hotel that’s located a short walk or drive from the resort to enjoy waterfront amenities without paying a high price. Some of the popular budget-friendly destinations in the Bahamas include The Comfort Suites Atlantis, the Ocean Pearl Resort and Club on Grand Bahamas Island, The Towne Hotel in Nassau and Surfer’s Haven Guesthouse in Gregory Town.
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[...] these places are easiest to get to and offer the cheapest package deals for a Caribbean vacation, there are literally hundreds of tourist spots in the West Indies and miles-upon-miles of Caribbean [...]